Optimizing for ChatGPT (and other generative engines) is mostly about one thing:
Write content in a structure that makes it easy to extract and trust.
This guide gives you a writing template you can use for almost any page.
The "answer-shaped" page model
A high-performing GEO page usually has:
- A direct answer (first 10 lines)
- Question-like headings (H2s)
- Short answers under each heading
- Lists/tables/checklists (extractable artifacts)
- Internal links to related pages
- Clear next step CTA (contextual)
The cite-worthy section template
Copy this section template and reuse it.
H2: Ask the question
Example: "How does GEO differ from SEO?"
Short answer (2–4 sentences). Define terms. Avoid vague language.
Then add one artifact:
- steps (1–6)
- checklist
- comparison table
- "common mistakes" list
Optional example A tiny real example makes it feel grounded.
Common page types that work well
- Definitions ("what is…")
- Comparisons ("X vs Y")
- How-to workflows
- Best practices checklists
- Troubleshooting guides
Start here:
Fan-out coverage: don't answer one question, answer the cluster
When someone asks one question, they usually have follow-ups.
Add H2s for:
- definitions
- steps
- pitfalls
- measurement
- alternatives
That's how you become the "complete source."
A practical GEO writing checklist
- Answer appears immediately (first 10 lines)
- H2s match real questions
- Each H2 has a short answer + artifact
- Includes examples/templates
- Links to parent topic hub
- Links to 3–6 related resources
- One contextual CTA
Next steps
- Keyword research workflow: /resources/guides/keyword-research-ai-search
- Build clusters: /resources/guides/topic-clusters-strategy
- Internal linking system: /resources/guides/internal-linking-best-practices