Mostaganem University

Faculty of Exact Sciences and Computer Science

Department of Computer Science H. Belabiod
M1: ISI, IA, Resys
Scientific English (2024-2025)

Synthesis
Definition:

Much like a jigsaw puzzle, synthesis is the composition or the combination of several
assigned readings or sources (varied irregularly shaped pieces) so as to make an overall point
(the whole). Unlike summarising and paraphrasing, synthesizing is about bringing together
various sources, found while conducting library research, and examine them to determine
where they overlap and where they diverge.

Steps of synthesis

1. Identify the appropriate texts to use. You may fnd it helpful to use the notes and
references in one appropriate source to fnd other relevant sources.

2. Read the sources carefully in relation to your purpose. Take notes or annotate your
own copies to be able to retrieve relevant information easily.

3. Think about the connections among the various sources. Do any of the sources
agree or disagree on any points? Does one source provide background for
another? Does one source take up where another leaves of? Does one source
provide an example of an idea discussed in another source? Do any common ideas
or viewpoints run through all the sources?

4. Based on the pattern of connections you have seen among the various sources,
develop an overall point or conclusion to serve as the organizing thesis of your
synthesis. If you are writing a review of literature, your thesis statement should
focus on how the various texts relate to each other. If you are writing a synthesis
report, your thesis statement should focus on your conclusion about the topic
itself.

5. Develop a plan for presenting the various parts of the information in a unifed way.

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 6. Write a frst draft of the synthesis. Develop the points made in each of the
paragraphs through details from your various sources. Use quotations,
paraphrasing, and summary to present the information from the sources.
7. Document the sources of your information, using an appropriate parenthetical
reference or footnote method.

8. Revise the draft, paying particular attention to the transitions that tie the various
parts of the synthesis together and to the overall coherence of the presentation.
Make sure you maintain a consistency of tone and focus throughout the paper. Do
not let the variety of sources you use lead the writing in diferent directions.

Strategies for synthesis

1. Identify recurring themes across different sources and use them as the basis for
synthesizing information. This approach helps in distilling key ideas from diverse
materials.

2. Use mind maps or concept maps to visually represent the connections between
different elements. Visual aids can enhance understanding and creativity during
synthesis.

3. Use matrix synthesis technique to organize and synthesise information in a structured

matrix or table format. It is particularly useful when dealing with complex data sets,
comparing multiple variables, or analysing relationships between different elements.
Also, Matrix synthesis allows for a systematic representation of information, making
it easier to identify patterns, connections, and trends.

4. Identify recurring themes across different sources and use them as the basis for
synthesizing information. This approach helps in distilling key ideas from diverse
materials.

5. Incorporate multiple perspectives into the synthesis. This strategy ensures a more
inclusive and well-rounded presentation of ideas.

6. Recognize that synthesis is often an iterative process. It may require multiple rounds
of analysis, integration, and revision to achieve a robust and cohesive synthesis.

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What a synthesis should look like

Researcher A suggests that X is true. Researcher B also argues

that X is true, but points out that the effects of X may be different from
those suggested by Researcher A.” It is clear that subtopic X is the main
idea covered in these sentences. Researchers A and B agree that X is
true, but they disagree on X’s effects. There is both agreement and
disagreement, but what links the two arguments is the fact that they both
concern X.

Creating Your Synthesis Matrix

1. Key Components of Matrix Synthesis:

1- Rows: Rows in the matrix represent individual items, elements, or

entities under consideration. Each row typically corresponds to a
unique entry or aspect of the topic.

2- Columns: Columns in the matrix represent different attributes,

variables, or criteria relevant to the analysis. Each column provides
a distinct perspective or dimension of the information being
synthesized.

3- Cells: Cells at the intersection of rows and columns contain specific

data points or information related to the corresponding item and
attribute. These cells hold the details that contribute to the
synthesis.

As shown in the following chart

Topic: ................................................................................

Source#1 Source#2 Source#3 Source#4

Main Idea A
Main Idea B

2. Example of Matrix Synthesis:

Topic: Perspectives on AI Impact

Themes/ Researcher A Researcher B

Topics
Introduction AI as a transformative force Agreement on AI's

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to AI Impact across society, economy, transformative potential
and technology
Areas of Shared acknowledgment of Consensus on AI's
Agreement AI's revolutionary nature transformative power
Areas of - Effects of AI may differ from
Disagreeme the envisioned
nt
Focus on Emphasis on AI reshaping Recognition of AI's
Transformat societal, economic, and transformative capabilities,
ive Power technological landscapes but with nuanced effects

Impact on Positive impact on societal Potential for differing

Society and and economic dimensions effects from those initially
Economy posited
Nuanced Limited exploration of Introduction of critical
Aspects of nuanced effects nuance: the effects of AI
AI Impact may diverge from
expectations

Synthesis:

Within the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Researcher A and

Researcher B contribute distinct yet interconnected perspectives, offering
insights into the broader understanding of AI's impact. Both researchers
align in their acknowledgment that AI is a transformative force, signifying
a shared agreement on the overarching importance of AI. However, the
crux of their viewpoints lies in the divergence concerning the effects and
implications of AI.

Researcher A unequivocally posits that AI is a revolutionary

technology with transformative potential across society, the economy,
and technology landscapes. Researcher B, while concurring with the
transformative power of AI, introduces a critical nuance — the effects of AI
may manifest differently from those envisioned by Researcher A. This
disagreement introduces complexity to the synthesis, prompting an
exploration of the nuanced aspects surrounding the impact of AI.

In essence, both researchers agree on the transformative nature of

AI, forming the common ground that unifies their arguments. Yet, the
divergence surfaces in the interpretation of AI's effects. The connection
between these two perspectives lies in the shared focus on AI, creating a
cohesive discourse that acknowledges both agreement and disagreement.
This synthesis underscores the importance of delving into the nuanced
aspects of AI's impact, where shared ground and differing perspectives
contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the subject.

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 Topic2: Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Author 1 Author 2 Author 3 Author 4 Author 5

AI as a Evolution of Definition AI's impact Historical
transformativ AI over and scope of on society perspective
Introduction e technology decades (p. AI (p. 5-25) and on AI (p. 1-
to AI (p. 1-15) 10-30) economy 20)
(p. 15-35)

AI Overview of Deep Reinforceme AI in Comparison

Algorithms popular AI learning nt learning natural of AI
and algorithms advancement applications language techniques
Techniques (p. 20-40) s (p. 25-45) (p. 30-50) processing (p. 15-40)
(p. 35-55)

AI in Applications AI's role in Ethical AI and Challenges

Healthcare of AI in personalized consideration drug and future
medical medicine (p. s in AI discovery prospects in
diagnosis (p. 45-65) healthcare (p. (p. 55-75) AI
40-60) 50-70) healthcare
(p. 60-80)

AI in AI for Impact of AI AI adoption Application Challenges

Business and process on in s of AI in in
Industry optimization workforce manufacturin finance (p. implementin
(p. 60-80) and job roles g (p. 70-90) 75-95) g AI in
(p. 65-85) industries (p.
80-100)

Ethical Ethical Bias and Privacy AI's role in Regulatory

Consideration challenges in fairness in concerns in exacerbatin frameworks
s in AI AI AI AI g inequality for ethical

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 development algorithms applications (p. 95-115) AI (p. 100-
(p. 80-100) (p. 85-105) (p. 90-110) 120)

Synthesis:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands as a transformative technology that has evolved

over decades, impacting various aspects of society, economy, and technology. This synthesis
encapsulates key themes from multiple sources, providing a comprehensive overview of AI's
definition, algorithms, applications in healthcare and industry, and the ethical considerations
surrounding its development and deployment.

The consensus among various authors highlights AI as a transformative force with

significant historical implications. Definitions and scopes vary, emphasizing AI's role in
reshaping society, the economy, and technological landscapes (Author 1, 3, 5).

Different sources provide insights into popular AI algorithms, emphasizing the

evolution and advancements in deep learning. While some authors delve into the specifics of
reinforcement learning and natural language processing, others offer comparative analyses of
various AI techniques (Author 2, 4, 5).

The applications of AI in healthcare emerge as a prominent theme, with sources

exploring its role in medical diagnosis, personalized medicine, drug discovery, and ethical
considerations. There is an emphasis on the transformative potential of AI in revolutionizing
healthcare practices and improving patient outcomes (Author 1, 2, 3).

Authors converge on the significant impact of AI in business and industry.

Applications range from process optimization to workforce and job role transformations, with
a focus on AI's adoption in manufacturing and finance. Challenges in implementing AI in
various industries are also discussed (Author 1, 2, 4).

Ethical challenges in AI development, bias and fairness in algorithms, privacy

concerns, and the potential exacerbation of societal inequalities are recurrent themes.
Regulatory frameworks for ethical AI are proposed as solutions to address these concerns
(Author 3, 4, 5).

In conclusion, this synthesis provides a holistic understanding of AI, acknowledging

its transformative power, diverse algorithms, and applications in healthcare, business, and
industry. The ethical considerations underscore the need for responsible AI development and
deployment, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue surrounding AI's societal impact and the
importance of regulatory frameworks in shaping its ethical landscape.