Is inbox placement random?

Inbox placement follows consistent algorithmic logic, not randomness. When results seem unpredictable, it reflects variables you haven't identified, not chaos. Filters apply systematic rules to consistent inputs.

Why placement seems random: different recipient engagement histories cause different results for identical emails, A/B tests show variation that's actually statistical noise, new filter rules affect some senders before others, and you may not see all the signals filters evaluate.

Making it predictable: monitor **Gmail Postmaster Tools** for reputation signals, track engagement segments separately, test systematically with proper sample sizes, and document which practices correlate with better outcomes. Patterns emerge when you measure comprehensively.