Summary
Sources are the external URLs, such as articles or websites, that AI models use to generate answers and include in responses.
Definition
Every AI-generated response is built from Sources, which are the websites and content fragments that supply information. Platforms like Google AI Overviews, Bing Copilot, or ChatGPT Mentions assemble these inputs to form complete answers.
There are several ways Sources appear:
Cited Sources: URLs shown separately, often at the end of an answer, to provide attribution and transparency.
Inline Sources: Clickable links placed inside the body of the AI’s text, inviting users to explore more detail.
Source Domains: The underlying websites where the AI obtained its information.
Inline Domains: Websites whose content is used within an answer but may not be visibly cited.
Together, these layers of Sources reveal how AI engines build responses, decide which sites to credit, and guide users toward further information. For marketers and agencies, analyzing Sources helps track Brand Visibility, uncover competitor influence, and inform strategies for AI Engine Optimization (AEO) and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO).
Use cases
Mapping the mix of Cited Sources and Inline Sources in your category.
Identifying which Source Domains AI engines draw from most frequently.
Measuring competitor presence across different source types.
Assessing how Sources shape your Brand Visibility and perception.
Guiding GEO and AEO strategies to strengthen source representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Source appear in more than one way?
Yes, the same website can be used as an Inline Source in one response and a Cited Source in another.
Why do Sources matter for brands?
They reveal which sites and competitors influence AI-generated answers, helping marketers measure visibility and authority.
How do Inline Sources differ from Cited Sources?
Inline Sources are clickable links embedded in the text, while Cited Sources are listed separately as attribution.
What are Sources in AI search?
Sources are the websites and content AI engines use to generate answers.