A: During the first 20 games, a special formula is used to quickly approximate player's rating. It is based on the opponents' ratings and the results of the games. This way it won't take many months for a higher rated player to reach their true rating. The downside however is that your rating can change significantly from game to game during your first 20 games on GameKnot. Including losing rating points after a win, if you play against opponents rated more than 200 points below your expected rating. However, once you complete your first 20 rated games, you will never lose rating points after a win.
» More about the
rating system.