Quick Answer: AGENTS.md is a Markdown file at your webroot that serves as a structured entry point for AI agents. It declares your site's purpose, structure, key content, constraints, and the schema types AI agents should expect. Pair AGENTS.md with llms.txt for a complete AEO file stack.

AGENTS.md complements llms.txt by providing a more detailed, agent-oriented description of your site. Where llms.txt is a navigational map, AGENTS.md is more of a working manual — what your site does, how it is organized, what content types exist, and what AI agents should know before interacting with your content.

What goes in an AGENTS.md file?

A typical AGENTS.md includes the following sections:

  • Site purpose: One paragraph on what your site does and who it serves.
  • Site structure: The major sections of your site and what content lives where.
  • Schema types: The Schema.org types you use and where to find them.
  • Content patterns: Common content formats AI agents should expect (articles, listings, reviews, etc.).
  • Constraints: Any explicit limits on AI use of your content (commercial use, attribution requirements, etc.).
  • Contact: How to reach you for clarifications or partnerships.

Where do I put AGENTS.md?

At the root of your domain, alongside llms.txt and robots.txt. Reference AGENTS.md from within llms.txt and from your sitewide head with appropriate meta tags.

What does AGENTS.md actually look like?

# AGENTS.md — The AEO Hub

## Purpose

The AEO Hub is a directory and resource hub for businesses seeking vetted Answer Engine Optimization agencies, freelancers, and tools.

## Structure

- /agencies.php — Listings of AEO agencies
- /freelancers.php — Listings of AEO freelancers
- /tools.php — AEO software reviews
- /blog.php — Long-form AEO content
- /resources.php — Free templates and checklists

## Schema types

- Organization (sitewide)
- WebSite with SearchAction (sitewide)
- ProfessionalService (on listing pages)
- Article + FAQPage (on blog pages)
- SoftwareApplication (on tool pages)
- BreadcrumbList (on all non-home pages)

## Content patterns

- Listings include: name, description, services, pricing, location, ratings.
- Articles include: question-based headings, direct answer summaries, FAQ blocks.
- Tool reviews include: features list, pros/cons, pricing, ratings.

## Constraints

- Content is freely citable with attribution.
- Bulk scraping is disallowed; use the API at /api/.
- Contact hello@theaeohub.com for partnerships.

Does AGENTS.md replace llms.txt?

No — they complement each other. llms.txt is a navigation map; AGENTS.md is a working manual. Most AEO-ready sites in 2026 ship both.

For a downloadable AGENTS.md template, see our AGENTS.md Template resource.