transformation, but in the reverse order.

The second part of the analysis, the resolution,

would be much facilitated and shortened, by the existence of a systematic collection of Data such as
Euclid's book bearing that title, consisting of propositions proving that, if in a figure certain parts or
relations are given, other parts or relations are also given. As regards the first part of the analysis,
the transformation, the usual rule applies that every step in the chain must be unconditionally
convertible; and any failure to observe this condition will be brought to light by the subsequent
synthesis. The second part, the resolution, can be constructed by the means provided in the
Elements.
It would be difficult to find a better illustration of the above than the example chosen by
Hankel from Pappus1.
Given a circle ABC and two points D, E external to it, to draw straight lines DB, EB from
D, E to a point B on the circle such that, if DB, EB produced meet in the circle again in C, A, AC
shall be parallel to DE.
Analysis.
Suppose the problem solved and the tangent at A draw, meeting ED produced in F.
(Part I. Transformation.)
Then, since AC is parallel to DE, the angle at C is equal to the angle CDE.
But, since FA is aa tangent, the angle at C is equal to the angle FAE.
Therefore the angle FAE is equal to the angle CDE, whence A, B, D F are concyclic.
Therefore the rectangle AE, EB is equal to the rectangle FE, ED.
(Part II. Resolution.)
But the rectangle AE, EB is given, because
it is equal to the square on the tangent from E.
Therefore the rectangle FE, ED is given;
and, since ED is given, FE is given (in lenght). [Data,
57.]
But FE is given in position also, so that F is also given.
[Data, 27.]
Now FA is the tangent from a given point F to a circle
ABC given in position;
therefore FA is given in position and magnitude. [Data, 90.]
And F is given; therefore A is given.
But E is also given; therefore the straight line AE is given in position. [Data, 26.]
And the circle ABC is given in position;

1 Pappus, VII. pp. 830 – 2.

 therefore the point B is also given.
But the points D, E are also given;
therefore the straight lines DB, BE are also given in position.
Synthesis.
(Part. I Construction.)
Suppose the circle ABC and the points D, E given.
Take a rectangle contained by ED and by a certain straight line EF equal to the square on
the tangent to the circle from E.