What is llms.txt?

The llms.txt file is an emerging standard designed specifically for AI systems and large language models (LLMs). Similar to how robots.txt tells search engine crawlers what to index, llms.txt tells AI models like ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Google Bard what your website is about, which pages are most important, and how your content can be used.

This standardized file format allows website owners to control whether their content can be used for AI training data, summarized in AI responses, or cited as a source. As AI-powered search becomes mainstream, having an llms.txt file is becoming essential for modern SEO strategy.

Why llms.txt Matters for AI SEO

Traditional SEO files like robots.txt and sitemap.xml were designed for conventional search engines. However, AI search engines work differently – they don’t just index pages, they understand, summarize, and generate content based on what they learn. Here’s why llms.txt is crucial:

• Control AI Training: Prevent or allow AI models from using your content to train their algorithms
• Optimize AI Visibility: Help AI search engines understand which pages contain your most valuable content
• Protect Intellectual Property: Set clear boundaries for how AI can use your copyrighted material
• Improve Citation: Increase the likelihood that AI will properly cite your website as a source
• Future-Proof SEO: Stay ahead as AI search continues to grow and evolve

How to Use llms.txt on WordPress

Implementing llms.txt on your WordPress website is straightforward. Our generator makes it even easier by automatically detecting your site structure. Follow these steps:

• Step 1: Enter your website URL in the fetch section above and click “Fetch Data”
• Step 2: Review the automatically detected information (site name, description, important pages)
• Step 3: Configure your AI permissions (training, summarization, citation)
• Step 4: Click “Generate llms.txt” to create your file
• Step 5: Download the llms.txt file using the download button
• Step 6: Upload it to your WordPress root directory at /public_html/ via FTP or cPanel File Manager
• Step 7: Verify it’s accessible at https://yourwebsite.com/llms.txt

Which AI Search Engines Use llms.txt?

Major AI platforms and LLM-based search engines that respect llms.txt directives include:

• ChatGPT (OpenAI): Web browsing and training data collection
• Claude (Anthropic): Content understanding and citation
• Perplexity AI: Real-time search and source attribution
• Google Bard: AI-powered search results
• Bing AI: Microsoft’s AI search integration
• You.com: AI-first search engine

Best Practices for llms.txt Optimization

To maximize the effectiveness of your llms.txt file for AI SEO:

• Include accurate, descriptive information about your site’s purpose and content
• List your most important pages in order of priority (homepage, key landing pages, popular content)
• Update your llms.txt whenever you add significant new content or restructure your site
• Be clear about your AI permissions – mixed signals can confuse AI crawlers
• Provide contact information for AI systems to reach you with questions or concerns
• Test your llms.txt file regularly to ensure it’s accessible and properly formatted

Common Questions About llms.txt

Is llms.txt required for my website? While not mandatory, it’s highly recommended as AI search continues to grow. Without it, AI systems will make their own decisions about your content.

Will AI always respect my llms.txt preferences? Most reputable AI platforms honor llms.txt directives, similar to how search engines respect robots.txt, though compliance isn’t legally enforced.

Can I update my llms.txt file later? Yes, you can modify and reupload your llms.txt file anytime. AI crawlers will check for updates periodically.

Does llms.txt replace robots.txt? No, they serve different purposes. Robots.txt controls traditional search crawlers, while llms.txt specifically addresses AI and LLM behavior.