Which Domains Do AI Models Trust Most? A 60-Day Analysis of Citation Patterns

In the rapidly evolving world of AI-powered search and content generation, understanding which sources AI models trust most is crucial for brands looking to optimize their visibility. Our latest analysis of over 850,000 citations across major AI models reveals fascinating patterns in domain preferences that could reshape your content strategy.

Key Finding

Each AI model has distinct domain preferences, with Wikipedia dominating ChatGPT citations (20,122), Reddit leading Perplexity (12,774), and YouTube topping Gemini trusted sources (1,821).

The Methodology

We analyzed citation data from our Spotlight platform, examining over 850,000 URL citations across seven major AI models over the past 60 days. The data reveals not just which domains get cited most frequently, but also the unique preferences of each AI model.

ChatGPT: The Wikipedia Champion

ChatGPT shows a clear preference for authoritative, encyclopedia-style content. Wikipedia dominates its citations with an astonishing 20,122 references in just 60 days.

Insight: ChatGPT heavily favors established, authoritative sources. Wikipedia dominance suggests that comprehensive, well-sourced content performs exceptionally well with this model.

Perplexity: The Community-Driven Model

Perplexity shows a different pattern, with Reddit leading its citations at 12,774 references. This suggests Perplexity values real-world user experiences and community discussions.

Insight: Perplexity preference for Reddit and YouTube suggests it values authentic user experiences and visual content. Brands should consider creating community-focused content and video materials.

Gemini: The Google Ecosystem Player

Google Gemini shows interesting patterns, with YouTube leading at 1,821 citations, followed by Google’s own Vertex AI Search at 1,631 citations.

Insight: Gemini heavy reliance on Google’s own tools and YouTube suggests strong integration within the Google ecosystem. Video content and Google-optimized materials may perform better with this model.

Cross-Model Patterns: Universal Winners

• Reddit: Top performer in Perplexity (12,774), strong in ChatGPT (11,251)
• YouTube: Leading in Gemini (1,821), strong in Perplexity (6,345)
• Investopedia: Consistently cited across ChatGPT (1,530), Gemini (1,072)
• TechRadar: Strong performance across ChatGPT (3,424), Perplexity (1,208), Gemini (770)

What This Means for Your Brand

1. Model-Specific Strategies

• For ChatGPT: Focus on comprehensive, encyclopedia-style content that could be referenced in Wikipedia
• For Perplexity: Engage with community platforms like Reddit and create video content for YouTube
• For Gemini: Optimize for Google ecosystem and create video content

2. Universal Strategies

• Create comprehensive, authoritative content
• Engage with community platforms
• Develop video content
• Focus on expert reviews and technical analysis

Key Takeaways

1. Model Preferences Vary Significantly: Each AI model has distinct domain preferences that require tailored strategies.
2. Authority Matters: Established, authoritative sources consistently perform well across models.
3. Community Engagement Works: Platforms like Reddit show strong citation patterns, indicating value in community-focused content.
4. Video Content is Powerful: YouTube strong performance across models suggests video content is highly valued.
5. Industry-Specific Patterns: Financial services and technology sectors show particularly strong citation patterns.

This analysis is based on data from Spotlight AI visibility monitoring platform, analyzing over 850,000 citations across seven major AI models over the past 60 days.