The 5 optimization types
How article structure changes across the five optimization types (SEO, AIO, LLMO, GEO and Hybrid), a rough guide to choosing one, and how to set a default.
The type changes the article's structure
Even for the same keyword, the best way to write changes depending on who you want reading it. Sorabun changes the article's structure itself to match.
| Type | What it aims for |
|---|---|
| SEO | Traditional search engine optimization. Focuses on headings aligned with search intent, meta information, and related keywords. |
| AIO | Answer first. Each section opens with a clear conclusion; steps and comparisons go in numbered lists or tables. |
| LLMO | Clear facts. Make the subject, numbers, and evidence explicit, and define terms the first time they appear. |
| GEO | Show the evidence and the author. Emphasizes sourced numbers, first-hand information, and who wrote it. |
| Hybrid | A balanced mix of every type (recommended). Google says no special optimization is needed to appear in AI Overviews; the substance of every type is the same as SEO basics. |
Which type should you choose?
| When... | Use |
|---|---|
| You want to rank straightforwardly in search | SEO |
| Many readers want a quick answer ("what is X", "how to") | AIO (answer first) |
| You want to convey terms, mechanisms, and numbers precisely | LLMO (clear facts) |
| You want to lead with evidence such as research or your own data | GEO (show the evidence) |
| You're not sure, or want all of the above | Hybrid |
Google says there is no special optimization needed to appear in AI Overviews or AI Mode. The requirements are that the page is indexed and eligible to show a snippet. The types differ only in how an article is structured; whichever you pick, the substance is the same as SEO basics (helpful content with information found nowhere else). Producing an article for every variation of a search query is treated by Google as scaled content abuse, so Sorabun does not do that.
Setting a default
If choosing every time is a hassle, set a default under "Settings > Generation defaults > Optimization type" (default_type). Then on the New Article screen, you only need to change it when necessary.
Hybrid blends elements from each type in a balanced mix. It's practical to run with Hybrid at first, then switch to a specific type once you want to grow a particular traffic channel.