How to write relevant GEO optimized content

3 minutes read

The goal is to convince AI (LLMs) that our content is the best possible answer to a user's query. This is the core of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), and it also benefits SEO. This is what will generate organic score.

Here are some possible approaches to achieve this.

Content Segmentation with Satellite Articles

A primary strategy is to create different variations of the same topic and multiply the number of more specific articles. These are called satellite articles. In addition to writing an article that covers the entire topic (or introduces it), articles focusing on segments of the content are created. By answering very specific questions, these articles are more likely to be used by AI when users ask very similar queries.

Each satellite article should:

Use a clear and specific title, such as a question, that has a high potential of use in AI queries.
Provide a clear answer in the first few sentences, followed by detailed steps.
Specify the context, as LLMs value explicit entities.
Integrate variants and synonyms into the text, without diluting the main intent, so that it can be included when the syntax of the user's request is slightly different.

For example, if you offer a comprehensive guide covering the setup of a new iPhone, you would also create the following articles, even if the questions are already answered in the main article:

How to create an Apple ID on a new iPhone
How to connect an existing Apple ID to a new iPhone
How to import contacts to an iPhone
How to secure an iPhone
etc.

By using a question as a title, the likelihood that it will match an AI (LLM) user's request is also increased.

This is precisely what some major magazines have started doing. For example, here's how Engadget (a major American tech magazine) is now directing part of its redaction:

Managing Clutter

This strategy will create a lot of content pages across websites and platforms. Most of these pages would be hidden from standard navigation. They won't appear in menus or recent articles feeds.

They will be "consumed" by crawlers from sitemaps and RSS feeds. Therefore, they will only appear to visitors making highly relevant queries. This will also apply to traditional search engines. This new content will be visible and beneficial for SEO.

Clear Writing and Relevant Structure

From a writing perspective, it's essential to adopt a machine-readable structure:

Use descriptive H1/H2 headings, short paragraphs, and bullet lists when appropriate.
Always add descriptive alt text to images.
Cite your sources when applicable.
For articles (as opposed to pages), the update date should be clearly displayed, as it can boost model trust.
Include relevant metadata (concise title, answer-oriented description, and up-to-date lastmod).