Every once in a while a study comes along that is worth sharing beyond the geek-o-sphere. This literally could chnage your business fortunes overnight.
Okay, imagine this. You buy a product, and it’s… meh. You give it 2.5 out of 5. Now here’s where it gets fun—70% of people will look at that number and go, “Eh, that’s like two stars.” But show them the same rating as ★★½☆☆, and suddenly 80% say, “Looks like three stars to me!”
Same score. Different reaction. Science.
Cornell researchers found that the format of a rating, whether numeric vs visual, actually changes how we interpret it. Numbers? We round down. Stars? We round up. Apparently, when math meets mood, symbols win.
Why does this matter? Because perception isn’t a side effect of your user experience. It is the experience. You might be sending “average” signals when your service is actually “solid.” Or worse! Your own rating system might be selling you short.
So next time you’re choosing between 2.5 and ★★½☆☆, remember: stars are persuasive. Numbers are judgy. And your audience is doing quick math with feelings, not formulas.
Want to dig into the study? The full write-up is here: Cornell University – Stars or numerals?
