there probably is some sort of formula based on the size of the short position...problem is, we don't know the size of this one. This isn't a traditional short squeeze, this is a squeeze of shares that aren't supposed to exist, so we just have maybe possibly an idea of how many illegal shares are out there and need to be covered.
Once the squeeze starts, the ability of anyone to manipulate the price back down is almost zero. You're seeing attempts at it now, but buy-side demand is too high. I think Black Friday was the last real downward maniuplation we're likely to see..Just my opinion of course!!
When everyone actually IS out to get you, being paranoid is just smart thinking.
Moe