Backlinks
Hyperlinks from other websites that serve as votes of confidence and authority in search engine algorithms.
- AEO
August 25, 2025
Source Citations
How AI systems reference and link back to original sources of information in their responses, crucial for credibility.
AEO
Definition
Source Citation in AI search refers to how large language models and AI systems reference or link back to the original sources of information they use to generate responses. Proper citation is critical for maintaining credibility, allowing users to verify information, and ensuring original creators receive recognition. For brands and publishers, citations also create valuable opportunities for traffic, authority building, and visibility within AI-driven search results.
Why It Matters
Accurate citations improve trust between users and AI systems, while also providing new distribution channels for content. Being cited not only positions your content as authoritative but can also generate direct referral traffic from AI platforms and indirect benefits such as brand recognition, backlinks, and improved authority signals that support both SEO and AEO efforts.
Examples of Source Citations
1 Perplexity linking to source articles directly in its responses.
2 ChatGPT explicitly mentioning the origin of specific information.
3 AI systems providing structured footnotes, references, or citation lists.
Frequently Asked Questions about Source Citations
Perplexity, Google AI Overviews, and some ChatGPT modes regularly include citations, though approaches vary by platform.
Related Definitions
Training Data Optimization
Strategic content creation designed to influence how AI models learn about and represent brands during their training processes.
- AEO
August 25, 2025
Topical Authority
The level of expertise and credibility a website demonstrates on a specific subject, crucial for AI citations and search rankings.
- AEO
August 25, 2025
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