Search optimization, defined
Plain-English definitions of the four disciplines that decide whether your business shows up when customers search — on Google, in AI chatbots, in voice assistants, and everywhere in between.
Search Engine Optimization
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the practice of improving a website's visibility in traditional search engine results — primarily Google and Bing — through on-page, off-site, and technical optimization.
Generative Engine Optimization
Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) is the practice of optimizing a website to be cited by AI-powered generative search engines like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and Gemini.
AI Overview Optimization
AI Overview Optimization (AIO) is the practice of structuring website content to be cited inside Google's AI Overview summary box that appears above traditional search results.
Answer Engine Optimization
Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is the practice of structuring content so voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant — and Google's featured snippets — pick your business as the single definitive answer.