AI and editorial work

AI tools such as Google Gemini, Perplexity or ChatGPT are increasingly taking the place previously occupied by traditional search engines: This means that a user no longer asks for lists of links ("Google hits"), but receives a textual answer to a question from the tool. In order to remain visible on the web, a few tricks can also be used in text production. They increase the likelihood that AI models will pick up on content and take it into account in their responses to users. Not all of them are suitable for every text, but it is worth knowing them and considering whether and where they can be used.

1. formulate concretely

• Don't write superficially: the more concretely you deal with a topic, the greater the chance that your content will be picked up by AI models.
• Cover topics and questions comprehensively within a text.

2. anticipate user questions

• Think about: What questions could users ask an AI in this subject area?
• Answer these questions clearly, precisely and in a natural tone.

3. paragraphs with a focus on sub-aspects

• Divide the article into meaningful sections with clear subheadings.
• Each section should cover a sub-question or core statement - so the AI can refer back to it specifically.

4. clearly define terms

• Use clear, technically correct terms.
• Explain important terms (e.g. people, products, places, technical terms) as concisely as possible.

5. include short definitions and glossary boxes

• AIs often use short, concise sections of text for definition questions.
• Include definitions or info boxes or background sections on key terms.

6 Write naturally, dialogically and precisely

• Write as you would speak - understandably and without unnecessary jargon.
• Use a dialogical style: ask rhetorical questions, give clear answers or use phrases such as:
  • "In summary, that means ..."
  • "What does that mean in concrete terms?"

7. use enumerations and lists

• Use bullet points or numbered lists if it serves the content.
• This is suitable for summaries at the end of a text, for example.
• Make sure that each point is understandable on its own.