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What is RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation)?

RAG is the technique AI search engines use to find relevant web content and incorporate it into their responses. When Perplexity answers a question, it uses RAG to retrieve and cite sources.

Why RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) Matters for Local Businesses

In 2026, 45% of consumers use AI search engines (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Perplexity) to find local services — up from just 6% one year ago. Understanding RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) is essential because it directly affects whether AI recommends your business.

Google organic clicks have dropped 42% since AI Overviews launched. Businesses that ignore AI visibility signals are losing customers to competitors who optimize for them.

How to Check Your RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) Status

The fastest way to see how your business performs on this metric is to run a free GEO Audit. Our 14-point check analyzes your website across all the factors AI search engines use when deciding who to recommend — including RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation).

Check Your Score — Free GEO Audit →

How to Improve

Related terms: Core Web Vitals GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) How AI Recommends Local Businesses llms.txt Google Business Profile (GBP) Google AI Overview