Understanding llms.txt
llms.txt is a proposed standard (see llmstxt.org) for a small, plain-text file that helps AI assistants understand a website. Think of it as a menu written for AI.
The three files
| File | Purpose | Size |
|---|---|---|
llms.txt | A concise overview: what the site is and links to key pages. | < 500 KB |
llms-ctx.txt | Extra context so AI can answer more detailed questions. | Flexible |
llms-full.txt | A complete, machine-readable copy of key content. | No limit |
The format
- Required: an H1 title —
# Site Name. - Recommended: a one-line summary blockquote —
> What the site does. - Optional: H2 sections —
## Products— grouping links. - Links:
- [Title](URL): description.
Why it matters
More people start their search by asking an AI assistant instead of scrolling a results page. These files give the AI clean, structured signals about a business, making it easier to summarize, cite, and recommend accurately — instead of guessing from a design-heavy web page.