Probe-Level Signal

One of six binary or ordinal signals extracted from each probe. Signal extraction follows a blind-extraction principle: the extractor sees only the brand and the response text, not the platform, the prompt, or the Focus. This isolation prevents bias.

• Mentioned. Binary. The brand appears in the response, in any framing.
• Recommended. Binary. The AI explicitly recommends or endorses the brand.
• Top pick. Binary. The AI singles out the brand as a primary or preferred option.
• Listed. Binary. The brand appears within an enumerated list the AI provides.
• Position. Ordinal. Where the brand falls within any list — first, second, third, or later.
• Cited. Binary. The AI provides a link or attribution to the brand’s website.