THE WHOLE LADDER
Segment width is proportional to how much ELO the tier covers.
TIER BY TIER
Each tier splits into three divisions. Division 1 is the entry point, division 3 is the doorstep of the next tier.
Ratings are floored at 800, so nobody drops below Goomba 1. Placement matches use K-factor 64 and are excluded from the ladder until they finish.
Your tier is worked out from your ELO the moment the page loads — there is nothing to claim and nothing to promote into. Win games, the rank follows.