synthesis essay about art

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?

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Mastering the art of synthesis essays, carla johnson.

June 14, 2023
Essay Topics and Ideas , How to Guides

Synthesis essays are a common type of academic writing that asks students to put together information from different sources into a coherent argument or point of view about a certain topic. In a synthesis essay, students must analyze and combine information from different sources, such as articles, books, and other academic materials, to come up with a new way of looking at a certain issue or idea.

The importance of synthesis essays lies in the fact that they help students learn how to think critically, analyze information, and communicate effectively. By putting together information from different sources, students can learn more about complicated topics and form their own opinions about them.

Synthesis essays are important in the classroom, but they are also useful in the real world , such as in business, politics, and other professional fields. In many fields, it is important to be able to combine information from different sources into a coherent argument. This skill can help people communicate better and make better decisions.

In the sections that follow, we’ll talk about the most important parts of a good synthesis essay, such as how to find and analyze information, make a convincing argument, and explain your ideas to your audience. By learning how to write synthesis essays well, students can learn important skills that will help them both in school and in the workplace.

What You'll Learn

Elements of a Synthesis Essay

A synthesis essay uses information from more than one source to make an argument or point of view about a certain topic. Here are the most important parts of a good synthesis essay:

1. The purpose of a synthesis essay: The goal of a synthesis essay is to analyze and combine information from different sources into a new way of looking at a certain issue or idea. The essay should have a clear, well-thought-out argument based on evidence and analysis.

2. Analysis and evaluation of sources: To write a good synthesis essay, it’s important to carefully read and think about each source that will be used. This means judging the credibility and reliability of each source and figuring out how each source fits into the argument as a whole.

3. Creation of a thesis statement: The main idea or point of an essay is the thesis statement. It should be clear, short, and detailed, and it should sum up the main point or argument of the essay .

4. Integration of sources into the essay: Each source’s information should be put into the essay in a way that supports the overall argument. This means picking and arranging the information from each source carefully and putting it together in a way that is clear and easy to understand.

5. Development of a logical and coherent argument: The essay should be easy to understand and well-organized, with each paragraph building on the one before it to make a logical and coherent argument. Each paragraph should focus on a different part of the argument and use evidence and analysis from the sources to back it up.

Preparing to Write a Synthesis Essay

Preparing to write a synthesis essay involves several key steps, including:

1. Reading and analyzing sources: The first step in preparing to write a synthesis essay is to carefully read and analyze each source that will be used in the essay. This involves critically evaluating the credibility and reliability of each source, and identifying key themes, ideas, and arguments that will be relevant to the essay.

2. Brainstorming and outlining: Once the sources have been analyzed, the next step is to brainstorm ideas and create an outline for the essay . This involves identifying key themes and arguments that will be addressed in the essay , and organizing them into a logical and coherent structure.

3. Identifying a thesis statement: The thesis statement is the main argument or focus of the essay. Once the key themes and arguments have been identified, it is important to develop a clear and concise thesis statement that summarizes the main argument or perspective of the essay .

4. Developing a plan for integrating sources: The information from each source should be integrated into the essay in a way that supports the overall argument. This involves developing a plan for how each source will be used in the essay, and how the information from each source will be integrated into the overall argument.

By following these key steps, students can effectively prepare to write a successful synthesis essay that is grounded in evidence and analysis, and presents a unique perspective on a particular topic.

Writing a Synthesis Essay

Writing a successful synthesis essay requires careful planning and attention to detail. The following tips can help you to write an effective synthesis essay:

1. Introduction: Start with an attention-grabbing hook that provides context for the essay, and introduce the topic and purpose of the essay. Provide a clear and concise thesis statement that summarizes the main argument or focus of the essay.

2. Body paragraphs: The body of the essay should include several paragraphs that address different aspects of the topic, and integrate information from multiple sources to support your argument. Use specific examples and evidence to support your claims , and make sure that each paragraph focuses on a specific idea or theme.

3. Conclusion: Summarize the main points of the essay, restate the thesis statement, and provide a thoughtful reflection on what has been learned from the synthesis process. It should also include suggestions for further research or discussion.

4. Tone and style: Use a professional and objective tone when writing a synthesis essay. Avoid using overly emotional or biased language, and focus on presenting a well-supported argument that is grounded in evidence and analysis .

5. Grammar and mechanics: Pay careful attention to grammar, mechanics, and spelling when writing a synthesis essay. Use clear and concise language, and proofread your essay carefully to ensure that it is error-free.

Synthesis Essay Examples

To better understand how to write a synthesis essay, it can be helpful to examine examples of effective essays . Here are some key takeaways from successful synthesis essays:

1. Effective synthesis essays draw on a variety of sources to support a well-developed argument or perspective on a particular topic.

2. The best synthesis essays use a clear and logical structure to present information and ideas in a way that is easy to follow.

3. Successful synthesis essays use specific examples and evidence to support claims, and provide thoughtful analysis and evaluation of sources.

4. The most effective synthesis essays present a unique perspective on a particular topic, and offer insights or perspectives that are not readily available in other sources.

5. Finally, successful synthesis essays demonstrate strong writing skills, including a clear and concise writing style, good grammar and mechanics, and effective use of transitions and other writing devices.

By examining examples of effective synthesis essays, students can gain a deeper understanding of the key elements of successful synthesis writing, and develop their own skills and abilities in this important area of academic and professional writing.

Synthesis Essay Topics

Synthesis essays can cover a wide range of topics and subjects. Here are some examples of common synthesis essay topics:

1. Social issues and activism: This topic might include analysis and synthesis of information related to social justice, human rights, inequality, or activism.

2. Science and technology: This topic might include analysis and synthesis of information related to scientific research, technological advancements, or the impact of technology on society.

3. Politics and government : This topic might include analysis and synthesis of information related to government policies, political systems, or the impact of politics on society.

4. Education and learning: This topic might include analysis and synthesis of information related to educational practices, learning theories, or the role of education in society.

5. Culture and media : This topic might include analysis and synthesis of information related to popular culture, media messages, or the impact of media on society.

Synthesis Essay Outline

Creating an effective outline is an important step in the process of writing a synthesis essay. The following are some tips for creating an effective outline, as well as examples of synthesis essay outlines:

1. Basic outline structure: A simple outline for a synthesis essay should have an intro, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should have a hook, set the scene for the essay , and have a clear statement of the essay’s main point. The body of the essay should be made up of several paragraphs that cover different parts of the topic . The conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and offer a thoughtful reflection on what has been learned.

2. Tips for creating an effective outline: When making an outline for a synthesis essay, it is important to focus on the main argument or point of view of the essay and to organize the information from each source in a way that supports the overall argument. Use subheadings and bullet points to organize information and ideas, and make sure that each paragraph focuses on a single idea or theme.

3. Examples of synthesis essay outlines:

I. Introduction

– Hook

– Context

– Thesis statement

II. Body Paragraphs

– Analysis of source 1

– Analysis of source 2

– Integration of sources into the essay

– Development of a logical and coherent argument

III. Conclusion

– Summary of main points

– Reflection on what has been learned

– Suggestions for further research or discussion

Another example:

– Analysis of source 3

– Reflection on what was learned

By following these tips and examples, students can create effective outlines for their synthesis essays, which will help them to organize their ideas and information, and to create a clear and well-supported argument or perspective on a particular topic .

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what is a synthesis essay.

A synthesis essay is a type of academic writing that asks students to put together information from different sources into a coherent argument or point of view about a certain topic. The goal of a synthesis essay is to analyze and combine information from different sources into a new way of looking at a certain issue or idea.

2. What are the elements of a synthesis essay?

The parts of a synthesis essay are the essay’s purpose, the analysis and evaluation of sources, the creation of a thesis statement, the integration of sources into the essay, and the development of an argument that makes sense and flows well.

3. How do I choose a topic for a synthesis essay?

When choosing a topic for a synthesis essay, think about things that you are really interested in or know a lot about. Also, look for topics that are complicated and have many different sides. Social issues, science and technology, politics and the government, education and learning, culture and the media can all be used as topics.

4. How do I structure a synthesis essay?

The format of a synthesis essay should be clear and well-structured, with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should have a hook, set the scene for the essay, and have a clear statement of the essay’s main point. The body of the essay should be made up of several paragraphs that cover different parts of the topic. The conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and offer a thoughtful reflection on what has been learned.

5. What are some tips for writing a successful synthesis essay?

Some tips for writing a good synthesis essay include carefully reading and analyzing sources, coming up with a clear and concise thesis statement, putting sources into the essay in a way that supports the overall argument , and making an argument that makes sense and flows well. It’s also important to use clear, concise language, pay attention to grammar and mechanics, and carefully proofread the essay before sending it in.

In conclusion , students need to learn how to write synthesis essays if they want to do well in school and in their careers. Students can make a well-supported argument or point of view on a certain topic if they know the key parts of a good synthesis essay and follow the steps for preparing, structuring, and writing the essay . Students can use the skills and techniques they learn in writing synthesis essays to communicate effectively and make well-informed decisions in a wide range of situations. This is true whether they are writing about social issues and activism, science and technology, politics and government, education and learning, or culture and media.

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How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay + Example

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What is the ap lang synthesis essay, how will ap scores affect my college chances.

AP English Language and Composition, commonly known as AP Lang, is one of the most engaging and popular AP classes offered at most high schools, with over 535,000 students taking the class . AP Lang tests your ability to analyze written pieces, synthesize information, write rhetorical essays, and create cohesive and concrete arguments. However, the class is rather challenging as only 62% of students were able to score a three or higher on the exam.

The AP Lang exam has two sections. The first consists of 45 multiple choice questions which need to be completed in an hour. This portion counts for around 45% of your total score. These questions ask students to analyze written pieces and answer questions related to each respective passage. All possible answer choices can be found within the text, and no prior knowledge of literature is needed to understand the passages.

The second section contains three free-response questions to be finished in under two hours and 15 minutes. This section counts for 55% of your score and includes the synthesis essay, the rhetorical essay, and the argumentative essay.

The synthesis essay requires you to read 6-7 sources and create an argument using at least three sources.
The rhetorical analysis essay requires you to describe how a piece of writing evokes specific meanings and symbolism.
The argumentative essay requires you to pick a perspective of a debate and create an argument based on the evidence provided.

In this post, we will take a look at the AP Lang synthesis essay and discuss tips and tricks to master this part of the exam. We will also provide an example of a well-written essay for review.

The AP Lang synthesis essay is the first of three essays included in the Free Response section of the AP Lang exam. The exam presents 6-7 sources that are organized around a specific topic, with two of those sources purely visual, including a single quantitative source (like a graph or pie chart). The remaining 4-5 sources are text-based, containing around 500 words each. It’s recommended that students spend an hour on this essay—15 minute reading period, 40 minutes writing, and 5 minutes of spare time to check over work.

Each synthesis essay has a topic that all the sources will relate to. A prompt will explaining the topic and provide some background, although the topics are usually broad so you will probably know something related to the issue. It will also present a claim that students will respond to in an essay format using information from at least three of the provided sources. You will need to take a stance, either agreeing or disagreeing with the position provided in the claim.

According to the CollegeBoard, they are looking for essays that “combine different perspectives from sources to form a support of a coherent position.” This means that you must state your claim on the topic and highlight relationships between several sources that support your specific position on the topic. Additionally, you’ll need to cite clear evidence from your sources to prove your point.

The synthesis essay counts for six points on the AP Lang exam. Students can receive 0-1 points for writing a thesis statement, 0-4 based on the incorporation of evidence and commentary, and 0-1 points based on the sophistication of thought and demonstration of complex understanding.

While this essay seems extremely overwhelming, considering there are a total of three free-response essays to complete, with proper time management and practiced skills, this essay is manageable and straightforward. In order to enhance the time management aspect of the test to the best of your ability, it is essential to divide the essay up into five key steps.

Step 1: Analyze the Prompt

As soon as the clock starts, carefully read and analyze what the prompt asks from you. It might be helpful to markup the text to identify the most critical details. You should only spend around 2 minutes reading the prompt so you have enough time to read all the sources and figure out your argument. Don’t feel like you need to immediately pick your stance on the claim right after reading the prompt. You should read the sources before you commit to your argument.

Step 2: Read the Sources Carefully

Although you are only required to use 3 of the 6-7 sources provides, make sure you read ALL of the sources. This will allow you to better understand the topic and make the most educated decision of which sources to use in your essay. Since there are a lot of sources to get through, you will need to read quickly and carefully.

Annotating will be your best friend during the reading period. Highlight and mark important concepts or lines from each passage that would be helpful in your essay. Your argument will probably begin forming in your head as you go through the passages, so you will save yourself a lot of time later on if you take a few seconds to write down notes in the margins. After you’ve finished reading a source, reflect on whether the source defends, challenges, or qualifies your argument.

You will have around 13 minutes to read through all the sources, but it’s very possible you will finish earlier if you are a fast reader. Take the leftover time to start developing your thesis and organizing your thoughts into an outline so you have more time to write.

Step 3: Write a Strong Thesis Statement

In order to write a good thesis statement, all you have to do is decide your stance on the claim provided in the prompt and give an overview of your evidence. You essentially have three choices on how to frame your thesis statement: You can defend, challenge or qualify a claim that’s been provided by the prompt.

If you are defending the claim, your job will be to prove that the claim is correct .
If you are challenging the claim, your job will be to prove that the claim is incorrect .
If you choose to qualify the claim, your job will be to agree to a part of the claim and disagree with another part of the claim.

A strong thesis statement will clearly state your stance without summarizing the issue or regurgitating the claim. The CollegeBoard is looking for a thesis statement that “states a defensible position and establishes a line of reasoning on the issue provided in the prompt.”

Step 4: Create a Minimal Essay Outline

Developing an outline might seem like a waste of time when you are up against the clock, but believe us, taking 5-10 minutes to outline your essay will be much more useful in the long run than jumping right into the essay.

Your outline should include your thesis statement and three main pieces of evidence that will constitute each body paragraph. Under each piece of evidence should be 2-3 details from the sources that you will use to back up your claim and some commentary on how that evidence proves your thesis.

Step 5: Write your Essay

Use the remaining 30-35 minutes to write your essay. This should be relatively easy if you took the time to mark up the sources and have a detailed outline. Remember to add special consideration and emphasis to the commentary sections of the supporting arguments outlined in your thesis. These sentences are critical to the overall flow of the essay and where you will be explaining how the evidence supports or undermines the claim in the prompt.

Also, when referencing your sources, write the in-text citations as follows: “Source 1,” “Source 2,” “Source 3,” etc. Make sure to pay attention to which source is which in order to not incorrectly cite your sources. In-text citations will impact your score on the essay and are an integral part of the process.

After you finish writing, read through your essay for any grammatical errors or mistakes before you move onto the next essay.

Here are six must-have tips and tricks to get a good score on the synthesis essay:

Cite at least four sources , even though the minimum requirement is three. Remember not to plagiarize and cite everything you use in your arguments.
Make sure to develop a solid and clear thesis . Develop a stable stance for the claim and stick with it throughout the entire paper.
Don’t summarize the sources. The summary of the sources does not count as an argument.
You don’t necessarily have to agree with the sources in order to cite them. Using a source to support a counterargument is still a good use of a source.
Cite the sources that you understand entirely . If you don’t, it could come back to bite you in the end.
Use small quotes , do not quote entire paragraphs. Make sure the quote does not disrupt the flow or grammar of the sentence you write.

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Here is an example prompt and essay from 2019 that received 5 of the 6 total points available:

In response to our society’s increasing demand for energy, large-scale wind power has drawn attention from governments and consumers as a potential alternative to traditional materials that fuel our power grids, such as coal, oil, natural gas, water, or even newer sources such as nuclear or solar power. Yet the establishment of large-scale, commercial-grade wind farms is often the subject of controversy for a variety of reasons.

Carefully read the six sources, found on the AP English Language and Composition 2019 Exam (Question 1), including the introductory information for each source. Write an essay that synthesizes material from at least three of the sources and develops your position on the most important factors that an individual or agency should consider when deciding whether to establish a wind farm.

Source A (photo)

Source B (Layton)

Source C (Seltenrich)

Source D (Brown)

Source E (Rule)

Source F (Molla)

In your response you should do the following:

Respond to the prompt with a thesis presents a defensible position.
Select and use evidence from at least 3 of the provided sources to support your line of reasoning. Indicate clearly the sources used through direct quotation, paraphrase, or summary. Sources may be cited as Source A, Source B, etc., or by using the description in parentheses.
Explain how the evidence supports your line of reasoning.
Use appropriate grammar and punctuation in communicating your argument.

[1] The situation has been known for years, and still very little is being done: alternative power is the only way to reliably power the changing world. The draw of power coming from industry and private life is overwhelming current sources of non-renewable power, and with dwindling supplies of fossil fuels, it is merely a matter of time before coal and gas fuel plants are no longer in operation. So one viable alternative is wind power. But as with all things, there are pros and cons. The main factors for power companies to consider when building wind farms are environmental boon, aesthetic, and economic factors.

[2] The environmental benefits of using wind power are well-known and proven. Wind power is, as qualified by Source B, undeniably clean and renewable. From their production requiring very little in the way of dangerous materials to their lack of fuel, besides that which occurs naturally, wind power is by far one of the least environmentally impactful sources of power available. In addition, wind power by way of gearbox and advanced blade materials, has the highest percentage of energy retention. According to Source F, wind power retains 1,164% of the energy put into the system – meaning that it increases the energy converted from fuel (wind) to electricity 10 times! No other method of electricity production is even half that efficient. The efficiency and clean nature of wind power are important to consider, especially because they contribute back to power companies economically.

[3] Economically, wind power is both a boon and a bone to electric companies and other users. For consumers, wind power is very cheap, leading to lower bills than from any other source. Consumers also get an indirect reimbursement by way of taxes (Source D). In one Texan town, McCamey, tax revenue increased 30% from a wind farm being erected in the town. This helps to finance improvements to the town. But, there is no doubt that wind power is also hurting the power companies. Although, as renewable power goes, wind is incredibly cheap, it is still significantly more expensive than fossil fuels. So, while it is helping to cut down on emissions, it costs electric companies more than traditional fossil fuel plants. While the general economic trend is positive, there are some setbacks which must be overcome before wind power can take over as truly more effective than fossil fuels.

[4] Aesthetics may be the greatest setback for power companies. Although there may be significant economic and environmental benefit to wind power, people will always fight to preserve pure, unspoiled land. Unfortunately, not much can be done to improve the visual aesthetics of the turbines. White paint is the most common choice because it “[is] associated with cleanliness.” (Source E). But, this can make it stand out like a sore thumb, and make the gargantuan machines seem more out of place. The site can also not be altered because it affects generating capacity. Sound is almost worse of a concern because it interrupts personal productivity by interrupting people’s sleep patterns. One thing for power companies to consider is working with turbine manufacturing to make the machines less aesthetically impactful, so as to garner greater public support.

[5] As with most things, wind power has no easy answer. It is the responsibility of the companies building them to weigh the benefits and the consequences. But, by balancing economics, efficiency, and aesthetics, power companies can create a solution which balances human impact with environmental preservation.

More examples can be found here at College Board.

While AP Scores help to boost your weighted GPA, or give you the option to get college credit, AP Scores don’t have a strong effect on your admissions chances . However, colleges can still see your self-reported scores, so you might not want to automatically send scores to colleges if they are lower than a 3. That being said, admissions officers care far more about your grade in an AP class than your score on the exam.

How to Write a Synthesis Essay

Last Updated: January 15, 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 12 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 1,119,066 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

Step 1 Understand the concept of a synthesis essay.

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.

Step 2 Choose a topic suitable for a synthesis essay.

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.

Step 3 Choose and read your sources carefully.

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.

Step 5 Re-read your source material for items to support your thesis.

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

Step 1 Outline the structure of your thesis.

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.

Step 2 Use a more creative structure to present your thesis.

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. [6] 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.

Step 3 Create an outline appropriate for a background or review synthesis essay.

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

Step 1 Write your first draft according to your outline.

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. [8] 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

↑ 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://jan.ucc.nau.edu/dso6/synthesis.htm
↑ 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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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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300 Best Synthesis Essay Topics

It’s pretty much impossible to write a great synthesis essay without a good topic. And let’s face it, we’re not Ethan Hunt to pull off some crazy stunts to get it done. So, it’s better to keep it realistic and rely on a thoughtful topic to stand out the best in this academic activity.

Speaking of which, are you having trouble coming up with a thoughtful topic for your synthesis essay? Don’t worry, this blog post has tons of ideas for you to check out. Let’s get to know them all!

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Lists of Unique Synthesis Essay Topics

Synthesis essay topics related to finance.

Impact of Cryptocurrencies on Traditional Banking Systems.
The Role of Financial Education in Wealth Accumulation.
Ethical Considerations in Investment Banking.
Government Regulations Effect on Stock Market Stability.
Behavioral Economics: Understanding Investor Decision-Making.
The Rise of Fintech: Disrupting Traditional Financial Services.
Corporate Social Responsibility in Financial Institutions.
Globalization’s Influence on Financial Markets.
Income Inequality and its Economic Implications.
The Pros and Cons of High-Frequency Trading.
Balancing Profit and Environmental Impact.
The Psychology of Consumer Spending and Debt.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap with Financial Literacy Programs.
Credit Card Debt and Its Long-Term Consequences.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Financial Decision-Making.
Striking a Balance Between Revenue and Business Growth.
The Economics of Healthcare: Insurance, Costs, and Access.
Challenges and Solutions in Student Loans.
The Role of Central Banks in Economic Stability.
Risks and Rewards of Investing in Emerging Markets.

Topics for a Synthesis Essay Related to History

Impact of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Societies.
The Influence of Enlightenment Ideas on Democratic Revolutions.
Comparative Analysis of Ancient Greek and Roman Political Systems.
The Role of Religion in Shaping Historical Events.
Transforming Economies and Societies in the Industrial Revolution.
Effects of Colonialism on Indigenous Cultures and Societies.
The Renaissance.
Women’s Suffrage Movements – A Global Perspective.
Ideological Struggles and Global Consequences of The Cold War
The Impact of World War I on Political and Economic Landscapes.
Progress and Challenges of Civil Rights Movements.
The Age of Exploration – Europe’s Expansion and its Consequences.
Causes of The Fall of Ancient Empires.
Pioneers and Paradigm Shifts During the Scientific Revolution.
Revolutionary Movements in Latin America.
Social, Economic, and Cultural Transformations During the Black Death.
Cold War Competition and Technological Advancements.
The Causes, Responses, and Long-term Effects of the Great Depression.
Impact of World War II on Global Political Alliances and Borders.
Resistance, Change, and Reconciliation of Apartheid in South Africa.

Good Synthesis Essay Topics Related to Food

The Evolution of Fast-Food Culture and Its Impact on Society and Health.
Farm-to-Table Movement – Sustainability and Locavore Practices.
The Cons of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).
Exploring Cultures Through Food Experiences during Culinary Tourism.
Food Labeling and Consumer Awareness.
The Influence of Social Media on Food Trends and Eating Habits.
Traditional Cuisine vs. Globalization: Preserving Culinary Heritage.
The Health Impacts of Veganism: Benefits and Challenges.
Food Waste: Causes, Consequences, and Sustainable Solutions.
The Cultural Significance of Street Food Around the World.
Causes, Prevention, and Policy Initiatives of Obesity Epidemic.
The Role of Food in Celebrations and Rituals Across Cultures
Food Allergies and Intolerances.
Health Benefits of The Mediterranean Diet.
Impact of Climate Change on Food Security and Agriculture.
The Rise of Plant-Based Meat Alternatives.
Traditional Cooking Techniques vs. Modern Culinary Innovations.
Food Safety Regulations – Ensuring Public Health in a Globalized World.
The Psychology of Food Cravings and Emotional Eating.
Culinary Arts and Creativity Influences on Gastronomic Experiences.

Easy Synthesis Essay Topics Related to Technology

Transforming Industries and Workforce with Artificial Intelligence
Cybersecurity Threats in the Digital Age.
The Impact of 5G Technology on Communication and Connectivity.
Big Data Analytics – Revolutionizing Business Decision-Making.
Ethical Implications of Biotechnology Advancements.
Internet of Things (IoT) – Connecting Devices and Transforming Lives
Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality.
Blockchain Technology – Disrupting Traditional Industries.
Robotics and Automation.
Privacy in the Digital Era Balancing Convenience and Security.
Quantum Computing – Unlocking the Potential of Unprecedented Computing Power.
The Role of Technology in Healthcare.
Digital Transformation in Education – Online Learning and Virtual Classrooms.
The Impact of Social Media on Society and Relationships.
Smart Cities – Enhancing Urban Living Through Technology.
E-commerce and Online Retail.
The Future of Work – Remote Collaboration and Gig Economy.
Advancements in Identity Verification and Security.
Environmental Sustainability in Technology.
Human-Computer Interaction – User Experience Design and Accessibility.

Informative Synthesis Essay Topics

Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture, Health, and Economies.
Advancements in Renewable Energy. Solar, Wind, and Hydroelectric Power.
Rise of Populism – Global Political Landscape and Implications.
Social Media Influence on Political Opinions and Activism.
Mental Health Stigma – Cultural Variations and Attitude Shifts.
Historical Context and Modern Consequences of Digital Revolution.
Space Exploration – Past Achievements and Future Frontiers.
Global Water Crisis, Scarcity, Pollution, and Sustainable Solutions.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Healthcare Systems and Public Health Policies.
Biodiversity Conservation – Importance, Threats, and Conservation Strategies.
Impact of Video Games on Cognitive Skills and Social Behavior.
Mass Migration – Causes, Challenges, and Social Integration.
Online Education – Accessibility, Effectiveness, and Future Trends.
Rise of Extremism: Factors, Ideologies, and Counterterrorism Efforts.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment and Job Markets.
The Role of Women in Sustainable Development and Gender Equality.
Technological Solutions to Urban Traffic Congestion and Pollution.
Impact of Social Isolation on Mental and Physical Health.
Challenges and Opportunities in Rural Healthcare Access.
Global Economic Inequality – Causes, Consequences, and Policy Responses.
The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Global Development.
Impact of Ocean Pollution on Marine Ecosystems and Human Health.
Cultural Globalization – Homogenization, Hybridization, and Resistance.
The Influence of Art and Literature on Social Change and Cultural Values.
Genetic Engineering – Ethics, Applications, and Controversies.
The Role of International Organizations in Conflict Resolution.
Internet Privacy – Legislation, Surveillance, and User Awareness.
Impact of Social Determinants on Health Disparities.
Technological Solutions for Sustainable Waste Management.
The Role of Education in Social Mobility and Economic Development.

Synthesis Essay Topics Related to Art & Literature

Impact of Art Movements on Modern Creative Expression.
The Influence of Literature on Social and Political Change.
Feminism in Art: Empowerment, Representation, and Challenges.
Surrealism in Art and Literature: Exploring Dreams and Reality.
Literary Symbolism – Hidden Meanings Across Cultures and Ages.
Renaissance Art and Humanism – Rediscovery of Classical Ideals.
Dystopian Literature – Reflections of Societal Fears and Hopes.
Cubism in Art – Deconstruction and Reconstruction of Reality.
Postcolonial Literature – Voices from Marginalized Communities.
Romanticism in Art and Poetry – Emotion, Nature, and Imagination.
The Beat Generation – Rebellion, Freedom, and Literary Innovation.
Gothic Art and Literature.
Modernism in Art and Literature.
Magical Realism – Blurring the Lines Between Reality and Fantasy.
Impressionism in Art – Capturing Light, Color, and Momentary Impressions.
Absurdist Literature and Theater – Nihilism and Existentialism.
Native American Art and Literature.
Satire in Art and Literature.
Graphic Novels – Merging Visual Arts and Narrative Storytelling.
Neoclassicism in Art – Revival of Classical Ideals and Forms.
Science Fiction Literature – Exploring Future Societies and Technologies.
Baroque Art – Drama, Emotion, and Ornate Beauty.
The Poetry of War.
Rebellion, Activism, and Urban Creativity in The Street Art.
Existentialism in Literature – Human Freedom and Individual Responsibility.
Photorealism in Art – Replicating Reality in Astonishing Detail.
Literature of the Harlem Renaissance – African American Cultural Revival.
Minimalism in Art and Literature.
Environmental Art and Eco-Literature.

Politics Synthesis Essay Topics

The Impact of Political Polarization on Democratic Institutions.
Globalization and Nationalism – Conflicting Forces in International Politics.
Human Rights in the Age of Terrorism.
The Role of Social Media in Political Movements and Public Opinion.
Populist Leaders and Democratic Erosion.
Foreign Aid and Development.
The Influence of Political Lobbying on Policy-Making and Legislation.
International Cooperation and National Interests.
Understanding the US Electoral Systems.
Nationalism and Ethnic Conflict.
Crisis Diplomacy.
The Role of Supranational Organizations (EU, UN) in Modern Diplomacy.
Media Influence on Elections.
Civil Liberties vs. National Security.
The Refugee Crisis.
Gender Equality in Politics.
Disinformation Campaigns.
Political Movements and Social Change.
The Impact of Economic Inequality on Political Participation and Policy Decisions.
Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution.
Nuclear Proliferation – International Agreements and Security Dilemmas.
Soft Power in International Relations: Cultural Diplomacy and Influence Strategies”

As you know a thoughtful topic is a must for a great synthesis essay as it guides your piece into the realm of success. This blog post was all about providing you with some excellent topics for your synthesis essay. Also, it’s not absolutely necessary that you use these topics but you can make use of the ideas and come up with your own subject for an impressive and unique synthesis essay.

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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!

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

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.

The picture shows examples of synthesis usage in various spheres: biochemistry, physics, and sound creation.

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:

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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.

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The picture explains the difference between a synthesis and a summary.

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:

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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:

The picture shows a synthesis essay outline: introduction, main body, and conclusion.

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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Demystifying the Synthesis Essay: A Complete Guide

December 8, 2023
Study Guides

Understanding the synthesis essay concept is essential for mastering the art of essay writing . In this comprehensive guide, we will unravel the intricacies of the synthesis essay , providing you with a step-by-step approach to crafting a compelling and well-structured piece of writing.

Here's What You'll Learn

At its core, a synthesis essay goes beyond mere summarization. It requires you to synthesize information from multiple sources to support your argument or thesis. Think of it as blending various ingredients to create a harmonious and impactful essay. Unlike an argumentative essay, where you rely primarily on your own opinions, a synthesis essay relies on credible sources to build a strong case.

To embark on the journey of writing a successful synthesis essay, it is crucial to select credible sources. These sources should not only provide solid evidence to support your argument but also enhance the overall credibility of your essay.

Now that we understand the basics, let’s delve deeper into the different types of synthesis essays and the necessary steps to craft an exceptional piece of writing.

Key Takeaways:

The synthesis essay requires the writer to combine information from multiple sources to build a persuasive argument.
Selecting credible sources is crucial for the success of a synthesis essay.
There are various types of synthesis essays, including explanatory, argumentative, review, and literature synthesis essays .
The steps to writing a synthesis essay include understanding the concept, selecting a topic , gathering and integrating sources , crafting body paragraphs, and revising your essay.
Mastering the synthesis essay requires practice, revision, and attention to detail.

Types of Synthesis Essays

When it comes to synthesizing information from multiple sources, there are different types of synthesis essays that writers can employ to effectively convey their message. Understanding these different types can help you choose the most suitable approach for your essay. Let’s explore four common types of synthesis essays:

1. Explanatory Synthesis Essays

Explanatory synthesis essays focus on demystifying complex topics and making them crystal clear for readers. In these essays, the writer synthesizes information from various sources to provide a comprehensive explanation or analysis of the subject matter. Through the synthesis of different perspectives, the writer aims to educate and inform the reader about the chosen topic.

2. Argumentative Synthesis Essays

In argumentative synthesis essays , writers take a stance on an issue or topic and use evidence from multiple sources to support their argument. These essays require the writer to develop a strong thesis statement and back it up with compelling arguments synthesized from credible sources. By presenting a balanced and well-supported argument, the writer aims to persuade the reader to adopt their viewpoint.

3. Review Synthesis Essays

Review synthesis essays involve evaluating and critiquing various sources on a particular topic. In these essays, the writer synthesizes information from multiple sources to analyze and assess the strengths and weaknesses of different perspectives, theories, or arguments. Through a careful synthesis of diverse viewpoints, the writer provides an in-depth review of the topic, highlighting its key aspects and offering insightful commentary.

4. Literature Synthesis Essays

Literature synthesis essays combine ideas and concepts from different sources to analyze a specific piece of literature. These essays require the writer to synthesize information from various literary sources, such as novels, poems, or plays, and analyze the themes, characters, or literary devices present in the work. By integrating ideas from different sources, the writer aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the chosen literary piece.

Steps to Writing a Synthesis Essay

Writing a synthesis essay involves several important steps that are crucial for crafting a well-structured and persuasive piece of writing. By following these steps, you can effectively synthesize information from multiple sources and create a cohesive argument.

Selecting a Topic

The first step in writing a synthesis essay is selecting a focused and manageable topic. Choose a topic that allows for a comprehensive analysis of different perspectives or ideas. Consider the availability of credible sources and ensure that you can gather enough information to support your argument. A clear and well-defined topic will make the writing process smoother and help you stay focused throughout.

Gathering Sources

Once you have chosen a topic, it’s time to gather sources that will provide the necessary information to support your argument. Look for credible and reliable sources such as academic journals, books, reputable websites, and scholarly articles. The quality of your sources is essential for the credibility of your essay. Take notes while reading and organize your sources for easy reference during the writing process.

Integrating Sources and Writing Body Paragraphs

The next step is to integrate the information from your sources into your essay. Avoid simply summarizing each source but instead, analyze and synthesize the information to develop your argument. Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or idea related to your topic and include evidence from multiple sources to support your claims. Use clear topic sentences to introduce each paragraph and ensure a logical flow of ideas.

Crafting a Conclusion and Revising and Proofreading

Conclude your synthesis essay by summarizing your main points and restating your thesis statement. The conclusion should provide a clear and concise summary of your argument and leave the reader with a strong impression. After completing your essay, take the time to revise and proofread it for clarity, coherence, and grammatical errors. Ensure that your essay flows smoothly and that your arguments are supported by evidence from your sources. By following these steps, you can write an effective synthesis essay that showcases your ability to synthesize information and present a persuasive argument.

In conclusion, understanding the synthesis essay concept is crucial for mastering the art of writing one. By following the tips provided in this guide, we can confidently navigate the complexities of this essay type and produce high-quality work.

When approaching a synthesis essay, it is important to remember the purpose of combining ideas from multiple sources to create a cohesive and persuasive argument. By selecting a focused and manageable topic, gathering credible sources, and smoothly integrating them into our essay, we can strengthen our argument and showcase our analytical abilities.

Crafting a strong conclusion is equally vital. It is our opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the reader and drive home the main points of our essay. Through careful revision and proofreading, we can ensure that our essay is clear, coherent, and impactful.

By following these tips, we can confidently tackle the challenge of writing a synthesis essay. With practice and dedication, we will continue to refine our skills and produce outstanding work. So, let’s dive into the world of synthesis essays, armed with knowledge and a passion for persuasive writing!

What is a synthesis essay?

A synthesis essay goes beyond summarizing information and requires the writer to synthesize information from multiple sources to support their argument or thesis.

How is a synthesis essay different from an argumentative essay?

A synthesis essay uses information from multiple sources to build a case, while an argumentative essay focuses on presenting and defending a specific argument or stance.

What are the different types of synthesis essays?

There are several types of synthesis essays, including explanatory synthesis essays , argumentative synthesis essays , review synthesis essays , and literature synthesis essays.

What is the purpose of an explanatory synthesis essay?

An explanatory synthesis essay aims to demystify complex topics and make them clear and understandable for readers.

How do I write a synthesis essay?

To write a synthesis essay, you need to understand the concept, select a focused and manageable topic, gather credible sources, integrate them smoothly into your essay, structure your essay with clear topic sentences and supporting details, and revise and proofread for clarity and coherence.

How can I master the synthesis essay?

By understanding the concept and following the steps involved in writing a synthesis essay, such as selecting a topic , gathering credible sources, integrating them smoothly, and crafting a strong conclusion. Revision and proofreading are also essential for refining your essay.

How can I make my synthesis essay persuasive?

Ensure that you gather sources from credible and reliable sources, integrate them smoothly, present strong arguments and evidence, and craft a clear and impactful conclusion.

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Synthesis Essay Writing

Synthesis Essay Examples

13+ Winning Synthesis Essay Examples For Your Inspiration

Understanding What A Synthesis Essay Is

A synthesis essay is a special kind of academic writing where writers blend ideas and information from various sources to create a clear and organized argument.

Unlike other types of essays , a synthesis essay demands the integration of various perspectives to form a new understanding or insight.

It involves critically examining different sources, and synthesizing them to develop a comprehensive viewpoint on a particular topic.

Looking at synthesis essay examples can really help you write a great essay. Here's an example of a synthesis essay to inspire you in your own writing:

Synthesis Essay Outline Example

An outline is just like a table of content sections on a page. It consists of categories and subcategories of a given topic that the writer plans to cover in the essay. Below is a synthesis essay outline template that explains the synthesis essay outline in detail. Have a look at it.

Thesis For Synthesis Essay Example

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How to Write a Synthesis Essay - Example

In order to write a good synthesis paper, you need to follow the format and proper procedure. The synthesis essay has an introduction paragraph, three body paragraphs with supportive evidence to back up the topic, and a thesis statement.

And a conclusion paragraph where you answer all the questions while referring back to the main thesis.

Check out this sample template; it will help you learn the basics of synthesis essay structure.

AP English Language and Composition Synthesis Essay Example

The ap lang synthesis essay requires students to analyze information from various sources to discuss the topic of their essay. Refer to the sample AP language synthesis essay to learn how you can write a perfect synthesis essay.

Synthesis Essay Example Ap Lang

2022 Ap Lang Synthesis Essay Example

Synthesis Essay Examples for Different Formats

Knowing how to write synthesis essays in different styles is important. Given below are some examples of synthesis essays in different formats.

APA Format Synthesis Essay Example

APA (American Psychological Association) is a citation style that provides formatting conventions for student and professional papers. Below is a sample example of an APA-style synthesis essay.

MLA Format Synthesis Essay Example

MLA (Modern Language Association) is another referencing style that allows us to cite the sources in a proper format. Here is an MLA-style synthesis essay example to help you learn the basics of this style.

Different Types of Synthesis Essay Examples

Synthesis essays come in various types, each requiring a unique approach. Explore the following synthesis essay examples tailored to different types, offering a comprehensive overview of how to tackle diverse writing tasks:

College Synthesis Essay Example

This sample PDF is to help the college students to learn the outline, format, and structure of the synthesis essay. You can easily download it and save it with you for further usage.

Explanatory Synthesis Essay Example

The explanatory synthesis is intended to explain a particular subject in detail to make it easy to understand for people. Refer to the sample essay given below and see what makes it different from a simple synthesis essay.

Argumentative Synthesis Essay Example

The argumentative synthesis is another type of synthesis essay that is intended to present an argument. The writer presents his claim and supports it with facts and evidence to prove it right. Check out the sample essay given below to understand how it is different from a general argumentative essay.

Eminent Domain Synthesis Essay Example

An eminent domain synthesis essay explores the concept of eminent domain, which is the government's authority to take private property for public use. This type of synthesis essay delves into various aspects of eminent domain, considering legal, ethical, and social perspectives.

Here’s an example:

Synthesis Essay Example About Social Media

This type of synthesis essay explores the impact of social media on individuals and society. It aims to analyze and synthesize information to construct a well-rounded understanding of the role of social media in our lives. Here’s an example of it:

Synthesis Essay Topics - Examples

Choosing a compelling topic is crucial when writing a synthesis essay. Here are some thought-provoking synthesis essay topics that can inspire your writing:

The Impact of Technology on Human Interaction
Climate Change and Global Sustainability
The Role of Social Media in Modern Society
The Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Ethics
Education Reform: Challenges and Opportunities
Impact of Social Movements on Policy Change
Healthcare Access: A Global Perspective
Cultural Diversity in the Workplace
The Influence of Literature on Society
The Future of Work: Remote vs. Traditional

Looking for more topics? Check out this blog on synthesis essay topics for inspiration.

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Tips for Writing an Effective Synthesis Essay

Crafting a compelling synthesis essay goes beyond the writing process; it requires strategic planning and meticulous execution. Here are key tips to ensure your synthesis essay stands out:

Select Credible Sources

Begin by choosing reliable and credible sources. Ensure that the information you gather is from reputable authors, organizations, or publications to strengthen the foundation of your essay.

Background Information is Key

Provide sufficient background information on your chosen topic. Help your readers understand the context and significance of the subject matter before delving into your argument.

Develop a Coherent Argument

Focus on building a clear and coherent argument throughout your essay. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to the overall flow and supports your thesis effectively.

Support Your with Evidence

A strong synthesis essay requires a well-supported argument. Back up your claims with evidence from your chosen sources, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the topic.

Utilize Sources to Support Each Other

Instead of treating sources in isolation, highlight their relationships. Demonstrate how each source complements or contrasts with others, emphasizing the interconnectedness of your information.

Synthesis Essay Requires Critical Analysis

Go beyond summarizing your sources; engage in critical analysis. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each source and consider their implications for your argument.

Ensure a Supported Argument:

Throughout your essay, consistently reinforce your central argument. Every piece of information should contribute to and reinforce the main thesis, creating a cohesive and persuasive narrative.

In conclusion, tackling synthesis essays is easier than it seems when armed with the right knowledge. Use the tips and examples provided to boost your skills and approach these essays with confidence.

But if you ever feel stuck, MyPerfectWords.com is here to help. Our team of experts can guide you through the process, ensuring your essays not only meet standards but stand out for their clarity and depth.

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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Synthesis Essay

Writing a Perfect Synthesis Essay: Definition & Examples

16 min read

Published on: Mar 1, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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. Hereâs 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 clichÃ© "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, 1â 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, 1â 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 âWorks Citedâ 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

âCapital 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 whoâs been assigned the dreaded synthesis essay? Hereâs 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. Itâs 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, itâs 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 partâwriting!

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, donât 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 promptâs goal, argument, authorâs 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.

However, if you are having trouble understanding the concepts or writing a synthesis essay, it is best to hire professionals.

Our synthesis essay writing service is the perfect solution to your problems. We have a team of skilled writers who will help you through each step of the essay-writing process.

You contact our professionals at CollegeEssay.org to get essay writing help online . Our essay writer service is always ready to ace your assignments.

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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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Synthesizing Sources | Examples & Synthesis Matrix

Synthesizing Sources | Examples & Synthesis Matrix

Published on July 4, 2022 by Eoghan Ryan . Revised on May 31, 2023.

Synthesizing sources involves combining the work of other scholars to provide new insights. It’s a way of integrating sources that helps situate your work in relation to existing research.

Synthesizing sources involves more than just summarizing . You must emphasize how each source contributes to current debates, highlighting points of (dis)agreement and putting the sources in conversation with each other.

You might synthesize sources in your literature review to give an overview of the field or throughout your research paper when you want to position your work in relation to existing research.

Example of synthesizing sources, how to synthesize sources, synthesis matrix, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about synthesizing sources.

Let’s take a look at an example where sources are not properly synthesized, and then see what can be done to improve it.

This paragraph provides no context for the information and does not explain the relationships between the sources described. It also doesn’t analyze the sources or consider gaps in existing research.

Research on the barriers to second language acquisition has primarily focused on age-related difficulties. Building on Lenneberg’s (1967) theory of a critical period of language acquisition, Johnson and Newport (1988) tested Lenneberg’s idea in the context of second language acquisition. Their research seemed to confirm that young learners acquire a second language more easily than older learners. Recent research has considered other potential barriers to language acquisition. Schepens, van Hout, and van der Slik (2022) have revealed that the difficulties of learning a second language at an older age are compounded by dissimilarity between a learner’s first language and the language they aim to acquire. Further research needs to be carried out to determine whether the difficulty faced by adult monoglot speakers is also faced by adults who acquired a second language during the “critical period.”

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

To synthesize sources, group them around a specific theme or point of contention.

As you read sources, ask:

What questions or ideas recur? Do the sources focus on the same points, or do they look at the issue from different angles?
How does each source relate to others? Does it confirm or challenge the findings of past research?
Where do the sources agree or disagree?

Once you have a clear idea of how each source positions itself, put them in conversation with each other. Analyze and interpret their points of agreement and disagreement. This displays the relationships among sources and creates a sense of coherence.

Consider both implicit and explicit (dis)agreements. Whether one source specifically refutes another or just happens to come to different conclusions without specifically engaging with it, you can mention it in your synthesis either way.

Synthesize your sources using:

Topic sentences to introduce the relationship between the sources
Signal phrases to attribute ideas to their authors
Transition words and phrases to link together different ideas

To more easily determine the similarities and dissimilarities among your sources, you can create a visual representation of their main ideas with a synthesis matrix . This is a tool that you can use when researching and writing your paper, not a part of the final text.

In a synthesis matrix, each column represents one source, and each row represents a common theme or idea among the sources. In the relevant rows, fill in a short summary of how the source treats each theme or topic.

This helps you to clearly see the commonalities or points of divergence among your sources. You can then synthesize these sources in your work by explaining their relationship.

If you want to know more about ChatGPT, AI tools , citation , and plagiarism , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

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Synthesizing sources means comparing and contrasting the work of other scholars to provide new insights.

It involves analyzing and interpreting the points of agreement and disagreement among sources.

You might synthesize sources in your literature review to give an overview of the field of research or throughout your paper when you want to contribute something new to existing research.

A literature review is a survey of scholarly sources (such as books, journal articles, and theses) related to a specific topic or research question .

It is often written as part of a thesis, dissertation , or research paper , in order to situate your work in relation to existing knowledge.

Topic sentences help keep your writing focused and guide the reader through your argument.

In an essay or paper , each paragraph should focus on a single idea. By stating the main idea in the topic sentence, you clarify what the paragraph is about for both yourself and your reader.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Ryan, E. (2023, May 31). Synthesizing Sources | Examples & Synthesis Matrix. Scribbr. Retrieved March 22, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/working-with-sources/synthesizing-sources/

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449 Good Synthesis Essay Topics: Ideas & Simple Guide

18 January 2024

last updated

Synthesis essays are a prominent feature in academic writing. Specifically, these works allow an individual to present original ideas to an audience after critically examining existing literature. This guide begins with many examples of synthesis essay topics that people can use for ideas when writing their papers. Then, a detailed definition of a synthesis essay topic highlights its purpose and value. Moreover, the manual shifts its focus to the process of developing a topic for a synthesis essay. In this case, the guide exemplifies the generation of a title using a template that breaks down the procedure into five steps.

Best Synthesis Essay Topics

Understanding the Environmental Impact of Electric Vehicles
Analyzing the Social Consequences of Internet Privacy Infringements
Modern Pop Culture: The Influence of Reality Television
Sustainable Agriculture and the Future of Food Security
Dissecting the Concept of Artificial Intelligence: A Threat or Advantage?
Obesity Epidemic: The Role of Fast Food Industries
Digital Transformation: Impact on Traditional Business Models
The Ethical Dilemma of Genetic Engineering: Pros and Cons
Global Warming: Evaluating the Proposed Solutions
Cyberbullying: Assessing its Psychological Implications
Public Health: How Vaccines Became a Global Controversy?
Advancements in Medical Technology: Improving or Compromising Patient Care?
Role of Financial Literacy in Reducing Poverty Levels
Influence of Feminism on Modern Women’s Rights
Evaluating the Impact of Renewable Energy on Economies
E-Sports Evolution: Acceptance as Legitimate Sports
Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Schools
Analyzing the Intersection of Religion and Politics
Body Image Perception: Impact of Fashion Industry Standards
Multicultural Education: Benefits and Challenges
Migration Trends: Impact on Global Economies and Societies

Easy Synthesis Essay Topics

Roles of Parenting Styles in Children’s Personality Development
Effects of Climate Change on Biodiversity
Video Games Influence: Real-World Violence or Harmless Entertainment?
Animal Rights: Evaluating the Ethics of Animal Experimentation
Digital Divide: Influence on Education Disparity
Globalization: Impact on National Cultures and Identities
Evaluating the Benefits of Universal Basic Income
Veganism and Vegetarianism: Impact on Health and Environment
Influence of Celebrity Endorsements on Consumer Behavior
Impact of Minimum Wage Policies on Economic Disparity
Influence of Technology on Interpersonal Communication
Social Justice: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Affirmative Action
Impact of Peer Pressure on Adolescents’ Decision-Making
Climate Change: Evaluating the Effect on Global Food Production
Benefits and Drawbacks of Homeschooling
Single-Use Plastics: Analyzing the Ecological Impact
Benefits and Challenges of Telemedicine in Healthcare
Psychological Effects of Social Isolation Caused by Pandemic
Childhood Obesity: Analyzing the Contributing Factors
Online Education: Analyzing Its Effectiveness and Accessibility

How to create good synthesis essay topics

Interesting Synthesis Essay Topics

Artificial Intelligence: Influence on Job Market and Workforce
Evolution of Feminism: Historical Analysis and Modern Reality
Urban Planning: The Pros and Cons of High-Density Cities
Technological Advancements: How they Shape Human Interactions
Global Warming: Comparative Analysis of Solutions
Food Industry: The Controversy Surrounding Genetically Modified Foods
Music Therapy: Psychological and Physical Benefits
The Education System: Conventional Schools vs. Homeschooling
Influence of Pop Culture on Teenagers’ Behavior
AI Revolution: Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence
Parenting Styles: Western Approach Versus Eastern Traditions
Economic Disparities: Wealth Inequality in Developed Nations
Video Games: Potential Educational Benefits and Harms
Plastic Surgery: Societal Pressure and Individual Choices
Quantum Computing: A Leap into the Future or a Potential Threat?
Animal Rights: The Debate Surrounding Zoos and Animal Entertainment
Space Exploration: Should Humanity Colonize Other Planets?
Capital Punishment: Ethical and Practical Perspectives
Climate Change: Examining Renewable Energy Solutions

Funny Synthesis Essay Topics

Unmasking the Humor in Supermarket Shopping
Decoding Sarcasm: The Wit Behind Internet Memes
Comparing Humor Styles: Stand-Up Comedians versus Sitcoms
Exploring the Comical Side of Office Politics
Unraveling the Laughter: Analyzing Pranks and Practical Jokes
Why Cat Videos Rule the Internet: A Light-Hearted Investigation
Studying the Effect of Puns on English Language Learners
Evaluating the Social Impact of Dad Jokes
Cartoon Characters’ Influence on Children’s Sense of Humor
Funny Ads versus Serious Ads: The Effect on Consumer Perception
Is Comedy Truly Universal? Synthesizing Different Cultures’ Humor
Dissecting Dark Humor: The Funny Side of Tragedy
Slapstick Comedy in Silent Films: A Study of Charlie Chaplin’s Classics
Observing the Power of Satire in Political Cartoons
Unearthing the Comedy in Shakespeare’s Dramatic Works
Deconstructing the Humor in Mathematics and Physics Jokes
Comparing the Comedy Styles: British versus American Humor
Irony and Wit in Modern Advertising: A Critical Study
The Evolution of Stand-Up Comedy: From Vaudeville to Netflix
Understanding the Absurd Humor of Monty Python’s Flying Circus

Synthesis Essay Topics for High School

Analyzing the Influence of Technology on High School Students’ Learning Abilities
Evaluating the Effects of Social Media on Teenage Self-Esteem
Understanding the Impacts of Sports Participation on Student Performance
Balancing Extracurricular Activities With Academic Commitments: A Student Perspective
Probing the Consequences of Bullying in High School Environments
Modern Literature versus Classic Literature: The Students’ Preferences
Dietary Habits: Assessing Their Influence on High School Students’ Health
Decoding the Effect of Sleep Deprivation on Teenagers’ Cognitive Functions
Highlighting the Importance of Career Counseling in High Schools
Music Education and Its Impact on Students’ Academic Performance
School Uniforms: Debating Their Influence on Students’ Self-Expression
The Role of Mentors in Shaping High School Students’ Future
Parental Involvement in Homework: Beneficial or Detrimental?
Climate Change Education: Assessing Its Significance in High School Curriculum
Influence of High School Romantic Relationships on Academic Performance
Exploring the Role of Peer Pressure in Teenage Substance Abuse
Diverse Learning Styles: Identifying the Most Effective for High School Students
Mental Health Programs in Schools: Evaluating Their Effectiveness
Foreign Language Studies: Weighing Their Benefits for High School Students

Synthesis Essay Topics for Middle School

Assessing the Impact of a Multicultural Environment on Middle School Education
Homeschooling versus Traditional Schooling: Comparing Academic Outcomes
Digital Textbooks or Paper Books: Which Enhances Learning Better?
Debating the Role of Standardized Tests in Evaluating Student Abilities
Extracurricular Clubs: Unpacking Their Influence on Student Leadership Skills
Investigating the Effects of Part-Time Jobs on Middle School Students
Violence in Video Games: Analyzing Its Influence on Teen Behavior
Censorship in School Libraries: Is it Justified?
Cyberbullying: Understanding Its Psychological Impacts on Middle School Students
Teacher-Student Relationships: Probing their Influence on Academic Success
Healthy Competition vs. Toxic Comparison: Assessing the School Environment
The Impact of School Infrastructure on Student Performance
Personal Finance Education: Exploring Its Importance in Middle School Curriculum
Integrating Art Therapy in Schools: Assessing Its Potential Benefits
Online Education: Analyzing Its Pros and Cons for Middle School Students
Bilingual Education: Exploring Its Effects on Cognitive Development
Religion in Schools: Understanding its Role in Moral Education
The Influence of Media Literacy Education on Critical Thinking Skills
Class Size: Examining Its Impact on Learning Outcomes
Volunteer Work: Its Effects on Students’ Social Awareness and Empathy
Gender Stereotypes in High School: Uncovering Their Impacts on Students

Synthesis Essay Topics for College Students

Effects of Climate Change on Global Agriculture
Evaluating the Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering
Bridging the Gap: Strategies to Alleviate Income Inequality
Unraveling the Power of Art in Emotional Healing
Roles of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Healthcare
Influence of Hip-Hop Culture on Contemporary Society
Efficacy of Veganism in Promoting Personal Health and Sustainability
Study of Theistic Beliefs in Diverse Cultures
Cybersecurity Threats: Measures to Safeguard Personal Information
Integration of Renewable Energy in Urban Planning
Navigating the Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures
Exploring Feminist Perspectives in Contemporary Literature
Mitigating the Effects of Gentrification in Urban Neighborhoods
Bilingual Education in College: Benefits and Challenges
Scrutinizing the Relationship Between Body Image and Media Representation
Understanding Addiction: Causes, Treatments, and Societal Stigma
Role of Sports in Building Character and Leadership Skills
Delve into the Influence of Westernization on Traditional Cuisine
Assessing the Impact of Internet Censorship on Freedom of Expression

Synthesis Essay Topics for University

Exploring the Socioeconomic Effects of Mass Incarceration
Evaluate the Efficacy of Gun Control Legislation in Reducing Crime
Pondering the Role of Parents in Child Development
Investigate the Influence of Migration on Cultural Identity
Decoding the Role of Sleep in Maintaining Optimal Health
Examine the Psychological Impact of Competitive Sports on Youth
Uncovering the Influence of Celebrity Culture on Youth Aspirations
Deciphering the Relationship Between Dietary Choices and Chronic Diseases
Tracing the Impact of Colonialism on Modern World Politics
Contemplating the Efficacy of Traditional Medicine in the Modern Age
Assess the Role of Video Games in Cognitive Development
Exploring the Potential of Nuclear Energy for Future Power Generation
Analyzing the Impact of Drone Technology on Privacy and Security
Highlighting the Importance of Music Education in University Curriculums
Role of Entrepreneurship in Fostering Economic Growth
Dissecting the Influence of Autonomous Vehicles on Urban Planning
Pondering the Impact of Distance Learning on Student Performance
Significance of Mindfulness in Achieving Work-Life Balance

Unique Lists of 280 Synthesis Essay Topics

Explanatory synthesis essay topics.

Exploring the Impact of Globalization on Small Businesses
Unraveling the Psychological Effects of Social Media on Teenagers
Understanding the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Healthcare
Evaluating the Environmental Consequences of Plastic Waste
Comparing Traditional Education with Distance Learning: Pros and Cons
The Evolution of Feminism: A Historical and Cultural Analysis
Deciphering the Effects of Genetically Modified Foods on Human Health
Bitcoin and Blockchain: A Deep Dive Into the Future of Finance
The Ethical Implications of Animal Testing in Scientific Research
Examining the Interplay Between Pop Culture and Society’s Value System
Impact of Immigration on Economic Growth: A Critical Examination
Internet Privacy and Cybersecurity: Analyzing Modern Digital Dilemmas
Urbanization’s Influence on the Quality of Life in Developing Countries
The Transformation of Work Culture by Remote Employment
Uncovering the Causes and Implications of Income Inequality in the United States
Assessing the Health Effects of Prolonged Screen Time in the Digital Age
Climate Change Mitigation: Evaluating Renewable Energy Technologies
The Influence of Western Culture on World Cuisine: A Culinary Analysis
Space Exploration’s Impact on Technological Advancements: A Comprehensive Review

Argumentative Synthesis Essay Topics

Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering: A Necessary Step for Human Advancement or a Dangerous Path?
The Evolution of Artificial Intelligence: Progression or Threat to Human Jobs?
Capital Punishment: Justified Response to Heinous Crimes or a Breach of Human Rights?
Privacy vs. Security: Can the Surveillance State Safeguard Civil Liberties?
Vaccination Mandates: Public Health Necessity or Infringement on Personal Freedom?
Climate Change Denial: Misguided Belief or a Political Strategy?
Impact of Social Media on Youth: Catalyst for Innovation or a Trigger for Mental Health Issues?
Universal Basic Income: Solution to Poverty or a Stimulus for Laziness?
Exploring Space: Scientific Necessity or Financial Burden for Nations?
Animal Testing: Essential for Medical Progress or Cruel and Unnecessary Practice?
Effects of Violent Video Games: Harmful Influence or Harmless Entertainment?
The Role of Censorship: Protecting Society or Suppressing Free Speech?
Online Education: Future of Learning or Compromise on Quality?
Right to Bear Arms: Constitutional Necessity or a Threat to Public Safety?
Child Labor in Developing Countries: Inevitable Reality or Unforgivable Offense?
Automation and Job Security: Economic Efficiency or Source of Unemployment?
Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Sports: Unfair Advantage or Level Playing Field?
Profit-Driven Healthcare System: Effective Business Model or Detriment to Universal Health Coverage?

Informative Synthesis Essay Topics

Impacts of Artificial Intelligence on Job Market Evolution
Influence of Social Media on Modern Politics
Advances in Biotechnology and Their Ethical Implications
Nurturing Mental Health: The Importance of Mindfulness Practices
Analysis of Blockchain Technology’s Potential in the Financial Sector
Smart Cities: The Fusion of Technology and Urban Development
Understanding Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin’s Economic Impact
Role of Nanotechnology in Modern Healthcare Innovations
Exploring Space Exploration’s Significance in Scientific Discoveries
Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Comprehensive Review
Implications of Genetically Modified Foods on Health and Environment
Challenges and Opportunities of Distance Learning in Higher Education
Virtual Reality: Its Impact on Entertainment and Education
Cybersecurity Threats in the Era of Digital Transformation
Impacts of the Internet of Things on Everyday Life
Dark Web: Unveiling Its Unknown Aspects
Future of Driverless Cars: Prospects and Challenges

Research Synthesis Essay Topics

Analyzing the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Global Economic Structures
Unveiling the Implications of Cybersecurity Breaches in Modern Businesses
Evolution of Digital Learning: Successes and Shortcomings in Today’s Education
Climate Change and Its Influences on Agricultural Productivity: A Global Perspective
Evaluating the Effects of Globalization on Cultural Preservation
Intersectionality in Feminism: An Examination of Its Contributions and Limitations
The Development and Impact of Renewable Energy Technologies on Fossil Fuel Economy
Understanding the Psychosocial Effects of Long-Term Remote Work on Employees
The Rise of Autonomous Vehicles: Assessing Their Potential Benefits and Risks
Revisiting the Ethics of Genetic Engineering: An Analysis of Contemporary Bioethical Dilemmas
Mental Health and Social Media: Exploring the Connections Between Online Activity and Psychological Well-Being
Implications of Virtual Reality Technology for Future Entertainment and Education Platforms
Examining the Contributions of Citizen Science to Environmental Conservation Efforts
Sustainability in Fashion: Evaluating the Industry’s Transition to Environmentally Friendly Practices
Public Health and Urban Planning: Understanding the Role of Green Spaces in Health Promotion
The Effect of Blockchain Technology on Traditional Banking Systems
Space Tourism: Forecasting the Economic and Environmental Consequences
Decoding the Future of Food: The Potential of Lab-Grown Meat in Meeting Global Demand
E-Sports Emergence: Understanding Its Cultural Impact and Economic Potential

Synthesis Essay Topics on Education

Implications of Digital Technology in Modern Education
Impact of Standardized Testing on Student Learning Outcomes
The Role of Parental Involvement in Academic Success
Societal Consequences of School Bullying Policies
Incorporation of Emotional Intelligence in Curriculum Design
Educational Strategies for Addressing Learning Disabilities
Influence of School Nutrition Programs on Student Performance
Transformation of Higher Education Through Online Learning
Potentials of Bilingual Education in Promoting Cultural Diversity
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Educational Assessments
Implementation Challenges of Inclusive Education in Schools
Interrelation Between School Funding and Student Achievement
Adoption of Gamification as a Motivational Tool in Learning
Benefits and Drawbacks of Homeschooling From a Societal Perspective
Impact of Early Childhood Education on Long-Term Success
Evolution of Teacher Training Programs in the 21st Century
Importance of Incorporating Indigenous Knowledge in Education Systems
The Role of Mental Health Support in School Settings
Effects of Class Size on Quality of Education
Potentials of Life Skills Education in Reducing Youth Unemployment

Social Media Synthesis Essay Topics

Balancing Privacy and Freedom of Speech in Social Media Platforms
Influencer Marketing: The Emergence of a New Advertising Strategy
Social Media’s Role in Promoting Social Justice Movements
Dissemination of Fake News: How Social Media Fuels Misinformation
Exploring the Interplay Between Social Media and Politics
Cyberbullying: Unintended Consequence of Social Media Proliferation
Online Communities: The Power of Social Media in Connecting People
Analysis of Social Media’s Impact on Modern Journalism
Tackling Body Image Issues: Social Media’s Responsibility
Social Media as a Platform for Cultural Exchange: Pros and Cons
Ethical Implications of Data Mining in Social Media Platforms
Democracy in the Age of Social Media: An In-Depth Study
Social Media Algorithms: Effect on User Behavior and Public Opinion
How Social Media Affects Family Relationships: A Multidimensional Study
Social Media’s Influence on Contemporary Art and Artists
The Role of Social Media in Professional Networking and Job Searching
From Virtual to Reality: Social Media’s Impact on Tourism
Personal Branding on Social Media: A Necessary Evil or Essential Strategy?
Is Social Media Making Us More Narcissistic? An Analytical Perspective

Global Warming Synthesis Essay Topics

Analyzing the Impacts of Global Warming on Polar Ecosystems
Economic Consequences of Climate Change: A Global Perspective
Evaluation of Global Warming Solutions: Solar and Wind Energy
The Role of Deforestation in Accelerating Climate Change
Effects of Global Warming on Human Health
Coral Reefs and Climate Change: An Underwater Crisis
Impact of Global Warming on World’s Freshwater Resources
Agricultural Adaptations to Climate Change: Necessity and Challenges
Climate Change and Migration: Understanding the Environmental Refugee Crisis
Examining the Role of Carbon Sequestration in Combating Global Warming
Global Warming’s Influence on the Occurrence of Wildfires
Implications of Sea Level Rise: Coastal Communities at Risk
Policies Required for Mitigating Climate Change: National and International Perspectives
Ocean Acidification: An Unseen Consequence of Climate Change
Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity and Wildlife
How Global Warming Affects Global Food Security?
The Intersection of Global Warming and Social Justice Issues

Synthesis Essay Topics in Technology

Implications of Artificial Intelligence on Job Security
The Role of Cybersecurity in Modern Digital Infrastructure
Advantages and Risks Associated With Gene Editing Technologies
Impacts of Blockchain Technology on Financial Systems
The Shift Toward Renewable Energy: A Technological Revolution
Virtual Reality and Its Influence on Social Interactions
Internet of Things: Transforming Household Management
Digital Learning Tools: Enriching or Displacing Traditional Education?
E-Commerce Evolution: Impact on Small and Medium Enterprises
Advancements in Telemedicine: Changing the Face of Healthcare
Ethical Considerations Surrounding Drone Technology
The Future of Transportation: Autonomous Vehicles
3D Printing Technology: Shaping the Future of Manufacturing
Space Technology Developments and Its Prospects for Humanity
Dissecting the Impacts of Deepfake Technology
Examining the Efficacy of Digital Therapeutics in Mental Health
Roles of Technology in Achieving Sustainable Agriculture
Innovations in Nanotechnology: Implications for Medicine and Industry

Society Synthesis Essay Topics

Challenges and Opportunities in Multicultural Societies
The Role of Technology in Promoting Social Equality
Immigration Policies: Effects on Society’s Fabric
Exploring the Influence of Gender Roles on Career Choices
Education System: Tool for Social Mobility or Reinforcement of Class Divisions?
Media Representation and Its Impact on Body Image
Effects of Globalization on Cultural Identity
The Intersection of Race and Crime in Modern Societies
Income Inequality: Its Effects on Social Cohesion
The Role of Art in Reflecting Societal Changes
The Evolution of Marriage Institutions Across Different Cultures
Impact of Climate Change on Societal Development
Intersectionality: Understanding Multiple Layers of Social Discrimination
The Influence of Celebrity Culture on Youth Perception
Internet Privacy: Its Significance in Today’s Digital Society
Legalization of Drugs: Societal Consequences and Misconceptions
Exploring the Phenomenon of Cancel Culture in Digital Societies
Mental Health: The Silent Epidemic in Modern Society
Analysis of Universal Basic Income as a Solution for Poverty

Synthesis Essay Topics on Health and Medicine

The Impact of Telemedicine on Modern Healthcare Systems
Artificial Intelligence’s Role in Enhancing Medical Diagnosis Accuracy
Genetic Engineering: The Solution to Hereditary Diseases
Personalized Medicine: The Future of Health Care
The Effect of Mandatory Vaccinations on Public Health
Holistic Medicine Versus Conventional Treatment Approaches
Mental Health: The Stigma and Its Consequences
Examining the Efficacy of Alternative Cancer Treatments
Ethical Dilemmas in Palliative Care: Balancing Quality and Quantity of Life
Influences of Socioeconomic Status on Health Disparities
Roles of Nutrition in Preventing Chronic Diseases
Biotechnology’s Contributions to Personalized Therapies
Antibiotic Resistance: A Looming Global Health Crisis
Exercise’s Effects on Mental Health and Cognitive Function
Advances in Neurology: Understanding and Treating Alzheimer’s Disease
Pediatric Medicine: Addressing Unique Challenges in Child Health Care
Roles of Health Education in Preventing Lifestyle Diseases
Roles of Nanotechnology in Cancer Treatment
The Influence of Digital Technology on Mental Health
Assisted Reproduction: Evaluating Psychological and Ethical Implications

Art and Literature Synthesis Essay Topics

Expressionism in Paintings and Its Reflection in 20th-Century Literature
Artistic Representation of Feminism in Art and Literature
Influence of Surrealism on the Narrative Structures of Postmodern Novels
Portrayal of War in Visual Arts and War Literature
Juxtaposition of Gothic Elements in Art and Gothic Literature
Exploration of Realism in 19th-Century Paintings and Novels
Impacts of Romanticism on Landscape Art and Romantic Poetry
Dystopian Themes in Graphic Art and Science Fiction Literature
Translating Abstract Art Concepts Into Abstract Literary Forms
Effect of Postcolonial Art on Literature of the Oppressed
Evocation of Horror in Visual Art and Horror Fiction
Social Commentary in Street Art and Contemporary Novels
Human Suffering Depicted in Holocaust Art and Literature
Evolution of Fantasy Elements in Art and Fantasy Literature
Nostalgia in Retro Art and Literature of the 1950s
Parallels Between Pop Art Movement and Pop Literature
Cultural Representation in Indigenous Art and Native American Literature
Satire in Political Cartoons and Satirical Literature
Allegorical Use of Animals in Art and Animal-Based Literature

Synthesis Essay Topics About Ethics and Morality

The Moral Implications of Capital Punishment: An Ethical Analysis
Medical Ethics: Analyzing the Dilemma of Euthanasia
Balancing Privacy Rights and National Security: An Ethical Conundrum
Justifying War: A Deeper Look Into the Ethics of Military Actions
Business Ethics: Exploring Corporate Social Responsibility
Animal Rights: Evaluating the Ethics of Animal Testing
Environmental Stewardship: Assessing the Moral Obligations Toward Nature
Ethics in Politics: A Critical Review of Corruption and Public Service
Professional Ethics: Scrutinizing the Moral Aspects of Journalism
Bioethics: Investigating Ethical Dilemmas in Stem Cell Research
Personal Data Usage: Assessing the Ethics of Information Privacy
Whistleblowing: Weighing the Morality of Exposing Organizational Secrets
Humanitarian Intervention: Analyzing Ethical Justifications and Repercussions
Ethics in Education: Unpacking the Moral Dilemmas in Academic Integrity
Consumer Ethics: Understanding the Moral Implications of Fast Fashion
Surveillance Technology: Exploring the Ethical Boundaries of Personal Freedom
Wealth Inequality: Evaluating the Moral Questions in Income Distribution
Genetic Screening: Dissecting the Ethical Aspects of Predictive Medicine

Synthesis Essay Topics on Law and the Justice System

Exploring the Impact of Technology on Modern Legal Practices
Juvenile Justice System: Should It Mimic the Adult System?
The Influence of Social Media on Courtroom Proceedings
Death Penalty: An In-Depth Analysis of its Morality and Effectiveness
Evaluating the Role of Forensic Science in Criminal Investigations
Hate Crime Legislation: Necessary or an Infringement on Free Speech?
Cyber Law: Dealing With Internet Crimes and Digital Privacy
Effects of Prison Overcrowding on Inmate Rehabilitation
Restorative Justice: A Comprehensive Look at Alternative Sentencing Methods
Analyzing the Relationship between Law and Socioeconomic Class
Human Rights Law: Assessing Its Global Implementation and Effectiveness
Examination of Intellectual Property Law in the Digital Age
Balancing National Security and Personal Privacy: A Legal Perspective
Role of International Law in Resolving Global Conflicts
Mandatory Minimum Sentencing: Does It Achieve Its Intended Purpose?
White-Collar Crime: Legal Responses and Prevention Strategies
Police Brutality and Legal Remedies: A Detailed Review
Immigration Law and Its Impact on Economic Growth
Legal Aid: Analyzing Its Role in Providing Access to Justice
Corporate Law: Understanding its Role in Regulating Big Businesses

Immigration Synthesis Essay Topics

Evaluating the Economic Impact of Immigration on the Host Country
Scrutinizing the Role of Immigration Policies in National Security
Assessing the Effects of Immigration on Cultural Diversity and Societal Cohesion
Exploring the Historical Context of Immigration Legislation in the United States
Examining the Human Rights Implications of Immigration Detention
Bridging the Gap: Immigration and Its Influence on Education
The Long-Term Effects of Immigration on Political Stability in Receiving Countries
The Psychological Impact of Immigration: A Closer Look at Mental Health
Unveiling the Relationship Between Immigration and Unemployment Rates
Contemplating the Ethical Questions in Refugee and Asylum Seeker Policies
The Crucial Role of Immigrants in Technological Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Analyzing the Impact of Immigration on Healthcare Systems in Developed Countries
The Climate Change and Immigration Nexus: Understanding the Dynamics
Immigration and Labor Markets: A Microeconomic Perspective
Health Disparities Among Immigrant Populations: A Public Health Inquiry
Interrogating the Influence of Immigration on Urbanization and Housing
Immigration in Popular Culture: How Media Shapes Perceptions?
Criminal Justice System and Immigrants: An Examination of the Bias
Environmental Refugees: How Global Warming Impacts Immigration Patterns?

American Dream Synthesis Essay Topics

Exploring the Evolution of the American Dream in American Literature
Impact of Socioeconomic Status on the Attainability of the American Dream
The American Dream in Modern Cinema: Portrayals and Interpretations
The Role of Immigration in Shaping the Perception of the American Dream
Analyzing the Influence of the Great Depression on the American Dream
Manifestations of the American Dream in Post-World War II America
Unveiling the Role of the Suburban Lifestyle in the Context of the American Dream
The American Dream and the Civil Rights Movement: A Symbiotic Relationship
How Has the Technology Boom Altered Perspectives on the American Dream?
Dissecting the Concept of the American Dream in Martin Luther King’s Speeches
Analyzing the Dichotomy of the American Dream: Aspiration vs. Reality
Influence of the Feminist Movement on the Evolution of the American Dream
The American Dream Through the Lens of Native American Culture
Comparing Interpretations of the American Dream in Different Generations
The Influence of Hip-Hop Culture on the American Dream
Manifest Destiny and Its Role in Shaping the Early American Dream
How the Vietnam War Affected Perceptions of the American Dream?
The Changing Definition of the American Dream in the 21st Century

Guide on How to Create a Synthesis Essay Topic

Definition of a synthesis essay topic.

An author of a synthesis essay topic critically analyses several sources and proposes an original perspective using the apparent or implied relationships, which exist in the evaluated sources. Basically, the process of writing an essay involves three primary stages: summary, analysis, and synthesis. Firstly, the summary step involves the critical reading and collection of information from relevant sources. During the analysis stage, writers deconstruct the collected information to identify the relationships between various arguments and the underlying rationale for the arguments. Finally, authors engage in synthesis, where they select parts from sources’ arguments and develop a new association between the parts to present original lines of thought that advance the discourse on the topic of interest. In turn, the final stage differentiates synthesis essays from all other essay forms.

Purpose and Value

The primary purpose of a synthesis essay topic is to extend existing ideas through critical thinking and present them to an audience convincingly and logically. In academia, synthesis papers are invaluable pieces of scholarly writing because they demonstrate that a scholar understands the existing literature on a topic to the extent of suggesting a new perspective on an issue. Also, a synthesis essay defends a given position, which is arguable. However, the presentation of a thesis statement should not attract any critique. In this case, papers should not contain any logical fallacies, incorrect paraphrasing, inappropriately used quotations, or ambiguous language. Mostly, the inherent value of any thesis statement lies in its ability to find a compromise in the conflict that exists between the original thesis and antithesis, which manifests as an unexplored point of view.

Types of Synthesis Essays

An expository essay is the most common form of a synthesis essay because educators typically rely on them heavily in nurturing academic writing skills. Basically, authors may utilize various rhetorical strategies in the development of a synthesis essay topic using the expository approach, for example, compare and contrast, cause and effect, and analysis. In expository essays, the synthesis aspect emerges in the wholesomeness of the author’s paper, which should cover the topic objectively and extensively. Moreover, the expository approach houses many essay subtypes, for instance, a process essay that employs the rhetorical analysis strategy. Secondly, an argumentative essay is a type of synthesis essay where writers select a position on a controversial issue and defend the position using evidence from an in-depth analysis of sources. In turn, the synthesis aspect of an argumentative essay arises in the critique of one’s main argument and other scholar’s counter-arguments.

Development of Synthesis Essay Topics

Process writing.

A well-authored process essay contains a detailed description of a technique for completing a particular task. For instance, a process essay does not merely present the steps of a process to the audience for informational purposes. Instead, papers examine each stage in a process and identify its weaknesses and strengths. Furthermore, essays may provide viable modifications to the individual steps that can improve the process significantly. In a case where there are no useful modifications, authors may focus on demonstrating the significance of each step through evidence from scholarly sources. On the whole, a process essay informs readers on the process, evaluates the challenges associated with the process, and synthesizes solutions to elevate the efficacy of a process.

Main Elements of a Process Essay’s Topic

Essentially, the topic of any process essay should respond to the ‘what’ and ‘how’ questions. Moreover, the topic of any process essay has three key elements: task identity, technique description, and relevant details. In this case, the task identity notifies readers of the activity that an individual may complete using the process. Then, the technique description informs the reader of the process, which the author writes about in the paper. Basically, these two elements of the process essay topic are the most important because they provide the audience with a clear idea of the content of the paper. In turn, the third element is optional because it serves a secondary purpose of narrowing the topic by providing additional information concerning the process. Also, authors enjoy the freedom of word choice and length, although it is good practice to use easily understood words and maintain the minimum possible length.

Synthesis Essay Topic Template

Synthesis question: The synthesis question is the starting point of any synthesis essay. In this case, the essay prompt typically contains descriptive explanations that enable the student to derive a thesis statement.
Preliminary research results: The outcome of initial research on the synthesis question provides writers with a provisional answer. Based on this answer, authors can develop a working topic.
Tentative topic: The working topic identifies the process that the author intends to discuss in the paper.
Further research: The author carries out additional research to identify the specific details of the method of interest.
Final Topic: Writers may use the findings of their comprehensive research to refine the topic, for example, to identify a specific version of the technique.

Sample Template for Synthesis Essay Topics

Synthesis question: How to make wine?
Preliminary research results: Davidson’s technique, Zkruch’s process, and Jackson’s barrel technique
Tentative topic (selection due to popularity in winemaking): Davidson’s winemaking process
Further research: There are four modifications in Davidson’s winemaking method.
Final topic: Davidson’s six-stage winemaking process

Alterations to Suit Purpose

Authors must design the response to a synthesis question to agree with the type of a synthesis essay topic that they intend to write because expository and argumentative forms of synthesis papers demand unique topics. In the sample template, the topic “Davidson’s Six-Stage Wine Making Process” is a topic for an expository essay. Also, if writers choose to employ an argumentative approach to synthesis, the topic undergoes some minor changes to make the argumentative element more apparent to the reader. In this case, an appropriate topic is “Davidson’s Six-Stage Wine Making Process: A Solution to the Aging Dilemma.” In turn, the argumentative version of the topic asserts that Davidson’s process is a solution to an aging issue that affects all winemakers. However, it is a debatable solution because it is not standard industry practice.

Discipline Orientation

Students may approach a synthesis topic differently because of their disciplines. For example, each discipline focuses on developing the thinking of a student along particular lines of thought, which are an embodiment of the fundamental principles of the discipline. Consequently, students subconsciously deconstruct issues and synthesize solutions within the context of their discipline-specific knowledge. Also, this discipline-oriented critical thinking has a substantial impact on the content of the essay and the hierarchy of major points in the paper. Moreover, the author’s discipline affects the presentation of the essay content because the presumption of an expert audience from a particular field may lead to brief explanations or complete exclusion of basic concepts, which the author considers to be common knowledge. Therefore, authors can develop distinct essays that rely on support from discipline-specific evidence despite reaching the same conclusion.

Application Prompts of Synthesis Essay Topics

1. desocialization in excessively active online teenagers.

Anthropology: Discusses the radical changes that online activity makes to an individual’s routine, for instance, reallocation of socialization time to online hours.

Sociology: Authors provide evidence that excessive online participation affects the development of the relationships between adults, young adults, teenagers, and children.

Engineering and technology: The author makes an argument that technological advancements are quickly replacing human interaction, for instance, virtual reality.

2. The Reach of Democracy

Law: The writer identifies changes in laws concerning democracy and critiques their impact on the realization of democracy.

History: The author reviews significant changes in voting rights among various racial groups since the formation of the United States.

Performing arts: The person xamines the depiction of democratic freedoms in films that preceded significant events, such as women gaining their voting rights.

3. The Promise of Artificial Intelligence

Medicine and health: Highlights the benefits of artificial intelligence in studying physiological patterns, robotic surgery assistance, and autonomous feedback loops.

Engineering and technology: The shifting reliance of the manufacturers from human labor to robots along entire production lines may be an area of interest for the author.

Law: The value of artificial intelligence in tracking and predicting criminal behavior and its validity as demonstrative evidence is an interesting angle for a synthesis essay topic.

4. Pursuing the American Dream

Performing arts: The author may compare and contrast popular plays from renowned screenwriters to demonstrate the evolving perception of the American Dream.

Language and literature: The writer identifies seminal literature texts concerning the American Dream and evaluates them for consistencies and inconsistencies.

History: The student may analyze the public’s response to significant historical events that challenged the notion of the American Dream, for instance, the Great Depression.

5. Accessibility of Medical Care in the United States

Medicine and health: An analysis of the barriers to healthcare access and the efficacy of implemented solutions may generate adequate information for a synthesis essay topic.

Psychology: The author may investigate the validity of the link between access to physical healthcare and mental well-being.

History: An overview of the circumstances surrounding major healthcare reforms in the past century and their influence on healthcare policy in the 21 st century.

6. No Justice in the Juvenile Court System

Language and literature: An Author can evaluate literature documenting the experiences of minors in the juvenile court system during different periods.

Sociology: Writers may discuss the challenges that minors from minority groups in the lower class face during their pursuit of justice.

Anthropology: Evaluate the impact that high sentencing rates have on the development of an individual that experiences separation from a fully functioning society.

7. Love for Violent Video Games: A Sign of Delinquency

Psychology: The synthesis essay may explore the fluctuation of teenage tolerance and acceptance of violence as normal behavior.

Anthropology: An author can review various theoretical explanations that link teenage exposure to violent content and the manifestation of future delinquent behavior.

Sociology: The association between peer pressure, violent gaming, and the onset of bully-like behavior in high school.

8. Housing: A Precondition for Escaping Poverty

Social work: Investigate the effect of rehousing on time taken to achieve financial stability for a previously homeless individual.

Psychology: Examine the impact of housing on an individual’s motivation to seek job opportunities.

Law: Review the existing laws on housing or rehousing and scrutinize their applicability in society.

9. The Power of Images in Stereotyping: The Case of Instagram

Engineering and technology: The role of portable image-capturing devices in facilitating online stereotyping.

Performing arts: Review the contribution of Black actors in creating an online voice for racial injustices.

Social work: Examine the difficulties that children with low self-esteem face in the digital world.

10. Gender Equity: A Failing War

Medicine and health: Discuss the diminished number of female surgeons as compared to a large number of nurses.

Languages and literature: Compare the representation of women in narratives.

Social work: Analyse the gender role differences in the home setting.

Tips on How to Create Good Synthesis Essay Topics

Synthesis essay topics should demonstrate a high level of critical thinking.
Authors must develop essay topics that enable them to achieve the purpose of synthesis papers.
Argumentative and expository essays are the broad classification of synthesis essays.
The synthesis aspect should be apparent in any synthesis work.
A summary is not a dominant feature in a synthesis essay.
The generation of a topic starts with the derivation of a synthesis question from the paper’s prompt.
Research allows a writer to narrow down a topic and refine it.
The content of synthesis essay topics with the same title may differ extensively because of the author’s discipline.

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to write a perfect synthesis essay for the ap language exam.

Advanced Placement (AP)

If you're planning to take the AP Language (or AP Lang) exam , you might already know that 55% of your overall exam score will be based on three essays. The first of the three essays you'll have to write on the AP Language exam is called the "synthesis essay." If you want to earn full points on this portion of the AP Lang Exam, you need to know what a synthesis essay is and what skills are assessed by the AP Lang synthesis essay.

In this article, we'll explain the different aspects of the AP Lang synthesis essay, including what skills you need to demonstrate in your synthesis essay response in order to achieve a good score. We'll also give you a full breakdown of a real AP Lang Synthesis Essay prompt, provide an analysis of an AP Lang synthesis essay example, and give you four tips for how to write a synthesis essay.

Let's get started by taking a closer look at how the AP Lang synthesis essay works!

Synthesis Essay AP Lang: What It Is and How It Works

The AP Lang synthesis essay is the first of three essays included in the Free Response section of the AP Lang exam.

The AP Lang synthesis essay portion of the Free Response section lasts for one hour total . This hour consists of a recommended 15 minute reading period and a 40 minute writing period. Keep in mind that these time allotments are merely recommendations, and that exam takers can parse out the allotted 60 minutes to complete the synthesis essay however they choose.

Now, here's what the structure of the AP Lang synthesis essay looks like. The exam presents six to seven sources that are organized around a specific topic (like alternative energy or eminent domain, which are both past synthesis exam topics).

Of these six to seven sources, at least two are visual , including at least one quantitative source (like a graph or pie chart, for example). The remaining four to five sources are print text-based, and each one contains approximately 500 words.

In addition to six to seven sources, the AP Lang exam provides a written prompt that consists of three paragraphs. The prompt will briefly explain the essay topic, then present a claim that students will respond to in an essay that synthesizes material from at least three of the sources provided.

Here's an example prompt provided by the College Board:

Directions : The following prompt is based on the accompanying six sources.

This question requires you to integrate a variety of sources into a coherent, well-written essay. Refer to the sources to support your position; avoid mere paraphrase or summary. Your argument should be central; the sources should support this argument .

Remember to attribute both direct and indirect citations.

Introduction

Television has been influential in United States presidential elections since the 1960's. But just what is this influence, and how has it affected who is elected? Has it made elections fairer and more accessible, or has it moved candidates from pursuing issues to pursuing image?

Read the following sources (including any introductory information) carefully. Then, in an essay that synthesizes at least three of the sources for support, take a position that defends, challenges, or qualifies the claim that television has had a positive impact on presidential elections.

Refer to the sources as Source A, Source B, etc.; titles are included for your convenience.

Source A (Campbell) Source B (Hart and Triece) Source C (Menand) Source D (Chart) Source E (Ranney) Source F (Koppel)

Like we mentioned earlier, this prompt gives you a topic — which it briefly explains — then asks you to take a position. In this case, you'll have to choose a stance on whether television has positively or negatively affected U.S. elections. You're also given six sources to evaluate and use in your response. Now that you have everything you need, now your job is to write an amazing synthesis essay.

But what does "synthesize" mean, exactly? According to the CollegeBoard, when an essay prompt asks you to synthesize, it means that you should "combine different perspectives from sources to form a support of a coherent position" in writing. In other words, a synthesis essay asks you to state your claim on a topic, then highlight the relationships between several sources that support your claim on that topic. Additionally, you'll need to cite specific evidence from your sources to prove your point.

The synthesis essay counts for six of the total points on the AP Lang exam . Students can receive 0-1 points for writing a thesis statement in the essay, 0-4 based on incorporation of evidence and commentary, and 0-1 points based on sophistication of thought and demonstrated complex understanding of the topic.

You'll be evaluated based on how effectively you do the following in your AP Lang synthesis essay:

Write a thesis that responds to the exam prompt with a defensible position

Provide specific evidence that to support all claims in your line of reasoning from at least three of the sources provided, and clearly and consistently explain how the evidence you include supports your line of reasoning

Demonstrate sophistication of thought by either crafting a thoughtful argument, situating the argument in a broader context, explaining the limitations of an argument

Make rhetorical choices that strengthen your argument and/or employ a vivid and persuasive style throughout your essay.

If your synthesis essay meets the criteria above, then there's a good chance you'll score well on this portion of the AP Lang exam!

If you're looking for even more information on scoring, the College Board has posted the AP Lang Free Response grading rubric on its website. ( You can find it here. ) We recommend taking a close look at it since it includes additional details about the synthesis essay scoring.

Don't be intimidated...we're going to teach you how to break down even the hardest AP synthesis essay prompt.

Full Breakdown of a Real AP Lang Synthesis Essay Prompt

In this section, we'll teach you how to analyze and respond to a synthesis essay prompt in five easy steps, including suggested time frames for each step of the process.

Step 1: Analyze the Prompt

The very first thing to do when the clock starts running is read and analyze the prompt. To demonstrate how to do this, we'll look at the sample AP Lang synthesis essay prompt below. This prompt comes straight from the 2018 AP Lang exam:

Eminent domain is the power governments have to acquire property from private owners for public use. The rationale behind eminent domain is that governments have greater legal authority over lands within their dominion than do private owners. Eminent domain has been instituted in one way or another throughout the world for hundreds of years.

Carefully read the following six sources, including the introductory information for each source. Then synthesize material from at least three of the sources and incorporate it into a coherent, well-developed essay that defends, challenges, or qualifies the notion that eminent domain is productive and beneficial.

Your argument should be the focus of your essay. Use the sources to develop your argument and explain the reasoning for it. Avoid merely summarizing the sources. Indicate clearly which sources you are drawing from, whether through direct quotation, paraphrase, or summary. You may cite the sources as Source A, Source B, etc., or by using the descriptions in parentheses.

On first read, you might be nervous about how to answer this prompt...especially if you don't know what eminent domain is! But if you break the prompt down into chunks, you'll be able to figure out what the prompt is asking you to do in no time flat.

To get a full understanding of what this prompt wants you to do, you need to identify the most important details in this prompt, paragraph by paragraph. Here's what each paragraph is asking you to do:

Paragraph 1: The prompt presents and briefly explains the topic that you'll be writing your synthesis essay about. That topic is the concept of eminent domain.
Paragraph 2: The prompt presents a specific claim about the concept of eminent domain in this paragraph: Eminent domain is productive and beneficial. This paragraph instructs you to decide whether you want to defend, challenge, or qualify that claim in your synthesis essay , and use material from at least three of the sources provided in order to do so.
Paragraph 3: In the last paragraph of the prompt, the exam gives you clear instructions about how to approach writing your synthesis essay . First, make your argument the focus of the essay. Second, use material from at least three of the sources to develop and explain your argument. Third, provide commentary on the material you include, and provide proper citations when you incorporate quotations, paraphrases, or summaries from the sources provided.

So basically, you'll have to agree with, disagree with, or qualify the claim stated in the prompt, then use at least three sources substantiate your answer. Since you probably don't know much about eminent domain, you'll probably decide on your position after you read the provided sources.

To make good use of your time on the exam, you should spend around 2 minutes reading the prompt and making note of what it's asking you to do. That will leave you plenty of time to read the sources provided, which is the next step to writing a synthesis essay.

Step 2: Read the Sources Carefully

After you closely read the prompt and make note of the most important details, you need to read all of the sources provided. It's tempting to skip one or two sources to save time--but we recommend you don't do this. That's because you'll need a thorough understanding of the topic before you can accurately address the prompt!

For the sample exam prompt included above, there are six sources provided. We're not going to include all of the sources in this article, but you can view the six sources from this question on the 2018 AP Lang exam here . The sources include five print-text sources and one visual source, which is a cartoon.

As you read the sources, it's important to read quickly and carefully. Don't rush! Keep your pencil in hand to quickly mark important passages that you might want to use as evidence in your synthesis. While you're reading the sources and marking passages, you want to think about how the information you're reading influences your stance on the issue (in this case, eminent domain).

When you finish reading, take a few seconds to summarize, in a phrase or sentence, whether the source defends, challenges, or qualifies whether eminent domain is beneficial (which is the claim in the prompt) . Though it might not feel like you have time for this, it's important to give yourself these notes about each source so you know how you can use each one as evidence in your essay.

Here's what we mean: say you want to challenge the idea that eminent domain is useful. If you've jotted down notes about each source and what it's saying, it will be easier for you to pull the relevant information into your outline and your essay.

So how much time should you spend reading the provided sources? The AP Lang exam recommends taking 15 minutes to read the sources . If you spend around two of those minutes reading and breaking down the essay prompt, it makes sense to spend the remaining 13 minutes reading and annotating the sources.

If you finish reading and annotating early, you can always move on to drafting your synthesis essay. But make sure you're taking your time and reading carefully! It's better to use a little extra time reading and understanding the sources now so that you don't have to go back and re-read the sources later.

A strong thesis will do a lot of heavy lifting in your essay. (See what we did there?)

Step 3: Write a Strong Thesis Statement

After you've analyzed the prompt and thoroughly read the sources, the next thing you need to do in order to write a good synthesis essay is write a strong thesis statement .

The great news about writing a thesis statement for this synthesis essay is that you have all the tools you need to do it at your fingertips. All you have to do in order to write your thesis statement is decide what your stance is in relationship to the topic provided.

In the example prompt provided earlier, you're essentially given three choices for how to frame your thesis statement: you can either defend, challenge, or qualify a claim that's been provided by the prompt, that eminent domain is productive and beneficial . Here's what that means for each option:

If you choose to defend the claim, your job will be to prove that the claim is correct . In this case, you'll have to show that eminent domain is a good thing.

If you choose to challenge the claim, you'll argue that the claim is incorrect. In other words, you'll argue that eminent domain isn't productive or beneficial.

If you choose to qualify, that means you'll agree with part of the claim, but disagree with another part of the claim. For instance, you may argue that eminent domain can be a productive tool for governments, but it's not beneficial for property owners. Or maybe you argue that eminent domain is useful in certain circumstances, but not in others.

When you decide whether you want your synthesis essay to defend, challenge, or qualify that claim, you need to convey that stance clearly in your thesis statement. You want to avoid simply restating the claim provided in the prompt, summarizing the issue without making a coherent claim, or writing a thesis that doesn't respond to the prompt.

Here's an example of a thesis statement that received full points on the eminent domain synthesis essay:

Although eminent domain can be misused to benefit private interests at the expense of citizens, it is a vital tool of any government that intends to have any influence on the land it governs beyond that of written law.

This thesis statement received full points because it states a defensible position and establishes a line of reasoning on the issue of eminent domain. It states the author's position (that some parts of eminent domain are good, but others are bad), then goes on to explain why the author thinks that (it's good because it allows the government to do its job, but it's bad because the government can misuse its power.)

Because this example thesis statement states a defensible position and establishes a line of reasoning, it can be elaborated upon in the body of the essay through sub-claims, supporting evidence, and commentary. And a solid argument is key to getting a six on your synthesis essay for AP Lang!

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Step 4: Create a Bare-Bones Essay Outline

Once you've got your thesis statement drafted, you have the foundation you need to develop a bare bones outline for your synthesis essay. Developing an outline might seem like it's a waste of your precious time, but if you develop your outline well, it will actually save you time when you start writing your essay.

With that in mind, we recommend spending 5 to 10 minutes outlining your synthesis essay . If you use a bare-bones outline like the one below, labeling each piece of content that you need to include in your essay draft, you should be able to develop out the most important pieces of the synthesis before you even draft the actual essay.

To help you see how this can work on test day, we've created a sample outline for you. You can even memorize this outline to help you out on test day! In the outline below, you'll find places to fill in a thesis statement, body paragraph topic sentences, evidence from the sources provided, and commentary :

Present the context surrounding the essay topic in a couple of sentences (this is a good place to use what you learned about the major opinions or controversies about the topic from reading your sources).
Write a straightforward, clear, and concise thesis statement that presents your stance on the topic
Topic sentence presenting first supporting point or claim
Evidence #1
Commentary on Evidence #1
Evidence #2 (if needed)
Commentary on Evidence #2 (if needed)
Topic sentence presenting second supporting point or claim
Topic sentence presenting three supporting point or claim
Sums up the main line of reasoning that you developed and defended throughout the essay
Reiterates the thesis statement

Taking the time to develop these crucial pieces of the synthesis in a bare-bones outline will give you a map for your final essay. Once you have a map, writing the essay will be much easier.

Step 5: Draft Your Essay Response

The great thing about taking a few minutes to develop an outline is that you can develop it out into your essay draft. After you take about 5 to 10 minutes to outline your synthesis essay, you can use the remaining 30 to 35 minutes to draft your essay and review it.

Since you'll outline your essay before you start drafting, writing the essay should be pretty straightforward. You'll already know how many paragraphs you're going to write, what the topic of each paragraph will be, and what quotations, paraphrases, or summaries you're going to include in each paragraph from the sources provided. You'll just have to fill in one of the most important parts of your synthesis—your commentary.

Commentaries are your explanation of why your evidence supports the argument you've outlined in your thesis. Your commentary is where you actually make your argument, which is why it's such a critical part of your synthesis essay.

When thinking about what to say in your commentary, remember one thing the AP Lang synthesis essay prompt specifies: don't just summarize the sources. Instead, as you provide commentary on the evidence you incorporate, you need to explain how that evidence supports or undermines your thesis statement . You should include commentary that offers a thoughtful or novel perspective on the evidence from your sources to develop your argument.

One very important thing to remember as you draft out your essay is to cite your sources. The AP Lang exam synthesis essay prompt indicates that you can use generic labels for the sources provided (e.g. "Source 1," "Source 2," "Source 3," etc.). The exam prompt will indicate which label corresponds with which source, so you'll need to make sure you pay attention and cite sources accurately. You can cite your sources in the sentence where you introduce a quote, summary, or paraphrase, or you can use a parenthetical citation. Citing your sources affects your score on the synthesis essay, so remembering to do this is important.

Keep reading for a real-life example of a great AP synthesis essay response!

Real-Life AP Synthesis Essay Example and Analysis

If you're still wondering how to write a synthesis essay, examples of real essays from past AP Lang exams can make things clearer. These real-life student AP synthesis essay responses can be great for helping you understand how to write a synthesis essay that will knock the graders' socks off .

While there are multiple essay examples online, we've chosen one to take a closer look at. We're going to give you a brief analysis of one of these example student synthesis essays from the 2019 AP Lang Exam below!

Example Synthesis Essay AP Lang Response

To get started, let's look at the official prompt for the 2019 synthesis essay:

In response to our society's increasing demand for energy, large-scale wind power has drawn attention from governments and consumers as a potential alternative to traditional materials that fuel our power grids, such as coal, oil, natural gas, water, or even newer sources such as nuclear or solar power. Yet the establishment of large-scale, commercial-grade wind farms is often the subject of controversy for a variety of reasons.

Source A (photo) Source B (Layton) Source C (Seltenrich) Source D (Brown) Source E (Rule) Source F (Molla)

In your response you should do the following:

Respond to the prompt with a thesis presents a defensible position.
Select and use evidence from at least 3 of the provided sources to support your line of reasoning. Indicate clearly the sources used through direct quotation, paraphrase, or summary. Sources may be cited as Source A, Source B, etc., or by using the description in parentheses.
Explain how the evidence supports your line of reasoning.
Use appropriate grammar and punctuation in communicating your argument.

Now that you know exactly what the prompt asked students to do on the 2019 AP Lang synthesis essay, here's an AP Lang synthesis essay example, written by a real student on the AP Lang exam in 2019:

[4] Aesthetics may be the greatest setback for power companies. Although there may be significant economic and environmental benefit to wind power, people will always fight to preserve pure, unspoiled land. Unfortunately, not much can be done to improve the visual aesthetics of the turbines. White paint is the most common choice because it "[is] associated with cleanliness." (Source E). But, this can make it stand out like a sore thumb, and make the gargantuan machines seem more out of place. The site can also not be altered because it affects generating capacity. Sound is almost worse of a concern because it interrupts personal productivity by interrupting people's sleep patterns. One thing for power companies to consider is working with turbine manufacturing to make the machines less aesthetically impactful, so as to garner greater public support.

And that's an entire AP Lang synthesis essay example, written in response to a real AP Lang exam prompt! It's important to remember AP Lang exam synthesis essay prompts are always similarly structured and worded, and students often respond in around the same number of paragraphs as what you see in the example essay response above.

Next, let's analyze this example essay and talk about what it does effectively, where it could be improved upon, and what score past exam scorers awarded it.

To get started on an analysis of the sample synthesis essay, let's look at the scoring commentary provided by the College Board:

For development of thesis, the essay received 1 out of 1 possible points
For evidence and commentary, the essay received 4 out of 4 possible points
For sophistication of thought, the essay received 0 out of 1 possible points.

This means that the final score for this example essay was a 5 out of 6 possible points . Let's look more closely at the content of the example essay to figure out why it received this score breakdown.

Thesis Development

The thesis statement is one of the three main categories that is taken into consideration when you're awarded points on this portion of the exam. This sample essay received 1 out of 1 total points.

Now, here's why: the thesis statement clearly and concisely conveys a position on the topic presented in the prompt--alternative energy and wind power--and defines the most important factors that power companies should consider when deciding whether to establish a wind farm.

Evidence and Commentary

The second key category taken into consideration when synthesis exams are evaluated is incorporation of evidence and commentary. This sample received 4 out of 4 possible points for this portion of the synthesis essay. At bare minimum, this sample essay meets the requirement mentioned in the prompt that the writer incorporate evidence from at least three of the sources provided.

On top of that, the writer does a good job of connecting the incorporated evidence back to the claim made in the thesis statement through effective commentary. The commentary in this sample essay is effective because it goes beyond just summarizing what the provided sources say. Instead, it explains and analyzes the evidence presented in the selected sources and connects them back to supporting points the writer makes in each body paragraph.

Finally, the writer of the essay also received points for evidence and commentary because the writer developed and supported a consistent line of reasoning throughout the essay . This line of reasoning is summed up in the fourth paragraph in the following sentence: "One thing for power companies to consider is working with turbine manufacturing to make the machines less aesthetically impactful, so as to garner greater public support."

Because the writer did a good job consistently developing their argument and incorporating evidence, they received full marks in this category. So far, so good!

Sophistication of Thought

Now, we know that this essay received a score of 5 out of 6 total points, and the place where the writer lost a point was on the basis of sophistication of thought, for which the writer received 0 out of 1 points. That's because this sample essay makes several generalizations and vague claims where it could have instead made specific claims that support a more balanced argument.

For example, in the following sentence from the 5th paragraph of the sample essay, the writer misses the opportunity to state specific possibilities that power companies should consider for wind energy . Instead, the writer is ambiguous and non-committal, saying, "As with most things, wind power has no easy answer. It is the responsibility of the companies building them to weigh the benefits and consequences."

If the writer of this essay was interested in trying to get that 6th point on the synthesis essay response, they could consider making more specific claims. For instance, they could state the specific benefits and consequences power companies should consider when deciding whether to establish a wind farm. These could include things like environmental impacts, economic impacts, or even population density!

Despite losing one point in the last category, this example synthesis essay is a strong one. It's well-developed, thoughtfully written, and advances an argument on the exam topic using evidence and support throughout.

4 Tips for How to Write a Synthesis Essay

AP Lang is a timed exam, so you have to pick and choose what you want to focus on in the limited time you're given to write the synthesis essay. Keep reading to get our expert advice on what you should focus on during your exam.

Tip 1: Read the Prompt First

It may sound obvious, but when you're pressed for time, it's easy to get flustered. Just remember: when it comes time to write the synthesis essay, read the prompt first !

Why is it so important to read the prompt before you read the sources? Because when you're aware of what kind of question you're trying to answer, you'll be able to read the sources more strategically. The prompt will help give you a sense of what claims, points, facts, or opinions to be looking for as you read the sources.

Reading the sources without having read the prompt first is kind of like trying to drive while wearing a blindfold: you can probably do it, but it's likely not going to end well!

Tip 2: Make Notes While You Read

During the 15-minute reading period at the beginning of the synthesis essay, you'll be reading through the sources as quickly as you can. After all, you're probably anxious to start writing!

While it's definitely important to make good use of your time, it's also important to read closely enough that you understand your sources. Careful reading will allow you to identify parts of the sources that will help you support your thesis statement in your essay, too.

As you read the sources, consider marking helpful passages with a star or check mark in the margins of the exam so you know which parts of the text to quickly re-read as you form your synthesis essay. You might also consider summing up the key points or position of each source in a sentence or a few words when you finish reading each source during the reading period. Doing so will help you know where each source stands on the topic given and help you pick the three (or more!) that will bolster your synthesis argument.

Tip 3: Start With the Thesis Statement

If you don't start your synthesis essay with a strong thesis statement, it's going to be tough to write an effective synthesis essay. As soon as you finish reading and annotating the provided sources, the thing you want to do next is write a strong thesis statement.

According to the CollegeBoard grading guidelines for the AP Lang synthesis essay, a strong thesis statement will respond to the prompt— not restate or rephrase the prompt. A good thesis will take a clear, defensible position on the topic presented in the prompt and the sources.

In other words, to write a solid thesis statement to guide the rest of your synthesis essay, you need to think about your position on the topic at hand and then make a claim about the topic based on your position. This position will either be defending, challenging, or qualifying the claim made in the essay's prompt.

The defensible position that you establish in your thesis statement will guide your argument in the rest of the essay, so it's important to do this first. Once you have a strong thesis statement, you can begin outlining your essay.

Tip 4: Focus on Your Commentary

Writing thoughtful, original commentary that explains your argument and your sources is important. In fact, doing this well will earn you four points (out of a total of six)!

AP Lang provides six to seven sources for you on the exam, and you'll be expected to incorporate quotations, paraphrases, or summaries from at least three of those sources into your synthesis essay and interpret that evidence for the reader.

While incorporating evidence is very important, in order to get the extra point for "sophistication of thought" on the synthesis essay, it's important to spend more time thinking about your commentary on the evidence you choose to incorporate. The commentary is your chance to show original thinking, strong rhetorical skills, and clearly explain how the evidence you've included supports the stance you laid out in your thesis statement.

To earn the 6th possible point on the synthesis essay, make sure your commentary demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the source material, explains this nuanced understanding, and places the evidence incorporated from the sources in conversation with each other. To do this, make sure you're avoiding vague language. Be specific when you can, and always tie your commentary back to your thesis!

What's Next?

There's a lot more to the AP Language exam than just the synthesis essay. Be sure to check out our expert guide to the entire exam , then learn more about the tricky multiple choice section .

Is the AP Lang exam hard...or is it easy? See how it stacks up to other AP tests on our list of the hardest AP exams .

Did you know there are technically two English AP exams? You can learn more about the second English AP test, the AP Literature exam, in this article . And if you're confused about whether you should take the AP Lang or AP Lit test , we can help you make that decision, too.

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

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still wondering how to write a synthesis essay? we will get you covered

Synthesis Essay: Definition & Example

The synthesis essay writing process requires curiosity, in-depth research, and a unique perception for debating or elucidating an idea. The art of writing a synthesis essay is technical; it requires a high level of intelligence. Students have to learn synthesis essay writing skills because this is a knowledge they can apply in other essay writings.

You have an edge in various other fields of study when you know how to write an enthralling, compelling discussion out of a given or chosen topic.

Synthesis definition: what is a synthesis essay?

If you are new to this subject, the first thing you need to know is “what is a synthesis essay.” Simply put: a synthesis essay is an essay type that involves gathering information from various sources. Then, you derive a question, a new idea, or a debatable thesis from the information gathered. Then, when writing a synthesis essay, you will have to discuss ideas, data, and idea-validating evidence from several sources. Finally, this evidence is used to explain or argue an original idea.

The category of people who write synthesis essays the most are college and high school students. A synthesis essay would typically follow a standard structure, including one paragraph for the introduction, three for the body, and one for the conclusion. The questions or theses a writer derives guide their synthesis essay writing, which may be based on their opinion. The writer then uses objective essays and data to argue and justify their point of view.

The major types of synthesis essay

Synthesis essays are mainly of two types, but both generally follow the same structure and formatting. The two major types of synthesis essays are argumentative and explanatory.

1. Argumentative Synthesis Essay

As the name implies, the basis of an argumentative essay is to argue a writer’s opinion or point, providing compelling shreds of evidence. Argumentative synthesis essays are written in the same way one would write a normal argumentative essay.

2. Explanatory Synthesis Essay

An explanatory synthesis essay explains rather than argues; a writer uses different sources to explain or elucidate a specific point. An explanatory synthesis essay would normally investigate similarities and differences between different ideas. However, it is not biased; it does not choose a side or sway its audience towards its point of view.

What does Synthesis mean in essay writing?

Synthesizing in essays means combining points of several sources rather than summarizing to derive a general conclusion. A writer gathers several sources and extracts the main points in each. Then the writer puts together the points, ideas, and findings to make a general point. Synthesis essays go beyond summarizing scholarly articles and research papers; they need to be synthesized to see how they fit. Also, synthesizing should reveal how your research work fits in.

Synthesizing involves investigating differences and similarities between sources at the most basic level. A good synthesis essay should show the audience where the sources converge and diverge.

Steps involved in synthesizing points from various sources

Find below the steps involved in synthesizing ideas from several sources.

Step 1: Source Organization

After gathering the articles, you need to organize them in a way that will reveal to you the correlation between them. You can organize your sources in two ways, including a summary table or synthesis matrix. Which of the two methods you use depends on your topic and the category of literature you are working with.

Step 2: Structure Outline

There is a clear view of the connections and dissimilarities between your sources. The next thing is to group them in the order you will discuss them. The outline will focus on each paragraph if it is a short paper. However, you may need to divide your outline into sections with headings for a longer paper.

Step 3: Condensing Paragraphs

Sectionalize your paper, letting a paragraph be about a few different sources; write each paragraph with a topic sentence. That means that you condense the all-encompassing point in the paragraph into one sentence. The topic sentence would usually appear at the start of its corresponding paragraph and tells what the paragraph is all about.

Step 4: Conclude

Finally, wrap up the whole paper with a conclusion, which should occupy a paragraph. The conclusion summarizes all the major themes you covered and should clarify how they relate to the topic.

Synthesis Essay example on Nature

Let’s take a look at an example to better understand the thought process behind a synthesis essay writing:

Introduction

Nature, the mention of the term nature takes one back to the days of the creation of everything that is but was never there. Others call this evolution. This is the beginning of everything in existence that is seen today. Then one would ask what exactly is nature? In the words of the oxford dictionary, nature is “all the animals, plants, and other things in the world that are not made by people and all the events and processes that are caused by people” (Oxford, 2007).

Other authors say that nature refers to all the things that were placed on this planet earth be it the animals that we see, the food we eat, the minerals deep inside the belly of the earth, the springs of water, the wood that we see around all belong to nature and we are part of that nature. Something of interest that needs noting is the fact that nature is very wide and embarking on discussing the entire aspects of nature is like dropping a small particle of sand into the vast ocean and expecting to find it later. Therefore the subject of discussion here is part of nature that is ecology and environment.

Ecology is the study of how organisms intermingle with each other in their surrounding (Kolbert, 2014). This interaction involves the groups that these organisms make, the environment they live in which includes non – living things, which is referred to as “Ecosystem”. This should be noted does not just mean the organisms but also people and how they relate to other living things and the environment where they live. A human being is known to be the most destructive of the living things in existence which is the very reason he is being included in the study. The environment then refers to the power and the resource that is involved in a system that affects organisms either in the way they live and react to situations. It also affects the way organisms eat, grow and die. The environment can be said to be the creator of the life of organisms and makes the ability of their being. According to Bohmbach in her book Eco-Lutheranism , ecology and environment together with human interaction form a complex system that creates competition for all stakeholders; the organisms, the human beings and the environment that man creates for the organisms (2013).

Some school of thought also come up that involves evolution in the ecology and claims that ecology defines and forms evolution which in turn responds by inducing what happens in the ecology. This then means that nature has a way of defining itself, influencing itself and forming itself into what it is. According to Conti in the book The Selfish Cell , what nature is meant to be is what it becomes. The cells that form an organism will always produce what they are meant to produce with the help of the environment which favors the cell’s existence and being (2008). Conti(2008) continues to say that researchers of biology have proved that ecology and evolution are progressions that intermingle with each other bringing out results that mean and say that indeed our understanding of the same has to change and we must begin to acknowledge the fact that the two have a relationship that is interdependent on either of them and none can be wished away. The relationship that exists between the ecology (and the organisms in the ecology) and its environment is that of creating new types of organisms and transforming those in existence.

It is possible to overlook the fact that evolution is a silent agent in the activities going on in the ecology affected by the environment because it is widely perceived and believed that the ecology is a “constant”( Conti(2008). However, researchers have found out that both the ecology and the environment are interdependent on each other in many ways. Organisms in the ecology have evolved over and with time from their original being into something different thanks to evolution. Some of these organisms have become smaller in size because of the predators in their environment, which of course is a defense mechanism against the attackers while some have grown bigger which is also means the same thing; defense against attackers. This is evolution which in brief means a slow change that takes place after a long period of time, a period within which various types of animals, insects, plants and general living things change their physical appearance and characteristics. For this to take place, Edward Wilson in his book the social conquest of earth says, the environment contributes a lot to this (2013). The change or evolution of some of these organisms still is as a result the kind of food they eat over time, which has also changed due to interference by man over time which has forced some of these organisms to change their eating habits.

Ecology of Man

To define Ecology once more from the perspective of Wilson (2013), it is the “study of organisms” and the way they relate and react to the environment. To add on to this, it should be remembered that there is no single organism that can exist in the absence of the other and this connection between various components that are involved is sometimes referred to as “the web of life”. The environment sometimes can be stable when the variables do not change within short periods and this is usually known as “the balance of nature”. This then means that the elements extracted from the environment is the same as those added which strikes a balance.

However, there are instances where this balance does not exist as in cases where a vast area can be physically affected when climatic changes take place which cause substantial changes in the environment. Such changes can cause fires which devastate large areas forcing restoration to take place. This restoration is done with the help of mankind in the form of reforestation and many other activities are involved to restore the environment to its former state. This finally creates a new balance that is “stable”. This is however something that takes time but finally happens. It should also be said here that some of this destruction of the environment as earlier said is caused by the most central animal to the environment and that is man (Wilson, 2013).

The ecology where man is expected to live has greatly become small because of his activities as an act of inventiveness and growing population. This has contributed a great deal to the destruction of the environment and even if replacement of the destroyed forests and other elements is done, it can never be as it were before because the natural forest as it were was home to many types of animals that may not find it comfortable living in artificial forests without their natural food. This has also affected the animals in the seas that depended on the forests for survival. As it is known, forests are a great contributor to water and the absence of the same means less water and the result is death of the sea animals. It is important also to note that it is not only the “organic” matter that is affected by man’s activities but also inorganic as well.

Bohmbach, Karla G. (2013). Eco-Lutheranism: Lutheran Perspectives on Ecology. Minneapolis. Lutheran University Press. Print

Brockman John. (2014). Leading Scientists Explore the Origin, Mysteries and Future Cosmos the Universe . NewYork. Harpercollins Publishers. Print

Conti, Matteo. (2008). The Selfish Cell: Evolutionary Defeat. New York. Springer Publishers.

Kolbert, Elizabeth (2014). The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History . New York. Henry Holt & Co.

Wilson, Edward O. (2013). The Social Conquest of Earth. New York. Liveright Publishers.

In conclusion, a synthesis essay is undoubtedly one of the most difficult essays to write. Nevertheless, if you have tips like the ones in this article on hand, you will do just fine. Moreover, the more you write a synthetic essay, the better you get at it.

IMAGES

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

Guide to Synthesis Essays: How to Write a Synthesis Essay
The writing process for composing a good synthesis essay requires curiosity, research, and original thought to argue a certain point or explore an idea. Synthesis essay writing involves a great deal of intellectual work, but knowing how to compose a compelling written discussion of a topic can give you an edge in many fields, from the social sciences to engineering.
How to Write a Synthesis Essay: The Ultimate Handbook
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.
Well-Written Synthesis Essay Examples
Get multiple synthesis essay examples covering a range of topics. Learn how to craft an introduction, thesis, outlines, or write your entire synthesis essay. ... Writing great essays is an art form. To get everything perfect, all your parts need to come together seamlessly, which makes research and preparation key. ...
Mastering The Art Of Synthesis Essays
The following tips can help you to write an effective synthesis essay: 1. Introduction: Start with an attention-grabbing hook that provides context for the essay, and introduce the topic and purpose of the essay. Provide a clear and concise thesis statement that summarizes the main argument or focus of the essay. 2.
How To Write A Flawless Synthesis Essay: A Comprehensive Tutorial
Mastering the art of synthesis essay writing will undoubtedly contribute to their academic and professional success. FAQ. What is a synthesis essay? A synthesis essay is a short essay that involves bringing two or more sources or perspectives into conversation with each other. It requires reading multiple sources and identifying the ...
How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay + Example
Step 5: Write your Essay. Use the remaining 30-35 minutes to write your essay. This should be relatively easy if you took the time to mark up the sources and have a detailed outline. Remember to add special consideration and emphasis to the commentary sections of the supporting arguments outlined in your thesis.
PDF STEPS FOR WRITING A SYNTHESIS ESSAY
A synthesis essay uses a variety of sources to form a new idea, answer a question, or defend an argumentative thesis statement. A synthesis does not summarize but shows the connections among the different sources and the writers' ideas. A successful synthesis essay overviews research on the chosen topic, highlights the connections among ...
How to Write a Synthesis Essay
Annotate each source by writing notes in the margins. This allows you to keep track of your train of thought, developing ideas, etc. 4. Develop a thesis statement. Once you have read the sources you are provided with, or have done your own outside research, you will have to come up with an opinion on your topic.
How to Write a Synthesis Essay
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.
300 Unique and Interesting Synthesis Essay Topics
Informative Synthesis Essay Topics. Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture, Health, and Economies. Advancements in Renewable Energy. Solar, Wind, and Hydroelectric Power. Rise of Populism - Global Political Landscape and Implications. Social Media Influence on Political Opinions and Activism. Mental Health Stigma - Cultural Variations and ...
How to Write a Synthesis Essay: Examples, Topics, & Outline
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.
Synthesis Essay
Synthesis essays follow a predictable structure: Introduction, Body, and Conclusion. In the introduction, the writer gives an overview of the topic and presents the thesis or proposed claim of the ...
Demystifying The Synthesis Essay: A Complete Guide
Understanding the synthesis essay concept is essential for mastering the art of essay writing. In this comprehensive guide, we will unravel the intricacies of the synthesis essay, providing you with a step-by-step approach to crafting a compelling and well-structured piece of writing.
13+ Synthesis Essay Examples: Tips & Expert Guidance
Understanding What A Synthesis Essay Is. A synthesis essay is a special kind of academic writing where writers blend ideas and information from various sources to create a clear and organized argument.. Unlike other types of essays, a synthesis essay demands the integration of various perspectives to form a new understanding or insight.. It involves critically examining different sources, and ...
Art 104
Art 104 - Assignment 1: Synthesis Essay. If you have a Study.com College Saver membership and are seeking college credit for this course, you must submit an assignment and pass the proctored final ...
How to Write a Synthesis Essay: Step-by-Step Guide
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.
Synthesizing Sources
This helps you to clearly see the commonalities or points of divergence among your sources. You can then synthesize these sources in your work by explaining their relationship. Example: Synthesis matrix. Lenneberg (1967) Johnson and Newport (1988) Schepens, van Hout, and van der Slik (2022) Approach.
Art Synthesis Essay on 'Art on My Mind'
In Bell Hooks' essay "In Our Glory: Photography and Black Life" from Art On My Mind: Visual Politics, Hooks breaks down the importance of photography within black life and why this activity should be continued to preserve black culture.
449 Good Synthesis Essay Topics: Ideas & Simple Guide
Art and Literature Synthesis Essay Topics. Expressionism in Paintings and Its Reflection in 20th-Century Literature. Artistic Representation of Feminism in Art and Literature. Influence of Surrealism on the Narrative Structures of Postmodern Novels. Portrayal of War in Visual Arts and War Literature.
How to Write a Perfect Synthesis Essay for the AP Language Exam
Paragraph 1: The prompt presents and briefly explains the topic that you'll be writing your synthesis essay about. That topic is the concept of eminent domain. Paragraph 2: The prompt presents a specific claim about the concept of eminent domain in this paragraph: Eminent domain is productive and beneficial.This paragraph instructs you to decide whether you want to defend, challenge, or ...
Art 103
Art 103 - Assignment 1: Synthesis Essay. Julie has a M.D. from the University of Minnesota and a Masters in Teaching from the University of Sioux Falls. She has worked as a pediatrician and has ...
Synthesis Essay: Definition & Example
Synthesis Essay: Definition & Example. The synthesis essay writing process requires curiosity, in-depth research, and a unique perception for debating or elucidating an idea. The art of writing a synthesis essay is technical; it requires a high level of intelligence. Students have to learn synthesis essay writing skills because this is a ...

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

What Is a Synthesis Essay

Explanatory vs. Argumentative Synthesis Essays

Synthesis Essay Structure

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How to Write a Synthesis Essay with Easy Steps

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Synthesis Essay Format

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Elements of a Synthesis Essay

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3. Examples of synthesis essay outlines:

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How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay + Example

What’s Covered:

Step 1: Analyze the Prompt

Step 2: Read the Sources Carefully

Step 3: Write a Strong Thesis Statement

Step 4: Create a Minimal Essay Outline

Step 5: Write your Essay

Here are six must-have tips and tricks to get a good score on the synthesis essay:

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Here is an example prompt and essay from 2019 that received 5 of the 6 total points available:

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How to Write a Synthesis Essay

Step 1. Define Your Idea or Argument

Step 2. Create an Outline

Step 3. Write Your Introduction

Step 4. Write the Body Paragraphs

Step 5. Tie It All Together With a Conclusion

Different Types of Synthesis Essays

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