Cladistic analysis refers to a method used in evolutionary biology to determine the relationships between organisms based on shared characteristics. There are several synonyms that can be used to refer to this analytical approach, including phylogenetic analysis, cladistics, and phylogenetics. These words all describe the same method and share a focus on identifying the pattern of divergence between species. Other related terms include systematic biology, which refers to the study of the classification and relationships of organisms, and taxonomy, which is the science of naming, describing, and classifying organisms. Regardless of the term used, cladistic analysis remains a fundamental tool for understanding the evolution of life on Earth.