The parts of a workflow

Split and merge

A long file is too much for one step. Split it into parts, give each part the same careful step, then merge the results into one.

LongfilePart 1Part 2Part 3Mergedsummary
A long file
A long file is too much for one step.

A real example

A long document, part by part

From the template: Write a summary of a long document
  1. Map the document into partsSplit the document into its main parts and note what each part covers.
  2. Summarize each partWrite the key points of each part, keeping numbers and names exactly as written.
  3. Merge into one summaryCombine the part notes into one summary written for the reader.
  4. Tighten the summaryCut the summary to 300 words or fewer without losing a key fact.

What makes a good split

  1. 1Map firstOne step lists the parts of the file and what each part covers.
  2. 2The same step for every partEach part is handled the same way, so none gets less attention than the others.
  3. 3Merge lastThe notes on each part are combined into one result written for the reader.

Templates that use this part

  1. Write a summary of a long documentSteps: Map the document into parts, Summarize each part, Merge into one summary, Tighten the summary.
  2. Find themes in comments or interview notesSteps: Label each comment, Group the labels into themes, Count each theme and pick two quotes.