LLMO is not "SEO with a new name". Beginners often make a few predictable mistakes that reduce their chances of being cited in AI answers and AI Overviews. This guide explains the most common pitfalls, why they happen, and the exact steps to fix them.
Why LLMO mistakes are so easy to make
LLMO (Large Language Model Optimization) builds on SEO but optimizes content for how large language models (ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity and others) read, extract and cite information. Many beginners assume that writing a longer article or adding more keywords is enough. In the AI era, additional signals matter: structure, extractability, data density, schema and EEAT.

1) Treating LLMO as "classic SEO"
The most common misconception is: "We do SEO, so we’re done." SEO is the foundation, but LLMO determines whether your content can be used as a source inside AI-generated answers.

Typical problem: the page is optimized for rankings, not for direct answers.
Impact: AI panels cite competitors even when you rank relatively high.
Fix: add a "direct answer" section (definition/summary), plus FAQ and clear sub-sections to key pages.
2) Weak structure: huge text blocks with no logic
Models and users prefer scan-friendly content. When long pages lack H2/H3 headings, lists or clear sections, AI struggles to extract answers reliably.

Typical problem: 3,000 words, but no chapters, lists, or tables.
Impact: poor extractability and weak "quotability".
Fix: use H2 for core sections, H3 for sub-questions; add lists, steps, tables and short definitions.