Generative engine optimisation (GEO) is the practice of shaping content so generative AI systems mention or cite it in their answers; in day-to-day use it means much the same as AEO.
Where the term comes from
The term was introduced in a 2023 research paper on making content more visible in generative search results. Agencies and tools now use GEO and AEO almost interchangeably.
What GEO work looks like
Writing pages that answer questions directly, stating facts that can be quoted, adding structured data, keeping your business details consistent, and earning mentions on the sites AI engines cite.
How AEOHIT helps
AEOHIT measures the outcome GEO is meant to change: whether seven AI engines name and cite you for your customers’ questions, week by week.
Mostly the name. GEO comes from research on generative search; AEO from the idea of answer engines. Both describe getting a business named and cited in AI-written answers.
Does GEO replace SEO?
No. Search engines still send traffic, and many AI answers draw on pages that already rank well. GEO adds a new place to be visible.
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