Kith guide · Research workflow

How to build a sourced research glossary

A glossary becomes durable knowledge when every definition preserves where it came from, how the source used it, and what uncertainty remains.

1. Save contextual definitions

Capture the term and the sentence or figure where it appears. Avoid importing generic definitions when the author uses the term in a narrower way.

2. Preserve source identity

Keep the page title, URL, section heading, capture date, and supporting excerpt. These details make later verification possible.

3. Add your interpretation separately

Use notes for your question, paraphrase, or relationship to the project. Keep your note distinct from the quoted evidence and generated explanation.

4. Normalize recurring concepts

Tag synonymous or related terms consistently. When the same concept appears again, compare the new usage instead of silently overwriting the earlier meaning.

5. Export and review

Periodically export the glossary in a portable format. Review entries against their sources before using them in analysis, publication, or consequential decisions.