how to properly write a synthesis essay

How to Write a Synthesis Essay?

13 June, 2020

16 minutes read

Author:  Tomas White

We’ve all wondered how to write a synthesis essay. Synthesis papers are hard to write and offering general advice on them is even harder. However, we will give it a try! Thanks to our expertise and excellent understanding of the subject, you can learn how to write a synthesis essay in no time. So, let’s dive in!

An excellent synthesis essay is based on in-depth analysis of multiple sources. Often it is the sources that dictate the style and method of writing used to analyze, debate, and argue about the ideas in the source material.

What is a Synthesis Essay?

A synthesis essay is a discussion that is based on two or more sources that can come from various places (television, radio, adverts, lectures) but, frankly, it mostly centers on written pieces. Students can be often be assigned to write these types of essays in History class. Their teachers might ask them to analyze a few sources talking about a single issue and synthesize them.

What Does it Mean to Synthesize a Text?

The definition of synthesis is ‘the combination of components or elements to form a connected whole. So, to synthesize a text you have to combine information from a number of sources into a coherent paper.

Sure, dictionary talk on synthesis essay writing never makes much sense. So, to help you out here:

To synthesize your paper means to form a new perspective on an issue by placing extracts from sources next to each other.

One thing a lot of students have trouble with is understanding the difference between synthesizing a text and summarizing it . A summary of a synthesis essay reiterates the critical points of the text to provide an overview. Meanwhile, synthesis moves beyond this by contrasting the critical points of your knowledge on a subject to what other sources say about it.

Different Types of Synthesis Essays

There are mainly two types of synthesis essays – expository and argumentative.

An expository essay explains the issue in as much detail as possible. Expository synthesis essay can also be called research synthesis essay at times. As an excellent synthesis essay example, you can check out any literature review on issues related to the social sciences, such as sociology, linguistics, or psychology. Alternatively, look for synthesis essay examples in books on History.

An argumentative synthesis essay is one where you’re using the source material to prove your claim by citing credible conflicting theories, experiments where the theory was falsified, quotes or statistics. You’re not seeking to explain. You aim to understand how to persuade and write an argumentative essay that supports and proves your argument.

The Purpose of a Synthesis Essay

The purpose of a synthesis essay depends on the type of essay you’ve received, the question that was set and its subject.

Advanced high-grade essays must demonstrate these four things:

• Your understanding of the major issues presented in the synthesis essay.
• Your understanding of the smaller issues in the sources.
• Critical reading, analytical and evaluation skills.
• Your ability to develop an argument.

Basically, the purpose of writing a synthesis essay is to assess your ability to form and defend a viewpoint using source materials.

In general, the process of writing a synthesis essay consists of six steps:

• Analyzing the source.
• Choosing an interesting title.
• Building an outline.
• Crafting an introduction.
• Developing the main body paragraphs.
• Writing a conclusion.

So, if you are wondering how to write a good synthesis essay, we’ve got your back!

Now, let’s take a closer look at each one of these points.

Analyzing the Sources

If you have been assigned sources for your synthesis essay, start with reading them in-depth, drawing out how they connect and looking for common themes. Thus, if you are making a comparison on how money is presented in literature, look for what the texts are saying about society’s perceptions of wealth.

It goes without saying that you have to start with the sources. If there are two different perspectives in sociology, see what they have in common before you start working on a synthesis essay.

As you start to build a thread of interest, you can build up an argument or a thesis statement . It’s best to choose sources that encourage discussion.

And unless you lived under a rock you know that the best way to draw connections and threads together is by using some visual aid or tool. This can save you hours of work and take your synthesis essay to a new level.

Choosing an Interesting Title

Start with a working title based on the core issue you’re writing about. Don’t worry about the first draft of your synthesis essay. You’ll come back, clean it, and make it compelling later.

Besides, if you have been given a title, the taking out the keywords or the question can help you focus on the task too.

Nevertheless, bear in mind that the title has to be interesting. It should specify the problem and intrigue the audience. They need to want to keep reading your synthesis essay and to dig a little deeper into your exciting subject. In other words, grab their attention from the start and keep them on the hook!

Related Posts: Argumentative essay topics list

How to Write a Synthesis Essay Outline

Now, that you have studied the sources, understand the issue better and even have an interesting title for your paper, make sure you know how to create a perfect outline for your piece. It will keep you focused as you dive into the writing process and won’t let you lose your sight of the thesis.

As a rule, synthesis essay structure consists of:

• An introduction with a hook and a thesis statement;
• Main body paragraphs with each one of them supporting the thesis;
• A conclusion to summarize the whole piece.

Finally, comes the time to get the show on the road.

We will start the process with an introduction. After all, that’s where it all begins!

Crafting an Introduction to a Synthesis Essay

An introduction to a synthesis essay should:

Introduce the Topic You’re Discussing.

This is used to clarify the theme or topic you will focus on based on the sources you chose. Here’s an example of a synthesis essay introduction: ‘The sources all discuss and agree that climate change is a serious problem that the world is facing today but disagree over what causes the problems and the solutions to it.’

Specify the Main Sources.

Let the readers know what you are basing your synthesis essay on. And explain how the theme or topic emerges in the text, or how the author in each text addresses the idea and why it is important. For example, ‘Mr. Believer’s speech on climate change recognizes that there is a real threat from the climate affecting the planet. He states that measures should be taken to reduce C02 levels. Meanwhile, Mr. Doubter’s speech questions the science behind the above-mentioned plan using the anecdotal evidence to suggest that it’s a natural change not affected by man.’

Introduce the Thesis Statement.

At the end of the introductory paragraph of a synthesis essay comes a thesis statement. It should answer the question succinctly and state your position on the issue or title of the essay. Moreover, it should explain why this issue is important and how the world would be different without you raising this problem.

If you are not sure how to write a thesis statement , here is our complete guide to help you out!

Here is how your thesis statement should go: ‘Believer makes a compelling argument about how dangerous the climate change is as well as why we need to take an action now to prevent further damage by lowering the C02 emission.’

This is what a comprehensive introduction should look like. Now, let’s move on to the next section of your synthesis essay.

Developing Main Body Paragraphs According to the MEAL Approach

An excellent way to structure the body paragraphs is in applying the MEAL acronym – Main Idea, Evidence and Analysis and Link Back.

If that doesn’t make much sense to you, let’s see what it stands for when it comes to synthesis essay.

This is where you want to make a claim on the topic that presents an argument or an author’s position. With the climate change issue as the main subject of a synthesis essay, it can go something like this: “People may try to pass the climate change off as a hoax. However, there is an undeniable link between the human intrusion and CO2 emission problem on the planet.”

The evidence is a quote or a fact or a paraphrase from the sources you have been provided for a synthesis essay. ‘Mr. Believer states that ‘CO2 is the cause of climate change’ supporting his statement with credible scientific evidence.’

At this stage of writing a synthesis essay, you need to specify how the evidence above proves your argument. ‘This demonstrates the global warming theory has significant backing in the scientific community.’

This is just a link back to the central claim of your synthesis essay. ‘Although causal evidence cannot scientifically prove cause and effect, the number of studies cited in these sources find a correlation between an increase in CO2 emission and climate change.’

Last but not least comes a conclusion. Don’t underestimate its potential in the synthesis essay: after all, this is often the only thing the readers will remember after finishing reading your piece.

Writing a Conclusion

It is vital to ensure that a conclusion has proper structure too.

• Restate the thesis statement. Remind the readers what the main point of your synthesis essay was. It is always a good idea to help them remember it.
• Mention the evidence. You used various sources to support your thesis statement in a synthesis essay. And a conclusion is the perfect time and place to remind of them. Don’t take too long though. Just briefly go over each one of them. If someone forgot something and needs a more vivid reminder, they can go back to a particular place in your article and read it.
• Call to action. This might not be applicable all the time. However, if you are trying to persuade the audience in something, you should definitely make sure that use your chance now to encourage them to take measures after finishing your synthesis essay.

All in all, in a conclusion you need to reiterate how the topics are a connection, include a suggestion or conclusion to the arguments.

Synthesis Essay Format for an AP English Exam

Knowing what format meets the requirements of the description of an AP English exam is vital. That is why we strongly recommend you to pay close attention to the formatting you use in the AP language and composition synthesis essay.

The only way to ensure you are referencing correctly is by having the reference guide open as you edit.

If you need assistance with proper MLA and APA formatting at an AP English exam synthesis essay, you can check out our complete guides. They will provide you with comprehensive data on the synthesis essay format for AP English exam.

While still on the subject, you might want to check out our guide on how to write a rhetorical analysis essay , since it is a part of an AP English exam. We have all the answers for you here!

By now you are probably wondering what topics you can opt for when crafting a piece in question. We have prepared a list of themes to take a look at to help you out. So, read on!

Interesting Synthesis Essay Topics

When you choose synthesis essay topics, you should think of subjects that have debates around them. Pick issues with grey areas around them or the ones you can form a unique view or opinion on.

Here are a few synthesis essay topic ideas :

• Do video games lead to an increased violent behavior level among teens?
• Rehabilitation or capital punishment: Which is the most effective way to deter crime?
• How did the Treaty of Versailles contribute to the WW2?
• Social Learning Theory or Biology: Which has the most significant impact on crime?
• Does the UFO exist?
• Do people cause the climate change?
• Should abortions be made legal?
• How social media impact our day-to-day lives?
• Is euthanasia a murder or an act of mercy?
• Is sex education at schools really necessary?

Choose one of our topics for a synthesis essay – and you’ll definitely end up having a great piece with lots of sources to refer to and credible authors to cite.

Now, let’s polish your writing skills and see how general writing differs from the synthesis essay writing in the long run.

Tips on Writing the AP Synthesis Essay

Here are a few tips on how to write the AP lang. synthesis essay with flying colors:

• Keep a consistent tone and voice throughout the essay.
• Craft good strong argument and specify what your position regarding it is.
• Use some of the rhetorical techniques to craft a more compelling evidence (for more on rhetorical essay writing and preparation to the AP English exam or the synthesis essay ap lang. check our guides here).
• Know the style and purpose of the essay you are writing.
• Always have a clear synthesis essay thesis statement to help you write with purpose.
• Bear in mind the importance of the proper APA or MLA writing guides, and always edit with a reference guide in front of you for better results on your AP English synthesis essay.
• Analyze the existing sources to find common insightful traits between them.
• Develop a thesis statement for the essay to guide your outline.
• Map your main points visually. Do these main points have science-backed evidence to support them? Do they contradict each other? Or does one point support your thesis, the other one debunks your theory while the third one contradicts everything mentioned above? Be consistent in your writing and mapping the ideas.

These tips will help you better craft your synthesis essay. And if you’re still having hard times and struggling with the main points of the paper, remember that HandmadeWriting is the best place to ask for help with your synthesis essay! Our professional essay writers are available 24/7. And don’t forget to use our synthesis essay prompts to ease your writing.

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Writing Synthesis Essay: Make it Easy with Our Comprehensive Guide

Table of contents

• 1 Purpose and Objectives of a Synthesis Essay
• 2.1 Explanatory Synthesis Essay
• 2.2 Argument Synthesis Essay
• 2.3 Review Synthesis Essay
• 3 Common Topics Encountered in Synthesis Essays
• 4.1 Conduct Thorough Research
• 4.2 Look from Diverse Perspectives
• 4.3.1 Chronological Method
• 4.3.2 Thematic Method
• 4.3.3 Point-by-point Method
• 5 Make a Synthesis Essay Outline to Structure Content
• 6.1 Critically Analyze Sources and Identify Their Relevance to the Thesis Statement
• 7.1 Support Your Arguments
• 7.2 Address Counterarguments
• 8.1 Bibliography
• 9 Proofread and Edit Your Essay
• 10 Bottom line
• 11.1 How long should a synthesis essay be?
• 11.2 How many paragraphs are in a synthesis essay?
• 11.3 Is a synthesis essay argumentative?
• 11.4 Does a synthesis essay have a counterargument?

Being a student is a challenging task, as you have to handle different types of essays, particularly synthesis essays. What is a synthesis essay? Such creative writing helps students to develop research skills, conduct a thorough analysis and improve their writing skills. Also, it boosts their abilities to deliver original ideas, arguments, and clear explanations of particular viewpoints. Students might often receive such writing tasks for the AP English language exam. We know how challenging it can be for them to write a synthesis essay.

With this in mind, we uncover the key points of synthesis writing in this review, which are the following:

• We’ll define the main traits of this essay type
• What are the different types?
• We collect the best advice on how to write a synthesis essay.
• and prepared the list of synthesis essay topic examples.

If you find it difficult to start your synthesis essay, you can get help from our PapersOwl service. The best experts in academic writing await you to bring up a good synthesis essay with a high assessment grade.

Purpose and Objectives of a Synthesis Essay

First and foremost, it is vital to understand the definition of a synthesis essay. It is a type of essay in which you should provide justified arguments, ideas, or statements based on a particular point of view. Composing a synthesis essay requires a lot of time and effort. You must analyze many credible sources to collect specific data and create a unique research paper. Synthesizing sources has to do with analyzing them, but not vice versa. You should provide an in-depth analysis of each source and then combine the similarities or differences between them into one coherent and well-structured essay. The next section uncovers this matter.

Key Features and Components

A synthesis essay counts a few types depending on the objectives to reveal. But essential synthesis essay components are the same and consist of three main parts: introduction, main body, and conclusion. The introductory paragraph should be catchy and highlight the main points of your paperwork due to a good thesis statement. The main body should include at least three paragraphs separated by exposing different thoughts, arguments, or explanations. The conclusion should also leave a spot for meditating for your reader on what you have disclosed in it. Further, we explain three types of synthesis papers and their specifications.

Explanatory Synthesis Essay

This type of synthesis essay involves disclosing various facts, views, or points. That’s why it is required to explore many reliable sources to get as much relevant information about a topic under investigation as possible. Thus, a writer can explain the emergence of certain points of view and facts. This writing task helps high school and college students do deep research, compare facts and perspectives, and deliver a detailed synthesis analysis essay. It is essential to complement each statement with specific evidence and statistical data. This will underline the relevance of the information introduced in an essay and make it meaningful and reasonable.

Argument Synthesis Essay

When writing argumentative essays , one must choose a specific topic and present arguments supporting or opposing viewpoints. This writing assignment incorporates two objectives: gather and systemize information revealing the main topic and argue them from your perspective. It requires creativity and deep knowledge of the field and aspect you must put on paper. Writing an argumentative essay is not an easy task. You should stick to a particular perspective and move on to exposing it. It is crucial to provide enough facts and proof to convince your reader that your viewpoint is noteworthy.

Review Synthesis Essay

Review synthesis essays are often parts of larger projects and are used to make reviews of particular aspects, for example, in medicine and social sciences. When composing this type of essay, you should provide full information about the examined object, state, or problem. The literature review should contain as many key points and peculiarities as possible. Thus, it will draw a complete picture of an aspect that will bring clarification and worth to your topic. To hook your reader from the very onset, you should articulate a good synthesis thesis statement in your introductory paragraph.

Common Topics Encountered in Synthesis Essays

To help you with a topic choice for your AP Lang synthesis essay, we listed some from different fields and sciences. The first of three essays is about AI technology. We tried to single out the most relevant example prompt topics for you to get started with. Check them out below.

• Artificial intelligence: Big threat or valuable tool for modern society
• Cryptomarket: The ups and downs
• Technology in the traditional classroom: A threat or benefit?
• Explain whether testing new drugs on animals is ethically permissible
• Should alternative medications be covered by insurance?
• Disturbance regimes under Global Warming
• Explaining how the American way of life contributes to global warming
• Distance education: Its effect on college students on campus
• Can modern people keep complete control over their life?
• Nuclear or solar power: Benefits and Demerits
• Explain the impact of gas fuel plants
• Remote work impact on people: How is their physical activity?
• Explain the role of sport in the American education system
• Is it possible to buy happiness for money?
• The basic survival skills everyone should know

Tips on How to Write Synthesis Essay

It is easier said than done when it comes to writing a synthesis essay. That is true, and for this reason, we outlined the list of valuable synthesis essay tips we consider the most essential to focus on. They are helpful for both writing an AP lang synthesis essay and a term assessment. Check them out.

Conduct Thorough Research

A good paper is regarded as meaningful when it is based on deep and all-encompassing research. Don’t neglect to provide a thorough exploration of your topic. The more information you find, the more valuable and reasonable your essay will be. But make sure you use credible sources to summarize and synthesize the data. Once you have a viewpoint to reveal, look for sources that support it or oppose it so that you can use them to substantiate your perspective.

Look from Diverse Perspectives

When willing to express one particular point or argument, consider other perspectives that might contradict your ideas. Why is it important? You should be aware of all the main arguments or acceptances occurring around your topic. It is essential to study different points of view that emerged on the basis of your theme or aspect under study. This could help you disclose another side or significance of your essay topic and change the focus of the main content you want to unleash. Doing this can reveal a new perspective, idea, or aspect of your synthesis essay’s research.

Choose an Organizational Method

Although an essay has a standard structure, your content should be well-composed and introduced coherently. All data should be outlined so a reader will enjoy the smooth turn from one statement to another. Depending on the field and aspect you are preparing a synthesis essay about, there are three methods to organize the content in your paper. They are the following:

Chronological Method

If you include dates or other significant events in your review or argumentative essay, it makes sense to present them in chronological order. Every fact should be justified per its development. So later, you can introduce your perspective or statement that will explain the impact of prior events. For example, when revealing a particular historical period in the US, you should first mention all important events chronologically. So then, you can argue your idea about the changes they brought to the country from a political or international perspective.

Thematic Method

A synthesis paper can be written for any field of science to represent a shorter version of facts, viewpoints, research results, etc. That’s why students can come across some topics that require uncovering a few themes in one essay. It is where a thematic method of content organization takes place. You should determine what notions or terms should be mentioned and revealed in your paper. Then, think of what term might explain or continue a key message of another term. Once you find out this detail, you should present each term one after another, keeping coherence in the information flow.

Point-by-point Method

As synthesis papers deal with different ideas, arguments, viewpoints, etc., comparison as a research method has a place. You can operate with many hypotheses, approaches, ideas, and arguments, so comparing them and finding their similarities and differences makes sense. This content organization method involves explaining one point of the synthesis statement, and then another point to compare further.

Crafting a successful synthesis essay requires a well-structured outline, which can be challenging to develop without assistance. Luckily, many academic essay writing services, such as PapersOwl.com, offer support in this area. To help you get started, here is an outline you can utilize to write a compelling synthesis essay that will leave a lasting impression on your professor.

Make a Synthesis Essay Outline to Structure Content

Earlier, we emphasized the importance of orchestrating your main content under study. This section covers the crucial thing in writing a synthesis essay: an outline. The outline is a great synthesis essay template for structuring your entire paper. We recommend you always stick to it once you define your essay’s topic and objective. Thanks to it you will be able to keep your focus on the angle of your work.

If you want to deepen your knowledge, we have prepared steps on how to write a synthesis essay outline. The outline of your essay must include three main components, but it can vary, and mostly the main difference is in a short and cited presentation of the thoughts you want to reveal in your essay. Below, we introduce a brief outline structure:

• Introductory part

The beginning of your essay mustn’t be too long. It is enough to disclose your objective, the main topic, and a strong thesis statement in one paragraph. It doesn’t make sense to keep a reader’s attention for long in the introduction, explaining what you are going to describe or argue in detail. Present it shortly and precisely.

• Body paragraph

In this part of the essay, you should introduce all you have researched, analyzed, and systematized. Likewise, you should expose your material in a minimum of three paragraphs. Each part has an appropriate synthesis-paragraph structure. In the outline, we recommend you craft a bullet list of three here and note shortly what points you want to describe in each paragraph.

This is the summarizing part of the essay, where you conclude all the information introduced in your synthesis essay. It is essential to repeat the thesis statements here. It should also be concise.

Write an Engaging Introduction

A good synthesis essay should get a reader engaged straight from its introduction. An introductory part should be composed in an interesting way to keep reading your essay. Here is where a reader finds out about the background of the topic and what main problems or ideas will be discussed. Such information should be catchy, and it is essential to make the first opening sentence sharper.

Another important thing in the introduction is crafting a hooky synthesis essay thesis statement. The thesis will be like a compass to the main points of your essay. Try to make the topic sentence specific and intriguing by matching your essay objectives.

Introduction synthesis essay example: When it comes to running a successful business, there’s no doubt that having the right people on board is crucial. After all, a company is simply a group of individuals working together towards a common goal. However, not enough emphasis is placed on what the “right” people actually look like. That’s why I wanted to bring attention to an often overlooked but incredibly important attribute: resistance. In this article, I’ll explain what resistance is, why it matters, and how you can identify it in potential team members.

Critically Analyze Sources and Identify Their Relevance to the Thesis Statement

A thesis presents a key message of your paper. This is what both reveals the focus of an essay and captures a reader’s attention. That’s why it requires exploring many sources carefully and critically analyzing them to identify their relevance. So then, you can formulate a strong thesis statement that will combine the key points of the synthesis essay. The more valuable data you find and analyze, the more precious your thesis.

The Main Body

There are three parts to your essay, each using a different type of evidence. The first two sections should contain evidence that supports your thesis. This can be in the form of direct quotes from your sources , statistics, and/or other research that supports your claim. The third section should contain evidence against your thesis – or what some might call “counterpoints” or “arguments against”.

Building on this structure, it’s imperative to recognize that the very foundation of your thesis relies on the robustness of these supporting arguments. Let’s look closer.

Support Your Arguments

Every thought, idea, assumption, and definition from your thesis statement must be justified by supporting arguments. No one will get involved in a piece that tells about everything and nothing simultaneously when there is no evidence and proof of mentioned facts. This point is vital as your perspective must have a background, and you should explain the reasons you provide a particular argument or viewpoint.

Extensive research and analysis of credible sources allow students to come up with exciting and valuable solutions, ideas, and directions. That’s why the time spent on deep study will always pay you back. It is a very significant component in writing argumentative synthesis essays. So, make sure you find supporting arguments for the idea or perspective you want to convey to a reader. This will increase the persuasiveness and worthiness of your message in the essay.

Address Counterarguments

Sometimes, it is difficult to persuade someone when many counterarguments make your point of view unworthy. The same might happen when you decide to start a synthesis essay and prove your opposite perspective. This task is challenging and requires thorough research of counterarguments. Only by having analyzed a massive set of information, one can provide reasonable comparisons and meaningful explanations to let a reader take their perspectives into account. Here are a few helpful tips on how to maintain a persuasive stance while considering opposing viewpoints:

• Study all counterarguments that might be according to your viewpoint;
• Learn the background of the counterarguments;
• Find out what consequences they can lead to (if they are negative);
• Weigh the influence of opposing arguments and find their weak points;
• Justify your viewpoints clearly and precisely with supporting evidence;
• Provide comparative analysis to underline the significance of your perspective;
• Never ignore the counterarguments in your informative synthesis essay paper.

Craft a Strong Conclusion

The conclusion is the last but not least component of a synthesis essay structure. The train of thoughts and ideas kept during the entire paper shouldn’t be interrupted instantly. It must have an excellent finalizing part where you sum up all mentioned in your essay and leave a good touch for your reader.

To craft a strong conclusion, you should present an overview of your research and note the main points of your argument or perspective. But remember, the conclusion doesn’t have to be too long and saturated. It should be brief, concise, and precise. Remember to remind your reader of your thesis statement and emphasize the relevance and significance of your essay’s topic.

Conclusion synthesis essay example: Through our research, we have identified effective strategies for dealing with repetitive motions in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. It is clear that multiple behavior modification therapies are important for improving this behavior. Further exploration into behavior modification techniques could lead to finding more therapy techniques that can greatly improve the lives of those with repetitive motion behaviors. We believe that this research can make a significant impact in helping individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder lead more fulfilling lives.

Bibliography

A bibliography is a list of books, journals, and other sources of information used in the essay. The bibliography should be alphabetically arranged by the author’s last name. All sources should be listed separately on a separate page following the main body of text or at the end of your paper.

Your research sources should be properly credited at the end of the essay, whether you’re using MLA, APA, or another format . The most common form for citing an author’s work is called “parenthetical citation” or “in-text citation.” In parenthetical citations, you include the title of the work (italicized), page numbers if applicable, year published (if applicable), medium (e.g., book), and publisher’s name (if not self-published).

Proofread and Edit Your Essay

Even if you think your work is impeccable, it needs to be proofread and edited. While you are concentrating on the writing process, you might skip some other nuances. This can be punctuation, typos, grammatical errors, or incorrect sentence order. For this reason, a synthesis essay must go through thorough proofreading to detect any kind of errors. Apart from this, you can split one body paragraph into two, for example, if you find different points discussed in it. You should also format it using a particular format style to handle a well-structured, edited, and formatted essay.

Bottom line

Wrapping up, we encourage you to follow our tips on how to write a good synthesis essay. Although any type of writing isn’t easy work, you can do it well with the help of good supporting sources available on our website. If you are short on time and understand that you can’t cope with this task, you can find an expert who writes essays for you to meet your deadlines. But if you decide to make it up alone, make sure to craft an outline and follow all the insightful tips mentioned in this article.

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Synthesis Essays: A Step-by-Step How-To Guide

A synthesis essay is generally a short essay which brings two or more sources (or perspectives) into conversation with each other.

The word “synthesis” confuses every student a little bit. Fortunately, this step-by-step how-to guide will see you through to success!

Here’s a step-by-step how-to guide, with examples, that will help you write yours.

Before drafting your essay:

After reading the sources and before writing your essay, ask yourself these questions:

• What is the debate or issue that concerns all of the writers? In other words, what is the question they are trying to answer?
• On what points do they agree?
• On what points do they disagree?
• If they were having a verbal discussion, how would writer number one respond to the arguments of writer number two?

In a way, writing a synthesis essay is similar to composing a summary. But a synthesis essay requires you to read more than one source and to identify the way the writers’ ideas and points of view are related.

Sometimes several sources will reach the same conclusion even though each source approaches the subject from a different point of view.

Other times, sources will discuss the same aspects of the problem/issue/debate but will reach different conclusions.

And sometimes, sources will simply repeat ideas you have read in other sources; however, this is unlikely in a high school or AP situation.

To better organize your thoughts about what you’ve read, do this:

• Identify each writer’s thesis/claim/main idea
• List the writers supporting ideas (think topic sentences or substantiating ideas)
• List the types of support used by the writers that seem important. For example, if the writer uses a lot of statistics to support a claim, note this. If a writer uses historical facts, note this.

There’s one more thing to do before writing: You need to articulate for yourself the relationships and connections among these ideas.

Sometimes the relationships are easy to find. For example, after reading several articles about censorship in newspapers, you may notice that most of the writers refer to or in some way use the First Amendment to help support their arguments and help persuade readers. In this case, you would want to describe the different ways the writers use the First Amendment in their arguments. To do this, ask yourself, “How does this writer exploit the value of the First Amendment/use the First Amendment to help persuade or manipulate the readers into thinking that she is right?

Sometimes articulating the relationships between ideas is not as easy. If you have trouble articulating clear relationships among the shared ideas you have noted, ask yourself these questions:

• Do the ideas of one writer support the ideas of another? If so, how?
• Do the writers who reach the same conclusion use the same ideas in their writing? If not, is there a different persuasive value to the ideas used by one writer than by the other?
• Do the writers who disagree discuss similar points or did they approach the subject from a completely different angle and therefore use different points and different kinds of evidence to support their arguments?
• Review your list of ideas. Are any of the ideas you have listed actually the same idea, just written in different words?

In the realm of written expression, the fusion of ideas from various sources has long been regarded as one of the most intellectually stimulating endeavors. Being able to synthesize information from disparate fields of knowledge not only demonstrates a profound understanding of the subject matter, but also enables the author to introduce novel insights and perspectives. A synthesis essay, as its name suggests, requires a writer to assimilate and integrate ideas, arguments, and evidence from multiple sources into a cohesive and compelling piece of writing. This type of essay invites writers to harness their analytical skills and creative thinking abilities to produce a work that advances a unique and persuasive viewpoint.

Central to the craft of writing a synthesis essay is the utilization of synthesis techniques, which allow the author to achieve the desired integration of ideas. By employing these techniques, such as comparison and contrast, analysis and evaluation, and critique and synthesis, the writer can effectively merge ideas from different sources in a clear and coherent manner. Through the skillful application of these techniques, the writer can establish connections, draw parallels, and highlight the interrelationships of ideas, thereby creating a nuanced and sophisticated argument.

Examples serve as valuable tools in illustrating the principles and techniques of crafting a successful synthesis essay. For instance, consider a synthesis essay on the topic of climate change. In this essay, the writer integrates scientific research papers, political speeches, and personal testimony to create a comprehensive and persuasive argument for the urgent need for global action on climate change. By skillfully weaving together these diverse sources, the writer is able to present a multi-dimensional perspective on the issue while maintaining a clear and compelling narrative.

How to Write a Synthesis Essay: Step-by-Step Guide

In the process of crafting a synthesis essay, you will be tasked with combining information from multiple sources to create a cohesive and well-supported argument. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, providing helpful tips and examples along the way.

Step 1: Understand the Assignment

Before diving into the writing process, it is crucial to fully comprehend the assignment. Read through the prompt carefully, identifying the main question or topic, as well as any specific sources or guidelines provided. This will help you determine the scope and direction of your essay.

Step 2: Conduct Research

Once you have a solid grasp of the assignment, it’s time to gather information from various sources. This can include articles, books, interviews, or even online resources. Make sure to select sources that are reputable, current, and relevant to your topic. Take detailed notes as you read, highlighting key ideas and evidence.

Step 3: Develop a Thesis Statement

Based on your research, develop a clear and concise thesis statement that encapsulates your argument. This statement should present your position on the topic and preview the main points you will explore in your essay. Keep in mind that a strong thesis statement will guide the entire writing process.

Step 4: Create an Outline

Organize your thoughts and ideas by creating an outline for your essay. This will serve as a roadmap for your writing, ensuring that each point flows logically and effectively supports your thesis. Divide your essay into sections and subsections, assigning each one a specific focus.

Step 5: Write the Introduction

Begin your essay with a captivating introduction that grabs the reader’s attention. Provide some background information on the topic and present your thesis statement. Be sure to include a hook that entices the reader to continue reading.

Step 6: Craft the Body Paragraphs

The body of your essay should consist of several paragraphs, each dedicated to a specific point or subtopic. Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea, then support it with evidence from your sources. Be sure to cite your sources properly to give credit to the original authors.

Step 7: Write the Conclusion

Wrap up your essay with a strong conclusion that reinforces your thesis statement and summarizes your main points. Avoid introducing new information in this section, and instead focus on leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Step 8: Revise and Edit

Once you have completed a draft of your essay, take the time to revise and edit it. Check for clarity, coherence, and overall effectiveness of your arguments. Also, review your grammar, spelling, and punctuation to ensure your essay is error-free.

Step 9: Proofread and Polish

Before submitting your final essay, proofread it one last time to catch any lingering errors. Pay attention to spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. Additionally, ensure that your formatting and citations are consistent throughout the essay.

Step 10: Seek Feedback

Finally, seek feedback from others, such as peers, teachers, or writing tutors. Their fresh perspective can help you identify any areas that need improvement and provide valuable suggestions for strengthening your essay.

By following this step-by-step guide, you will be well-equipped to write a successful synthesis essay that effectively combines multiple sources and supports your argument. Remember to take your time, conduct thorough research, and carefully craft each section of your essay to achieve the best possible result.

Understanding the Purpose of a Synthesis Essay

Exploring the Rationale Behind Composing a Synthesis Paper

A synthesis essay is a unique form of academic writing that requires students to combine information from multiple sources to support a thesis statement. In this type of essay, the writer needs to analyze various perspectives and synthesize them into a coherent argument. The purpose of a synthesis essay is to demonstrate a deep understanding of a topic by presenting a well-structured and balanced synthesis of different viewpoints or approaches.

When writing a synthesis essay, it is essential to understand the purpose behind this type of assignment. The primary goal is not merely to summarize the information from the sources but to present an original perspective that emerges from the synthesis of these sources. By carefully analyzing and evaluating the information from various sources, students can develop a unique understanding of the topic and present their own insights.

Moreover, a synthesis essay allows students to demonstrate critical thinking and analytical skills. It requires them to evaluate the credibility and relevance of the sources used and to consider how different ideas and perspectives relate to one another. By carefully selecting and integrating information from diverse sources, students can create a cohesive argument that goes beyond a mere summary of the sources.

Another important purpose of a synthesis essay is to foster effective communication and persuasive writing skills. Through the synthesis process, students learn how to effectively convey their ideas and support them with evidence from the sources. They need to consider the audience and tailor their argument to appeal to the readers. By organizing their thoughts and ideas in a logical and coherent manner, students can make a persuasive case for their thesis statement.

In summary, the purpose of a synthesis essay is to demonstrate a deep understanding of a topic by synthesizing information from multiple sources into a cohesive argument. It requires students to analyze and evaluate various viewpoints and to develop their own unique perspective. Additionally, a synthesis essay cultivates critical thinking skills and effective communication abilities. By mastering the art of synthesis writing, students can become more proficient in academic research and persuasive writing, making their essays more compelling and insightful.

Choosing a Relevant Topic for Your Synthesis Essay

When embarking on a journey of writing a synthesis essay, one of the most crucial steps is selecting a pertinent topic that encompasses the essence of your discussion. This stage requires careful consideration and evaluation in order to ensure that you have a solid foundation on which to build your argument.

To begin, it is essential to understand that a relevant topic should address the central theme or question that you are exploring in your synthesis essay. It should encapsulate the diverse perspectives and ideas that you aim to synthesize in your composition. By choosing a topic that is pertinent to your thesis statement, you can create a cohesive and persuasive argument.

When selecting a topic, it is important to choose something that is not only interesting to you but also holds relevance to the current context. Consider the current societal issues, scientific advancements, or technological developments that are shaping the world around us. By delving into a topic that is timely and impactful, you can engage your readers and make your synthesis essay more compelling.

Furthermore, it is crucial to choose a topic that allows for a variety of sources and perspectives to be integrated into your essay. Look for subjects that have a wealth of research materials available from reputable sources such as academic journals, books, and established experts in the field. This will provide you with a diverse range of perspectives to consider and synthesize in your argument.

In conclusion, choosing a relevant topic for your synthesis essay is a critical step in the writing process. By selecting a topic that aligns with your thesis statement, holds relevance in the current context, and allows for a variety of perspectives to be included, you can create a well-rounded and persuasive synthesis essay that effectively conveys your argument.

Gathering and Evaluating Sources for Your Essay

When embarking on writing a synthesis essay, it is crucial to gather and evaluate reliable sources to support your arguments effectively. A successful essay depends on the quality and relevance of the sources you include. This section will provide you with some valuable tips on how to gather and evaluate sources for your essay.

1. Determine the scope of your essay: Before you start collecting sources, it is important to have a clear understanding of the scope and topic of your essay. This will help you narrow down your search and choose sources that are most relevant to your argument.

2. Use a variety of sources: In order to provide a well-rounded view on the topic, it is recommended to include a mix of primary and secondary sources. Primary sources can include original research studies, interviews, or firsthand accounts, while secondary sources can be scholarly articles, books, or reputable websites that analyze and interpret the primary sources.

3. Evaluate the credibility of the sources: It is essential to evaluate the credibility and reliability of the sources you find. Consider the author’s credentials, the reputation of the publication or website, and whether the information has been peer-reviewed or fact-checked. Avoid relying heavily on sources that lack authority or have a bias.

4. Check for currency: Ensure that the sources you choose are up to date and reflect the most current research and information on the topic. This is particularly important if you are writing about a rapidly evolving field or a current issue.

5. Take notes and keep track of your sources: As you gather your sources, it is crucial to take detailed notes and keep track of the bibliographic information. This will make it easier to properly credit your sources and create an accurate bibliography later on.

6. Consider diverse perspectives: While it can be tempting to rely on sources that align with your own views, it is important to consider diverse perspectives. Including sources with differing opinions can strengthen your argument and demonstrate that you have considered multiple viewpoints.

By following these tips and gathering a range of reliable sources, you will be well-equipped to write a compelling synthesis essay that is backed by solid evidence and argumentation.

Developing a Thesis Statement for Your Synthesis Essay

In the process of writing a synthesis essay, one of the most crucial steps is developing a strong thesis statement. A thesis statement sets the tone and direction for your essay, guiding the reader on what to expect and how the different sources you will be synthesizing contribute to your overall argument.

When developing a thesis statement for your synthesis essay, it is important to consider the main idea you want to convey and the point you want to make. Your thesis statement should be clear, concise, and specific, providing a roadmap for your essay and outlining the main arguments you will be making.

One approach to developing a thesis statement is to carefully analyze the sources you will be synthesizing and identify common themes or patterns. Look for similarities and differences among the sources and identify the main ideas that emerge. Your thesis statement can then highlight these main ideas and showcase how they intersect and contribute to your overall argument.

Another approach to developing a thesis statement is to consider the main arguments or perspectives presented in the sources and craft a statement that expresses your position on the topic. Your thesis statement can be a synthesis of these different perspectives, presenting a nuanced and balanced argument that incorporates multiple viewpoints.

Remember, a strong thesis statement is essential for a successful synthesis essay. It provides a clear roadmap for your essay and allows your reader to understand the main arguments you will be making. Take the time to carefully craft your thesis statement, ensuring it is specific, concise, and reflective of the main ideas you will be exploring in your essay.

Structuring Your Synthesis Essay for Effective Organization

Creating a well-structured synthesis essay is crucial for effective organization and a clear presentation of your ideas. A strong structure allows your readers to easily follow your argument and understand the connections between different sources and viewpoints. In this section, we will explore some key strategies for structuring your synthesis essay to ensure a cohesive and persuasive piece of writing.

1. Introduction: Start your essay with a compelling introduction that grabs your reader’s attention and clearly presents the topic you will be discussing. Provide some background information on the issue, highlight its significance, and state your thesis statement, which will guide your argument throughout the essay.

2. Body paragraphs: Divide your essay into several body paragraphs, each addressing a specific aspect of your topic. Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea or argument you will be discussing. Support your points with evidence from your sources, making sure to cite them properly. Use transitions between paragraphs and within sentences to create a smooth flow of ideas and to establish connections between different viewpoints.

3. Analysis and synthesis: While presenting the ideas from your sources, make sure to analyze and evaluate them critically. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each source, identify any biases or limitations, and consider how they contribute to your overall argument. Aim to synthesize the information from your sources, combining different perspectives to support your own viewpoint.

4. Counterarguments: Address and refute counterarguments to strengthen your argument and demonstrate a thorough understanding of the topic. Anticipate possible objections and provide evidence or reasoning to counter them. Acknowledging opposing viewpoints but explaining why they are flawed further strengthens your own argument and credibility.

5. Conclusion: Wrap up your essay with a strong conclusion that summarizes your main points and restates your thesis in a clear and compelling manner. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion, but instead, emphasize the significance of your argument and its implications.

By structuring your synthesis essay in an organized and logical manner, you can ensure that your ideas are presented cohesively and persuasively. Remember to revise and edit your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammar, and proofread it carefully before submission. With a well-structured essay, you can effectively convey your argument and convince your readers of your viewpoint.

Writing and Revising Your Synthesis Essay

Crafting and fine-tuning your synthesis essay is an essential step in the writing process. Once you have conducted comprehensive research and gathered a plethora of sources, it’s time to consolidate your findings and present them in a cohesive and persuasive manner.

When it comes to writing your synthesis essay, it is crucial to lay a solid foundation. Begin by organizing your thoughts and ideas into an outline, creating a clear and logical structure for your essay. This framework will serve as a roadmap, guiding you through the writing process and ensuring that your arguments flow smoothly.

Once your outline is complete, you can begin the actual writing process. Start with a strong introduction that captures the reader’s attention and clearly states your thesis statement. From there, proceed to develop your ideas in a series of well-crafted paragraphs, each with its own topic sentence and supporting evidence.

As you write, remember to maintain a formal and academic tone, using appropriate language and avoiding slang or colloquialisms. Your synthesis essay should demonstrate your understanding of the topic and your ability to effectively analyze and synthesize information from a variety of sources.

Once you have completed your initial draft, it is essential to revise and edit your synthesis essay to ensure its clarity and coherence. Begin by reviewing the overall structure and organization of your essay. Check that your paragraphs flow smoothly and logically, and ensure that your thesis statement is well-supported by the evidence presented.

Next, focus on the content of your essay. Review each paragraph to ensure that it contributes to the overall argument and that the evidence presented is relevant and persuasive. Consider whether there are any gaps in your analysis or any areas that could benefit from further development.

In addition to content, pay attention to the style and mechanics of your writing. Check for grammatical and spelling errors, and ensure that your sentences are clear, concise, and varied. Consider the use of appropriate transitions to guide your reader through your essay and help them follow your line of reasoning.

Lastly, take the time to proofread your essay carefully. Read it aloud, or have someone else read it to you, to catch any errors or areas that could be strengthened. Remember, the revision process is an opportunity to refine and improve your essay, so take the time to make necessary changes and ensure that your synthesis is well-crafted and compelling.

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• Writing Tips

How to Write a Synthesis Essay

4-minute read

• 31st May 2023

Are you writing a synthesis essay? This is a paper that combines information from a variety of sources to form a new idea. Essentially, you’re synthesizing existing concepts and arguments to create something original.

As a student, you’ll probably have to write a synthesis essay at some point. Read on for our step-by-step guide on how to write one effectively.

Step 1. Define Your Idea or Argument

If you haven’t done so already, decide on a topic to write about. Read up about it using a variety of credible sources and make detailed notes while you research. Make sure you keep track of the sources you decide to pull information from so that you can cite them properly later.

Make a list of key points from your research. Once you have a good selection of material to work with, start developing your own idea or argument. This will be the focus of your essay.

Step 2. Create an Outline

Synthesis essays generally follow this format: an introduction, a handful of main body paragraphs, and a conclusion. It’s a good idea to come up with an essay plan before you start writing so that you can keep things organized while you work.

The outline is mainly helpful for deciding what to include in your body paragraphs. Decide what supporting points (and counterarguments ) from your research you want to include, and which order you want to discuss them in. You should have enough information to flesh out one paragraph for each point.

Step 3. Write Your Introduction

In your introduction, you should open with something that hooks the reader and captures their attention. Then, state your argument or idea (i.e., your thesis statement) and briefly summarize the material you’ll be including in your essay. You should also include any relevant background information here.

Step 4. Write the Body Paragraphs

Using your outline, discuss each point from your source material in more depth, devoting a body paragraph to each. Explain the information from the outside source, including appropriate citations, and discuss how it connects with your idea.

It’s a good idea to mostly focus on points that support your argument, but you should also include a paragraph with a counterargument or two. This means discussing a perspective that doesn’t necessarily align with your idea, and then explaining why your argument still works.

Step 5. Tie It All Together With a Conclusion

The conclusion should leave the reader feeling convinced of your idea. Restate your point clearly and summarize the main points you’ve discussed. You could also offer any concluding reflections on the topic.

Different Types of Synthesis Essays

While you can follow our steps for any type of synthesis essay, yours will probably fall under one of two categories: explanatory or argumentative.

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Argumentative essays are as they sound – they present an argument. With an argumentative essay, you’ll take a more definitive stance on something and use your supporting material to persuade the reader.

Explanatory essays don’t necessarily take a side one way or the other. Rather, they focus on developing and explaining a concept thoroughly. Knowing which type of essay you’re writing will help you to gather more effective source material for your purpose.

Cite Your Sources

Since synthesis essays are particularly dependent on outside material, it’s especially important that you cite your sources correctly. Familiarize yourself with your referencing system before you start researching so you know what information you need to keep track of, and include appropriate citations whenever you use someone else’s work.

At the end of the essay, you’ll need to compile your sources into a reference list following the requirements of your style guide.

Summary: Writing a Synthesis Essay

Hopefully, this post has helped you to feel more confident in writing a synthesis essay. Choose a topic first, do your research, keep track of your sources, and develop an argument or idea. From there, you can organize your thoughts into an outline and get to writing!

Once you’ve created a first draft, make sure you send it our way! We’ll check it for errors in grammar, spelling, referencing, and more. Try it out for free today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a synthesis essay.

A synthesis essay gathers ideas and viewpoints from several different sources and ties them together to form a new concept.

How long is a synthesis essay?

Synthesis essays usually follow the five-paragraph format, with an introduction, three main body paragraphs discussing different points, and a conclusion.

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