Optimizing for AI Overviews: Preparing Content for Google’s Generative SERP
- Brainz Magazine
- Jun 2
- 3 min read
Google’s search results are changing rapidly. With the rise of AI Overviews - AI-generated summaries that appear at the top of search results - businesses need to rethink how they create content to remain visible. These summaries, powered by Google's Gemini model, often pull answers from multiple websites, making it more competitive to earn visibility.
For those just getting started with content optimisation, especially small businesses or content creators, the following tips provide simple, actionable ways to prepare for this generative search environment. For those looking for expert support, an experienced SEO agency in Essex can help navigate the shift and align content with Google’s evolving standards.
What Are AI Overviews?
AI Overviews are generated by Google’s large language models and aim to answer search queries directly within the search results - before the user even clicks through to a website. These overviews synthesise information from various web pages to create a concise answer, meaning only selected content is surfaced.
In this context, crafting content that stands out to the AI is crucial.
See video here: How to Rank in Google’s AI Overviews
1. Answer Specific Questions Clearly
Tip: Focus content around answering common user queries in plain language.
Why it matters: Google’s AI is more likely to pull from pages that answer questions directly. Titles and headers that reflect search intent help establish relevance.
Example formats:
“What is digital PR in SEO?”
“How to improve website speed?”
Beneath the heading, include a short, clear answer - preferably in the first sentence of the section.
2. Use Structured Formatting
Tip: Organise information using headings, bullet points, and numbered lists.
Why it matters: Structured content is easier for AI systems to scan and extract useful information from. Lists, subheadings, and clean paragraphs improve readability for both humans and search engines.
Better formatting might include:
Bullet point benefits
Step-by-step instructions
Simple definitions in their own paragraphs
Avoid large, dense paragraphs when simpler formatting is more effective.
3. Write in a Natural, Conversational Tone
Tip: Use language that is friendly, clear, and free from jargon.
Why it matters: AI tools favour content that mirrors how real people speak. A conversational tone improves engagement and ensures clarity for a wide audience.
Compare:
✅ “Think of SEO like a digital roadmap for your website.”
❌ “Search engine optimisation facilitates user acquisition via SERP integration.”
The first example is easier to understand and more suitable for AI summarisation.
4. Include a TLDR or Summary at the Top
Tip: Add a brief summary or “TLDR” (Too Long; Didn’t Read) at the beginning of long articles.
Why it matters: AI systems often look for concise, summarised information to feature in overviews. A short summary increases the likelihood that the page will be featured.
Example:
TLDR: To optimise for Google’s AI Overviews, focus on answering user questions clearly, use structured formatting, and keep content up to date.
5. Implement Schema Markup
Tip: Add structured data using schema types like FAQ, HowTo, or Article.
Why it matters: Schema markup helps Google understand the type of content on the page. This clarity can improve eligibility for featured placements, including AI Overviews.
Helpful tools:
Even basic implementation can help improve visibility.
6. Regularly Update Content
Tip: Revisit and refresh key pages every few months.
Why it matters: AI-generated results prioritise timely, accurate information. Outdated pages are less likely to appear in AI Overviews, even if they rank traditionally.
Quick updates might include:
Adding recent data or examples
Fixing broken links
Answering new, trending questions
Even minor updates can signal freshness to search engines.
7. Build Topical Authority Through Clusters
Tip: Create multiple pages around a central theme and interlink them.
Why it matters: AI Overviews favour sites that demonstrate deep understanding of a topic. A content cluster strategy signals that the site is a go-to resource.
Example cluster topics for “email marketing”:
How to write effective subject lines
Email automation tools comparison
A/B testing in email campaigns
Common deliverability issues
Linking these together improves both user navigation and topical authority.
8. Ensure a Fast and Mobile-Friendly Experience
Tip: Improve page speed, mobile responsiveness, and user experience.
Why it matters: Pages that are slow or hard to navigate are less likely to be surfaced in search - whether by humans or AI. A smooth mobile experience is essential.
Tools to try:
Optimising performance helps ensure that content is usable and visible.
Final Takeaway: Content for Humans, Optimised for AI
While the emergence of AI Overviews may seem like a challenge, it presents a real opportunity to double down on clear, helpful content. By answering real questions, using accessible language, and organising information cleanly, websites can improve their chances of being selected for these AI-driven results.
Brands that adopt these principles early will have an edge as Google's search features continue to evolve.
