Featured snippets
Featured snippets are Google results that show a quoted extract from a page above or among results to answer a query. Google selects them automatically: you “can’t” mark a page as a featured snippet. You can opt out with nosnippet, data-nosnippet or max-snippet. Clear, direct answers to specific questions help.
How does Google choose featured snippets?
Google says its systems determine whether a page would make a good featured snippet; site owners can’t mark pages for it.[1]
How do you opt out of featured snippets?
Use nosnippet (all snippets), max-snippet (limit length) or data-nosnippet on parts of a page.[1] The same controls affect AI Overviews eligibility.[2]
How do you win featured snippets?
- Answer the question in the first 40–60 words under a matching heading (a common practice, not a Google rule).
- Use lists and tables for step and comparison queries.
- Rank on page one for the query.
How do featured snippets relate to AI Overviews?
Both require snippet eligibility.[2] See AI Overviews vs AEO.
Frequently asked questions
Can I request a featured snippet?
No. Google chooses them automatically.
Do featured snippets still exist with AI Overviews?
Yes, they can still appear.
Do featured snippets get clicks?
They can, but some answers are satisfied on the results page.
See also
References
Sources accessed October 14, 2026 unless another date is given. See all sources.
- “Featured snippets and your website”. Google Search Central. accessed October 14, 2026.
- “AI features and your website”. Google Search Central. accessed October 14, 2026.