Citation
A source reference shown with an AI answer, usually linking to a web page. A citation identifies a source; a mention names a brand in the answer text.
Explanation
An answer can mention a brand without citing its website, or cite a page without recommending the company that owns it. Keeping these cases separate helps explain how a brand appears in AI answers.
For example, an assistant may name a supplier but cite a third-party review. The supplier receives a mention; the review receives the citation.
A citation is not proof that every statement is correct, a recommendation, or a website visit. Review the answer and source together, and measure referral traffic separately. Citation selection can change between repeated answers.
Sources
Updated: Oct 1, 2026