Artificial intelligence (AI) is something that many people have heard of, but not everyone knows what it really means or how to use it. While some AI tools are still in development and will only be released in the next few years, there are some things that you can do right now to prepare yourself for when they’re available. Here are 5 ways that AI can help boost your SEO rankings online.

1) How does it work?
A super-duper quick explanation: Machine learning uses algorithms and statistical techniques to learn tasks by analyzing massive amounts of data—for example, by scanning millions of websites and all of their social media posts. Machine learning often involves a computer going through millions (if not billions) of pieces of data to find patterns, which in turn allows that same computer to make predictions or learn new information. Oftentimes, machine learning involves complex analytics designed to take data already collected and use it to predict outcomes or trends.

2) RankBrain – Google’s newest A.I. tool
RankBrain, a machine learning algorithm rolled out to Google search in 2015, is responsible for about 15 percent of total search results. In layman’s terms: RankBrain looks at what users are searching for and how they’re searching for it so that it can adjust search results in real-time. Instead of simply looking at keywords and phrases, RankBrain takes other factors into account – including your business location, any reviews you may have received from clients or your customers, and even how trustworthy you appear based on what pictures or videos pop up on your website or social media pages.

3) Predictive Analysis and Other Factors
Several factors go into search engine optimization (SEO) analysis, including how often a specific site is updated, how unique and relevant its content is to customers’ needs, and how much traffic it gets. The same goes for social media posts—or brand marketing in general. You must have a practical algorithm for analyzing these factors to boost your rankings or visibility online.

4) The Future of Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Content Marketing and Brand Marketing: The future of search engine optimization (SEO) is about providing your audience with what they want—in an authentic, compelling way. To do so, businesses must continue to develop content-focused strategies that align their messages across all brand touchpoints. As users’ preferences change and businesses come and go, artificial intelligence (AI) will also emerge as a powerful tool in delivering highly personalized experiences to consumers.

5) Competition Is Only Getting Stronger
The market is only getting more competitive with time, and while you may have been on top of things in years past, it’s easy to lose sight of your business’s most significant competitor: Google. As artificial intelligence continues to get smarter, it will become increasingly crucial for businesses to stay ahead of (or at least keep pace with) constantly improving online search algorithms. Here are five ways artificial intelligence can help boost your rankings.