What is a synoptic table and how is it used?

This resource is widely used both in education and in the business environment.

On countless occasions we have in our heads very complex and dense ideas that are difficult to explain and/or argue. Developing a topic or a concept by means of the synoptic table is a very useful tool, as it helps to visually clarify complex ideas, which leads to better and easier memorization.

In this article we will see how to use a synoptic chart, either to study or to organize complex plans or concepts.

The synopsis as the main element

The synoptic table is a synthesis or summary of a specific topic, subcategorizing the topics that form it.. It is a way to see the "x-ray" of a written explanation, which is often difficult to process. Basically, the synoptic table aims to explain in a simpler way any topic by ordering the ideas following a hierarchy, and in a visual way.

As its name indicates, the synoptic table is based on a synopsis, i.e., a summary of any topicthat is, a summary of any specific topic, representing similarities and differences within the same topic. For example, to explain how a parliament works, the synoptic table reveals how it is formed, who participates and what it is used for, always following a top-down hierarchical methodology.

We cannot ignore the visual element. According to neuroscience experts, human beings tend to be animals whose thinking is based on visualization, so they are prone to process information graphically. In any educational center, from elementary school to university, any teacher supports his explanations with an explanatory scheme, offering a dynamic way to introduce texts, concepts or any kind of useful information.

Characteristics of the synoptic chart, and how to use it

The synoptic table is the equivalent of a mind map. It is not exclusively used in the educational field, as many companies use this same method to develop their production and competitiveness policies. For this tool to be effective, it has to be based on some basic characteristics that we will see below.

1. Main theme

It is essential to organize the ideas well and analyze correctly what is to be explained. We have to define well the main topicthe basis for the rest of the synoptic table, in a clear and concise manner.

2. Sub-themes

Secondly, it is necessary to develop the topics derived from the main topic. This task should not be confused with the inclusion of unrelated topics or topics that do not belong to the same hierarchical category. For example, in the case we mentioned in the introduction of the formation of a Parliament, the sub-themes would be the Deputies and the Parties, among others, but not the laws.

3. Synthesis of ideas

If the main objective of the synoptic table is the clarification of a topic or ideas, any kind of complex explanation should be avoided.. The main characteristic of the table is to expose the ideas in a clear and brief way, avoiding entanglements.

4. Avoid confusion

This particular point is related to the previous one. The synoptic table is intended to facilitate the understanding of a subject, especially if it is complex in its theory. It includes the essential points and clears up any hint of doubt.

5. Structural hierarchization

When we choose a text and intend to summarize, we try to order the ideas. The synoptic table will save us this step because of its organizational nature. The order can be from top to bottom (vertical) or from left to right (horizontal), avoiding ambiguities about the sense that follows its structuring..

6. Supporting material

Ultimately, the synoptic table is the most useful tool when it comes to emphasize or show any kind of idea to the target audience; whether at work, at school or any other field where audiovisual material is available. Therefore, it can be used to highlight the main ideas that have been exposed by other means, such as speech.

Factors to take into account

Although at first sight it may seem easy to make a synoptic table, in practice it is not so simple. From a large and dense subject, it is necessary to know how to select what is most importantwithout forgetting transcendental themes that complete the graphic scheme.

First of all, it is necessary to study the subject well, identify those crucial points and know how to order them in a way that does not lead to confusion. In addition, although it is necessary to include everything that is essential, it is also important not to make the mistake of including too much text or argumentation.