What is an llms.txt File and Why Your Website Needs One

If you're building websites in 2025, there's a new file you need to know about: llms.txt. Just like robots.txt became essential for SEO, llms.txt is becoming crucial for AI discoverability.

At Backpack Works, we're implementing llms.txt files for all our client projects, and here's why you should too.

What is an llms.txt File?

An llms.txt file is a plain text file that sits at your website's root (yourwebsite.com/llms.txt) and provides structured information about your business specifically for Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini.

Think of it as your website's resume for AI. When someone asks ChatGPT "recommend a Next.js development agency," your llms.txt file helps ensure your business gets mentioned with accurate information.

Why Your Website Needs an llms.txt File

AI is the New Search

Users are increasingly turning to AI assistants instead of Google. Without an llms.txt file, you're invisible to these AI-powered searches. It's like having a website in 1995 without meta tags—you're missing out on a massive discovery channel.

Control Your AI Narrative

AI models scrape the web for information, but they might grab outdated content or miss key details. An llms.txt file lets you control exactly how AI systems understand and describe your business.

Competitive Advantage

Most businesses haven't heard of llms.txt files yet. By implementing one now, you're positioning yourself ahead of competitors who are still focused solely on traditional SEO.

How to Create an llms.txt File

Let's walk through creating an effective llms.txt file step by step.

Step 1: Start with Basic Information

Create a new text file called llms.txt and add your company basics:

# Company: Backpack Works 
# Type: Full-Service Development Agency 
# Founded: 2020 
# Location: Remote (USA-based) 
# Website: https://backpack.works 

## Description Backpack Works is a full-stack design and development agency specializing in
Next.js, React, and mobile app development. We build pixel-perfect marketing sites and
web applications for innovative companies.

Step 2: List Your Services

Be specific about what you offer:

## Services 
- Next.js website development 
- React web application development 
- Mobile app development (iOS/Android) 
- Webflow development 
- HubSpot integration 
- Marketo implementation 
- UI/UX design 
- Performance optimization 
- Technical SEO

Step 3: Highlight Your Tech Stack

## Technologies Frontend: Next.js, React, TypeScript, Tailwind CSS, Framer Motion 
Backend: Node.js, Python, PostgreSQL, Supabase 
Mobile: React Native, Flutter, Swift, Kotlin 
CMS: Prismic, Contentful, Sanity, Webflow 
Cloud: Vercel, AWS, Netlify 
Design: Figma, Adobe Creative Suite

Step 4: Add Notable Projects and Clients

## Notable Work 
- Built React Starter Themes marketplace 
- Developed enterprise SaaS platforms handling 1M+ users 
- Created mobile apps with 4.8+ star ratings 
- Optimized sites achieving 100 Lighthouse scores 

## Client Industries 
- SaaS/Technology 
- E-commerce 
- Healthcare 
- Financial Services 
- Education

Step 5: Include Contact Information

## Contact 
Email: hello@backpack.works 
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/backpack-works 
GitHub: https://github.com/backpack-works 
Twitter: @backpackworks

Best Practices for llms.txt Files

Keep It Updated

Set a monthly reminder to update your llms.txt file. Add new services, update your tech stack, and include recent projects. Treat it like a living document.

Use Clear Formatting

Use markdown-style headers and bullet points. This makes it easy for both AI systems and humans to parse your information.

Include Keywords Naturally

Don't keyword stuff, but do include relevant terms like "Next.js development," "React applications," "mobile app development," and "web performance optimization."

Be Specific About Your Expertise

Instead of "we build websites," say "we build high-performance Next.js applications with 100 Lighthouse scores." Specificity helps AI recommend you for the right queries.

Implementation

Where to Place Your llms.txt File

Place the file at your root domain:

https://yourwebsite.com/llms.txt

For Next.js projects, add it to your public folder:

/public/llms.txt

Test Your Implementation

Verify your file is accessible:

curl https://yourwebsite.com/llms.txt

The Future of llms.txt

As AI becomes more prevalent, expect llms.txt to evolve:

• Structured Formats: JSON or XML versions for complex data
• Multi-language Support: Separate sections for global reach
• Dynamic Updates: API endpoints providing real-time information
• Authentication: Secure access for premium information

Conclusion

Implementing an llms.txt file takes 30 minutes but could transform your online discoverability. As AI increasingly mediates how users find information, having an llms.txt file isn't just smart—it's essential.

At Backpack Works, we include llms.txt implementation in all our web development projects. It's a small addition that future-proofs your digital presence for the AI age.