Relationship guides 07 · 8 min
Read introduction paths and their evidence
The highest score is not automatically the best introduction. Check who is involved and why the path was suggested.
Who this guide is for: People who want to understand a suggestion before choosing a path.
1. Identify the people on the path
One hop is a direct connection; two hops go through one person. Check whether a limit or a simplified list hides part of the graph. A path is evidence to review, not proof that someone will introduce you.
2. Compare four dimensions
Read path length, the date of supporting records, included and excluded evidence, and the burden on the intermediary separately. Check whether each person can comfortably decline.
3. Read the limits of the score
The score compares available records, not success probability. Unrecorded closeness, conflict and personal circumstances may change what is appropriate.
4. Choose a path you can explain
A lower-scoring path may fit a clear purpose with less burden. Review alternatives and missing evidence. Choosing a path prepares an introduction; it does not automatically send a message.
Terms explained
- Metadata
- details such as source, time and count, rather than a message body.
- Pseudonymous key
- a value used instead of a name; it remains linked to an account.
- Encryption
- storing data in a form that needs a key to read; it does not prevent every risk on the same device.
- JSON
- an export format that preserves named fields and structure.
- CSV / TSV
- tables whose columns are separated by commas or tabs.
- vCard / VCF
- a contact-card file format.
- PWA
- a web app that supported browsers can add to the home screen.
- Relative score
- a comparison within current records, not a person's worth or success probability.