A synthesis matrix is a tool that a researcher can use to help them organize and synthesize multiple sources of information. A synthesis matrix is often used when writing literature reviews because this kind of table can help you see how the sources relate and "communicate" with one another.
The general idea behind a synthesis matrix is to create a table to organize your sources by theme/concept. This can take many shapes and be customized in whatever manner is most appropriate for your research project. A basic example (adapted from NC State University Writing and Speaking) is provided below to illustrate what a synthesis matrix may look like.
Across the top row of the table, the author of each source is listed. Listed down the first column are the main concepts (or themes) the researcher will address in their project. If the source addresses a concept, notes and page numbers are added to the appropriate box in the matrix. However, remember that a source does not have to address every concept to be useful in your research. If a source does not address a topic, you would leave a gap in the matrix. This process allows you to see where your sources are similar or different and visualize the discussion around a topic.
Remember: You create a synthesis matrix while you are conducting research, not afterward.
| Cornelsen | Stewart | Bruley | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardships and oppositions women faced |
- “In the belief that women were emotionally and physically fragile, the military questioned women’s capabilities to fly an aircraft” (p. 114-5), regardless of their training or aptitude - WASP’s not granted veteran status until 1979 (p. 115) |
- Women in the military were given extensive physical and mental tests, but were still discriminated against, ridiculed, and considered inferior to men (p. 29) |
- Women were given unskilled labor positions by the government because only seen as temporary workers, therefore no reason to train them (p. 221-2) - Women given less significant work and viewed as less intelligent and physically able (p. 224) |
| Alteration of women’s roles because of WWII |
- Women accredited the WASP program for opening new doors, challenging stereotypes, and proving that women were as capable as men (p. 113) - Women could compete with men as equals in the sky because of their exemplary performance (p. 116) |
- WAAC (Women’s Army Auxiliary Corp) was 1st chance for women to serve in the Army, given full army status in 1943 as WAC (p. 28) - Needs of the war were so great that women’s traditional social roles were ignored (p. 30) |
-Women given equal opportunities (p. 223) - Women joined the workforce as a break from the ordinary to help the war (p. 220) |
| Opposition: WWII did NOT effect women | - Women put in untraditional roles during/because of the war, but back to previous subservient roles after the war (p. 35) | - Women were not affected because they still remained in subordinate positions after the war (p. 217) |
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