Answer-first search
Definition
Answer-first search is a search experience where the system presents a synthesized answer immediately, instead of making a list of links the main result.
Plain English
The answer shows up first. Links (if any) become "supporting material."
Why it matters
- Users research faster and click less during early discovery.
- The "shortlist" forms inside the answer, not across ten tabs.
- Structure and clarity matter more because content gets summarized.