Citation Probability at Query (CPQ)

Coined Term • 2026

Citation Probability at Query (CPQ)

The probability an AI names an entity as primary authority for a category query

Status

Coined by Joseph Byrum

Year Introduced

2026

Domain

Entity Engineering

Term Type

Operational Framework

Understanding Citation Probability at Query (CPQ)

The probability that an AI system names a given entity as primary authority when presented with a category-defining query, measured as the proportion of responses across a standardized query set that name the entity without hedging language.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Citation Probability at Query?

CPQ is the probability that an AI system names a given entity as primary authority when presented with a category-defining query, measured as the proportion of responses across a standardized query set that name the entity without hedging language.

What CPQ level indicates authority?

The CPQ Citation Threshold is estimated at 0.75, the point at which AI systems shift from hedged citation behavior to unhedged authority citation — the minimum CPQ required for Ontological Dominance.

How is CPQ measured?

CPQ is measured using the Controlled Testing Protocol: consistent account settings, standardized geographic location, controlled query phrasing, and consistent timing across measurement periods to isolate organic CPQ from testing artifacts.

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