llms.txt: The New robots.txt for AI

While robots.txt tells search engine crawlers what to do, AI systems need different information. Enter llms.txt – a new standard for communicating with Large Language Models.

What is llms.txt?

The llms.txt file is a standardized text file in your website's root directory that provides AI crawlers with structured information about your brand, products, and services.

Why llms.txt Matters

The Problem with Traditional Crawlers

Classic search engine crawlers scan HTML and follow links. AI systems need more:

• Context: What makes your brand unique?
• Structure: Which information is most important?
• Instructions: How should your brand be presented?

The Solution

llms.txt gives AI systems exactly this information in a machine-readable format.

Structure of an llms.txt

# Brand Name
> Brief description of the brand

## About Us
Detailed description...

## Products/Services
- Product 1: Description
- Product 2: Description

## Contact
Email: ...
Website: ...

## Important Links
- /products
- /about
- /contact

Best Practices for llms.txt

1. Clarity Over Creativity

AI systems appreciate clear, factual statements more than marketing language.

2. Structured Information

Use headings, lists, and clear hierarchies.

3. Currency

Keep the file current, especially when products or company details change.

4. Completeness

Provide all relevant information that AI systems might need.

5. Consistency

Information should match the rest of your website.

Implementation

1. Create the file llms.txt
2. Place it in the root directory: https://your-domain.com/llms.txt
3. Optionally link from robots.txt
4. Test with various AI systems

llms.txt vs. Schema.org

Aspect	llms.txt	Schema.org
Format	Plain text	JSON-LD/Microdata
Purpose	AI overview	Structured data
Scope	Entire brand	Individual pages
Complexity	Simple	Technical

Both complement each other – use llms.txt for overview and Schema.org for details.

Future of llms.txt

The standard is still young but gaining importance. Major AI providers are beginning to consider llms.txt. Early adopters have an advantage.

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We create your llms.txt and optimize it for maximum AI visibility.