AEO (answer engine optimization)
Answer engine optimization (AEO) is the practice of making content useful for systems that respond directly to questions. It covers concise answers, clear supporting explanations and accessible facts. The term is used for featured answers, voice search and AI assistants, so an AEO report should state exactly which system and result it measures.
Why it matters for a business
Customers ask specific questions about suitability, availability and service areas. A page that answers them plainly helps the customer assess your offer and gives search systems usable text. A short definition without supporting detail may omit the conditions that make the answer correct.
Example and evidence
A dentist might answer whether it accepts new patients and which emergency appointments it offers. This is an illustrative business example. The Index’s published buyer questions show how customers ask for suppliers, without proving that any one answer format earned a mention.
What to do next
Put the direct answer first, then explain exceptions, evidence and the next step. Use headings that match real questions. Keep essential facts in visible text. Add structured data only when it describes the content actually shown on the page.
Common question
Related terms
Sources and method
Sources checked on 2026-10-09. Examples marked illustrative are not measured business results.
Check your own business in AI answers
Run the free scan to see which assistants name your business and which facts need attention. A scan is a sample, not a promise of future recommendations.