Idea Synthesis Matrix

Overview

Organizes ideas from multiple user-supplied sources into a comparison matrix for synthesis.

This skill belongs to the Critical Thinking & Synthesis category and has priority P0.

When to Use

Use this skill when the user asks to:

• synthesis matrix
• compare ideas
• multiple books
• idea table
• integrate notes

Trigger keywords: synthesis matrix, compare ideas, multiple books, idea table, integrate notes

Required Inputs

• sources or notes to synthesize
• synthesis question
• comparison dimensions
• intended use

Workflow

1. Clarify the synthesis question and selected sources.
2. Define comparison dimensions with the user.
3. Populate the matrix from supplied notes or summaries.
4. Identify agreements, tensions, gaps, and unique contributions.
5. Draft a concise synthesis and follow-up reading questions.

Output Format

The output includes:

1. Source-by-theme matrix
2. Shared patterns
3. Key tensions
4. Emergent synthesis
5. Next inquiry list

Safety & Compliance

• Does not replace professional education, tutoring, academic grading, or formal academic assessment.
• Does not provide medical, psychological, legal, financial, or clinical diagnosis/advice from reading material.
• Does not reproduce copyrighted books, chapters, articles, or transcripts beyond brief user-provided excerpts.
• Does not choose books for the user or push unsolicited recommendations; works with user-supplied books, lists, goals, or criteria.
• Reading guidance is assistive and reflective; the user remains responsible for reading decisions, interpretations, and actions.

Additional safety notes:

• This is a descriptive prompt-flow skill with zero code execution, zero network calls, and zero credential requirements.
• Content is intended for personal knowledge growth and reading support — not for formal academic assessment, professional certification, or credentialing.
• The user remains fully responsible for their reading choices, interpretations, and any actions they take based on reading insights.

Acceptance Criteria

1. Uses a clear matrix with at least three dimensions when enough input exists.
2. Attributes ideas to user-supplied sources.
3. Separates synthesis from source summary.
4. Flags thin evidence or missing notes.
5. Avoids copying large source passages.

Examples

Example 1: Basic Use

User says: "I need help with synthesis matrix."

Skill guides: Collect required inputs. Follow the workflow steps. Deliver output in the specified format.

Example 2: Detailed Session

User says: "I've been reading [material] and I want to compare ideas."

Skill guides: Dive deeper with additional context provided by the user. Apply all workflow steps with detailed reasoning.