What is answer engine optimization?
Answer engine optimization means writing content that can be used directly in an answer, not just linked to.
In practice, use clear question-shaped headings, self-contained passages and claims with sources. Each section should make sense even when it's read away from the rest of the page.
AEO overlaps heavily with generative engine optimization. The terms are often used for the same work. When people separate them, AEO is the older and wider term. It also covers featured snippets and voice answers.
Why it matters for product builders
An answer engine usually gives one response, not 10 links. Second place often means no visibility at all.