Know which snippet type the query wants
Definition and 'what is' queries return paragraphs. 'How to' and 'steps' queries return numbered lists. 'Best' and 'vs' queries return tables or bulleted lists. Match the format Google is already showing before trying to out-write the incumbent.
Reverse-engineer the incumbent
Copy the current snippet, count its words, note its heading, and note where on the page it was lifted from. Then write a version that is equally scannable and more specific - more precise numbers, clearer scope, a more recent date.
Placement matters
Extraction favours answers that sit immediately under a question-shaped heading, high enough on the page to be unambiguous. An answer buried at section seven rarely wins against one at section two.
People Also Ask is a content map
Every PAA question is a validated sub-query. Add each one as an H3 with a 40-60 word answer, and you build both PAA coverage and the sub-question depth that generative surfaces reward.
Defend what you win
Snippets change hands constantly. Track the queries you own, re-check quarterly, and refresh dates and numbers before a competitor does.