A synthesis essay explains what several sources reveal together about a question. Plan by theme so that the relationship between sources stays visible.
A practical starting point
Look for differences in definitions or methods before treating findings as contradictions. Use the comparison to develop your own supported position.
Understand the task
A synthesis essay brings sources into a discussion of one question. Read for relationships: agreement, disagreement, differing assumptions and missing evidence. Your role is to explain what those relationships mean.
Develop the reasoning
Plan around themes rather than source order. A paragraph may draw on several texts to examine one issue. Make clear which idea belongs to which author and where your own interpretation begins.
Use evidence carefully
Compare the quality and relevance of the evidence. Sources may appear to disagree because they use different definitions, methods or settings. Explain those differences before deciding whether their conclusions are incompatible.
Review the finished work
End with a position supported by the combined discussion. Synthesis is more than a collage of quotations; the finished essay should offer a coherent answer that no single source provides on its own.
Before you submit
- Check the brief and marking criteria for this task.
- Confirm the source and date of each factual claim.
- Review the argument before making the final language checks.
- Keep the final file and any submission confirmation.
Support for UK students
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