m31uk3 Validated Knowledge Synthesis (VKS)
Transform raw information into validated, actionable knowledge while preserving productive tensions.
Parameters
Acquire all required parameters upfront in a single prompt:
| Parameter | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| source_materials | Yes | Raw sources (direct text, file paths, URLs) |
| synthesis_topic | Yes | Subject being synthesized |
| target_audience | Yes | Intended users of the knowledge |
| document_type | No | "curated context" (default), "guidance", or "reference" |
| output_location | No | File path to save output |
Support multiple input methods: direct text, file paths, URLs, or other user-preferred methods.
Workflow
1. Source Validation
Assess each source for:
- Authority and credibility
- Recency and relevance
- Internal consistency
- Citation quality
Create a source validation matrix. Flag sources lacking sufficient validation.
2. Pattern Recognition
Identify across sources:
- Common themes and shared insights
- Contradictory claims or competing frameworks
- Gaps where sources don't address key aspects
- Overlapping evidence strengthening claims
Categorize relationships as convergent (ideas strengthen each other) or tension-based (separation maintains value).
3. Synthesis Strategy Selection
Apply convergence when:
- Ideas are complementary
- Contradictions resolve at higher abstraction
- Unified approach improves application
- No valuable knowledge lost in combination
Apply tension preservation when:
- Contradictions generate new insights
- Different contexts require different approaches
- Forced convergence would flatten valuable complexity
4. Document Type Execution
See references/document-types.md for detailed format specifications.
Curated Context (default): Hybrid of guidance and reference. Clear sections distinguishing each. Optimized for ease of recall.
Guidance: Narrative flow, problem-solution-implementation arc, 200+ words continuous prose before formatting, bullet points only for final checklists.
Reference: Quick lookup, categorical organization, bullet-friendly, designed for scanning.
5. Writing Execution
Apply these principles to all documents. See references/writing-principles.md for details.
- Reader Empathy: Communicate key ideas in minimal words. Core tenet: "Learning how to communicate something in 30 seconds that takes most people 5 minutes is a HUGE unlock."
- Short Sentences: Simple sentences build patience for complex concepts.
- Strong Verbs: Use precise verbs. Avoid helpers (has, had), infinitives when direct verbs work, "to be" variations.
- Simple Words: Choose simpler words (use not utilize, help not facilitate).
6. Apply Frameworks
See references/frameworks.md for complete framework details.
Golden Path Criteria: Purpose & Audience, Clear & Concise, Structure & Logic, Evidence & Impact, Action & Execution.
Answer-Explain-Educate: Lead with direct answer, support with key details, add important context.
What-So What-Now What: Present facts, analyze consequences, propose recommendation.
7. Validation
Verify:
- Logical progression (premises support conclusions, no circular reasoning)
- Narrative coherence (reader can follow logic without headers)
- Flow validation (paragraphs connect logically)
- Comprehension test (audience can understand and implement)
8. Output Generation
Create synthesis document including:
- Executive summary with key insights
- Source validation matrix
- Synthesis strategy decisions with rationale
- Convergent knowledge with evidence
- Preserved tensions with context boundaries
- Implementation guidance
Save to output_location if specified.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Forced convergence weakens knowledge | Apply tension preservation instead |
| Validation failures | Revisit synthesis strategy; clarify context boundaries |
| Low-quality sources | Exclude or document limitations clearly |
| Excessive complexity | Create layered documentation (summary, analysis, appendices) |
| Fragmented narrative | Add transitions, embed lists in prose, test without formatting |