Originally Posted by MatthewClement
Now I really am confused.
I thought that effectively Q-points were EQMs (e.g. you need to earn them each year to requalify).
I thought that effectively Q-miles were RDMs (e.g. you can redeem them for flights etc)
Or have I got it backwards?
Nope... not backwards. Completely wrong
You definitely need to read the elite qual page on AA.com (referenced above).
EQMs = miles actually flown, with a 500 mile minimum (bonus RDM not included).
EQPs directly correlate to EQM, but the earning of EQP varies from 0.5x-1.5x EQM earned, depending on the fare (also with a 500 EQP min). E.g., F will earn 1.5x EQP, but a cheapy Q fare will earn 0.5x.
RDMs are total miles earning, including EQM and 100% PLT bonus (this is just on a trip... on AA, miles from ALL sources are RDM).