Developer shares AEO tactics that drove free traffic via ChatGPT and answer engines

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A developer explored how answer engines like ChatGPT surface website recommendations and documented the key factors influencing visibility on these platforms. Unlike traditional SEO, answer engines reportedly break user queries into multiple sub-prompts and draw from sources such as Reddit, LinkedIn, and YouTube rather than relying solely on blogs. The developer found that backlinks carry little weight with answer engines, potentially leveling the playing field for newer websites. Practical steps implemented included adding a llms.txt file to the site, which is a machine-readable guide for AI crawlers. The developer tested these strategies on a domain called Simple Online Ruler and claims to have seen measurable organic traffic results.

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