synthesis essay thesis template

How to Write a Synthesis Essay: Your Guide From Start to Finish

Today, we're swamped with information, like reading 174 newspapers every day. It comes from all over—news, social media, science, and more. This flood might make you feel overwhelmed and lost in a sea of facts and opinions. But being able to make sense of it all is crucial.

This guide isn't just about handling all that info; it's about using it to write awesome essays. We'll show you step by step how to pick a topic and organize your essay. Let's dive in and learn how to turn scattered facts into powerful essays that really stand out.

What Is a Synthesis Essay

The synthesis essay is a powerful tool in writing. It's not just about gathering facts but about connecting them to make a clear and strong argument.

Writing a synthesis essay allows you to dive deep into ideas. You have to find similarities between different sources—like articles, studies, or arguments—and use them to tell a convincing story.

In today's world, where we're bombarded with information, synthesis essays are more important than ever. They let us explore how different ideas fit together and help us express our thoughts on complex topics. Whether you're writing about literature, science, history, or current events, a synthesis essay shows off your ability to analyze and understand a topic from all angles. And if you're struggling with this task, just ask us to ' write paper for me ,' and we'll handle your assignment for you.

Explanatory vs. Argumentative Synthesis Essays

In synthesis writing, there are two main types: explanatory and argumentative. Understanding these categories is key because they shape how you approach your essay.

Explanatory:

An explanatory synthesis essay does just what it says—it explains. These essays aim to give a balanced view of a topic by gathering information from different sources and presenting it clearly. They don't try to persuade; instead, they focus on providing information and making things easier to understand. They're like comprehensive summaries, breaking down complex ideas for a broader audience. These essays rely heavily on facts and expert opinions, avoiding personal bias.

Argumentative:

On the flip side, argumentative synthesis essays are all about persuasion. Their main goal is to take a stance on an issue and convince the reader. They gather information from various sources not only to present different views but also to build a strong argument. Argumentative essays aim to sway the reader's opinion by using gathered information as evidence. These essays express opinions and use rhetorical strategies to persuade.

And if you're keen on knowing how to write an informative essay , we've got you covered on that, too!

Synthesis Essay Structure

To craft a strong synthesis essay, you need a solid foundation. Here's a structured approach to help you nail it:

Introductory Paragraph:

To kick things off, grab your reader's attention with a catchy hook or interesting fact. Give a bit of background info about your topic and the sources you'll be using, as it can help readers understand your topic better! Then, lay out your main argument in a clear thesis statement.

Body Paragraphs:

Each paragraph should focus on a different aspect of your topic or source. Start with a topic sentence that links back to your thesis. Introduce the source you're discussing and highlight its main points. Also, using quotes, paraphrases, or summaries from your sources can make your arguments stronger.

Synthesis :

This part is where your essay comes together. Look for common themes or differences among your sources. Use your analysis to build a strong argument. Don't forget to address any opposing viewpoints if they're relevant!

Conclusion :

Wrap things up by restating your thesis and summarizing your main points. Explain why your argument is important and what it means in the bigger picture. End with a thought-provoking statement to leave a lasting impression.

References :

Finally, don't forget to list all your sources properly using the right citation style, like MLA or APA. Do you know that different citation styles have different rules? So, make sure you follow the right one!

Choosing a Synthesis Essay Topic

Picking essay topics is just the beginning. To write a great synthesis essay, you need to carefully evaluate and connect different sources to build a strong argument or viewpoint. Here's a step-by-step infographic guide to help you choose the right synthesis essay topics wisely.

How to Write a Synthesis Essay with Easy Steps

Writing a synthesis essay is similar to a compare and contrast essay . It requires a methodical approach to blend information from different sources into a strong and persuasive argument. Here are some crucial steps and tips to help you along the way.

Clarify Your Purpose: First, decide if you're writing an explanatory or argumentative synthesis essay. This choice will set the tone and direction for your essay.
Source Selection and Analysis: Choose credible and relevant sources for your topic, balancing different types like articles, books, and websites. Analyze each source carefully, noting the main ideas and evidence presented.
Formulate a Strong Thesis Statement: Create a clear and concise thesis statement that guides your essay. It should express your main argument or perspective.
Structure Your Essay: Organize your essay with a clear synthesis essay outline, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your topic.
Employ Effective Transition Sentences: Use transition sentences to connect your ideas and paragraphs smoothly, ensuring a cohesive flow in your essay.
Synthesize Information: Blend information from your sources within your paragraphs. Discuss how each source contributes to your thesis and highlight common themes or differences.
Avoid Simple Summarization: Don't just summarize your sources—analyze them critically and use them to build your argument.
Address Counterarguments (if applicable): Acknowledge opposing viewpoints and counter them with well-supported arguments, showing a deep understanding of the topic.
Craft a Resolute Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your thesis in the conclusion. Emphasize the importance of your argument or insights, and end with a thought-provoking statement or call to action. ‍
Revise and Proofread: Check your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammar mistakes. Ensure your citations are correct and follow the chosen citation style, like MLA or APA.

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Synthesis Essay Format

Choosing the right citation style can enhance the credibility and professionalism of your paper. The format of your synthesis paper depends on the specific guidelines given by your instructor. They usually fall into one of the popular styles: MLA, APA, or Chicago, each used in different academic fields.

1. MLA (Modern Language Association):

Uses in-text citations with the author's last name and page number.
Includes a 'Works Cited' page at the end listing all sources.
Focuses on the author and publication date.
Often used in humanities essays, research papers, and literary analyses.

2. APA (American Psychological Association):

Uses in-text citations with the author's last name and publication date in parentheses.
Includes a 'References' page listing all sources alphabetically.
Emphasizes the publication date and scientific precision.
Commonly used in research papers, scholarly articles, and scientific studies.

3. Chicago Style:

Offers two documentation styles: Notes-Bibliography and Author-Date.
Notes-Bibliography uses footnotes or endnotes for citations, while Author-Date uses in-text citations with a reference list.
Suitable for various academic writing, including research papers and historical studies.
Provides flexibility in formatting and citation methods, making it adaptable to different disciplines.

Synthesis Essay Example

Here are two examples of synthesis essays that demonstrate how to apply the synthesis process in real life. They explore interesting topics and offer practical guidance for mastering the art of writing this type of paper.

Synthesis Essay Tips

Crafting a strong synthesis essay requires careful planning and effective techniques. Here are five essential tips to help you write your best paper:

Diverse Source Selection : Choose a range of reliable sources that offer different viewpoints on your topic. Make sure they're recent and relevant to your subject.
Seamless Source Integration : Avoid just summarizing your sources. Instead, blend them into your essay by analyzing and comparing their ideas. Show how they connect to build your argument.
Balanced Tone : Maintain an impartial tone in your writing, even if you have personal opinions. Synthesis essays require objectivity, so they present different viewpoints without bias.
Focus on Synthesis : Remember, synthesis essays are about linking ideas, not just summarizing sources. Explore how your sources relate to each other to create a cohesive argument.
Address Counterarguments : Like in persuasive essays topics , acknowledge opposing viewpoints and explain why your perspective is stronger. This demonstrates your understanding of the topic and adds depth to your argument.

Concluding Thoughts

When writing a synthesis essay, it's essential to pick trustworthy sources, blend them effectively to build your argument and stay objective. Use smooth transitions, address counterarguments thoughtfully, and focus on analyzing rather than just summarizing. By following these steps, you'll create essays that inform, persuade, and engage your readers!

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How Should You Conclude a Synthesis Essay?

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.