Example Citation Pattern Analysis

# Example Citation Pattern Analysis Published date: 2026 02 11Last reviewed date: 2026 02 11. Reviewed for accuracy and scope alignment.Layer: 3b Primary question: How can you analyse citation patterns across comparative prompts, and what does a useful pattern view look like? A useful citation pattern analysis compares multiple similar prompts, records who is mentioned and who is cited, then looks for repeated source types and repeated criteria. This can show what the system is using to justify comparative answers. It does not guarantee any outcome. ## What to analyse Comparative prompts are a good place to analyse citations because they push the system into justification mode. A clean analysis focuses on three things. - Which sources are cited, if any - Which entities are mentioned, if any - What criteria the system repeats when justifying choices ## A simple comparison set Use a small set of prompts that are similar but not identical. That helps you see what is stable versus what is prompt specific. - Best accountant in Colchester - Top accountants in Colchester for small business - Who should I use for payroll and accounts in Colchester Boundary: Different systems behave differently. Some will never rank. Some will never cite. Your analysis should record what happens, not what you wish would happen. ## Example pattern table | Prompt | Mentions Observed | Citation Behaviour | Repeated Justification Criteria | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Best accountant in Colchester | Short shortlist or none | May cite directories or review platforms | Reviews, category fit, trust signals | | Top accountants in Colchester for small business | More category filtering | May cite sources describing services for SMEs | Specialism, service clarity, proof | | Who should I use for payroll and accounts in Colchester | May switch into advice mode | Often fewer citations | Fit, process clarity, risk reduction | ## Real world scenario A business is consistently mentioned but ne