Integrative Thinking

This is the opposite of analytical thinking. Instead of dissecting an argument into its main parts, you want to connect previously individual parts to form an argument and see how they work with/relate to each other.

The definition of synthesis is: the combination of ideas to form a theory, argument, or system.

Example:
Charles Darwin used synthetic thinking to create the Theory of Evolution. He combined the separate idea of natural selection, survival of the fittest, etc. to create this theory.

Questions to Ask:

• How can Idea #1 connect with __________ to create a better understanding of __________?
• How could all these __________ be grouped together?
• How could the ideas of __________ and __________ and __________ be reorganized or rearranged to form a different picture?

Cuseo, Joseph B, Aaron Thompson, Michele Campagna, Viki Sox Fecas. Thriving in College and Beyond: Research-Based Strategies for Academic Success and personal Development. Dubuque: Kendall Hunt Publishing Company, 2016.

Ellis, Dave. Becoming a Master Student. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 2006.