Business Library: Conversational AI Knowledge Base

August 21, 2024

Copilot Knowledge Card: Information Synthesis

When answering questions, I follow a systematic process that involves searching for reliable information, selecting appropriate sources, and synthesizing them into a coherent response. Here's how I do it:

1. Searching for Information:
   • Web Search: I perform a web search using search engines like Google. This helps me find relevant articles, websites, and resources related to the user's query [1].
   • Previous Knowledge: I draw upon my existing knowledge base, which includes information up to a certain point in 2021. However, I also use predefined tools to access more up-to-date information.
2. Selecting Reliable Sources:
   • Credibility: I prioritize sources that are credible and authoritative. Peer-reviewed journals, academic publishers, and reputable institutions are reliable [11].
   • Timeliness: I consider the publication date to ensure the information is current and relevant [9].
   • Purpose: I evaluate the purpose of each source. Is it informative, analytical, or opinion-based? This helps me choose the most suitable ones[^10^].
3. Synthesizing Information:
   • Interweaving Sources: I blend multiple sources to create a unified narrative or argument. It's not about echoing what others have said; it's about drawing connections, identifying patterns, and building a cohesive piece [12].
   • Analyzing Agreements and Disagreements: I analyze and interpret points of agreement and disagreement among sources. This creates coherence and a well-rounded understanding [16].
   • Creating a Unified Perspective: Like sewing together pieces of a quilt, I construct a new narrative based on collective insights from all relevant sources [12].

Remember, my goal is to provide accurate, relevant, and coherent answers while considering the user's intent and context. 😊 [1] [ ] [9] [^10^]  [11] [ ] [12] [ ] [16]

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 8/22/2024

1. How to Ask a Question on the Internet and Get It Answered - wikiHow
2. 5 key questions to identify trustworthy sources
3. What Are Credible Sources & How to Spot Them | Examples - Scribbr
4. Question your sources - Student Academic Success - Monash University
5. How to Synthesise Sources – Steps and Examples - Research Prospect
6. Synthesizing Sources | Examples & Synthesis Matrix - Scribbr
7. 10 research tips for finding answers online - TED
8. Question Answering, Text Retrieval, Information Extraction ...
9. Top 10 Ways to Find Better Answers Online (that Aren't Google)
10. How to Evaluate Sources for Reliability - Writing for Kids
11. How to Evaluate Sources for Relevance - Writing for Kids
12. Evaluating & Choosing Sources
13. Evaluating Sources | Harvard Guide to Using Sources
14. From Information Overload to Clarity: Strategies for Summarizing and ...
15. Synthesis & Details for First Grade - Kristen Sullins Teaching
16. Synthesizing Information: Techniques for Summarizing and Condensing ...