FAQ
Data Questions
Answers about how often data updates, how much history Prism loads, (not set), GA4 versus Search Console, branded keywords and exports.
1 min read Updated
This page answers questions about your data: where it comes from, when it updates and why some numbers differ. For the full sync details, see Data sync schedule.
Why Prism's numbers can differ from Google's tools
Three things cause most differences:
- Dates. Prism's ranges end three days before today. Use exactly the same dates when you compare with Google's own tools.
- (not set). Lists in Search Console leave out hidden queries. Prism adds a (not set) row so totals match. See (not set) explained.
- Separate tracking. GA4 and Search Console count visits in different ways. See Reading charts.
If a number still looks wrong, see Data issues.
Frequently asked questions
How often does Prism update my data?
Prism syncs Search Console and Google Analytics 4 every day. Rank tracking and LLM Tool projects refresh on the frequency set for each tracking project, such as daily, weekly or monthly.
How much history does Prism load?
When you first connect Search Console or GA4, Prism loads up to 180 days of history. After that it adds new days every day.
Why do the newest days look low or missing?
Google needs time to finish its numbers, so Prism's data runs through two days ago. Report ranges end three days before today so the newest day shown is complete.
What does (not set) mean?
It is the part of a total that Search Console does not break down, such as queries hidden for privacy. Prism takes the total and subtracts all known rows, so your tables add up to the Search Console total.
Why don't GA4 sessions match Search Console clicks?
They come from separate tracking systems with different attribution, bot filtering and consent handling. Prism shows them side by side for context, and they never match exactly.
How does Prism know which keywords are branded?
You save a branded keyword pattern in Category Builder on the Branded Keywords tab. Until you do, Prism cannot split branded and non-branded searches.
Can I export my data?
Yes. Most Advanced Analytics tables have Export Excel, Export CSV and Export PDF. Rank tracking and the LLM Tool have their own Export buttons.
Why are changes in CTR shown as pp?
Changes in rates such as CTR and engagement rate are shown in percentage points (pp), the simple difference between two percentages.
Related articles
- IntegrationsData Sync ScheduleWhen Prism syncs Search Console and GA4, how far back the first load goes, why the newest days lag, and how rank and LLM data refresh.Read
- Dashboards(not set) ExplainedLearn what the (not set) row means, how Prism calculates it, and why it keeps your totals equal to Search Console.Read
- DashboardsReading ChartsLearn how to read Prism's trend charts and funnels, and why GA4 sessions and Search Console clicks never match exactly.Read
- Exports & DataExporting TablesSave Advanced Analytics tables as Excel, CSV or PDF files with the export menu, and learn what each file contains.Read
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