Credit Score
Definition
A credit score is a three digit number summarizing how you have managed credit so far. Lenders read it as a quick measure of risk when deciding whether to lend and at what rate.
Scores come from models rather than from any single lender, and more than one model is in use, so the number can differ depending on where you look.
The inputs are broadly consistent: payment history, how much of your available credit you are using, how long you have held credit, the mix of credit types, and recent applications.
A score is a summary, not a verdict. Lenders read it alongside income, existing debt and the specific product being applied for.