 Chapter 2 introduces a version of the crucial distinction between the methods of analysis (sometimes called resolution) and synthesis (sometimes called composition). The authors regard analysis as more important method because it is a method for discovering truths. Synthesis is the presentation of knowledge as following from given premises. The material might be presented as formal deductions as in logic texts including Part III of the Logic. An alternative kind of synthetic presentation finds a conclusion in geometrical style as following from definitions and axioms. Descartes argued that the main function of synthesis is to instruct others in what is already known—especially to compel their assent if they are “argumentative or stubborn” (Meditations, Replies to second set of objections [CSM II, 110–111]).