Help & Documentation
Learn how our rating algorithm works, how addons are ranked, and how to get the most out of Anki Addons.
Rating Algorithm
Overview
Our rating system uses a weighted average that accounts for both the star rating and the number of ratings received. This prevents addons with only 1-2 ratings from dominating the charts unfairly.
How Star Ratings Work
Rating Guidelines
- Rate based on functionality, not personal preference for features
- Consider if the addon works as described
- Factor in compatibility with current Anki version
- Consider developer responsiveness to issues
Ranking System
Addon rankings are determined by multiple factors to ensure quality addons rise to the top while giving new addons a fair chance to be discovered.
Weighted Rating (40%)
The primary factor. Uses Bayesian average to balance high ratings with rating count. An addon with 4.5 stars from 100 users ranks higher than 5.0 stars from 2 users.
Download Count (30%)
Popularity metric. Uses logarithmic scaling so the difference between 1K and 10K downloads matters more than 100K to 110K.
Like Ratio (15%)
Quick feedback metric. Likes vs dislikes ratio indicates user satisfaction beyond just star ratings.
Freshness Bonus (15%)
Recently updated addons get a temporary boost. This rewards active development and ensures compatibility with latest Anki versions.
Scoring Formula
Bayesian Weighted Average
weighted_rating = (v / (v + m)) × R + (m / (v + m)) × CR = Average rating for this addon
v = Number of ratings for this addon
m = Minimum ratings required (currently 10)
C = Mean rating across all addons (~3.8)
Final Ranking Score
score = 0.40 × weighted_rating
+ 0.30 × log(downloads + 1) / max_log_downloads
+ 0.15 × (likes / (likes + dislikes + 1))
+ 0.15 × freshness_factorExample Calculation
For an addon with:
- • Rating: 4.5 stars from 50 users
- • Downloads: 25,000
- • Likes: 180, Dislikes: 20
- • Last updated: 2 weeks ago
weighted_rating = (50/(50+10)) × 4.5 + (10/(50+10)) × 3.8 = 4.38
download_score = log(25001) / log(max) ≈ 0.72
like_ratio = 180 / 201 ≈ 0.90
freshness = 0.85 (decays over time)
Final Score = 0.40×4.38 + 0.30×0.72 + 0.15×0.90 + 0.15×0.85 = 2.23
Trust Badges
Trust badges help you quickly identify the quality and reliability of add-ons. Here's what each badge means:
Community Tested
This add-on has been downloaded and positively rated by a significant number of users. The badge is awarded when an add-on reaches 100+ downloads and maintains an average rating of 4.0 or higher. This indicates the community has validated the add-on works well for real-world use.
Actively Maintained
The developer regularly updates this add-on. This badge is shown when the add-on has been updated within the last 6 months and the developer responds to user comments and issues. Active maintenance means better compatibility with new Anki versions and ongoing bug fixes.
Open Source / Source Available
The source code for this add-on is publicly available on GitHub or another code hosting platform. This allows the community to review the code for security, contribute improvements, and fork the project if needed. Open source add-ons are generally considered more trustworthy.
Verified Developer
The developer has verified their identity and has a track record of creating quality add-ons. This badge is awarded to developers with 3+ approved add-onsand a consistent history of positive user feedback. Verified developers are trusted members of the Anki community.
How Badges Are Earned
Badges are automatically calculated based on real metrics and cannot be purchased or manually assigned. They are updated regularly to reflect the current state of each add-on. If an add-on loses its criteria (e.g., becomes outdated), the badge will be removed until the criteria are met again.
User & Developer Responsibility
Anki Addons is a community-driven platform. To maintain a safe environment, we maintain strict policies regarding accountability.
For Developers
- •You take full responsibility for the security and functionality of your code.
- •You are liable for any damages (e.g., card loss, crashes) caused by your addon.
- •You affirm that you have the right to distribute the content you upload.
For Users
- •You are responsible for every comment, rating, and report you submit.
- •You download and install addons at your own risk (Caveat Emptor).
- •Always backup your Anki collection before installing new addons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't my 5-star addon rank higher?
Our algorithm uses Bayesian averaging which requires a minimum number of ratings before the score fully reflects your rating. This prevents manipulation and ensures rankings reflect genuine user feedback. Keep encouraging users to rate!
How often are rankings updated?
Rankings are calculated in real-time. However, significant ranking changes may take a few hours to stabilize as we process new ratings and downloads.
Can I see my addon's detailed analytics?
Yes! Addon developers can access detailed analytics including download trends, rating distribution, and user engagement metrics from their dashboard.
What happens if I update my addon?
Updates trigger a freshness bonus in the ranking algorithm. Regular updates signal active maintenance and can help improve your addon's visibility.
How do I report rating manipulation?
If you suspect an addon is using fake ratings or other manipulation tactics, please report it through the addon's page. Our team reviews all reports and has automated systems to detect suspicious patterns.