explanatory synthesis essay outline

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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• 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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How to Write a Synthesis Essay: Examples, Topics, & Outline

A synthesis essay requires you to work with multiple sources. You combine the information gathered from them to present a well-rounded argument on a topic. Are you looking for the ultimate guide on synthesis essay writing? You’ve come to the right place!

In this guide by our custom writing team, you will find:

• a step-by-step writing guide;
• a list of 34 synthesis essay topics;
• a full essay sample in MLA format.
• 📚 Synthesis Essay Definition
• 📝 Essay Types
• ✅ Step-by-Step Guide
• ✍️ Topics & Prompts
• 📑 Example & Formatting Tips

📚 What Is a Synthesis Essay?

A synthesis essay is an assignment that requires a unique interpretation of a particular topic using several reliable sources. To write it, you need to understand, analyze, and synthesize information. That is why this type of essay is used in the AP Lang exam to assess students’ reasoning skills.

The key features of the synthesis essay are:

• Debatable topic . If your goal is to write a good synthesis essay, it’s necessary to choose an arguable topic. It’s best to choose something that people have different opinions about. This will allow you to use many sources with various viewpoints for your synthesis.
• Clear thesis statement. It’s a sentence that briefly describes the main idea of your essay.
• Reliable sources to prove your thesis . For a synthesis essay, your opinion is not enough. You also need to find the evidence. Keep in mind that simply reading an online encyclopedia won’t do; make sure to choose only reliable sources.

What Does It Mean to Synthesize Information?

Synthesis is a process that has huge importance in nature, science, and our everyday life. The word stems from Ancient Greek “synthesis,” which means “putting together.” In general, synthesis is the combination of components to form a connected whole.

In everyday life, we usually resort to it to synthesize information . This means taking the data from different sources and bringing it together. This process is the opposite of analyzing:

• For an analysis , you break problems into pieces,
• For a synthesis , you combine separate elements into a whole.

We use synthesis for analysis papers, research papers, argument papers, and business reports.

What Does Synthesis Mean in Writing?

Synthesis in writing means summarizing and connecting different sources considering a particular topic. Although synthesis and analysis are two opposite things, they usually go together in synthesis essays. The process consists of 2 stages:

• Conduct the analysis. For that, you break down a problem into parts and analyze the sources. It’s helpful to highlight everything regarding your topic while reading.
• Carry out the synthesis. The next step is to formulate an opinion and combine the highlighted information from the sources.

Synthesis is not only used in writing but also in reading comprehension . It’s useful to do this kind of reading while studying your sources. There are three reading comprehension stages:

• Your previous knowledge about the topic.
• Expansion of your knowledge while you are reading.
• Understanding of the problem when you have finished reading.

So, synthesized reading comprehension means combining three stages in one and formulating one statement.

Synthesis vs Summary: What Is the Difference?

A summary is a paraphrasing of the written source in your own words. For a good summary, it’s necessary to include all of the text’s key elements. Meanwhile, synthesis means combining different ideas from different sources. You don’t have to include all the key points; just choose everything related to your topic.

Both of these techniques are used for the synthesis essay:

• The summary goes in the conclusion. You briefly sum up your paper’s main ideas.
• Synthesis goes in the body paragraphs. Here, you combine multiple sources to prove a point.

📝 Synthesis Essay Types

There are two main types of a synthesis essay: argument and explanatory synthesis.

Both of them require working with multiple reliable sources and analyzing information. The only difference is that an argument synthesis essay requires your own opinion, while an explanatory synthesis essay does not.

Argument Synthesis Essay: Outline and Definition

As you already know, an argument synthesis essay requires you to state your own opinion about the given topic and back it up with several reliable sources. The purpose of such an essay is to persuade the reader that your point is correct.

Here’s what an argument synthesis essay consists of:

Explanatory Synthesis Essay: Definition and How to Write

An explanatory informative synthesis essay requires you to stay neutral towards the problem you are discussing. This means you cannot express your own opinion considering the given question or a problem. Your task is just to inform the reader. That’s why this essay type is also called informative synthesis.

Check out this explanatory essay outline:

✅ How to Write a Synthesis Essay Step by Step

When it comes to the synthesis essay outline, it’s not too different from other assignments. Have a look at this template:

How to Synthesize: Working with Sources

After you’ve decided on your topic, it’s time to figure out how to synthesize articles into one text. This is how you do it:

• Choose reliable sources: the ones printed in journals or published on academic websites.
• Become familiar with them and see if they fit into your essay.
• Try to find a few sources for each point. It will increase your essay’s reliability.
• Relate each source to your arguments and see similarities between them.
• Don’t forget to list every source in the references.

When you are done with a comprehensive analysis of related literature, try to step back and imagine a person who has a different opinion on this topic. Think of some arguments that they can provide to prove their opinion. After you have the list of arguments, find the written evidence of why they are wrong and put them in your essay.

Analyzing and organizing sources is the first and very important step for the synthesis essay. So make sure you do understand what the text means before using it as a reference.

Synthesis Essay Outline: How to Write

For structuring your essay, it’s useful to try mapping . This technique means combining the information from different sources and rearranging it to create a new direction. To do it, you need to analyze the authors’ ideas and come up with your own conclusions.

The best way to do that is called synthesis matrix or graphic organizer. It’s a chart that you can make when you start working on your essay. Here you have a horizontal column that states the main ideas and a few vertical columns that present sources. Your task is to take sources you have chosen and write down the main ideas from them.

Here’s an example of a matrix chart:

While doing that, you will see how many sources contain the same ideas. When you analyze them, you will be able to formulate your thesis backed up with evidence. The synthesis matrix also helps to see new arguments you can cover in your synthesis paper.

How to Write an Introduction for a Synthesis Essay

Now it’s time to start writing the paper. In the introductory part of the essay, you can include:

• A short yet catchy sentence or a quotation that would present the topic. The start of your essay should make people interested. It’s best to make the first sentence not only informative but also easy to understand.
• The texts that are used for the essay. Provide the titles and the authors’ names (use the appropriate guidelines depending on the writing style.)
• The background information which is needed to understand your essay. Definitions of terms or unknown words considering the topic can be included in this part. Otherwise, people may find it hard to understand what they are reading about.

How to Write a Thesis for a Synthesis Essay

A thesis statement is a point of view on a certain problem that you will defend in your essay. It should contain the key points that you want to include in your paper. Here’s how to create a perfect thesis statement:

• Find several central ideas in the chart.
• Choose the ones that are repeated the most often and the ones that you feel need to be in your essay.
• Combine them, and you have a thesis statement with all the key points.
• Make a draft of the thesis statement. Try to formulate the main idea you want to present in your essay.
• Elaborate on this idea. Add some details and expand it a bit further.

If the whole picture is coherent, and it conveys exactly what you wanted, then this is your perfect thesis statement. See the example below:

Gender inequality still exists at the workplace: women are less likely to get the most responsible positions, easily lose careers due to maternity leave, and often receive less pay for the same amount of work.

How to Write Synthesis Paragraphs for the Main Body

Your essay’s main body consists of a few paragraphs. Each of them presents a different argument considering the topic. When you start a paragraph, make sure to begin with a topic sentence, which informs the reader about the paragraph’s main idea. Then, include the synthesized sources and elaborate on them.

Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do when writing the main body:

You can use the following words to present the ideas from your sources. They will help you reflect the authors’ tone:

How to Conclude a Synthesis Essay

There are quite a few ways to conclude the synthesis paper. Have a look at some of the options:

• Paraphrase the thesis. As you remember, the thesis is the main idea of your essay. The conclusion is a good place to remind your readers about it. When they are done with the reading, they remember the most important thing from your essay.
• Synthesize the arguments. There is no need to repeat everything you wrote in your essay. Just briefly summarize the most crucial points.
• Answer the “So what” question. Tell the readers why this topic matters, why you’ve chosen it, and why it’s valuable for the reader.
• Provide a closure. It’s an effective strategy when you want to make the reader think. Leave them with a strong statement at the end of your essay.

Synthesis Paper Proofreading Tips

When you have finally written your paper, there is still one important thing left to do. You need to check your paper for any grammatical and contextual mistakes. You certainly can do it yourself, but it would be perfect if you could ask somebody else to read it.

The first thing you need to check grammar-wise is the tense you are using. There is no single tense you need to use for the synthesis essay. It depends on the format:

• If you’re writing in MLA format, use the present tense;
• For APA essays, you use the past tense.

The next step is to check whether your synthesis essay has everything that’s required. For that, we have prepared the checklist of questions you can ask yourself to proofread your essays.

• Is there a clear thesis statement?
• Did you include all of the key points from the synthesis?
• Are there clear transitions between paragraphs?
• Did you organize a paragraph around a single idea?
• Did you use reliable and up-to-date sources?
• Did you analyze sources rather than just summarize them?
• Did you mention every source you’ve used?

If you’ve answered “yes” to all the questions—congratulations, you are done with the essay! Otherwise, you need to come back and fix everything that you’ve answered “no” to.

✍️ Synthesis Essay Topics and Prompts

Sometimes, when you don’t have a topic , it is tough to come up with a suitable idea. That is why we have prepared two lists of topics that you can use for any synthesis essay type.

Explanatory Synthesis Essay Topics

The topics below are suitable for an explanatory synthesis essay:

• The beginning of Hollywood cinema. Cinema is a huge industry in the USA. Tell the readers about its history. Describe what it was like in the beginning, which movie was the first one, and who started this industry.
• Tactics on dealing with noisy children. Sometimes kids can be very loud, especially in public places. Write about different tactics that can help with this issue.
• The effects of climate change on the water cycle.  Climate change has affected the water cycle significantly. Your task is to explain how.
• The best American cities to live in. Provide the list of the best cities and explain why you’ve included them.
• The importance of a healthy diet . Keeping a healthy diet is beneficial in many ways. Write about all the advantages it brings.
• Who can become an entrepreneur? Entrepreneurship is not for everybody. In this essay, you can describe the qualities needed for having your own business.
• The correlation between overpopulation and poverty . Describe how overpopulation leads to poverty and vice versa.
• The advantages of taking an active vacation.
• Cultural shock as a part of moving to a different country.
• The consequences of the first wave of feminism.
• Synthesis of Tan and Rodriguez’ essays ideas. 
• Difficulties you may encounter during the job interview.
• How does reading prevent Alzheimer’s disease?
• The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on businesses.
• The connection between religion and politics in ruling the country.
• What can non-verbal signals tell you about a person?
• The psychology of leadership .
• The origins of the most common  stereotypes  about Americans.
• Role of social media in business communication.
• The synthesis of personal nursing philosophy concept. 
• Behavioral components of schizophrenia and psychosis.
• Main components of successful entrepreneurship.
• Critical components of scientific research.
• Change in religion and human beliefs throughout history.
• The effect of global warming on modern life.

Argument Synthesis Paper Topics

The list of topics for the Argument Synthesis Essay:

• Vaping is better than smoking. People are starting to exchange cigarettes for vapes and e-cigarettes. In what ways are they less harmful?
• Rich people should pay higher taxes. The same percentage of money doesn’t equal for rich and poor people. Explain why the ones who can afford more should share with others.
• Depression is a disease. Prove that psychological problems must be recognized as real health issues that should be cured and not ignored.
• Social media affects young people’s lives. Social media has a massive influence on people. In this essay, you can discuss which life spheres are the most affected.
• Beauty pageants should be banned. Provide the reasons why they should be banned and tell the reader about psychological problems they can cause.
• People should cut meat from their diet to stop global warming. Describe how the meat industry influences climate change.
• The voting age should be 25+. Your task is to show the reasons why the votes of people under 25 should not be taken into account during elections.
• A healthy lifestyle requires a lot of money.
• Each healthy man should serve in the military.
• School bullying should be punished by immediate exclusion.
• Does friendship exist between men and women?
• Drinking coffee is a bad habit.
• Working hard is more important than being talented.
• Everybody should visit a therapist at least once.
• Should universities be free?
• Artificial intelligence will cause huge unemployment rates.
• Gaming should not be allowed to children under 18.
• Components and strategies of social responsibility
• Integration of relevant ethical theory and conceptual principles in health care 
• Children under 10 should be banned from gadgets.  
• Social media platforms facilitate cyberbullying.
• Issues of distance education.
• Social media addiction is a serious disease.
• Deforestation critically contributes to global warming.
• Healthcare should be free for everyone.

📑 Synthesis Essay Example & Synthesis Essay Format Tips

Now let’s talk about formatting. There are two writing styles you can use for a synthesis essay: APA or MLA. You need to choose the one that is required for your assignment.

We will start with the paper in APA format. It is usually used in science and education.

And these are MLA formatting rules:

Finally, we’ve prepared a synthesis essay sample for you to check out. Feel free to download the PDF file below:

First introduced in the Civil Rights Act of 1964, affirmative action policies aim to mitigate the discrepancy in opportunities available for underrepresented social groups by taking into account one’s minority background. The policies have become a pressing public issue that obstructs previously marginalized individuals, particularly in the educational environment.

Thank you for reading the ultimate guide on synthesis essay writing. We hope you found it helpful. Don’t forget to share it with your friends. Good luck with your assignments!

🔍 References

• Writing a Synthesis Essay: Bowling Green State University
• What Is Synthesis: University of Manitoba
• Synthesis: Biology Online
• Reading Strategies: Difference Summarizing and Synthesizing: WordPress
• Summary, Analysis, Synthesis Definitions: University of Utah
• Argumentative Synthesis: University of Arkansas
• How to Synthesize Written Information: Simply Psychology
• Mapping of Synthesis Essay: University of Nevada, Reno
• Writing a Literature Review and Using a Synthesis Matrix: Florida International University
• Synthesis Essay: Cleveland State University
• Literature Review: Synthesizing Multiple Sources: Louisiana State University
• Writing a Conclusion: Texas Women’s University
• General APA Guidelines: Purdue University
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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?

How to Write an Explanatory Essay: Comprehensive Guide with Examples

What Is an Explanatory Essay: Definition

Have you ever been tasked with explaining a complex topic to someone without prior knowledge? It can be challenging to break down complex ideas into simple terms that are easy to understand. That's where explanatory writing comes in! An explanatory essay, also known as an expository essay, is a type of academic writing that aims to explain a particular topic or concept clearly and concisely. These essays are often used in academic settings but can also be found in newspapers, magazines, and online publications.

For example, if you were asked to explain how a car engine works, you would need to provide a step-by-step explanation of the different parts of the engine and how they work together to make the car move. Or, if you were asked to explain the process of photosynthesis, you would need to explain how plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create energy.

When wondering - 'what is an explanatory essay?', remember that the goal of an explanatory paper is to provide the reader with a better understanding of the topic at hand. Unlike an opinion essay , this type of paper does not argue for or against a particular viewpoint but rather presents information neutrally and objectively. By the end of the essay, the reader should clearly understand the topic and be able to explain it to others in their own words.

Also, there is no set number of paragraphs in an explanatory essay, as it can vary depending on the length and complexity of the topic. However, when wondering - 'how many paragraphs in an explanatory essay?', know that a typical example of explanatory writing will have an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

However, some essays may have more or fewer body paragraphs, depending on the topic and the writer's preference. Ultimately, an explanatory essay format aims to provide a clear and thorough explanation of the topic, using as many paragraphs as necessary.

30 Interesting Explanatory Essay Topics 

Now that we have defined what is explanatory essay, the next step is choosing a good explanatory topic. A well-chosen topic is interesting and relevant to your audience while also being something you are knowledgeable about and can provide valuable insights on. By selecting a topic that is too broad or too narrow, you run the risk of either overwhelming your audience with too much information or failing to provide enough substance to fully explain the topic. Additionally, choosing a topic that is too controversial or biased can lead to difficulty in presenting information objectively and neutrally. By choosing a good explanatory topic, you can ensure that your essay is well-informed, engaging, and effective in communicating your ideas to your audience.

Here are 30 creative explanatory essay topics by our admission essay service to consider:

• The Impact of Social Media on Modern Communication
• Exploring the Rise of Renewable Energy Sources Worldwide
• The Role of Genetics in Personalizing Medicine
• How Blockchain Technology is Transforming Finance
• The Influence of Globalization on Local Cultures
• The Science Behind the Human Body’s Circadian Rhythms
• Understanding the Causes and Effects of Global Warming
• The Evolution of Artificial Intelligence and Its Future
• The Psychological Effects of Social Isolation
• The Mechanisms of Dreaming: What Happens While We Sleep?
• The History and Cultural Significance of Coffee
• How Does the Stock Market Work? An Introductory Guide
• The Importance of Bees in Ecosystem Maintenance
• Exploring the Various Forms of Government Around the World
• The Process of DNA Replication and Its Importance
• How Personal Finance Trends Are Shaping the Future of Banking
• The Effects of Music on Human Emotion and Brain Function
• Understanding Climate Change: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
• The Role of Antioxidants in Human Health
• The History of the Internet and Its Impact on Communication
• How 3D Printing is Revolutionizing Manufacturing
• The Significance of Water Conservation in the 21st Century
• The Psychological Impact of Advertising on Consumer Behavior
• The Importance of Vaccinations in Public Health
• How Autonomous Vehicles Will Change the Future of Transportation
• Exploring the Concept of Minimalism and Its Benefits
• The Role of Robotics in Healthcare
• The Economic Impact of Tourism in Developing Countries
• How Urban Farming is Helping to Solve Food Security Issues
• The Impact of Cultural Diversity on Workplace Dynamics

How to Start an Explanatory Essay: Important Steps

Starting an explanatory essay can be challenging, especially if you are unsure where to begin. However, by following a few simple steps, you can effectively kick-start your writing process and produce a clear and concise essay. Here are some tips and examples from our term paper writing services on how to start an explanatory essay:

• Choose an engaging topic : Your topic should be interesting, relevant, and meaningful to your audience. For example, if you're writing about climate change, you might focus on a specific aspect of the issue, such as the effects of rising sea levels on coastal communities.
• Conduct research : Gather as much information as possible on your topic. This may involve reading scholarly articles, conducting interviews, or analyzing data. For example, if you're writing about the benefits of mindfulness meditation, you might research the psychological and physical benefits of the practice.
• Develop an outline : Creating an outline will help you logically organize your explanatory essay structure. For example, you might organize your essay on the benefits of mindfulness meditation by discussing its effects on mental health, physical health, and productivity.
• Provide clear explanations: When writing an explanatory article, it's important to explain complex concepts clearly and concisely. Use simple language and avoid technical jargon. For example, if you're explaining the process of photosynthesis, you might use diagrams and visual aids to help illustrate your points.
• Use evidence to support your claims : Use evidence from reputable sources to support your claims and arguments. This will help to build credibility and persuade your readers. For example, if you're writing about the benefits of exercise, you might cite studies that demonstrate its positive effects on mental health and cognitive function.

By following these tips and examples, you can effectively start your expository essays and produce a well-structured, informative, and engaging piece of writing.

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Explanatory Essay Outline

As mentioned above, it's important to create an explanatory essay outline to effectively organize your ideas and ensure that your essay is well-structured and easy to follow. An outline helps you organize your thoughts and ideas logically and systematically, ensuring that you cover all the key points related to your topic. It also helps you identify gaps in your research or argument and allows you to easily revise and edit your essay. In this way, an outline can greatly improve the overall quality and effectiveness of your explanatory essay.

Explanatory Essay Introduction

Here are some tips from our ' do my homework ' service to create a good explanatory essay introduction that effectively engages your readers and sets the stage for the entire essay:

• Start with a hook: Begin your introduction with an attention-grabbing statement or question that draws your readers in. For example, you might start your essay on the benefits of exercise with a statistic on how many Americans suffer from obesity.
• Provide context: Give your readers some background information on the topic you'll be discussing. This helps to set the stage and ensures that your readers understand the importance of the topic. For example, you might explain the rise of obesity rates in the United States over the past few decades.
• State your thesis: A good explanatory thesis example should be clear, concise, and focused. It should state the main argument or point of your essay. For example, you might state, ' Regular exercise is crucial to maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.'
• Preview your main points: Give your readers an idea of what to expect in the body of your essay by previewing your main points. For example, you might explain that you'll be discussing the benefits of exercise for mental health, physical health, and longevity.
• Keep it concise: Your introduction should be brief and to the point. Avoid getting bogged down in too much detail or providing too much background information. A good rule of thumb is to keep your introduction to one or two paragraphs.

The Body Paragraphs

By following the following tips, you can create well-organized, evidence-based explanation essay body paragraphs that effectively support your thesis statement.

• Use credible sources: When providing evidence to support your arguments, use credible sources such as peer-reviewed academic journals or reputable news outlets. For example, if you're writing about the benefits of a plant-based diet, you might cite a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
• Organize your paragraphs logically: Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or argument related to your topic. Organize your paragraphs logically so that each one builds on the previous one. For example, if you're writing about the causes of climate change, you might organize your paragraphs to focus on human activity, natural causes, and the effects of climate change.
• Use transitional phrases: Use transitional phrases to help your readers follow the flow of your ideas. For example, you might use phrases such as 'in addition,' 'furthermore,' or 'on the other hand' to indicate a shift in your argument.
• Provide analysis: Don't just present evidence; provide analysis and interpretation of the evidence. For example, if you're writing about the benefits of early childhood education, you might analyze the long-term effects on academic achievement and future earnings.
• Summarize your main points: End each body paragraph with a sentence that summarizes the main point or argument you've made. This helps to reinforce your thesis statement and keep your essay organized. For example, you might end a paragraph on the benefits of exercise by stating, 'Regular exercise has been shown to improve mental and physical health, making it a crucial aspect of a healthy lifestyle.'

Explanatory Essay Conclusion

Here are some unique tips on how to write an explanatory essay conclusion that leaves a lasting impression on your readers.

• Offer a solution or recommendation: Instead of summarizing your main points, offer suggestions based on the information you've presented. This can help to make your essay more impactful and leave a lasting impression on your readers. For example, if you're writing about the effects of pollution on the environment, you might recommend using more eco-friendly products or investing in renewable energy sources.
• Emphasize the importance of your topic: Use your concluding statement to emphasize the importance of your topic and why it's relevant to your readers. This can help to inspire action or change. For example, suppose you're writing about the benefits of volunteering. In that case, you might emphasize how volunteering helps others and has personal benefits such as improved mental health and a sense of purpose.
• End with a powerful quote or statement: End your explanatory essay conclusion with a powerful quote or statement that reinforces your main point or leaves a lasting impression on your readers. For example, if you're writing about the importance of education, you might end your essay with a quote from Nelson Mandela, such as, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.'

Explanatory Essay Example

Here is an example of an explanatory essay:

Explanatory Essay Example:

Importance of Basketball

Final Thoughts

Now you understand whats an explanatory essay. However, if you're still feeling overwhelmed or unsure about writing an explanatory essay, don't worry. Our team of experienced writers is here to provide you with top-notch academic assistance tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need to explain what is an appendix in your definition essay or rewrite essay in five paragraphs, we've got you covered! With our professional help, you can ensure that your essay is well-researched, well-written, and meets all the academic requirements.

And if you'd rather have a professional craft flawless explanatory essay examples, know that our friendly team is dedicated to helping you succeed in your academic pursuits. So why not take the stress out of writing and let us help you achieve the academic success you deserve? Contact us today with your ' write paper for me ' request, and we will support you every step of the way.

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Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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27 How do I Write a Synthesis Essay?

A synthesis essay is a type of essay that gathers information from a variety of sources to form a new idea, question, or argumentative thesis. Writers composing a synthesis essay will discuss ideas, data, and evidence from a series of sources to either explain or argue something original.

Explanatory vs. Argumentative Synthesis Essays: How Are They Different?

Though the formatting is largely the same, there are two main types of synthesis essays: explanatory and argumentative.

• 1.   Explanatory : The purpose of an explanatory synthesis essay is to use different sources to explain a particular point of view. These synthesis papers objectively examine the similarities and differences between ideas but don’t necessarily choose a side or attempt to sway the reader in any direction.
• 2.   Argumentative : An argumentative synthesis essay follows the same structure as a typical argumentative essay. The thesis of an argumentative essay will argue one specific point.

Synthesis Essay Structure

Synthesis essays typically adhere to the five-paragraph essay structure, but there are slight nuances to structuring this type of essay. Here is how a synthesis essay is structured.

•   Introduction : The foundational ideas of your essay are expressed in the introductory paragraph. You will address the general landscape of ideas around your topic, introducing some of your sources. You will also introduce the argument to be made through a thesis statement, which succinctly states your primary argument in a sentence or two. The thesis statement typically comes at the very end of your introductory paragraph.
•   Body : The body of your synthesis essay is usually about three paragraphs long. This typically includes two paragraphs synthesizing your sources in a way that supports your argument, and one paragraph that acknowledges opposing arguments.
• Conclusion : The conclusion of your synthesis essay reiterates the argument that you’ve made throughout your essay. It may emphasize how each of the points you made and the sources you’ve cited substantiate your point.

How to Write a Synthesis Essay

A great synthesis essay walks readers through a series of ideas and sources to prove or explain a larger point.

Follow this step-by-step guide for writing your essay:

• Choose a topic you’re curious about . Brainstorm a few ideas for your synthesis essay topic, prioritizing the subjects you feel passionate about.
• Do your research . Once you’ve decided on a topic, use the internet, library, and other sources to perform extensive research. You can turn to academic primary sources to find quotes from scholars and experts, or look up statistics or scientific studies relevant to your topic. This research will help you develop a point of view that is backed up by concrete information. Use credible sources that are unbiased.
• Outline your point . Your entire essay should focus on either explaining a certain perspective or making an argument. Outline how each of your sources relates to your theme and support your idea.
• Write your introduction . An introduction is the first paragraph of a paper. Its main purpose is to present the general premise of the paper, provide any necessary background information, and hopefully, capture the reader’s attention. The introductory paragraph to your synthesis essay should be where you include a strong thesis statement. This is where you will state the point of view that you’re exploring or the argument you’re making.
• Include your body paragraphs . Synthesis essays will typically contain three body paragraphs. A good body paragraph contains three main sections: a topic sentence (or key sentence), relevant supporting  sentences, and a closing (or transition)
• sentence. This structure keeps your paragraph focused on the main idea, providing clear, concise information. Each body paragraph should discuss different elements and supporting arguments of your thesis, along with evidence drawn from each source. Explain the common theme between your resources, as well as how they are relevant to your text. Include counterarguments as well as how your source material can discredit those claims and support your own idea.
• Wrap it up with a strong conclusion . A conclusion is a final piece of writing in a research paper, essay, or article that summarizes the entire work. The concluding paragraph of your synthesis essay will restate your thesis, summarize the key supporting ideas you discussed throughout the work, and offer your final impression of the central idea.
• Proofread . Always proofread your writing a few times before submitting or presenting it. A few missed words or grammatical errors can sometimes change or discredit the entire crux of an argument or opinion. Make sure that your grammar, syntax, and flow are as accurate and clear as possible. This will help you come across as a credible source.

College Reading & Writing: A Handbook for ENGL- 090/095 Students Copyright © by Yvonne Kane; Krista O'Brien; and Angela Wood. All Rights Reserved.

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Explanatory Synthesis Essay | Meaning, Types, Parts and Usage

October 18, 2021 by Prasanna

Explanatory Synthesis Essay: Essays are an essential part of education. They encourage students to write about topics that interest them, which help shape their intellectual growth. Essays also give students the opportunity to learn how to think critically and logically about issues, consider different perspectives, and articulate their thoughts through writing. One of the most common types of essays that students will come across is the synthesis essay.

You can also find more  Essay Writing articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more.

What is a Synthesis Essay?

A synthesis essay is a document that synthesises and condenses the information from different sources to create a coherent and well-structured argument or idea. The central idea behind a synthesis essay is to gather from two or more sources and then synthesise it to corroborate with a thesis.

Types of Synthesis Essay

There are 3 types of synthesis essay:

• Argumentative Synthesis Essay – An argumentative synthesis essay is a type of essay where you synthesize two or more perspectives and present your own arguments and justification as to why one side is correct.
• Explanatory Synthesis Essay – An explanatory synthesis essay requires the writer to analyze and synthesize information from various sources to create a single unified information that corroborates with a thesis. This type of essay is different from argumentative essays as the writer does not generally express his opinions unless they are factually accurate and verified.
• Literature Review Synthesis Essay – A literature review synthesis essay is an overview of the existing research in a particular area of study. You review studies in the field, identify gaps in knowledge, and propose new research goals.

In this article, we shall explore more about Explanatory Synthesis Essay in detail.

What is a Explanatory Synthesis Essay?

As mentioned previously, explanatory synthesis essay is an essay that is written in order to provide an explanation of something that has happened or is happening. The primary purpose of this essay is to create relevant information about a selected topic in a comprehensive and objective way. Essentially, the reader must gain a clearer or deeper perspective on the topic.

An important point of consideration is that an explanatory synthesis essay must not be biased. It must only state verified facts and the writer must also be careful with expressing their personal opinion.

Parts of an Explanatory Synthesis Essay

Like any other academic essay, an explanatory synthesis essay will consist of:

• An introduction
• A conclusion

Introduction : The introduction should be brief. This section must also explain how it relates to the rest of the paper. This paragraph can also be used to introduce any necessary terms related to the paper, relevant examples and any other details that provide a better context on the topic. In essence, the introductory paragraph must be unambiguous and not open to interpretation by the reader.

Body: The body of an explanatory synthesis essay must contain data that is collected from reliable sources about the same topic. For instance, if the essay’s topic is about the detrimental effects of plastic, then do not write sentences such as “I think / I believe plastic is harmful..” These sentences indicate bias or personal opinion – which is not typical for an explanatory synthesis essay.

Conclusion: Conclude the essay by summarising important facts and points. Also, ensure that there is no ambiguity in the concluding paragraph.

Points to Picking an Explanatory Synthesis Essay Topic

As discussed above, synthesis essays are not very open to interpretation and opinions, hence, the writer should carefully consider the following when selecting a topic for this type of essay:

• The topic must not be very general
• It has to be relevant
• Topic should not be vague
• Choose topics where factual data is easily accessible.

Important Essay Writing Tips and Guidelines

Regardless of the type of essay, the following tips and guidelines always ensures that the essay is academically relevant and also conforms to good writing practices:

• Do your research before you begin the essay – It is imperative that you do your research before you begin writing an essay. This will give you a better understanding of the topic at hand and ensure that you are able to produce quality work.
• Make sure your essay is well organized – Essay writing is a difficult process. To make it easier, you need to have a good organization for your essay. In the introduction, you should state your thesis and include a sentence about each of the three parts of an essay. In the body, you should have paragraphs with supporting evidence from the sources in the essay. In the conclusion, summarize the important points and other important details.
• Keep the essay concise: Concise essays are not only more readable but they also offer a more complete understanding of the topic. In general, the introduction provides a background to the essay as well as what is being studied or explored. It can also state what issue is being addressed and how it will be addressed.
• Use quotations and references : Quotations or excerpts offer outside perspective and additional information for the reader. Moreover, these can be used not just in essays, but also articles, blog posts and more.
• Do not use contractions or slang words: Contractions and slang words are often used in speech, but this is not a good idea in academic writing. Slang can sometimes be understood by a reader, but may seem unprofessional. Worst case scenario – the slang can cause confusion and lead to problems that may offend the reader.

FAQ’s on Explanatory Synthesis Essay

Question 1. What is an Explanatory Synthesis Essay?

Answer: An explanatory synthesis essay is a writing assignment that requires the student to synthesize information from several sources. The sources should cover a diverse range of viewpoints and stances on the issue being examined. This type of essay also does not cover the personal opinions of the writer.

Question 2. What are the parts of an Explanatory Synthesis Essay?

Answer: An explanatory synthesis essay includes three major parts: the Introduction (thesis statement,) Body (supporting evidence), and a conclusion.

Question 3. What are the types of synthesis essays?

Answer: There are 3 types of synthesis essays – Argumentative Synthesis Essay, Explanatory Synthesis Essay and Literature Review Synthesis Essay. The first two types are the most common and are regularly asked in schools and colleges.

Question 4. What are some important essay writing tips and guidelines?

Answer: When you are writing an essay, it is important to have a clear direction and structure. Be sure to have a defined topic sentence that clearly states the point of the essay. Also, in an explanatory synthesis essay, avoid using phrases that indicate personal opinion or bias. Do your research before you begin the essay. Make sure your essay is well organised, and do not use contractions or slang words. Lastly, do not forget to review the essay for grammar and spelling.

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How to Write an Outline for Synthesis Essay, Step by Step

You want to know how to build an outline for synthesis essay. Here’s how it works:

Outlining is the initial step to crafting a high-quality, A-worthy paper. If you miss this element, you risk losing focus and flow. More than that, you can’t generate an argumentative, logical, and close-knit essay without it.

This article won’t let it happen.

Keep reading to reveal actionable tips on outline writing. You’ll know what to include in each paragraph and how to structure it for better results.

Bonus for the most avid readers: A free PDF template for outlining synthesis essays.

What Is a Synthesis Essay Outline?

Think of it as a table of contents you’ll expand in your work. Outlines serve to organize essays and regulate their elements for a stellar presentation.

 Why design an outline for synthesis essays? 

• Systemize the sources and decide on the claims to use in every paragraph.
• Organize the claims and prescribe evidence for each.
• Focus on the writing process, preventing the writer’s block. (It’s when you stare at the screen and don’t know what to write next.)
• Ensure you’ve included all the info and introduced it logically.
• Structure a paper in advance to save time and write faster.

Whether you work on an AP lang essay or craft an expository essay in college, outlining is a must. It organizes arguments and evidence so you don’t forget anything while writing.

Before outlining

Synthesis essays are about analyzing several sources to establish an original thesis. So, before you sit and craft an outline, do research and decide on the sources you’ll synthesize.

• Focus on those related to your topic.
• Consider solid resources: latest studies, research papers, books , academic journals, etc.
• Analyze each to derive core points.

You’ll apply the resources to support your thesis throughout an essay. Ensure they have solid evidence so you can incorporate it into your paper. Decide on the facts, quotes, and examples to cover in every paragraph as proof of your claim.

How to Make an Outline for the Synthesis Essay

Below is the template you can try, with an introduction, body, and conclusion as main parts of the outline used for a synthesis essay (1).

Download a free PDF version here

And now, to the details to include in every paragraph.

1. State a Thesis

Synthesis essays aren’t about summarizing. You need to analyze at least three — and generate a new, your own thesis based on them. The synthesized sources will be the evidence to prove your thesis. They will support the arguments you’ll use in favor of your claim.

With that in mind, state a thesis for your essay in the outline.

Once you have it, you’ll know how to underline the arguments and evidence in paragraphs.

Check a thesis example on “Is the spread of fake news a problem?”

And that’s a thesis example for an essay on “The American Dream: Is it still achievable?”

With a ready thesis statement, you can deal with the outline for a synthesis essay.

2. S tructure an Introductory Paragraph

The must-have ingredients of an essay introduction are:

Think of a compelling sentence to start your essay. It’s a hook to grab the reader’s attention and motivate them to keep reading. Use a question, a quote, a fact, etc.

After that, introduce the context. It’s background information on your topic where you mention the sources you’ll use.

The final 1-2 sentences go to a thesis. State your position and provide the arguments that show why you have it. (You’ll expand those arguments in the essay body.)

3. Organize Body Paragraphs

The number of paragraphs in your essay body depends on how many sources you’ll synthesize. Formal tips for synthesis writing prescribe at least three resources, which means you’ll include three body paragraphs in your paper.

Each one needs the following info to cover:

• A topic sentence explaining your argument (Think of a new claim for each paragraph.)
• Evidence from the source that supports your topic sentence
• Elaboration that clarifies how that evidence supports your claim

If you have several sources supporting your argument, you can mention them all in a paragraph.

In a synthesis essay outline, note a claim and evidence for every paragraph.

4. Mention a Rebuttal

One paragraph of your synthesis essay should cover an opposing view that challenges your position. Outline it as follows:

• State an alternative point to your argument; provide evidence to back up that view.
• Provide your counterargument to that view. Why is it not as valid as yours? Highlight your position on the topic.
• Share evidence to prove the opposing point is wrong.

Write about the rebuttal in the fourth body paragraph. If you follow a standard 5-paragraph structure, use two sections for your claims and one — for a counterargument to your claims. The other two remain for an intro and a conclusion.

5. Write a Conclusion

Summarize the points and restate your thesis to maintain your position. Finish your essay with a recommendation or a call to action for readers.

This final statement is a so-called big idea behind your paper. Leave readers with the food for thought. You can encourage them to continue investigating the topic to learn more and build their own attitude.

Outline for a Synthesis Essay: Example

This sample is here to give you an idea of what to write in every section. Please don’t copy it for your papers. It’s a sample for informative purposes.

Let’s say you write a synthesis essay, “Is the spread of fake news a problem?” 

Here’s what the outline might be:

I used some writing tools to assist me with this outline creation. You can do the same, but ensure to adjust and polish the outline to your position and needs.

Synthesis Essay Outline: Write Yours!

Now you know the components to cover in your outline for a synthesis essay. It’s time to practice and write one for your future paper!

• Consider the provided template.
• Use the given sample for inspiration.
• Follow the structure and ensure to mention all the details.
• Organize your arguments and evidence; oppose a counterargument.
• Think of a memorable conclusion for readers.

Your outline is a plan. Once you have it, you’ll write an A-worthy synthesis essay faster, whether AP lang or general.

References:

• https://dcdc.coe.hawaii.edu/ltec/612/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Synthesis-Essay-Instructions-and-Worksheets.pdf  
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Synthesis Essay Writing

Learn How to Write a Synthesis Essay Step by Step

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Best Synthesis Essay Topics and Prompt Ideas

Synthesis Essay Outline - Template and Examples

13+ Winning Synthesis Essay Examples For Your Inspiration

Ever found yourself in a panic, realizing your synthesis essay is due tomorrow, and you're absolutely clueless about where to start?

Asking yourself, 'How do I mix these sources together?' Tackling a synthesis essay can be a headache, but relax!

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of writing a synthesis essay, along with some amazing topics and examples. After reading this guide, you’ll be able to choose an effective topic, assert a strong claim, collect and combine data, and create a well-written and original essay.

So let’s get started!

• 1. What is a Synthesis Essay?
• 2. Synthesis Essay Types
• 3. Synthesis Essay Structure
• 4. How to Write a Synthesis Essay?
• 5. Synthesis Essay Examples
• 6. Synthesis Essay Topics
• 7. Synthesis Essay Writing Tips

What is a Synthesis Essay?

According to the synthesis essay definition,

“It is an essay that takes a stance on a particular topic and then backs it up by combining the data collected from multiple sources. It is a combination and fusion of different sources that have a common point of view and shape a common claim through it.”

When you write a synthesis essay or paper, your goal is to combine different works on the same subject into one cohesive message. This means that you need to show the connection between all of the different sources that you are discussing.

The Role of Synthesis in Academic Research

Synthesis plays a crucial role in academic research by bringing together diverse ideas and information. It helps scholars analyze multiple sources, identify patterns, and construct a comprehensive understanding of a topic. 

This integration strengthens the credibility of research and fosters a deeper insight into complex subjects.

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Synthesis Essay Types

There are two types of a synthesis essay:

• The Explanatory Synthesis 
• The Argumentative Synthesis

Let’s take a look at the difference between explanatory vs. argumentative synthesis essays: 

What is an AP Lang Synthesis Essay?

An AP Lang, Advanced Placement Language, is a college-level rhetoric and writing curriculum course. The purpose of assigning such essays is to test and analyze the students’ writing abilities, language command, and understanding capabilities.

For writing this essay, students are given multiple sources to analyze. They are asked to form a claim or argument about the given topic and formulate an effective essay on it.

Synthesis Essay AP Lang

Synthesis Essay Structure

A synthesis essay follows a well-organized structure to effectively convey information and arguments.

The structure typically consists:

• Introduction
• Body Paragraphs

The body section is where the flexibility comes into play. Depending on the complexity of the topic and the depth of analysis, you may have more than three body paragraphs. 

Here is a simple synthesis essay outline:

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How to Write a Synthesis Essay?

Writing a synthesis essay involves several detailed steps to ensure a coherent and well-supported argument. Here's a comprehensive guide to write a compelling synthesis essay:

Step 1: Understand the Prompt

First and foremost start your essay prep by carefully reading  the prompt. Identify the central theme or issue and the specific requirements for the essay.

Step 2: Choose a Suitable Topic

Select a topic that allows for a synthesis of multiple sources. Ensure the topic is neither too broad nor too narrow, providing enough material for analysis.

Example: Select a specific aspect like "The Influence of Social Media on Face-to-Face Communication" to narrow down the broad theme of technology's impact.

Step 3: Conduct Research

Gather information from various sources such as articles, books, and academic journals . Consider both primary and secondary sources to develop a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Step 4: Develop a Working Thesis

Formulate a clear and concise thesis statement that reflects your main argument. A good thesis should guide the organization of your essay.

Example: "While social media enhances connectivity, its prevalence has resulted in a decline in meaningful face-to-face interactions, altering communication patterns."

Step 5: Create an Outline

Structure a well-organized synthesis essay outline . Plan the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, allocating specific points and evidence to each section.

Step 6: Write Introduction

Now that you have developed an outline it's time to write the essay. Begin your synthesis essay introduction with a hook to engage readers. Provide background information on the topic and present a strong thesis statement , summarizing your main argument or stance. 

Clearly state the purpose of the synthesis essay.

Step 7: Explain Arguments in Body Paragraphs

Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your argument. Begin with a topic sentence that introduces the main point of the paragraph.

Support your points with evidence from the sources, incorporating quotes or paraphrased content. Analyze and explain how the evidence supports your thesis. Connect the information from different sources to demonstrate synthesis.

Use Source Material Effectively

Integrate quotes or information from sources smoothly into your own writing. Read the sources carefully, and attribute them following the citation style specified in the prompt.

Example: Integrate a study showing a decrease in quality family time due to excessive screen use, attributing the findings to the author (Smith, 2020).

Step 8: Address Counterarguments

Acknowledge and address potential counterarguments. Use techniques like concession or the straw man approach to strengthen your position.

Example: Acknowledge the argument that social media fosters global connections, then refute it by emphasizing the superficial nature of many online interactions.

Step 9: Conclude Your Essay

Summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs. Restate your thesis in a conclusive manner.

Provide final insights or implications related to the topic. End with a thought-provoking statement or call to action.

Step 10: Edit and Revise

Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and logical flow. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Ensure that your essay meets any specific formatting requirements.

Step 11: Create a Bibliography

Cite your sources properly and include a list of all the sources used in your essay. Follow the citation style specified by your instructor (e.g., APA , MLA ). Provide the author's name, title of the source, publication date, and any other relevant information.

Step 12: Final Check 

Before submission, perform a final check to ensure all requirements are met, and the essay is polished and error-free. By following these detailed steps, you can effectively navigate the process of writing a synthesis essay.

Synthesis Essay Examples

Let’s take a look at some synthesis essay pdf examples to get an idea how to perfectly structure your essay: 

Synthesis Essay Example

Synthesis Essay Thesis Examples

Argumentative Synthesis Essay Example

Explanatory Synthesis Essay Sample

Need more sample essays for inspiration? We have got you covered in our “ synthesis essay examples ” blog. Check it out!

Synthesis Essay Topics

Synthesis essay topics often revolve around current and relevant issues. Here are some frequently asked synthesis essay topics:

• Impact of Social Media on Society
• Climate Change and Global Warming
• Artificial Intelligence in Modern Society
• Healthcare and Technology
• The Future of Work
• Education Reform in the 21st Century
• Cybersecurity and Privacy
• Impact of Artificial Sweeteners on Health
• Criminal Justice Reform
• Social Equality and Civil Rights Movements

If you are looking for more topic ideas for your synthesis essay read our synthesis essay topics blog!

Synthesis Essay Writing Tips

Here are some useful tips for writing synthesis essays:

Tip #1 Diverse Sources 

Draw from a variety of sources—academic articles, books, and reputable online platforms—to enrich your synthesis and present a well-rounded argument.

Tip #2 Critical Analysis

Evaluate the reliability and credibility of your sources. Consider the biases, motives, and methodologies to ensure a nuanced understanding.

Tip #3 Effective Transitions

Seamlessly connect ideas between paragraphs to maintain a smooth flow. Clear transitions enhance the coherence of your synthesis essay.

Tip #4 Thematic Unity

Align your body paragraphs around key themes, ensuring a cohesive and interconnected exploration of your topic.

Tip #5 Concise Language

Use precise language to convey your ideas, avoiding unnecessary verbosity for a more impactful synthesis essay.

Tip #6 Counterarguments

Acknowledge and address opposing viewpoints to strengthen your argument and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Tip #7 Societal Relevance

Highlight the broader implications of your synthesis, emphasizing the societal relevance and real-world applications of your argument.

Tip #8 Varied Sentence Structure

Incorporate a mix of sentence structures—simple, compound, and complex—to enhance the readability of your synthesis essay.

In conclusion, we've covered all the necessary steps to write an outstanding synthesis essay. This guide provides the essential tools and insights for effective synthesis, from understanding the process to crafting a cohesive argument.

We hope this comprehensive guide has empowered you to tackle your synthesis essays with confidence.

If you ever find yourself short on time or needing extra support, MyPerfectWords.com is here for you. Our writing service can help you with any writing assignment, ensuring top-quality work is delivered on time.

Buy custom essay online and let us help you succeed in your academic journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a synthesis essay argumentative.

A synthesis essay does present an argument however it is not a type of argumentative essay. Both have entirely different purposes and outlines.

Do you use quotes in a synthesis essay?

Quotes should only be used as short phrases or snippets so they don't get confusing for readers. When working with sources in your essay, it's important to keep the flow of written words and not disrupt any sentences.

What are the goals of a synthesis essay?

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• How to write an essay outline | Guidelines & examples

How to Write an Essay Outline | Guidelines & Examples

Published on August 14, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay outline is a way of planning the structure of your essay before you start writing. It involves writing quick summary sentences or phrases for every point you will cover in each paragraph , giving you a picture of how your argument will unfold.

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Table of contents

Organizing your material, presentation of the outline, examples of essay outlines, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about essay outlines.

At the stage where you’re writing an essay outline, your ideas are probably still not fully formed. You should know your topic  and have already done some preliminary research to find relevant sources , but now you need to shape your ideas into a structured argument.

Creating categories

Look over any information, quotes and ideas you’ve noted down from your research and consider the central point you want to make in the essay—this will be the basis of your thesis statement . Once you have an idea of your overall argument, you can begin to organize your material in a way that serves that argument.

Try to arrange your material into categories related to different aspects of your argument. If you’re writing about a literary text, you might group your ideas into themes; in a history essay, it might be several key trends or turning points from the period you’re discussing.

Three main themes or subjects is a common structure for essays. Depending on the length of the essay, you could split the themes into three body paragraphs, or three longer sections with several paragraphs covering each theme.

As you create the outline, look critically at your categories and points: Are any of them irrelevant or redundant? Make sure every topic you cover is clearly related to your thesis statement.

Order of information

When you have your material organized into several categories, consider what order they should appear in.

Your essay will always begin and end with an introduction and conclusion , but the organization of the body is up to you.

Consider these questions to order your material:

• Is there an obvious starting point for your argument?
• Is there one subject that provides an easy transition into another?
• Do some points need to be set up by discussing other points first?

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Within each paragraph, you’ll discuss a single idea related to your overall topic or argument, using several points of evidence or analysis to do so.

In your outline, you present these points as a few short numbered sentences or phrases.They can be split into sub-points when more detail is needed.

The template below shows how you might structure an outline for a five-paragraph essay.

• Thesis statement
• First piece of evidence
• Second piece of evidence
• Summary/synthesis
• Importance of topic
• Strong closing statement

You can choose whether to write your outline in full sentences or short phrases. Be consistent in your choice; don’t randomly write some points as full sentences and others as short phrases.

Examples of outlines for different types of essays are presented below: an argumentative, expository, and literary analysis essay.

Argumentative essay outline

This outline is for a short argumentative essay evaluating the internet’s impact on education. It uses short phrases to summarize each point.

Its body is split into three paragraphs, each presenting arguments about a different aspect of the internet’s effects on education.

• Importance of the internet
• Concerns about internet use
• Thesis statement: Internet use a net positive
• Data exploring this effect
• Analysis indicating it is overstated
• Students’ reading levels over time
• Why this data is questionable
• Video media
• Interactive media
• Speed and simplicity of online research
• Questions about reliability (transitioning into next topic)
• Evidence indicating its ubiquity
• Claims that it discourages engagement with academic writing
• Evidence that Wikipedia warns students not to cite it
• Argument that it introduces students to citation
• Summary of key points
• Value of digital education for students
• Need for optimism to embrace advantages of the internet

Expository essay outline

This is the outline for an expository essay describing how the invention of the printing press affected life and politics in Europe.

The paragraphs are still summarized in short phrases here, but individual points are described with full sentences.

• Claim that the printing press marks the end of the Middle Ages.
• Provide background on the low levels of literacy before the printing press.
• Present the thesis statement: The invention of the printing press increased circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.
• Discuss the very high levels of illiteracy in medieval Europe.
• Describe how literacy and thus knowledge and education were mainly the domain of religious and political elites.
• Indicate how this discouraged political and religious change.
• Describe the invention of the printing press in 1440 by Johannes Gutenberg.
• Show the implications of the new technology for book production.
• Describe the rapid spread of the technology and the printing of the Gutenberg Bible.
• Link to the Reformation.
• Discuss the trend for translating the Bible into vernacular languages during the years following the printing press’s invention.
• Describe Luther’s own translation of the Bible during the Reformation.
• Sketch out the large-scale effects the Reformation would have on religion and politics.
• Summarize the history described.
• Stress the significance of the printing press to the events of this period.

Literary analysis essay outline

The literary analysis essay outlined below discusses the role of theater in Jane Austen’s novel Mansfield Park .

The body of the essay is divided into three different themes, each of which is explored through examples from the book.

• Describe the theatricality of Austen’s works
• Outline the role theater plays in Mansfield Park
• Introduce the research question : How does Austen use theater to express the characters’ morality in Mansfield Park ?
• Discuss Austen’s depiction of the performance at the end of the first volume
• Discuss how Sir Bertram reacts to the acting scheme
• Introduce Austen’s use of stage direction–like details during dialogue
• Explore how these are deployed to show the characters’ self-absorption
• Discuss Austen’s description of Maria and Julia’s relationship as polite but affectionless
• Compare Mrs. Norris’s self-conceit as charitable despite her idleness
• Summarize the three themes: The acting scheme, stage directions, and the performance of morals
• Answer the research question
• Indicate areas for further study

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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You will sometimes be asked to hand in an essay outline before you start writing your essay . Your supervisor wants to see that you have a clear idea of your structure so that writing will go smoothly.

Even when you do not have to hand it in, writing an essay outline is an important part of the writing process . It’s a good idea to write one (as informally as you like) to clarify your structure for yourself whenever you are working on an essay.

If you have to hand in your essay outline , you may be given specific guidelines stating whether you have to use full sentences. If you’re not sure, ask your supervisor.

When writing an essay outline for yourself, the choice is yours. Some students find it helpful to write out their ideas in full sentences, while others prefer to summarize them in short phrases.

You should try to follow your outline as you write your essay . However, if your ideas change or it becomes clear that your structure could be better, it’s okay to depart from your essay outline . Just make sure you know why you’re doing so.

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Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Essay Outline | Guidelines & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/essay-outline/

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How to Write a Synthesis Essay

Last Updated: April 7, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,126,096 times.

Writing a synthesis essay requires the ability to digest information and present it in an organized fashion. While this skill is developed in high school and college classes, it translates to the business and advertising world as well. Scroll down to Step 1 to begin learning how to write a synthesis essay.

Examining Your Topic

• Argument synthesis: This type of essay has a strong thesis statement that presents the writer's point of view. It organizes relevant information gathered from research in a logical manner to support the thesis' point of view. Business white papers known as position papers often take this form. This is the type of synthesis essay that students will write during the AP test.
• Review: Often written as a preliminary essay to an argument synthesis, a review essay is a discussion of what has been written previously on a topic, with a critical analysis of the sources covered. Its unstated thesis is usually that more research needs to be done in that area or that the topic problem has not been adequately addressed. This type of paper is common in social science classes and in medicine.
• Explanatory/background synthesis: This type of essay helps readers understand a topic by categorizing facts and presenting them to further the reader's understanding. It does not advocate a particular point of view, and if it has a thesis statement, the thesis is a weak one. Some business white papers take this form, although they are more likely to have a point of view, if understated.

• Example of a broad topic narrowed down into a reasonable synthesis essay topic: Instead of the broad topic of Social Media, you could discuss your view on the effects texting has had on the English language.
• If you've been assigned a topic as part of a class, make sure you read the prompt carefully and fully understand it.

• Keep in mind that it's better to do three sources well than to do five sources incompletely.
• Annotate each source by writing notes in the margins. This allows you to keep track of your train of thought, developing ideas, etc.

• Example: Texting has had a positive impact on the English language as it has helped the millennial generation create their own form of the language.

• If you wish to take on a claim by an opponent of your idea, and to poke holes in it, you should also find some ideas or quotes that go against your thesis statement, and plan ways to disprove them. This is called a concession, refutation, or rebuttal, which can strengthen your argument if you do it well.
• Example : For the thesis statement listed above, excellent sources would include quotes from linguists discussing the new words that have developed through 'text-speak', statistics that show the English language has evolved with almost every generation, and facts that show students still have the ability to write with the use of grammar and spelling (which your opponents would bring up as the main reason texting has had a negative effect on the English language).

Outlining Your Essay

• The introductory paragraph: 1. An introductory sentence that acts as a hook, capturing the reader's interest. 2. Identification of the issue you will be discussing. 3. Your thesis statement.
• The body paragraphs: 1. Topic sentence that gives one reason to support your thesis. 2. Your explanation and opinion of the topic sentence. 3. Support from your sources that backs up the claim you just made. 4. Explanation of the significance of the source(s).
• The conclusion paragraph: 1. State further significance of your topic from the evidence and reasons you discussed in the essay. 2. A profound thought or thoughtful ending for your paper.

• Example/illustration. This may be a detailed recount, summary, or direct quote from your source material that provides major support for your point of view. You may use more than one example or illustration, if your paper calls for it. You should not, however, make your paper a series of examples at the expense of supporting your thesis.
• Straw man. With this technique, you present an argument opposed to the argument stated in your thesis, then show the weaknesses and flaws of the counter-argument. This format shows your awareness of the opposition and your readiness to answer it. You present the counter-argument right after your thesis, followed by the evidence to refute it, and end with a positive argument that supports your thesis. [5] X Research source
• Concession. Essays with concessions are structured similar to those using the straw man technique, but they acknowledge the validity of the counter-argument while showing that the original argument is stronger. This structure is good for presenting papers to readers who hold the opposing viewpoint.
• Comparison and contrast. This structure compares similarities and contrasts differences between two subjects or sources to show the facets of both. Writing an essay with this structure requires a careful reading of your source material to find both subtle and major points of similarity and difference. This kind of essay can present its arguments source-by-source or by points of similarity or difference.

• Summary. This structure presents summaries of each of your relevant sources, making a progressively stronger argument for your thesis. It provides specific evidence to support your point of view, but usually omits presenting your own opinions. It's most commonly used for background and review essays.
• List of reasons. This is a series of sub-points that flow from the main point of your paper as stated in its thesis. Each reason is supported with evidence. As with the summary method, reasons should become progressively more important, with the most important reason last.

Writing Your Essay

• Your essay should have an introductory paragraph that includes your thesis , a body to present evidence that supports your thesis, and a conclusion that summarizes your point of view.

• Lengthy quotes of three lines or more should generally be set off as block quotes to better call attention to them. [7] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source

Finalizing Your Essay

• Ask someone else to proofread your paper. The saying “two heads are better than one” still holds true. Ask a friend or colleague what would they add or remove from the paper. Most importantly, does your argument make sense, and is it clearly supported by your sources?

• Read the paper aloud to guarantee that you don't accidentally add in or take out words when reading in your head.
• If you can, get a friend or classmate to proofread your essay as well.

• Example of citing in an AP synthesis essay: McPherson claims “texting has changed the English language in a positive way--it has given a new generation their own unique way to communicate” (Source E).
• For college essays, you'll most likely use MLA format. Whichever format you use, be consistent in its use. You may also be asked to use APA or Chicago style.

• Example title: : English and the iPhone: Exploring the Benefits of 'Text-Speak'

Outline Template

Community Q&A

• Just as your title should fit your essay instead of writing your essay to fit the title, your thesis, once chosen, should direct your subsequent research instead of subsequent research altering your thesis � unless you find you've adopted an unsupportable thesis. Thanks Helpful 21 Not Helpful 8

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• ↑ https://success.uark.edu/get-help/student-resources/synthesis-paper.php
• ↑ https://www.unr.edu/writing-speaking-center/student-resources/writing-speaking-resources/mapping-a-synthesis-essay
• ↑ https://www.bgsu.edu/content/dam/BGSU/learning-commons/documents/writing/synthesis/planning-synthesis-essay.pdf
• ↑ https://writingcenterofprinceton.com/synthesis-essays-a-step-by-step-how-to-guide/
• ↑ https://owl.excelsior.edu/argument-and-critical-thinking/logical-fallacies/logical-fallacies-straw-man/
• ↑ https://writingcommons.org/section/rhetoric/rhetorical-stance/point-of-view/third-person-point-of-view/
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_formatting_quotations.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/the_writing_process/proofreading/steps_for_revising.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/the_writing_process/proofreading/proofreading_suggestions.html
• ↑ https://www.edhs.org/ourpages/auto/2010/5/17/41759867/Synthesis%20Essay%20Introduction.pdf
• ↑ https://writing.umn.edu/sws/assets/pdf/quicktips/titles.pdf

About This Article

To write a synthesis essay, start by coming up with a thesis statement that you can support using all of the sources you've read for your essay. For example, your thesis statement could be "Texting has had a positive impact on the English language." Once you've got your thesis, go through your sources to find specific quotes, facts, and statistics that back up your claim. Structure your essay so it has an introduction that includes your thesis statement, a body that includes your arguments and evidence, and a conclusion that wraps everything up. For more tips on structuring your synthesis essay, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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10 effective strategies for writing a successful synthesis essay that will impress your readers.

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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Explanatory Essay Format: Explanatory Synthesis Essay Outline

• Author Miriam M.

Explanatory Synthesis Essay Outline

An explanatory synthesis essay aims at elaborating a given subject. You are required to write the relevant information about a certain topic in an objective and comprehensive manner. An explanatory synthesis essay aims at giving the reader a complete understanding of the topic under consideration. Therefore, the writer should avoid being bias and should instead provide valid and true information on the topic they are writing about. The following is an explanatory synthesis essay outline:

1. Introduction

Your introduction should provide a claim about the significance of the topic. You can also address the relevant counterarguments and make a concession and rebuttal. You can also use a relevant personal anecdote in your introduction.

2. Body paragraphs.

Your first body paragraph should give the least important reason for supporting your thesis statement. It should include:

• Topic sentence. Your topic sentence should give the least important reason that supports your thesis statement.
• Introduce a sentence using a quote from one of your sources that supports your idea.
• Write a commentary sentence explaining how this supports your thinking.
• Write a commentary sentence expanding your thinking of the previous sentence.
• Introduce another sentence using a quote from one of your sources that supports your thinking.
• Write another commentary sentence expanding your thinking of the previous sentence.
• Write a concluding sentence, using one of the concept words from the topic sentence.

Your second body paragraph should give the second most important reason that supports your thesis statement. It should include:

• A topic sentence. This topic sentence should introduce the least important reason that supports your thesis statement. Choose one concept word from the last sentence of your previous paragraph and use it again in a different way in this sentence.
• Write a concluding sentence using one of the concept words from the topic sentence.

Your third body paragraph should state your most important reason that supports your thesis state.

It should include:

• A topic sentence. This sentence should introduce your most important reason that supports your thesis statement.

3. Conclusion

Your conclusion should:

• Summarize the claim you are trying to make, by reusing two or three key concept words from your thesis in a different way.
• Sum up your explanation in a few words.

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Synthesis Essay

Synthesis essay generator.

A Synthesis Essay is a sophisticated form of writing that requires the integration of various sources and perspectives. Our resource provides a comprehensive look into this writing style, complete with insightful essay examples . These examples demonstrate how to effectively combine information from different texts, crafting a cohesive and well-argued narrative. Ideal for students and professionals alike, this guide will help you master the art of synthesizing diverse viewpoints into a single, compelling argument in your essays.

What is a Synthesis Essay?

A synthesis essay is a written discussion that draws on one or more sources. It involves combining information from various sources to make a cohesive argument or presentation on a specific topic. This type of essay requires the writer to analyze information, derive insights, and present them in a structured and coherent manner. The key to a successful synthesis essay is not just summarizing the sources but integrating them to create a new perspective or argument. Writers must cite their sources accurately, showing how each piece of information contributes to and supports their thesis or main argument. Synthesis essays are common assignments in academic settings, especially in higher education, testing students’ abilities to research, evaluate, synthesize complex information, and articulate their findings effectively.

Download Synthesis Essay Bundle

Essays depict the standpoints of a writer on a certain topic or issue. An essay often presents a point and either convinces a reader to agree or disagree to a certain subject matter. An effective essay does what it is intended to do when a reader is convinced of the writer’s stand point. Common  college essays include writing a synthesis essay. Examples of synthesis essay can be found in the page and made available for your reference. The examples can also be downloaded via the download link button below the sample in order to get a closer look.

Synthesis involves combining different pieces of information to form a cohesive understanding. For instance, if you gather insights from various experts about the impact of climate change and weave them into a comprehensive article or report, you are performing synthesis. This process is distinct from merely summarizing since it requires critical thinking to integrate ideas and form new connections, rather than just listing details or differences like in comparison and contrast.

Synthesis Essay Structure

It helps in presenting your argument clearly and persuasively. Here’s a typical structure for a synthesis essay:

Introduction

Hook: Start with an engaging sentence to grab the reader’s attention. Background Information: Provide some context or background for the topic you will be discussing. Thesis Statement: Present your main argument or position on the topic, clearly stating how the different sources will support your thesis.

Body Paragraphs

Each body paragraph should focus on a specific point or aspect of your thesis, integrating multiple sources to support each point.

Topic Sentence: Introduce the main idea of the paragraph that supports your thesis. Evidence and Analysis: Include information from your sources as evidence to back up your point. This could be quotations, summaries, or paraphrased material. Analyze the evidence, showing how it supports your argument. Synthesis: Discuss how the evidence from different sources relates to each other and to your thesis. This is where you combine (synthesize) the information to build your argument. Concluding Sentence: Summarize the main point of the paragraph and how it supports your overall thesis.

Counterarguments (Optional)

Consider including a paragraph that addresses potential counterarguments or opposing views. Refute these arguments and show how your thesis still stands.

Summary: Briefly summarize the key points you made in your body paragraphs. Thesis Restatement: Restate your thesis in a new way, reflecting the insights and arguments developed in your essay. Final Thoughts: Offer some final thoughts on the topic, possibly suggesting areas for further research or implications of your argument.

Include a list of all sources cited in your essay, formatted according to the required academic style guide (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

How to Write a Synthesis Essay

Writing a synthesis essay involves gathering information from various sources and merging these insights to support a central thesis or argument. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Understand the Prompt

• Clarify the Task: Ensure you fully understand the essay prompt or assignment requirements. Know what type of synthesis essay you are writing (explanatory or argumentative).
• Identify the Main Ideas: Determine what themes or ideas you need to explore based on the prompt.

Conduct Research

• Gather Sources: Collect relevant sources that provide information on your topic. These can include academic papers, books, articles, and credible online resources.
• Evaluate Sources: Assess the credibility and relevance of each source to your topic.

Develop a Thesis Statement

• Formulate a Clear Argument: Based on your research, craft a thesis statement that encapsulates the main argument or perspective your essay will support.

 Create an Outline

• Organize Your Points: Plan the structure of your essay, deciding how you will integrate information from your sources to support your thesis.
• Outline Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a specific point or piece of evidence related to your thesis. Determine how you will synthesize information from different sources for each point.

Revise and Proofread

• Review Your Work: Check for clarity, coherence, and logical flow. Ensure each part of your essay effectively contributes to supporting your thesis.
• Proofread: Correct any grammatical, spelling, or punctuation errors. Make sure your citations and references are formatted correctly.

Cite Your Sources

• Follow Formatting Guidelines: Use the appropriate academic style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) to cite your sources within the text and in a bibliography or works cited page.

10+ Synthesis Essay Samples

• Synthesis Essay on Climate Change
• Synthesis Essay on Death
• Synthesis Essay on Education
• Synthesis Essay on Environment
• Synthesis Essay on Food
• Synthesis Essay on Gender Inequality
• Synthesis Essay on Internet
• Synthesis Essay on Social Media
• Synthesis Essay on Technology
• Synthesis Essay on Unemployment

10+ Synthesis Essay Examples

Free Download

College Synthesis Essay

High School Synthesis Essay

Student Synthesis Essay

Practice Synthesis Example

Synthesis Essay Outline

Poetry Synthesis Essay Sample

Argumentative Synthesis

Explanatory Essay Sample

Technology Synthesis

What is the Purpose of a Synthesis Essay?

Synthesis essays are used in different papers. Point is, a synthesis essay is used in creating a relationship between different sources and getting supplemental information from them to support the writer’s view point or make a coherent plan or proposal templates .

Essay examples in doc seen on the page offer more information regarding an essay. They are made available for your review by clicking on the individual link buttons under each sample.

Tips for Writing the Synthesis Essay

Writing a synthesis essay is a pivotal skill for students, particularly in high school and college. This type of essay goes beyond simple summarization and requires critical thinking, a skill essential in essay writing. Here are some key tips to help students craft an effective synthesis essay:

• Understand Your Sources : It’s crucial to thoroughly read and understand your sources. As a student essay , your synthesis essay should reflect a deep engagement with the materials, providing a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
• Develop a Strong Thesis Statement : The foundation of your essay is the thesis statement. It should clearly convey your central argument or perspective, integrating the various themes and ideas from your sources. In high school essay writing, a well-defined thesis is particularly important as it guides the structure and flow of your argument.
• Organize Your Essay Effectively : Structure your essay in a clear, logical manner. Start with an introduction that includes your thesis statement , followed by body paragraphs that explore your main points, and conclude with a summary that reinforces your thesis.
• Balance Your Sources : Synthesize the information from your sources in a way that provides a balanced perspective. Your synthesis essay should not just list points from each source but rather integrate them into a coherent argument.
• Use Evidence to Support Your Argument : Back up your claims with evidence from your sources. This will strengthen your argument and demonstrate your understanding of the material.
• Maintain a Formal and Objective Tone : A synthesis essay, particularly in an academic setting, should be written in a formal and objective tone. Avoid using first-person pronouns and keep your language professional.
• Cite Your Sources Appropriately : Proper citation is crucial in academic essay writing to avoid plagiarism. Make sure to follow the appropriate format for citations, whether it’s APA, MLA, or another style.
• Revise and Edit : After completing your essay, take the time to revise and edit. This includes checking for grammatical errors, ensuring your argument flows logically, and verifying that your thesis statement is clearly supported throughout the essay.

How Long Should a Synthesis Essay Take?

The time to write a synthesis essay varies, typically ranging from several hours to a few days. This includes time for research, planning, writing, and revising. Effective time management and early start can help streamline the process.

Should You Use “I” in a Synthesis Essay?

Generally, avoid using “I” in a synthesis essay, especially in academic settings. Aim for an objective tone by presenting evidence and analysis without personal bias. Exceptions may apply if personal reflection or perspective is explicitly requested.

How Do I Write a Good Synthesis Essay?

Writing a good synthesis essay involves thorough research, understanding your sources, creating a strong thesis, organizing your points logically, and synthesizing evidence from various sources to support your argument. Clear writing and proper citation are also crucial.

How Do You Start a Synthesis Essay?

Start a synthesis essay with an engaging hook, followed by brief background information on your topic. Clearly state your thesis, outlining the main argument or perspective your essay will support, setting the stage for your synthesis.

Is It Okay to Use First-Person in a Synthesis Essay?

Using first-person in a synthesis essay is generally discouraged in formal academic writing. It’s better to maintain an objective tone. However, if the assignment guidelines allow or if reflecting on personal experience, it may be acceptable.

Do You Directly Quote in a Synthesis Essay?

Yes, you can directly quote in a synthesis essay to support your points, but do so sparingly. Focus on synthesizing information by paraphrasing and analyzing evidence from your sources. Ensure all quotes are properly cited according to the required citation style.

In conclusion, synthesis essays are key in developing critical thinking and analytical skills. For further guidance on writing synthesis essays, Colorado State University provides an in-depth guide , which can be accessed here. This resource offers valuable insights into the process of synthesizing information from diverse sources.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write a Synthesis Essay on the integration of technology in education.

Create a Synthesis Essay comparing different leadership styles.

Analyze the impact of technology on education through synthesis.

Synthesize views on climate change from multiple sources.

Compare traditional vs. online learning in a synthesis essay.

Discuss the role of social media in politics synthesis.

Explore mental health effects of social isolation via synthesis.

Evaluate renewable energy sources' viability in a synthesis essay.

Synthesize historical perspectives on women's rights movement.

Examine the effects of globalization on culture through synthesis.

Synthesis Essay

Writing a Perfect Synthesis Essay: Definition & Examples

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Published on: Mar 1, 2023

Last updated on: Jul 24, 2024

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Do you have a ton of research to synthesize but don't know how? Or maybe you're not sure what a synthesis essay is and how to write a good synthesis essay. 

We know writing a synthesis essay is not an easy task to do; it’s challenging for most of us. But it can be perfectly done with the right guidance and preparation. 

In this blog, we'll walk you through all the necessary information to craft a perfect synthesis essay. So you can get done with your assignments confidently! 

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What is a Synthesis Essay?

Synthesis essay definition states:

It is a piece of writing that takes a unique perspective on a central idea, topic, or theme. Then backs it up with evidence from multiple sources.

A synthesis essay is an important part of academic writing. The main purpose of this essay is to show your ability to prove an argument.

To make sense of these arguments, you need to use different credible sources. It demonstrates your basic understanding of the main subject. This type of essay help to enhance your critical, analytical, and research skills.

A synthesis essay is made up of ideas and conclusions based on the information reviewed. Also, this essay asks you to summarize the topic and add your own thoughts about it in relation to what you have read.

Furthermore, the synthesis essays can be similar to analytical essays , argumentative essays , or compare and contrast essays .

Synthesis Essay Types

There are three types of a synthesis essay:

1. Argument Synthesis Essay

This essay's purpose is to debate or argue on a certain topic or issue. It justifies its claims by providing evidence in the body of the essay.

In contrast to the explanatory essay, you will perform the same thing as if you were writing a typical argumentative paper. First, state your argument, make supporting statements, and back up each claim with reliable facts.

2. Review Essay

A review essay is frequently written as a preparatory essay to an argument synthesis. Review essays are commonly used in social science and medicine classes.

It is a discussion of what has already been published on a topic, with a critical examination of the sources mentioned.

An unwritten thesis statement is added to it, which is not final and indicates that further study is needed in that area.

3. Explanatory Synthesis Essay

In this essay, the writer helps the reader to grasp deeper knowledge about the topic. Rather than arguing or debating on some points, the goal of this essay is to explain a certain topic.

Like any other essay, it needs backing up with supporting claims and credible sources.

How to Start a Synthesis Essay?

The following are some helpful techniques for writing an essay. These will help you start the process and avoid common errors that plague many writers.

1. Choosing a Synthesis Essay Topic 

A prompt for a synthesis paper must be arguable. Based on your project, you may be required to select primary content. Select a book that may include contrasting perspectives. Here are some important tips for choosing a topic for a synthesis essay.

• Look through the themes and ideas. Read from sources and investigate specific topics thoroughly to see if any of them catch your interest.
• Select a topic and collect relevant and valuable references for your synthesis paper.
• Outline your synthesis essay using concepts or ideas from the sources. This should make writing a lot simpler and save you a lot of time.

It is necessary to find an arguable topic to make your synthesis essay effective. Another reason is that these topics have been discussed in public for decades. 

Examples of good synthesis essay topics are;

• The process of hiring in the age of social media
• Social networks promote suicide
• Should higher education be free?
• Is it necessary to remove marks in education 
• The importance of getting a good education
• 3D printers are not used efficiently nowadays.
• Is technology really helping people?
• Why has technology made surgery safe and effective?
• What is the cause of widespread obesity in teens?
• What is the role of gender today?

2. Analyze Your Topic

Here's how you can fully understand your synthesis essay topic.

• Grasp the Idea of a Synthesis Essay

A synthesis essay's purpose is to establish meaningful connections between sections of a work. When conducting research on a topic, you have to look for connections to build a strong viewpoint on the subject. The ultimate goal of the essay is to present and prove a claim about a topic .

• Select a Topic Appropriate for a Synthesis Essay

The subject and topic must be extensive enough to include multiple relevant sources. If you have a free hand in deciding what to write about, some preparatory research may assist you in researching and choosing the right topic. 

•  Select and Study Your Sources Carefully

Research and find relevant information and sources. Generally, choose at least three references for your essay. It's a good idea to learn one or two additional sources for better understanding but no matter what it is, make sure that you study it properly.

Remember that it is better to read three sources properly than five sources poorly.

Compile each source by writing notes in the margins. This allows you to keep track of your thoughts, fresh ideas, and so on. 

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• Reread the Source Material 

Reread your source material for elements that will help to support your argument. 

Examine your sources for important statements, figures, thoughts, and facts that support your thesis. Make a note of them when you come across them. This will be very useful throughout your writing process. 

3. Develop a Thesis Statement 

Your thesis statement will be the central idea of your essay. It should cover the topic and express your viewpoint on it. After reading the sources and conducting your research, form an opinion on your topic. 

It should be stated as a complete sentence. Based on the essay, your thesis statement could be the first sentence of the essay or the last sentence of the first paragraph.

• Structure Your Thesis Statement Creatively 

To present your thesis, use a more creative structure. You can use a more elaborate structure than the one outlined above. You can develop your essay using the following approaches:

Straw man: In this approach, you will present the counter-arguments first. Then demonstrate their weaknesses and flaws. 

Such an approach demonstrates your awareness of the opposition as well as your readiness to respond to it. You present the counter-argument immediately following your thesis statement, followed by evidence to refute it. And conclude with a positive argument that supports your thesis.

Concession: In structure, concessions in essays are similar to the straw man. But this approach acknowledges the validity of the counter-argument while demonstrating that your argument is stronger. This structure is suitable for presenting papers to readers who hold opposing views. 

Illustration/ Example: It could be a thorough narrative, synopsis, or quotation from your source material that provides support for your position. However, you should not make your paper a collection of examples at the expense of supporting your thesis statement.

Comparison and Contrast: In this approach, similarities and differences between two subjects or sources demonstrate both aspects. It requires a thorough reading of your source material to identify both subtle and major points of comparison.

This type of essay can present its arguments source by source or by points of similarity or difference.

4. Create an Outline for Your Essay

An essay outline is a method for outlining the framework of your essay. Here's what you have to do. Outlining can help you structure and plan your synthesis paper. 

The standard outline of a synthesis essay is divided into three sections:

Need detailed guidance on how to write a synthesis essay? Check out this video?

How to Write a Synthesis Essay?

For writing a great essay, you have to do extensive research on your subject. This essay connects sections of multiple works and develops a strong viewpoint on a subject.

There are some major steps of the process:

1. Start Writing Your Essay 

After getting done with the preparation part, start to write your synthesis essay. 

2. Write Your First Draft Using Your Outline as a Guide

But be prepared to change your strategy if you discover fresh ideas and information. And make sure it supports your thesis and the source material. 

Your essay should have an introduction paragraph with your thesis statement at the end of it. A body with evidence that supports your main topic and thesis statement. Lastly, a conclusion that summarizes your point of view.

3. Use Transitions 

To make the content flow logically, use transitions between paragraphs. Transition words are an excellent method to highlight areas where your sources complement one another. 

Longer quotes of three lines or more should be presented as block quotes to draw emphasis to them.

4. Wrap Up Your Essay 

Here you have completed the writing process, but still, you need to make sure that your essay is flawless. 

5. Revise Your Essay

This is the time to enhance transitions between points and paragraphs and to reinforce arguments. You should strive to make your argument as concise and clear to understand as possible. It is beneficial to read your essay aloud so you can spot problematic phrases or unclear ideas.

Request someone else to proofread your paper. Have you heard the cliche "two heads are better than one"? Is it still valid?

Ask a friend or coworker what they would add or eliminate from the paper. Most importantly, does your thesis statement make sense, and are your references clearly supporting it?

Answer these questions in your essay.

6. Proofread Your Content

Examine your document for any grammatical, punctuation, or spelling mistakes. 

Are all the terms, names, and words accurately spelled? Are there any extraneous English language or sentence fragments? As you go, correct them.

Read the essay loudly to ensure that you don't accidentally add or remove words when reading in your mind. If possible, ask a friend or classmate to edit your writing.

7. Must Cite Sources

Use footnotes to mention information in the body paragraph and bibliography of cited books at the conclusion. Footnotes and in-text citations should be used for any information that is quoted, paraphrased, or cited.

8. Title Your Essay 

The point of view expressed in your thesis statement and supporting arguments should be reflected in your title. Therefore, choose a title that suits your essay rather than constructing your essay to fit the title.

Synthesis Essay Format

The format of your synthesis paper is chosen by your high school, college, or university professor. MLA, APA, and Chicago styles are the most often used styles.

The APA format is followed in the disciplines of science, education, and psychology. Chicago is commonly followed in the field of history, fine arts, and business. And MLA is the style of citation used in the humanities.

APA Style Format

The following are some APA style important details:

• Add a page header to the top of each page.
• Times New Roman, 1" margins, 12 pt. Font, double-spaced.
• The format of a synthesis essay should be separated into four sections: title page, abstract, main body, and references.
• Insert a page number in the upper right corner.

Chicago Style Format

The following are some Chicago style key points:

• Use double-spacing between the paper's lines.
• Make margins of one inch.
• Font size: 12 pt. Times New Roman font style.
• Create text that is left-justified with a rugged edge.
• Mention the full name of a person, place, or organization.
• At the start of the paragraph, use half-inch indents.
• The bibliography should be on its own page.

MLA Style Format

The following are some MLA style significant points:

• The title must be centered.
• Font: Times New Roman, 1" margins, 12 pt font size, double-spaced
• Mention your name, professor's name, the course number, and the date (dd/mm/yy).
• On each page, the top right corner displays the last name and page number.
• The final page provides a "Works Cited" list.

Synthesis Essay Rubric

A rubric is essentially a list of criteria that your professor will use to grade your paper. 

Knowing how each criterion is weighted can help make sure you get the best grade possible on your synthesis essay. 

The Basics of the Synthesis Essay Rubric

The basic elements of any synthesis essay rubric include organization, focus/development, and language use/style. 

• Organization refers to how well you structure your paper. It should flow logically and have clear transitions between sections. 
• Focus/development looks at how well you develop your argument throughout the paper. Are you able to clearly explain why each point supports your thesis?
• Language use/style focuses on grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Was the paper proofread thoroughly or did careless errors slip in?

For example , your synthesis essay thesis statement is

"Capital punishment should be abolished in all states." 

Do you provide evidence from different angles, such as legal history, religious beliefs, or moral arguments to back up this claim? 

Does this evidence prove why capital punishment should be abolished?

How to Write a Synthesis Essay - Ap Lang

Are you an AP Lang student who's been assigned the dreaded synthesis essay? Here's how to write a successful synthesis essay for AP Lang. 

• Understand the Prompt 

The first step in writing any synthesis essay is to read and understand the prompt. It's also important to note any specific requirements such as word count, formatting style, or sources that must be used in your essay. 

• Organize Your Argument 

Once you have all the information necessary, it's time to start organizing your argument.

Start by identifying any common themes or ideas between the various sources of evidence and create an outline with these points at its core. 

• Write Your Essay 

Now comes the fun part - writing! 

You should now have a comprehensive outline of all the points and evidence you want to include in your essay. So use this as a guide when crafting your argument. 

Make sure that each point has supporting evidence from credible sources and that everything flows logically from one point to another. 

Finally, don't forget to proofread and edit before submitting so that there are no errors in grammar or spelling. These small details can make all the difference! 

Synthesis Essay Tips

Working on a synthesis paper requires a thorough study of a particular given prompt. To evaluate it properly, you must first understand the prompt's goal, argument, author's claim, and rhetoric.

To compose a successful synthesis essay, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind.

• Use Multiple Reasons

It is well recognized that the use of various reasons (generally two) is a very successful approach.

Present one argument against your strong thesis statement. This type of evidence presents an introduction and description. The advantage of this method is to teach awareness of the other side of the argument. It is followed by the opposing view and a decisive factor.

This is one of the most basic ways of organizing. It enables you to summarise the sources that are most relevant to you. The problem is that this technique excludes any of your individual thinking.

• Compare and Contrast

Comparing reveals similarities, while contrasting reveals distinctions. It is feasible to show an in-depth analysis of your chosen topic. It allows writers to compare and contrast two sources at the same time.

Write quotations from sources in your own words. This approach also allows the usage of quotable sources. Ensure to cite the reference when you use the reference.

This method depicts the opposing point of view. It demonstrates that the positives outweigh the negatives.

Writing a synthesis essay is not as difficult as it may seem. You can also try our AI essay writer to generate plagiarism-free content and make the process easier. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you end a synthesis essay.

A strong ending fulfills these 3 things: 

• Restate your thesis. 
• Summarize or synthesize key points. 
• Make your argument's context explicit. 

What is a synthesis paragraph?

A synthesis is a textual debate that includes support from multiple sources with opposing viewpoints. This type of work requires analysis by using different sources and determining their relevance to your thesis.

Why is synthesis important?

It is important because it allows us to: 

• Test and validate hypotheses. 
• Comprehend key processes. 
• Plan future research efforts. 

How to conclude a synthesis essay?

Synthesize rather than summarize your argument. No need to go over your entire paper again. Instead, include a brief summary of the main points of the paper and explain to your reader how you've made points.

What is an example of a synthesis?

Making connections or putting things together is all that is required. We naturally synthesize information to assist others in seeing connections between things. For example, synthesis occurs when you report to a friend what other friends have said about a film or book.

How many paragraphs is a synthesis essay?

According to the standard outline provided, you should stick to the basic five-to-six paragraph structure. In rare cases, there may be more paragraphs in the main body.

Caleb S. (Literature, Marketing)

Caleb S. has extensive experience in writing and holds a Masters from Oxford University. He takes great satisfaction in helping students exceed their academic goals. Caleb always puts the needs of his clients first and is dedicated to providing quality service.

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