Abstract: A method, system, and computer program product for putting items into categories according to rank. The method divides the (unranked) items into a plurality of groups. The method then performs a first ranking of the items in each group, such that each item has a set of befores and a set of afters. A set of befores is the set of items that are ranked higher than an item; a set of afters is the set of items that are ranked lower than an item. The method selects at least one set of items for a subsequent ranking. The method then performs the subsequent ranking of the items of the selected set of items. The method then cascades the befores and afters of the items of the selected set of items according to the subsequent ranking. The method then determines which, if any, of the items are categorized and removes any categorized items from consideration. The method repeats the selecting, subsequent ranking, cascading, and determining steps all items have been categorized.