Content revised 20 October 2026.
A featured snippet presents an extracted answer from a web page in search results. You can make an answer clearer, but you can't mark a page as the guaranteed featured snippet.
Understand what the searcher is seeing
A featured snippet highlights information that answers a query and identifies its source. It is different from a paid ad and from a rich result enabled by supported structured data. It should not be described as a position that an agency can simply sell to a website owner.
Write a useful answer first
State the central answer clearly, then explain the details and limitations. Use steps for a real process and a comparison table when the reader needs to compare consistent attributes. Avoid reducing a complex question to an inaccurate sentence just because it might look compact in search.
Keep the source page worthwhile
- Provide context beyond the short answer.
- Use descriptive headings and accessible text.
- Check that examples and factual claims are accurate.
- Link to relevant supporting information when it helps.
Do not rely on old display assumptions
A claim that featured snippets are unavailable on mobile is outdated. Search layouts vary, so inspect actual results for the relevant query and device rather than designing around a supposed permanent position zero. The website still needs to work well when someone opens it.
Measure the outcome realistically
Review the page’s queries, clicks and useful next steps in context. A clear answer may serve readers even if no special search feature appears. AI-generated search experiences are a separate topic; adding a short answer or schema doesn't guarantee inclusion there either. Improve the explanation for its audience and keep any visibility claim tied to evidence.
Official guidance: Google’s featured snippet guidance.