Google AI Overviews now appear at the top of search results for millions of queries. These AI-generated answers cite sources — and those sources get valuable traffic. Here's how to optimize your content to be one of those cited sources.
Table of Contents
What Are Google AI Overviews?
Google AI Overviews (formerly known as SGE - Search Generative Experience) are AI-generated summaries that appear at the top of Google search results. They provide direct answers to user queries without requiring users to click through to websites.
The impact: Studies show AI Overviews can reduce organic click-through rates by 30-60% for certain queries. If your content isn't being cited in AI Overviews, you're losing significant traffic.
How AI Overviews Select Sources
Google's AI selects sources based on different criteria than traditional ranking:
Primary Ranking Signals
- Relevance — Does your content directly answer the question?
- Authoritativeness — Does your site show expertise?
- Structured Data — Can Google easily understand your content?
- Freshness — Is your content up-to-date?
What AI Overviews Prefer
- FAQ-style content
- How-to guides
- Clear, direct answers
- Properly marked up pages
- Comprehensive coverage
Step 1: Add Schema Markup
Schema markup is critical for Google AI Overview optimization. It helps Google's AI understand your content's structure and context.
Essential Schemas for AI Overviews
- FAQ Schema — For question-answer content
- HowTo Schema — For step-by-step guides
- Article Schema — For blog posts and news
- Organization Schema — For brand authority
How to Add Schema
Use our free schema generator to create your JSON-LD. Just select your content type and paste the code into your page's <head>.
Example FAQ Schema
<script type="application/ld+json">
{
"@context": "https://schema.org",
"@type": "FAQPage",
"mainEntity": [{
"@type": "Question",
"name": "What is Google AI Overview?",
"acceptedAnswer": {
"@type": "Answer",
"text": "Google AI Overviews are AI-generated summaries that appear at the top of Google search results."
}
}]
}
</script>
Step 2: Create FAQ Content
FAQ content is prime real estate for AI Overviews. Google loves to cite FAQ pages because they directly match user query patterns.
How to Structure FAQ Content
- Use question headings — Start with "What...", "How...", "Why..."
- Answer immediately — Put the answer right after the question
- Keep answers concise — 50-150 words per answer
- Cover related questions — Anticipate follow-up questions
FAQ Content Template
<h2>What is AEO?</h2>
<p>AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) is the practice of optimizing
content so AI systems cite you as a source.</p>
<h2>Why does AEO matter?</h2>
<p>AI Overviews and ChatGPT are replacing traditional search.
If you're not being cited, you're becoming invisible.</p>
<h2>How do I start with AEO?</h2>
<p>Add llms.txt, use schema markup, and structure content
to directly answer questions.</p>
Step 3: Structure Content Correctly
Google's AI scans content for specific structural elements. Optimize your content structure:
Use Descriptive Headings
- H1: Main topic (include target keyword)
- H2: Major sections (use questions when possible)
- H3: Sub-sections for depth
Lead with the Answer
Don't bury the lead. Put your main answer in the first paragraph, then expand.
Use Lists and Tables
Google's AI favors structured content:
- Numbered lists for steps
- Bullet points for features
- Tables for comparisons
Step 4: Build E-E-A-T Signals
E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) matters for AI Overviews. Google wants to cite authoritative sources.
How to Build E-E-A-T
- Experience — Show you've actually done what you're writing about
- Expertise — Demonstrate deep knowledge of your topic
- Authoritativeness — Build recognition in your industry
- Trustworthiness — Accurate information, clear sources, HTTPS
E-E-A-T Quick Wins
- Add author bio pages
- Include "About" page with credentials
- Cite your sources with links
- Update content regularly
- Get mentioned by industry publications
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to appear in AI Overviews?
In my testing, it took 2-4 weeks after proper optimization to see changes. Results vary based on topic competitiveness and existing site authority.
Does traditional SEO still matter?
Yes — AI Overviews often pull from top-ranking traditional results. Good SEO and AEO work together.
Can any site appear in AI Overviews?
Not all queries trigger AI Overviews, and not all sites get cited. Focus on YMYL topics (Your Money Your Life) and informational queries where you have genuine expertise.
What if my site is new?
New sites can still get cited, but it may take longer. Focus on building authority through quality content and E-E-A-T signals.
Key Takeaways
- Schema markup is essential — add FAQ, HowTo, and Article schemas
- FAQ content directly matches AI Overview query patterns
- Lead with answers — put main points in the first paragraph
- E-E-A-T signals help establish authority
- Structure content with headings, lists, and tables