Since I mostly write and post reviews, I wanted to mention how I approach the ratings for episodes. Here's the basic breakdown. I look at three key elements for each episode: Writing, Acting, and Direction. I give each element up to two points: Writing: 0 points - terrible plotting 1 point - one strong plot with weak subplot 2 points - competent plotting Acting: 0 points - terrible acting by nearly everyone 1 point - the actors are trying, but not enough 2 points - competent acting Direction (includes editing, etc.): 0 points - bad camera angles, choopy editing, etc. 1 point - mostly all right, but some weak moments 2 points - strong, competent production The rest of the points are what I consider to be "style points", which is the personal side of the review. Up to 4 points can be awarded: 0 points - I strongly disliked the episode 1 point - I felt it was average 2 points - I felt it was strong 3 points - I felt it was one of the best of the series 4 points - I felt it was a personal favorite As such, an average episode with all the mechanics in place will get a rating of 6-8. It takes a really surprising and strong episode, rising above the rest, to get a 9. The rare 10 rating comes in two ways. It's either so strong and powerful that it clearly tops the whole history of the series to date, or it overcomes its flaws. Hopefully that clarifies the ratings!