What does "helpful, people-first content" mean for AI search?

What is commodity content?

Google's example of commodity content is "7 Tips for First-Time Homebuyers": common knowledge anyone could write. Its non-commodity example is "Why We Waived the Inspection & Saved Money: A Look Inside the Sewer Line", a specific, first-hand story.

Sources: Google Search Central: Optimizing your website for generative AI features

What questions does Google suggest asking?

Among others: Does the content provide original information, reporting, research or analysis? Does it provide insightful analysis beyond the obvious? If it draws on other sources, does it add substantial value rather than just rewriting them? Is it the sort of page you'd bookmark or recommend?

Sources: Google Search Central: Creating helpful, reliable, people-first content

Is there one simple test?

Yes. Google boils it down to one question.

Sources: Google Search Central: Optimizing your website for generative AI features

What does this look like for a clinic or law firm?

Instead of "5 signs you need cataract surgery", publish what your surgeons actually see: typical recovery timelines in your practice, the questions patients ask most, and real (anonymised) outcomes. Instead of "what is elder law", explain how you handled a common case in your state.