Synthesis Essay -Meaning, 2 types, structure, and how to write a synthesis essay

Synthesis Essay -Meaning, 2 types, structure, and how to write a synthesis essay

A synthesis essay collects information from a range of sources to create a new idea, query or argue a thesis. In a synthesis essay, writers will talk about ideas, data, and evidence from a variety of sources in order to either explain or argue something new.

Synthesis essays are frequently produced by colleges or university students and typically follow a five-paragraph essay format. Although the questions or theses that govern a synthesis essay may be founded on the writer’s subjective perspective, they aim to illustrate their argument using objective evidence and external data.

What is a synthesis essay?

A synthesis paper is written in the same way as any other type of thesis. A synthesis essay is a written exposition of concepts, according to the definition. They usually use two or more sources, such as academic papers, fiction, speeches, interviews, articles, lectures, or personal observations.

In other words, if you have two opinions on a comparable issue, you can separate the heart of what they’re attempting to express. For example, you may have a paper on the current world’s usage of cell phones and another on the increase of teens in social media.

You can come up with a combined thesis like this after synthesizing the data: cell phones and social media are not harming a generation.

Two types of Synthesis

1) Explanatory Synthesis Essay: This style aids in the comprehension of a subject by the reader. The purpose here is to explain a topic rather than to argue a position.

Explain the issue with sources in the body and present them objectively. Support each supporting assertion with two or more reputable sources, just like you would in any other writing project.

2) Argument Synthesis essay: The purpose of this style of paper is to defend a certain point of view and back it up with evidence. Unlike the explanatory style, you will follow the same steps as if you were writing an argumentative paper. Declare your stance, make supporting statements, and then back up each claim with trustworthy facts.

Synthesis Essay Structure

Synthesis essays usually follow the five-paragraph essay structure, but there are a few differences to consider when writing this type of paper. The structure of a synthesis essay is as follows:

1) Introduction: The beginning paragraph outlines the core principles of your essay. You’ll introduce some of your sources and discuss the main landscape of ideas surrounding your issue. A thesis statement, which clearly explains your key argument in a sentence or two, will also be used to introduce the argument to be made. The thesis statement is usually found towards the end of the first paragraph.

2) The body: The body of a synthesis essay normally consists of three paragraphs. Two paragraphs synthesize your sources in a way that supports your thesis, and one paragraph admits alternative arguments are usual.

3) Conclusion: Your synthesis essay’s conclusion restates the argument you’ve made throughout the essay. It could emphasize how each of your points and the sources you cited back up your claim.

4) Bibliography: To correctly cite your research sources, you’ll need to add a source list at the conclusion of your paper, depending on the writing style standards you’re using—APA, MLA, AP, or Chicago Manual of Style. This is a list of text citations at the conclusion of your article that normally takes up one to two pages.

How to Write a Synthesis Essay

A good synthesis essay takes the reader through a variety of concepts and sources in order to prove or explain a bigger argument. To write your essay, follow this step-by-step guide.

1. Choose a topic that interests you: Compile a list of a few topics for your synthesis essay, selecting the ones you’re interested in.

2. Do your research: Once you’ve chosen a topic, conduct comprehensive research using the internet, library, and other resources. You can seek quotes from academics and experts in academic primary sources, or look up data or scientific studies that are related to your issue. This study will assist you in developing a perspective of view that is supported by facts. Use neutral and objective sources that are reputable.

3. Outline your point: Your whole essay should be devoted to either explaining a point of view or presenting an argument. Make a list of how each of your materials relates to your theme and supports your point of view.

4. Make an introduction: The opening paragraph of a document is called an introduction. Its major goal is to establish the paper’s fundamental premise, offer any required background information, and, hopefully, pique the reader’s interest. The first paragraph of your synthesis essay should have a solid thesis statement. This is where you’ll state the point of view you’re pursuing or the argument you’re presenting.

5. Body paragraph should be included: Three body paragraphs are common in synthesis essays. A good body paragraph is divided into three sections: a subject sentence (or key sentence), appropriate supporting sentences, and a concluding (or transition) phrase. This style helps to keep your paragraph focused on the core concept while still giving clear and succinct information.

Each body paragraph should explain distinct aspects of your thesis and supporting arguments, as well as evidence from each source. Describe the common thread that runs across all of your materials, as well as how they relate to your writing. Include counter-arguments and how your source material might be used to refute those assertions and promote your own.

6. Finish with a solid conclusion: In a research project, essay, or article, the conclusion is the concluding piece of writing that summarizes the whole effort. Your synthesis essay’s conclusion paragraph will restate your thesis, outline the important supporting concepts you explored all through the work, and provide your final thoughts on the core issue.

7. Review: Before submitting or presenting your work, review it several times. A few misplaced words or grammatical faults may occasionally modify or debunk the entire essence of an argument or viewpoint. As far as possible, ensure that your grammar, punctuation, and flow are correct and clear. This will make you appear as a trustworthy source.