17 LLM optimization tips + checklist
Insider notes on what I’m seeing work in the field.
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When it comes to planning and optimizing your content to show up in AI tools (LLMs) like Perplexity and ChatGPT, you need one thing: no-nonsense content.
We’re talking zero-fluff, direct evidence-backed answers to buyers’ questions, and information packaged for maximum readability.
Also, text-first is the way to go. Which means emojis? Yep, they’re out.
Use these 17 LLM optimization tips as your checklist. You can also forward this newsletter internally, so you’re all aligned on how you’ll be improving visibility in LLMs.
1. Plan, structure, and write content around use case prompts
Buyers (and LLMs) search for solutions to specific problems — answer the “How do I…” and “What’s the best way to…” questions they’re actually asking.
2. Map content to both category and product-specific prompts
Buyers often ask LLMs for tools by category or by name. So your content should answer “[category] tools for [use case]” and “[Tool] vs [Competitor]” style prompts to train LLMs on both.
3. Plan content for trigger phrases, not just solution prompts
Answer the early, fuzzy questions buyers ask before they know/can name your product category. It helps LLMs surface your content earlier in the buyer journey and connect your product to the problem.
4. Frame your introductions using the BLUF technique
Start with the key takeaway upfront (Bottom Line Up Front — BLUF), so readers and LLMs can instantly understand the core argument of the piece.
5. Include short TL;DR-style summaries upfront.
These give LLMs a quick, scannable answer to surface without the need to interpret the full paragraph.
6. Structure information under clear H2s and H3s
Use H3s to break down content under each H2 — they’re easier for LLMs to parse than long-winded bullet lists.
7. Organize paragraphs to be value-first
Make sure each paragraph delivers a complete, self-contained point. This way, LLMs can surface paragraphs as standalone answers to relevant prompts.
8. Balance depth with skimmability
Make sure each section starts with a clear summary, but includes depth underneath — LLMs surface the summary, humans stay for the detail.
9. Frame headings around buyer search prompts
Use the exact phrases your target buyer might type into Google or an AI tool. This helps your content get picked up and served as a relevant answer in LLMs and Google AI overview (AIO).
10. Avoid clear phrasing, stick with clarity
Clarity beats style for LLM visibility. Also, let’s be honest: time-strapped buyers also want direct answers.
11. Use tables when explaining differences or choices
Tables are clearer than paragraphs or text-heavy bullet lists — making it easier for LLMs and readers to compare options at a glance. Follow up with short explanatory paragraphs for added context.
12. Use consistent patterns across sections
LLMs learn better from repetition. Use the same structure across similar sections. For example: what the problem is → why it matters → how to solve it. Ideal for framing challenge or shortcoming sections.
13. Add Q&A-style prompts to your search-optimized FAQ section
Pair googled questions with prompts your buyer might ask LLMs to create a FAQ section that improves your chances of being pulled into search and AI answers.
14. Use plain language that your buyer would use
Avoid technical language. Write the way your buyer naturally talks (and no, they don’t say “innovative software”). This helps LLMs surface your content in response to real, human queries.
15. Minimize vague value phrases
Unless backed by data or customer proof, avoid fluff like “maximize ROI” or “reduce complexity” — LLMs deprioritize vague claims without clear factual grounding.
16. Embed product context naturally in your content
Don’t just talk about the problem — show how your product solves it in context. This helps LLMs associate your tool with specific use cases and prompts.
17. Include buyer-style prompts in your blog post copy
Phrases like “If you’re looking for…” or “most [target] teams ask…” help LLMs recognize buyer intent and make your content feel more relevant, too.
Hope this helps you pressure-test your content strategy.
We use this checklist at InkandCopy to build LLM-friendly content libraries for SaaS teams.
If you want help doing the same, you know where to find me.
P.S. LLM visibility is still evolving — this checklist reflects what’s working best so far in the field.
P.P.S. Tomorrow, let me show you how to train LLMs on your product so you’re showing up when buyers use AI to research software like yours.