Metrics Library — every measurement defined with methodology and limitations
The Metrics Library documents every metric in the 3LA platform: what it measures, how it is calculated, what sample size is required and what limitations apply. Each definition distinguishes between a readiness score (diagnostic) and an observed event (citation, mention, referral).
Layerscore: the combined three-layer score (L1 + L2 + L3) that rates any URL from 0 to 100.
Citation rate: how often AI models attribute a claim to your content with a source link.
Share-of-AI-Voice: your citation share relative to competitors for the same prompt set.
Mention rate: how often your brand is named in AI answers, regardless of source attribution.
Confidence band: the statistical range around each aggregate based on sample size.
Every metric defined with methodology and limitations
The Metrics Library documents every measurement in the 3LA platform. Each definition distinguishes between a readiness score (diagnostic) and an observed event (citation, mention, referral). Sample size requirements and known limitations are stated for each metric.
Read the denominator before comparing
Citation rate, mention rate and search click-through rate count different events. Check the population, reporting period and minimum sample whenever a percentage is used to justify an editorial decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Metrics Library?
The Metrics Library documents every metric in the 3LA platform: what it measures, how it is calculated, what sample size is required and what limitations apply.
What is the difference between citation rate and mention rate?
Citation rate measures source-attributed references (with a link). Mention rate counts brand name appearances regardless of attribution. They are different measurements and should not be compared directly.
What is a confidence band?
A confidence band shows the statistical range around an aggregate based on sample size. A 4-run snapshot yields a wide band; a 40-run snapshot narrows it. 3LA always displays the band.
Is Layerscore a guarantee of AI citation?
No. Layerscore is a diagnostic readiness assessment. It measures how well a page is structured for humans, search and AI. Actual citations depend on the AI model, prompt and retrieval context.
Can I access individual metric methodology?
Yes. Each metric has a dedicated page with calculation methodology, sample requirements, known limitations and links to the glossary definition.
