Quick definition
AI citations are the source references — visible links, source cards, or inline attributions — that appear alongside or inside an AI-generated answer.
Why citations matter
Citations are the closest equivalent to backlinks in generative search. A cited source carries the implicit endorsement of the answer engine itself, which influences both discoverability and trust.
How to track citations
Citation tracking captures which sources AI engines cite, how often, in what position, and how that shifts over time. It is core to any serious AI visibility program.