How to Write Content That AI Will Cite
Content formatting and writing techniques that make your content more likely to be cited and recommended by AI assistants.
AI systems cite content that is clear, authoritative, and well-structured. This guide shows you the specific writing techniques that increase your citation rate.
단계별 가이드
Start with a direct answer
Begin every article with a clear, direct answer to the main question. AI systems often cite the first comprehensive answer they find.
팁:
- Answer the main question in the first 100 words
- Use clear, declarative sentences
- Avoid burying the answer after lengthy intros
Use explicit definitions
Define key terms explicitly rather than assuming knowledge. Use formats like '[Term] is [definition]' that AI can easily parse and cite.
팁:
- Define terms even if they seem obvious
- Use consistent terminology throughout
- Create a glossary for complex topics
Include specific data and statistics
AI loves citing specific numbers, percentages, and statistics. Include original data or cite authoritative sources with specific figures.
팁:
- Include specific numbers, not vague claims
- Cite sources for statistics
- Conduct original research when possible
Structure content with clear headings
Use descriptive H2 and H3 headings that could stand alone as answers. AI uses headings to understand content structure and find relevant sections.
팁:
- Make headings self-explanatory
- Use question-based headings where appropriate
- Maintain logical hierarchy (H1 → H2 → H3)
Write quotable statements
Craft specific sentences that AI can quote directly. These should be factual, specific, and self-contained.
팁:
- Write 1-2 quotable statements per section
- Make them specific and factual
- Avoid qualifiers like 'maybe' or 'sometimes'
Add author expertise signals
Include author bios with credentials and expertise. AI considers author authority when determining trustworthiness.
팁:
- Add author name and credentials
- Link to author's other work
- Include relevant experience
흔한 실수 피하기
Writing vague, hedged content
Burying answers deep in articles
Using jargon without definitions
Missing author attribution
Not including specific data points
기대 결과
Higher citation rate in AI responses
More accurate AI representation of your content
Increased referral traffic from AI platforms
Content that serves both humans and AI