Combining Sources for a Strong Argument

Synthesis essays ask you to pull together information from multiple sources and use them to support a central argument. It's like building a puzzle from different pieces—each source adds something new.

Steps to Synthesis

1. Read and Annotate: Identify the main ideas in each source.
2. Find Connections: Look for points where sources agree, disagree, or complement each other.
3. Develop a Thesis: Create a central claim that goes beyond any single source.
4. Use Evidence Wisely: Integrate quotes, paraphrases, and summaries to support your points.

Tips

• Always cite your sources, even when paraphrasing.
• Avoid simply summarizing each source—combine and contrast their ideas.

Synthesis is a real-world skill used in research papers, business proposals, and collaborative projects.