To write AI-ready content that doesn’t sound robotic, focus on clarity, structure, and human tone.
With Google rolling out AI Overview across search results, many businesses are scrambling to “write for AI.” But here’s the secret: AI-ready content isn’t about pleasing machines—it’s about engaging real people.
The sweet spot? Writing that’s structured for AI and crafted for humans.
Here are my top tips to help you strike the balance.
1. Start with a Clear, Direct Answer (Like This One)
To appear in AI Overview or a featured snippet, answer the main search query in the first few lines. Be clear, concise and informative—aim for 1–3 sentences.
Example:
AI-ready content is content that’s structured clearly, answers common questions directly, and is optimised to appear in tools like Google’s AI Overview.
2. Use Headings and Bullets for Scannability
Help both users and Google by using:
H2 and H3 headings for each section
Bullet points, numbered lists or tables for easy-to-digest info
Short paragraphs (2–4 sentences)
Bold or italic text to highlight important info
This structure increases the chances your content is selected for AI features.
3. Optimise for Search Intent, Not Just Keywords
Don’t just write around keywords. AI-ready content aligns with what the user actually wants to know—not just what they searched. A skilled copywriter anticipates follow-up questions, adds context, and makes the content feel complete.
Example:
If someone searches for “family-friendly wineries in the South-West,” they’re probably not just after a list—they want to know which wineries have playgrounds, kid-friendly menus, shaded picnic areas, or activities nearby. A smart copywriter doesn’t just list locations—they add useful detail like opening hours, whether bookings are needed during school holidays, or how close the winery is to a beach or farm stay. That kind of completeness is what makes content genuinely AI-ready and helpful to the reader.
4. Keep the Tone Human
It’s easy to sound robotic when chasing keywords or letting AI write your blog posts. Here’s how to avoid that:
Use conversational language (like “you” and “your”)
Add questions or rhetorical phrases to engage readers
Reference local details or personal experiences
Your goal: clarity without clinical coldness.
5. Add Human Context (Especially for Local Content)
If you’re writing for a Dunsborough audience, don’t just mention “tourism”—reference wine trails, surf beaches, or the school holiday rush. These little touches show that your content is grounded in real-world understanding, not scraped from the internet.
A Simple Framework for AI-Optimised Paragraphs
Here’s a quick 4-step format I use when writing for AI Overview:
Start with a direct answer
Add 1–2 supporting sentences
Use formatting to break up ideas
Close with a helpful or action-oriented takeaway
This structure helps Google understand the point—and helps your readers take action.
AI-ready content isn’t about writing like a robot—it’s about writing for clarity.
When your words are well-structured, helpful and sound human, you’re more likely to be surfaced by Google’s AI Overview and connect with your audience.
FAQs: Writing for AI Overview
Q1: What is AI-ready content?
AI-ready content is structured to answer user questions clearly and concisely, using formatting that helps search engines extract relevant information.
Q2: How do I avoid sounding robotic in SEO content?
Write like you're speaking to a real person. Use contractions, keep sentences short, and include relatable examples. Don’t forget to add a bit of personality!
Q3: Do I need to use AI tools to rank in AI Overview?
No. What matters most is clarity, authority and structure. AI tools can assist, but human strategy is key.
Q4: Is AI Overview replacing traditional SEO?
Not yet—but it’s changing how search results are displayed. Writing for AI Overview means optimising for structured, scannable, helpful content.
Want help crafting content that’s AI-Overview-friendly and connects with your audience? Get in touch.