Guide to Synthesis Essays: How to Write a Synthesis Essay

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

Synthesis essays are commonly written by high school or college students, and often follow the five-paragraph essay structure. Questions or theses that guide a synthesis essay may be based on the writer’s subjective opinion, but they attempt to use objective evidence and external data to argue their point.

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

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

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

1. 1. Introduction: The foundational ideas of your essay are expressed in the introductory paragraph. You will address the general landscape of ideas around your topic, introducing some of your sources. You will also introduce the argument to be made through a thesis statement, which succinctly states your primary argument in a sentence or two. The thesis statement typically comes at the very end of your introductory paragraph.
2. 2. Body: The body of your synthesis essay is usually about three paragraphs long. This typically includes two paragraphs synthesizing your sources in a way that supports your argument, and one paragraph that acknowledges opposing arguments.
3. 3. Conclusion: The conclusion of your synthesis essay reiterates the argument that you’ve made throughout your essay. It may emphasize how each of the points you made and the sources you’ve cited substantiate your point.
4. 4. Bibliography: Depending on the writing style guidelines that you’re working with—whether it be APA, MLA, AP, or Chicago Manual of Style—you will need to include a source list at the end of your paper to properly credit your research sources. This is a list of text citations that typically takes up one to two pages at the end of your paper.

A great synthesis essay walks readers through a series of ideas and sources to prove or explain a larger point. Follow this step-by-step guide for writing your essay.

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

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