Google's Take on LLMs.txt and Indexing Concerns

In a recent discussion, Google’s own John Mueller shed light on the emerging content standard known as LLMs.txt, particularly regarding potential duplicate content issues. While he clarified that it shouldn't be viewed as duplicate content, he hinted that implementing a noindex header might be a smart move to keep it from being indexed.

What is LLMs.txt?

LLMs.txt is a proposed content format specifically designed for large language models. Its goal? To allow these models to extract key information from web pages while bypassing all the clutter—like ads and navigation menus—that typically obscures the main content. By providing a streamlined, Markdown-formatted version of essential information, publishers can enhance how their content is accessed and utilized.

Distinguishing LLMs.txt from Robots.txt

It’s crucial to note the distinction between LLMs.txt and the familiar robots.txt file. While robots.txt serves to manage how search bots interact with a website, LLMs.txt is geared solely toward supplying high-quality content directly to AI models. This makes it an entirely different tool, despite any confusion surrounding their purposes.

Could Google Misinterpret LLMs.txt?

A user on Bluesky raised an interesting question: could Google mistakenly categorize LLMs.txt as duplicate content? With the potential for external links pointing to it, there's a chance Google might prioritize this format over traditional HTML. It’s a valid concern, considering the evolving landscape of content accessibility.

Should You Use a Noindex Header?

Mueller's advice? It’s a good idea to implement a noindex header for your LLMs.txt file. This precaution helps ensure that the content remains sheltered from Google’s indexing, preventing any unwelcome surprises for users. Interestingly, using robots.txt alone wouldn’t suffice since it merely restricts crawling without stopping indexing.

Final Thoughts on LLMs.txt