Three types of analysis in discussions

( From coaching folks on analytical philosophy. )

• (a) are we trying to find words to describe a thought which we don't have good words for? ( semantics ) 
• (b) are we sure the words accurately describe the mental model of the subject matters, so we are testing hypotheses about the internal coherence of the model? ( syntax )
• (c) we have confidence in the coherence of the mental model and now wish to test it against hypotheses about the real world? ( science )

All distinct activities, which have clear boundaries in between each type.