## **📅 What Is Year to Date Comparison?**

Year to date comparison shows performance for the current period against the same dates from the previous year. This helps identify trends and measure growth while accounting for seasonality.

## **⚙️ How Date Presets Work**

Search Atlas supports both calendar-based and rolling date presets. Calendar presets align to exact months or years while rolling presets use the most recent completed days or weeks. Choose the option that matches your reporting needs in the Report Builder date settings.

## **🔄 Handling Data Migrations**

Migrations can create temporary gaps or spikes in historical data. These changes may make YTD comparisons appear inconsistent until the full prior year data stabilizes. The platform automatically flags affected periods so you can interpret results correctly.

## **📈 Setting Up YTD in Reports**

1. Open the Report Builder and select your primary date range.
2. Enable the comparison toggle and choose Year to Date as the comparison type.
3. Review the secondary date range that the system generates automatically.
4. Apply filters or segments as needed before saving the report.

## **💡 Best Practices for Accurate Results**

- Use calendar-based presets when comparing full years or quarters.
- Switch to rolling presets for the most recent performance trends.
- Exclude migration periods from comparisons when possible to avoid skewed metrics.
- Double-check data sources after any platform migrations or integrations.

If you need further assistance, open the chat widget in the bottom-right corner of the platform and type **human teammate** to be connected with a member of our team.