Semantic HTML uses HTML elements that clearly describe the meaning, purpose, and structure of content. Unlike generic divs and spans, semantic elements tell browsers, search engines, and AI systems what the content represents.

Key Semantic Elements:

Document Structure

• `
  `: Page or section header
• `
• `
  `: Primary content
• `
• `

Content Sections

• `
  `: Self-contained content
• `
  `: Thematic grouping
• `

  `/`

Text Semantics

• `

  `-`

  `: Heading hierarchy

• `

  `: Paragraphs

• `

  `: Quotations

• ``: Citation source
• ``: Code snippets
• ``: Dates and times
• `
  `: Contact information

Lists

• `
  `/`
  `/`
  1. `: Lists
  2. `

     `/`

     `/`

     `: Definition lists

  Why Semantic HTML Matters for AI:

  • Provides context beyond visible text
  • Enables accurate content extraction
  • Improves accessibility (used by AI)
  • Supports structured data extraction
  • Differentiates content types

  Example:

  Article Title

  Jan 15, 2024

  Content...

  Semantic HTML is a foundational GEO practice that improves how AI systems understand and extract your content.