Search is evolving—and fast. With the rise of generative AI and large language models (LLMs), how your content is found, interpreted, and used is shifting from traditional keyword-based search engines to conversational AI platforms. In this new era, visibility isn’t just about ranking #1 on Google—it’s about being the source LLMs cite, summarize, or paraphrase in their responses. That’s where llms.txt comes in.
What Is llms.txt?
The llms.txt file is a new standard being proposed as a way for website owners to communicate how their content should be accessed and used by large language models like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Claude, and others. It’s a simple text file placed at the root of your domain, similar to robots.txt, but with a focus on LLMs rather than search engine crawlers.
For example:
https://bradbartell.dev/llms.txtThis file lets you:
- Allow or disallow LLMs from training on or referencing your content
- Specify conditions for use (like attribution or licensing terms)
- Signal your openness to AI systems in a transparent, machine-readable way
How Is llms.txt Different from robots.txt?
While both llms.txt and robots.txt are used to guide automated systems, they serve different purposes:
| Feature | robots.txt | llms.txt |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Audience | Web crawlers (e.g., Googlebot, Bingbot) | Large language models (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini) |
| Focus | Search indexing and crawling behavior | AI training and content usage |
| Syntax | Standard directives like Disallow, Allow | Emerging conventions for AI content governance |
| Current Adoption | Widely implemented and recognized | Still emerging, but gaining attention |
robots.txt tells search engines whether to index pages. llms.txt goes a step further by addressing whether your content can be used in training datasets or real-time generative answers.
Why It Matters for the Future of SEO and AI Search
As AI becomes the front door to more digital experiences, how LLMs interpret and use your content will define your visibility. This includes:
- Whether your content is cited in AI-generated summaries
- How accurate or up-to-date AI answers are when referring to your site
- The ability to control or monetize the use of your original content
By proactively adding llms.txt, you demonstrate digital maturity and readiness to engage with AI systems on your terms.
How to Implement llms.txt
- Create a plain text file named llms.txt.
- Add directives or policy notes, such as:
User-Agent: *
Allow: /
Attribution: required
Licensing: CC-BY-NC
Contact: ai@yoursite.com- Upload it to the root of your domain (e.g., https://yoursite.com/llms.txt).
- Monitor adoption and adjust policies as standards evolve.
Conclusion: Stay Ahead of the Curve
The introduction of llms.txt is more than a technical tweak—it’s a strategic move. As more AI models crawl, synthesize, and present content, your site’s policies should keep pace. By embracing llms.txt, you’re not just protecting your content—you’re positioning your brand to thrive in the next wave of search and discovery.