Definition An AI Overview citation is a URL listed as a source in Google's generative answer box. Plain text brand mentions do not count; the URL must be referenced. Citations typically concentrate in the top five sources.
How it works Google AI Overview runs a generative model and selects source candidates from SERP and indexed content. The model finds passages that support answer sentences and adds matching URLs to the source list. Structured markup, clear headings, and direct answer paragraphs raise selection probability. Citation order is not deterministic; user, session, and location influence it.
Where you see it in Scope Trends View citations under **Scope AI Search** > **Citations**. Each citation stores query, source URL, citation position, and date. The **Citation Gap** report lists queries where competitors get cited and you do not.
Frequently asked questions **Is appearing in AI Overview the same as SEO ranking?** No. AI Overview uses selection logic separate from classic SERP ranking. Pages outside the top 10 can earn AI Overview citations.
**How is citation volume reported by tier?** Starter includes 100, Business 500, Pro 2,000 tracked citations. Overage converts to add-on packs.