Citable block · Citation capsule
A citation capsule is a standalone, factual, dated and sourced block designed to be cited as is by a generative engine without interpretation. It is a practitioner term, not an official standard: it describes a writing format, not a tag.
Standalone definition · 40 words
What does a citation capsule look like?
Three to five sentences: a clear claim, a verifiable figure or fact, the reference date and the named source. Example: “On June 3, 2026, Google launched dedicated reports in Search Console for impressions in AI Overviews and AI Mode (Google Search Central).” The sentence makes sense in isolation.
Why is this format useful?
Retrieval systems split text into passages. A block that contains the subject, the fact and the source in the same passage prevents a chunk from losing its context. It is the direct application of the answer-first principle.
What are the limits?
No engine has documented that it prefers this format. The value is greater clarity and verifiability. Multiplying capsules with no substance creates artificial content: a capsule should summarize an analysis present on the page, not replace it.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I place a citation capsule?
At the top of a section or page, under a heading that poses the question it answers.
How long should it be?
A few sentences, consistent with the 40 to 75 word range observed for standalone answers.
Should it be marked up?
No. Discreet formatting is enough. No specific markup is required.