AI search glossary

    What is Structured data?

    Also known as: Schema markup

    Structured data is code on a page that labels facts, such as a business name, address or article author, in a standard format search engines can read.

    Google says structured data isn't required for its AI features and there's no special markup to add, but it still helps pages become eligible for rich results. Structured data should match what's visible on the page.

    Why it matters for your business

    Structured data labels facts on your page in a format machines read reliably. It doesn't guarantee AI visibility, but it removes guesswork about who you are and what a page is about.

    How it works

    1. 1

      Choose a type

      Use Schema.org types such as Organization, LocalBusiness, Article or FAQPage.

    2. 2

      Fill in properties

      Add facts like name, address, author and dates.

    3. 3

      Match the page

      Google requires the markup to reflect what visitors can actually see.

    Common misunderstandings

    Myth

    Schema is required to appear in AI Overviews.

    Reality

    Google says structured data isn't required and there's no special markup for AI features.

    Myth

    More markup is always better.

    Reality

    Markup that doesn't match the visible content can break Google's guidelines.

    What to do about it

    • Add Organization markup to your homepage.
    • Add Article markup with author details to expert content.
    • Test pages with Google's Rich Results Test.

    Questions people ask

    Is structured data the same as Schema.org?

    Schema.org is the shared vocabulary most structured data uses.

    See where your business stands

    Run the Free Check

    Sources

    Answers that explain this

    Related terms

    Schema.orgRich resultsEntity relationships

    Defined by Dr. Radhakrishnan KG, founder of WebNamaste · Reviewed 6 October 2026