Compendia is a term that is used to describe a collection of concise but detailed information on a particular subject. Synonyms for compendia include handbooks, manuals, compendiums, guides, and encyclopedias. These synonyms emphasize the fact that compendia are meant to provide a quick and easy reference for complex topics. Handbooks and manuals tend to focus on practical information for specific industries or tasks, while compendiums and guides provide broader overviews of different subjects. Encyclopedias are compendia that cover a wide range of information in an organized fashion. Regardless of the synonym used, compendia help readers quickly grasp a variety of information on a particular topic.