Record the exact observation

Save the query, tool, date, response and cited URL through an appropriate research process. Note whether the answer links to the publication, merely mentions the brand or draws on another source. Avoid reporting a remembered or second-hand observation as a verified citation.

Check the cited page

Open the referenced page and confirm that its content supports the relevant answer. A citation can be present but inaccurate, outdated or unrelated to the claim. Keep the review focused on evidence rather than treating every appearance as a marketing success.

Avoid overstating repeatability

AI answers can vary across queries, contexts and time. Report observed instances and the method used, not a promise of permanent visibility. The useful question is whether the publication provides clear, reliable material that helps readers and can be accurately referenced. Preserve the answer context around the citation. A source used to support a narrow definition should not be presented as evidence that the system recommends the product or endorses the business. The claim about the citation must match what was observed.

Imagine this

Illustrative operating example

A hypothetical test produces a brand mention with no link in one answer and a linked article in another. The first is a mention; the second is a candidate citation that still needs a source check. Counting both as verified citations would overstate the result.

Make it practical.

Use this checklist as you read. Checks are not stored.

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