synthesis essay example pdf

Synthesis Essay

A Synthesis Essay is a sophisticated form of writing that requires the integration of various sources and perspectives. Our resource provides a comprehensive look into this writing style, complete with insightful essay examples . These examples demonstrate how to effectively combine information from different texts, crafting a cohesive and well-argued narrative. Ideal for students and professionals alike, this guide will help you master the art of synthesizing diverse viewpoints into a single, compelling argument in your essays.

What is a Synthesis Essay?

A synthesis essay is a written discussion that draws on one or more sources. It involves combining information from various sources to make a cohesive argument or presentation on a specific topic. This type of essay requires the writer to analyze information, derive insights, and present them in a structured and coherent manner. The key to a successful synthesis essay is not just summarizing the sources but integrating them to create a new perspective or argument. Writers must cite their sources accurately, showing how each piece of information contributes to and supports their thesis or main argument. Synthesis essays are common assignments in academic settings, especially in higher education, testing students’ abilities to research, evaluate, synthesize complex information, and articulate their findings effectively.

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Essays depict the standpoints of a writer on a certain topic or issue. An essay often presents a point and either convinces a reader to agree or disagree to a certain subject matter. An effective essay does what it is intended to do when a reader is convinced of the writer’s stand point. Common college essays include writing a synthesis essay. Examples of synthesis essay can be found in the page and made available for your reference. The examples can also be downloaded via the download link button below the sample in order to get a closer look.

Synthesis involves combining different pieces of information to form a cohesive understanding. For instance, if you gather insights from various experts about the impact of climate change and weave them into a comprehensive article or report, you are performing synthesis. This process is distinct from merely summarizing since it requires critical thinking to integrate ideas and form new connections, rather than just listing details or differences like in comparison and contrast.

Synthesis Essay Structure

It helps in presenting your argument clearly and persuasively. Here’s a typical structure for a synthesis essay:

Introduction

Hook: Start with an engaging sentence to grab the reader’s attention. Background Information: Provide some context or background for the topic you will be discussing. Thesis Statement: Present your main argument or position on the topic, clearly stating how the different sources will support your thesis.

Body Paragraphs

Each body paragraph should focus on a specific point or aspect of your thesis, integrating multiple sources to support each point.

Topic Sentence: Introduce the main idea of the paragraph that supports your thesis. Evidence and Analysis: Include information from your sources as evidence to back up your point. This could be quotations, summaries, or paraphrased material. Analyze the evidence, showing how it supports your argument. Synthesis: Discuss how the evidence from different sources relates to each other and to your thesis. This is where you combine (synthesize) the information to build your argument. Concluding Sentence: Summarize the main point of the paragraph and how it supports your overall thesis.

Counterarguments (Optional)

Consider including a paragraph that addresses potential counterarguments or opposing views. Refute these arguments and show how your thesis still stands.

Summary: Briefly summarize the key points you made in your body paragraphs. Thesis Restatement: Restate your thesis in a new way, reflecting the insights and arguments developed in your essay. Final Thoughts: Offer some final thoughts on the topic, possibly suggesting areas for further research or implications of your argument.

Include a list of all sources cited in your essay, formatted according to the required academic style guide (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

How to Write a Synthesis Essay

Writing a synthesis essay involves gathering information from various sources and merging these insights to support a central thesis or argument. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Understand the Prompt

Clarify the Task: Ensure you fully understand the essay prompt or assignment requirements. Know what type of synthesis essay you are writing (explanatory or argumentative).
Identify the Main Ideas: Determine what themes or ideas you need to explore based on the prompt.

Conduct Research

Gather Sources: Collect relevant sources that provide information on your topic. These can include academic papers, books, articles, and credible online resources.
Evaluate Sources: Assess the credibility and relevance of each source to your topic.

Develop a Thesis Statement

Formulate a Clear Argument: Based on your research, craft a thesis statement that encapsulates the main argument or perspective your essay will support.

Create an Outline

Organize Your Points: Plan the structure of your essay, deciding how you will integrate information from your sources to support your thesis.
Outline Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a specific point or piece of evidence related to your thesis. Determine how you will synthesize information from different sources for each point.

Revise and Proofread

Review Your Work: Check for clarity, coherence, and logical flow. Ensure each part of your essay effectively contributes to supporting your thesis.
Proofread: Correct any grammatical, spelling, or punctuation errors. Make sure your citations and references are formatted correctly.

Cite Your Sources

Follow Formatting Guidelines: Use the appropriate academic style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.) to cite your sources within the text and in a bibliography or works cited page.

10+ Synthesis Essay Samples

Synthesis Essay on Climate Change
Synthesis Essay on Death
Synthesis Essay on Education
Synthesis Essay on Environment
Synthesis Essay on Food
Synthesis Essay on Gender Inequality
Synthesis Essay on Internet
Synthesis Essay on Social Media
Synthesis Essay on Technology
Synthesis Essay on Unemployment

10+ Synthesis Essay Examples

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What is the Purpose of a Synthesis Essay?

Synthesis essays are used in different papers. Point is, a synthesis essay is used in creating a relationship between different sources and getting supplemental information from them to support the writer’s view point or make a coherent plan or proposal templates .

Essay examples in doc seen on the page offer more information regarding an essay. They are made available for your review by clicking on the individual link buttons under each sample.

Tips for Writing the Synthesis Essay

Writing a synthesis essay is a pivotal skill for students, particularly in high school and college. This type of essay goes beyond simple summarization and requires critical thinking, a skill essential in essay writing. Here are some key tips to help students craft an effective synthesis essay:

Understand Your Sources : It’s crucial to thoroughly read and understand your sources. As a student essay , your synthesis essay should reflect a deep engagement with the materials, providing a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
Develop a Strong Thesis Statement : The foundation of your essay is the thesis statement. It should clearly convey your central argument or perspective, integrating the various themes and ideas from your sources. In high school essay writing, a well-defined thesis is particularly important as it guides the structure and flow of your argument.
Organize Your Essay Effectively : Structure your essay in a clear, logical manner. Start with an introduction that includes your thesis statement , followed by body paragraphs that explore your main points, and conclude with a summary that reinforces your thesis.
Balance Your Sources : Synthesize the information from your sources in a way that provides a balanced perspective. Your synthesis essay should not just list points from each source but rather integrate them into a coherent argument.
Use Evidence to Support Your Argument : Back up your claims with evidence from your sources. This will strengthen your argument and demonstrate your understanding of the material.
Maintain a Formal and Objective Tone : A synthesis essay, particularly in an academic setting, should be written in a formal and objective tone. Avoid using first-person pronouns and keep your language professional.
Cite Your Sources Appropriately : Proper citation is crucial in academic essay writing to avoid plagiarism. Make sure to follow the appropriate format for citations, whether it’s APA, MLA, or another style.
Revise and Edit : After completing your essay, take the time to revise and edit. This includes checking for grammatical errors, ensuring your argument flows logically, and verifying that your thesis statement is clearly supported throughout the essay.

How Long Should a Synthesis Essay Take?

The time to write a synthesis essay varies, typically ranging from several hours to a few days. This includes time for research, planning, writing, and revising. Effective time management and early start can help streamline the process.

Should You Use “I” in a Synthesis Essay?

Generally, avoid using “I” in a synthesis essay, especially in academic settings. Aim for an objective tone by presenting evidence and analysis without personal bias. Exceptions may apply if personal reflection or perspective is explicitly requested.

How Do I Write a Good Synthesis Essay?

Writing a good synthesis essay involves thorough research, understanding your sources, creating a strong thesis, organizing your points logically, and synthesizing evidence from various sources to support your argument. Clear writing and proper citation are also crucial.

How Do You Start a Synthesis Essay?

Start a synthesis essay with an engaging hook, followed by brief background information on your topic. Clearly state your thesis, outlining the main argument or perspective your essay will support, setting the stage for your synthesis.

Is It Okay to Use First-Person in a Synthesis Essay?

Using first-person in a synthesis essay is generally discouraged in formal academic writing. It’s better to maintain an objective tone. However, if the assignment guidelines allow or if reflecting on personal experience, it may be acceptable.

Do You Directly Quote in a Synthesis Essay?

Yes, you can directly quote in a synthesis essay to support your points, but do so sparingly. Focus on synthesizing information by paraphrasing and analyzing evidence from your sources. Ensure all quotes are properly cited according to the required citation style.

In conclusion, synthesis essays are key in developing critical thinking and analytical skills. For further guidance on writing synthesis essays, Colorado State University provides an in-depth guide , which can be accessed here. This resource offers valuable insights into the process of synthesizing information from diverse sources.

Synthesis Essay Generator

Text prompt

Instructive
Professional

Write a Synthesis Essay on the integration of technology in education.

Create a Synthesis Essay comparing different leadership styles.

Analyze the impact of technology on education through synthesis.

Synthesize views on climate change from multiple sources.

Compare traditional vs. online learning in a synthesis essay.

Discuss the role of social media in politics synthesis.

Explore mental health effects of social isolation via synthesis.

Evaluate renewable energy sources' viability in a synthesis essay.

Synthesize historical perspectives on women's rights movement.

Examine the effects of globalization on culture through synthesis.

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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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.

Choose Your Test

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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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.

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How to Write an Outline for Synthesis Essay, Step by Step

You want to know how to build an outline for synthesis essay. Here’s how it works:

Outlining is the initial step to crafting a high-quality, A-worthy paper. If you miss this element, you risk losing focus and flow. More than that, you can’t generate an argumentative, logical, and close-knit essay without it.

This article won’t let it happen.

Keep reading to reveal actionable tips on outline writing. You’ll know what to include in each paragraph and how to structure it for better results.

Bonus for the most avid readers: A free PDF template for outlining synthesis essays.

What Is a Synthesis Essay Outline?

Think of it as a table of contents you’ll expand in your work. Outlines serve to organize essays and regulate their elements for a stellar presentation.

Why design an outline for synthesis essays?

Systemize the sources and decide on the claims to use in every paragraph.
Organize the claims and prescribe evidence for each.
Focus on the writing process, preventing the writer’s block. (It’s when you stare at the screen and don’t know what to write next.)
Ensure you’ve included all the info and introduced it logically.
Structure a paper in advance to save time and write faster.

Whether you work on an AP lang essay or craft an expository essay in college, outlining is a must. It organizes arguments and evidence so you don’t forget anything while writing.

Before outlining

Synthesis essays are about analyzing several sources to establish an original thesis. So, before you sit and craft an outline, do research and decide on the sources you’ll synthesize.

Focus on those related to your topic.
Consider solid resources: latest studies, research papers, books , academic journals, etc.
Analyze each to derive core points.

You’ll apply the resources to support your thesis throughout an essay. Ensure they have solid evidence so you can incorporate it into your paper. Decide on the facts, quotes, and examples to cover in every paragraph as proof of your claim.

How to Make an Outline for the Synthesis Essay

Below is the template you can try, with an introduction, body, and conclusion as main parts of the outline used for a synthesis essay (1).

Download a free PDF version here

And now, to the details to include in every paragraph.

1. State a Thesis

Synthesis essays aren’t about summarizing. You need to analyze at least three — and generate a new, your own thesis based on them. The synthesized sources will be the evidence to prove your thesis. They will support the arguments you’ll use in favor of your claim.

With that in mind, state a thesis for your essay in the outline.

Once you have it, you’ll know how to underline the arguments and evidence in paragraphs.

Check a thesis example on “Is the spread of fake news a problem?”

And that’s a thesis example for an essay on “The American Dream: Is it still achievable?”

With a ready thesis statement, you can deal with the outline for a synthesis essay.

2. S tructure an Introductory Paragraph

The must-have ingredients of an essay introduction are:

Think of a compelling sentence to start your essay. It’s a hook to grab the reader’s attention and motivate them to keep reading. Use a question, a quote, a fact, etc.

After that, introduce the context. It’s background information on your topic where you mention the sources you’ll use.

The final 1-2 sentences go to a thesis. State your position and provide the arguments that show why you have it. (You’ll expand those arguments in the essay body.)

3. Organize Body Paragraphs

The number of paragraphs in your essay body depends on how many sources you’ll synthesize. Formal tips for synthesis writing prescribe at least three resources, which means you’ll include three body paragraphs in your paper.

Each one needs the following info to cover:

A topic sentence explaining your argument (Think of a new claim for each paragraph.)
Evidence from the source that supports your topic sentence
Elaboration that clarifies how that evidence supports your claim

If you have several sources supporting your argument, you can mention them all in a paragraph.

In a synthesis essay outline, note a claim and evidence for every paragraph.

4. Mention a Rebuttal

One paragraph of your synthesis essay should cover an opposing view that challenges your position. Outline it as follows:

State an alternative point to your argument; provide evidence to back up that view.
Provide your counterargument to that view. Why is it not as valid as yours? Highlight your position on the topic.
Share evidence to prove the opposing point is wrong.

Write about the rebuttal in the fourth body paragraph. If you follow a standard 5-paragraph structure, use two sections for your claims and one — for a counterargument to your claims. The other two remain for an intro and a conclusion.

5. Write a Conclusion

Summarize the points and restate your thesis to maintain your position. Finish your essay with a recommendation or a call to action for readers.

This final statement is a so-called big idea behind your paper. Leave readers with the food for thought. You can encourage them to continue investigating the topic to learn more and build their own attitude.

Outline for a Synthesis Essay: Example

This sample is here to give you an idea of what to write in every section. Please don’t copy it for your papers. It’s a sample for informative purposes.

Let’s say you write a synthesis essay, “Is the spread of fake news a problem?”

Here’s what the outline might be:

I used some writing tools to assist me with this outline creation. You can do the same, but ensure to adjust and polish the outline to your position and needs.

Synthesis Essay Outline: Write Yours!

Now you know the components to cover in your outline for a synthesis essay. It’s time to practice and write one for your future paper!

Consider the provided template.
Use the given sample for inspiration.
Follow the structure and ensure to mention all the details.
Organize your arguments and evidence; oppose a counterargument.
Think of a memorable conclusion for readers.

Your outline is a plan. Once you have it, you’ll write an A-worthy synthesis essay faster, whether AP lang or general.

References:

https://dcdc.coe.hawaii.edu/ltec/612/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Synthesis-Essay-Instructions-and-Worksheets.pdf
Essay samples
Essay writing
Writing tips

173+ AP Lang Synthesis Essay Examples, Topics, and Samples

Dec 4, 2023 | 0 comments

Dec 4, 2023 | Blog | 0 comments

Curious about mastering the art of essay writing? Have you ever wondered how to weave information from different sources into your essays seamlessly? Look no further than synthesis essay examples! In essay writing , a synthesis essay requires you to do more than summarize information; it challenges you to synthesize information from various sources to support your argument or thesis. But what exactly does that mean? It combines insights from different sources to create a cohesive and persuasive narrative. Picture it as a recipe where you blend various ingredients to cook up a successful synthesis essay. But hold on, you might wonder, what makes a synthesis paper different from an argumentative essay ? It’s all about using information from multiple sources to build your case. What is the key ingredient for a successful synthesis essay? Credible sources. So, let’s dive into the world of synthesis essay examples and uncover the secrets to crafting an A-grade essay.

What is the AP Lang Synthesis Essay?

So, what’s the scoop on the AP Lang Synthesis Essay? Think of it as the ninja move of academic writing. Should you accept it, your mission is to blend information from different sources to create a seamless essay. But, you might ask, how do I do this? Fear not! Start by picking a juicy topic or issue. Then, summon your inner detective to find credible sources. Next, write a strong thesis statement – your essay’s North Star. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some citations as you weave in information. The result? A top-notch synthesis essay that’s bound to impress!

Types of synthesis essay?

Explanatory Synthesis Essays: Ever wanted to demystify a complex topic? This type is your go-to. It’s like explaining the wizardry behind a magic trick. Break down the details and make it crystal clear for your readers.
Argumentative Synthesis Essays: Ready to throw some punches (verbally, of course)? This type lets you take a stance on an issue and defend it with a mighty sword – your arguments. It’s like being a superhero for your chosen cause.
Review Synthesis Essays: Picture yourself as a movie critic. In this type, you’ll be reviewing various sources on a topic. Think of it as evaluating films; instead, you’re critiquing ideas.
Literature Synthesis Essays: Love books? This one’s for you. It’s like creating a literary masterpiece by combining ideas from different sources to analyze a specific piece of literature.

Explanatory vs. Argumentative Synthesis Essays: Key Differences

1. Synthesis Essay Definition: Before we dive in, what’s a synthesis essay, you ask? It’s like the Avengers of Essays – a powerful combination of information from different sources to create a superb essay. Think of it as crafting a perfect blend, a synthesis paper that speaks volumes.

2. Explanatory Synthesis Essays: Have you ever tried to unravel the mysteries of a mind-boggling topic? That’s what explanatory synthesis is all about. It’s like being the detective of essays, breaking down complex ideas to make them crystal clear. You’re not arguing; you’re unveiling the secrets.

3. Argumentative Synthesis Essays: Now, imagine you’re in a heated debate – that’s an argumentative synthesis for you. It’s not just about explaining; it’s about taking a stand and defending it with a clear thesis and various sources. You’re the lawyer, and your sources are your strong evidence.

Now, the burning question – how do they differ?

Explanatory vs. Argumentative Synthesis Essays: Key Differences:

Purpose: Explanatory synthesis essays aim to illuminate a topic, like turning on a flashlight in a dark room. You’re giving information, not trying to convince anyone. On the other hand, argumentative synthesis essays are your verbal boxing ring. You’re in to win, persuade, and make your case.
Tone: Picture this – explanatory synthesis is your friendly tour guide, making the journey enjoyable. It’s about presenting facts without a hint of confrontation. Argumentative synthesis, however, is your debater in a suit, ready to counter any opposing views. It’s assertive like a boss making a point.
Use of Sources: Explanatory synthesis leans on sources to explain and illuminate the topic. It’s about gathering information. Argumentative synthesis, on the other hand, utilizes sources as ammunition. You’re not just explaining; you’re using your sources to strengthen your argument.

How to Write a Synthesis Essay – Ap Lang

1. Understand the Synthesis Essay: What’s this creature called a synthesis essay? It’s your chance to combine ideas from different sources and create a harmonious essay orchestra. Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty.

2. Start Strong with a Clear Thesis: Have you ever heard the saying, “Begin as you mean to go on”? Well, it applies here. Your thesis is your essay’s heartbeat – make it clear, concise, and strong. It’s like planting a flag, telling your readers, “This is where we’re going!”

3. Gather a Variety of Sources: Imagine you’re making a pizza; you need different toppings, right? The same goes for your essay – gather information from various sources. It’s the secret sauce for a delectable synthesis essay.

4. Cite Like a Pro: You wouldn’t wear mismatched shoes, right? Similarly, your essay needs to be well-dressed with citations. Use a consistent citation style (like MLA format ) – it’s like giving proper credit for borrowed brilliance.

5. Weave Sources into Your Writing: How do you use those sources? It’s not a sprinkle; it’s a blend. Integrate them smoothly into your paragraphs, creating a seamless narrative. It’s like making a smoothie – everything should mix well.

6. Write a Strong Body Paragraph: Each paragraph is like a mini-essay. Start with a topic sentence , add supporting details, and connect it all back to your thesis. Think of it as building blocks – each one strengthens your argument.

7. Craft a Killer Conclusion: How do you wrap it up? Summarize your main points, restate your thesis (but don’t copy-paste), and leave your readers with something to ponder. It’s like the grand finale of a fireworks show – memorable and impactful.

8. Revise and Polish: Writing is rewriting. Read your essay, and ask yourself, “Does it flow? Is my argument clear?” It’s like sculpting a masterpiece – refine until it gleams.

9. Ask for Feedback: Feeling a bit lost? Don’t hesitate to share your essay with a friend, teacher, or pet parrot. Fresh eyes can catch things you might have missed.

10. Embrace the Writing Process: Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a stellar synthesis essay. Be patient, iterate, and learn from each draft. It’s like leveling up in a video game – each attempt strengthens you.

Synthesis Essay Format

1. Introduction Magic: Begin with a bang! Start with a catchy hook, give some context, and, most importantly, drop that clear thesis statement like it’s hot. Think of it as the movie trailer – it sets the tone.

2. Body Paragraph Brilliance: Each paragraph is a powerhouse. Start with a topic sentence, add supporting details, and tie it back to your thesis. It’s like building a strong case, one paragraph at a time.

3. Source Integration Smoothness: How do you use your gathered sources? Blend them seamlessly into your paragraphs. It’s like making a smoothie – you want all the flavors to mix just right.

4. Citation Charm: Every borrowed idea needs a shoutout. Use a consistent citation style, like the AP Synthesis Essay Format. It’s your way of saying, “Hey, this genius came from here!”

5. Conclusion Prowess: Don’t fizzle out – finish strong! Summarize your main points, restate that killer thesis (but not word-for-word), and leave your readers thinking. It’s the mic drop moment of your essay.

6. Proofread Like a Pro: Give your essay a once-over before hitting the submit button. Typos, be gone! It’s like polishing your masterpiece until it sparkles.

Synthesis Essay Outline

I. Introduction: A. Hook – Grab your reader’s attention. It could be a surprising fact, a quote, or a thought-provoking question. B. Background – Provide some context on the topic so your reader isn’t left scratching their head. C. Thesis Statement – The star of the show! Clearly state your main argument or stance on the topic.

II. Body Paragraphs (typically three or more): A. Topic Sentence – Each paragraph should start with a clear sentence stating the main point. B. Support and Synthesis – Dive into your sources. Integrate them smoothly and explain how they support your point. C. Transition – Link your ideas together, creating a flow between paragraphs.

III. Counterargument (if required): A. Acknowledge opposing views briefly. B. Refute – Politely disagree and explain why your stance is stronger.

IV. Conclusion: A. Summarize Main Points – Recap your key arguments without introducing new info. B. Restate Thesis – Do it freshly, not a copy-paste job. C. Closing Statement – Leave your reader with something to ponder or a call to action.

V. Citations: A. Make sure to cite your sources using the required format (e.g., MLA).

VI. Proofreading: A. Read through your essay with a critical eye. Check for clarity and coherence, and fix any pesky typos.

How do you write a synthesis essay structure?

Let’s crack the code to crafting a winning synthesis essay with the proper structure. Think of it as building a sturdy house – each part plays a crucial role.

1. Foundation: Introduction: Have you ever started conversing without a greeting? Your introduction is like a friendly “hello” to your readers. Hook them in, provide background on your topic, and unveil that powerful thesis statement.

2. Framing: Body Paragraphs Your body paragraphs are the pillars holding up your essay. Each one tackles a different aspect of your argument. Start with a strong topic sentence, add supporting details, and tie it back to the main point.

3. Connecting Beams: Transitions How do you ensure your essay flows smoothly? Transitions are the secret sauce. They’re like bridges connecting your ideas, making the journey easy for your readers.

4. Roof: Conclusion You wouldn’t leave a house without a roof, right? Your conclusion wraps it all up. Summarize your main points, restate that thesis (with a twist), and leave your readers with something to ponder.

5. Finishing Touch: Citations It’s like giving credit where credit is due. Use the required citation style – it’s the cherry on top for a perfect synthesis essay.

Tips for Writing an Effective Synthesis Essay

1. Know Your Topic: Have you ever tried explaining something you didn’t understand? Exactly! Get a solid understanding of your topic before diving in. It’s like having a treasure map – you can’t find the gold without knowing where to dig.

2. Gather Diverse Sources: Variety is the spice of a sound synthesis. Grab information from different sources like articles, books, or reliable websites. It’s like having a buffet of ideas to play with.

3. Develop a Clear Thesis: Your thesis is your North Star. Make it clear and strong, guiding your readers through your essay. It’s like having a roadmap – everyone knows where they’re headed.

4. Integrate Sources Smoothly: Have you ever had a conversation that felt forced? Don’t let your essay sound like that. Blend your sources seamlessly into your writing. It’s like making a smoothie – everything should mix well.

5. Organize Your Thoughts: No one likes a messy room. Organize your essay logically. Each paragraph should connect like pieces of a puzzle. It’s like creating order in chaos.

6. Revise and Polish: Writing is rewriting. Read your essay, and ask yourself, “Does it flow? Is my argument clear?” It’s like polishing your essay until it sparkles.

Synthesis Essay Topics – Examples

Impact of Technology on Human Communication
Environmental Conservation: Balancing Progress and Preservation
The Role of Social Media in Shaping Public Opinion
Exploring the Link Between Education and Economic Development
Healthcare Reforms: Evaluating Policies for a Healthier Society
The Influence of Literature on Social Change
Addressing Climate Change: Global Strategies for a Sustainable Future
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Job Market
Analyzing Cultural Diversity in Modern Society
The Intersection of Ethics and Biotechnology
The Effects of Globalization on Traditional Cultures
Government Surveillance: Striking a Balance Between Security and Privacy
Examining the Connection Between Poverty and Education
The Role of Women in the Workplace: Breaking Glass Ceilings
Youth Activism in the 21st Century: Voices for Change

Explanatory Essay Sample

Synthesis essay examples, get help with your synthesis essay paper.

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How do you write a good synthesis essay?

To write a good synthesis essay, start by understanding your topic thoroughly, gathering diverse sources, developing a clear thesis, integrating sources smoothly, and organizing your thoughts logically. Revision and polishing are key for a stellar result.

What is a good example of synthesis?

A good example of synthesis is blending information from different sources to create a cohesive and well-supported argument in your essay. It’s like combining various ingredients to cook up a perfect dish.

What is an example of a synthesis in academic writing?

In academic writing, a synthesis occurs when you combine information from multiple sources to support a central thesis or argument. It’s like weaving a tapestry of ideas to present a comprehensive view on a particular topic.

What is an example of a synthesis question?

A synthesis question might ask you to analyze and integrate information from various sources to form a cohesive response. For instance, “Incorporate evidence from the provided articles to argue your stance on climate change.”

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Synthesis Essay Materials
Find two sample synthesis essay questions and scoring guidelines from the AP English Language and Composition Exam. Download the questions and responses as PDF files and learn how to synthesize information from various sources.
Synthesis Essay
A synthesis essay is a written discussion that draws on one or more sources. It involves combining information from various sources to make a cohesive argument or presentation on a specific topic. This type of essay requires the writer to analyze information, derive insights, and present them in a structured and coherent manner.
PDF Writing a Synthesis Essay
A synthesis is a written discussion incorporating support from several sources of differing views. This type of assignment requires that you examine a variety of sources and identify their relationship to your thesis. 2. Synthesis is used in: • Analysis papers to examine related theories. • For example a comparison between the theories of ...
PDF Creating Effective Synthesis Essays
Synthesis is the process of integrating outside sources into your essay in order to enhance the quality of the writing, provide credible evidence for your claims, and to better meet the needs of your audience. The skills used to integrate outside sources are summary, paraphrase and quotation. To create effective synthesis essays, follow these ...
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 ...
Well-Written Synthesis Essay Examples
Learn how to write a synthesis essay with examples and guidelines. Find out how to choose a topic, create a thesis, gather research, and format your paper in MLA or APA style.
PDF AP English Language and Composition Synthesis Essay Sample Student
AP®English Language and Composition Synthesis Essay Sample Student Responses. The College Board: Connecting Students to College Success. The College Board is a not-for-profit membership association whose mission is to connect students to college success and opportunity. Founded in 1900, the association is composed of more than 5,000 schools ...
How to Write a Synthesis Essay: The Ultimate Handbook
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.
How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay + Example
Learn how to write a synthesis essay for the AP Lang exam by following five steps: analyze the prompt, read the sources, write a thesis, create an outline, and write your essay. See an example of a well-written synthesis essay and tips to improve your score.
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.
PDF AP English Language and Composition
Sample 1A (1 of 1) There is a debate on whether Urban rewilding is the next step to ecological restoration, as its goal is to restore natural processes and habitats in more urban areas. Rewilding is a worthwhile, beneficial approach to preserving nature, as well as implementing it into more city environments.
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 ...
PDF Synthesis Essay Instructions and Worksheets
First, read the Introduction to Topic in the Synthesis Essay Assessment with Sources packet to determine the topic and task. Then, carefully read through each source in the packet and complete the Annotation Worksheet for each source. Next, use your annotations to complete the Brainstorming Worksheet to determine the position you want to argue ...
PDF WRITING ABOUT LITERATURE SYNTHESIS ESSAY Grade 12
weakest evidence. Only the strongest evidence will be used in your essay outline. WRITING A LITERARY ANALYSIS (SYNTHESIS ESSAY) Now that you have the evidence, your job is to construct a well -formed argument (in the form of a literary analysis) in the same way that a lawyer must build a case to defend a client. ALWAYS, ALWAYS, OUTLINE YOUR ESSAY!
PDF Creating Effective Synthesis Essays
Synthesis is the process of integrating outside sources into your essay in order to enhance the quality of the writing, provide credible evidence for your claims, and to better meet the needs of your audience. The skills used to integrate outside sources are summary, paraphrase and quotation. To create effective synthesis
PDF Writing Lab www.bellevuecollege.edu/asc/writing
Before Writing Your Synthesis 1. Narrow a broad or general topic to a specific topic: In a short essay, completely covering a large topic is impossible, so picking a specific, focused topic is important. For example, the broad topic of climate change would need to
Writing the Synthesis Essay in Two Parts Part 2: Using the Sources
Writing the Synthesis Essay in Two Parts. Part 2: Using the Sources . This question requires you to choose a side of an issue and write an argument that is supported with evidence from a variety of sources. Your argument should be the most significant part of the essay and the sources should merely support this argument. Do not merely paraphrase or
PDF SYNTHESIS ESSAY EXAMPLE
SYNTHESIS ESSAY EXAMPLE. Essay Title: How does a Small Shop Survive in this Global-Era? Globalization has resulted in a growing number of smaller shops paving way for mega shopping destinations. Walmart is one of the fine examples, as their existence has resulted in many small shops going out of business. However, is this really the truth?
13+ Synthesis Essay Examples: Tips & Expert Guidance
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 ...
PDF Synthesis Essay Example
The big chains simply do not have the time or understanding of the local requirements and this is where the local shop can step in. In the future, this may become the only alternative for the local business. #2. Let us take a look at the second synthesis essay example.
Outline for Synthesis Essay: PDF Template and Example
How to Make an Outline for the Synthesis Essay. Below is the template you can try, with an introduction, body, and conclusion as main parts of the outline used for a synthesis essay (1). Download a free PDF version here. And now, to the details to include in every paragraph. 1.
173+ Synthesis Essay Examples : Master The Art Of Writing
Don't hesitate to share your essay with a friend, teacher, or pet parrot. Fresh eyes can catch things you might have missed. 10. Embrace the Writing Process: Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a stellar synthesis essay. Be patient, iterate, and learn from each draft.

Synthesis Essay

What is a Synthesis Essay?

Synthesis Essay Structure

Introduction

Body Paragraphs

Counterarguments (Optional)

How to Write a Synthesis Essay

Understand the Prompt

Conduct Research

Develop a Thesis Statement

Create an Outline

Revise and Proofread

Cite Your Sources

10+ Synthesis Essay Samples

10+ Synthesis Essay Examples

College Synthesis Essay

High School Synthesis Essay

Student Synthesis Essay

Practice Synthesis Example

Synthesis Essay Outline

Poetry Synthesis Essay Sample

Argumentative Synthesis

Explanatory Essay Sample

Technology Synthesis

What is the Purpose of a Synthesis Essay?

Tips for Writing the Synthesis Essay

How Long Should a Synthesis Essay Take?

Should You Use “I” in a Synthesis Essay?

How Do I Write a Good Synthesis Essay?

How Do You Start a Synthesis Essay?

Is It Okay to Use First-Person in a Synthesis Essay?

Do You Directly Quote in a Synthesis Essay?

Synthesis Essay Generator

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

Choosing a Synthesis Essay Topic

How to Write a Synthesis Essay with Easy Steps

Ready to Transform Your Synthesis Essay from Bland to Grand?

Synthesis Essay Format

Synthesis Essay Example

Synthesis Essay Tips

Concluding Thoughts

Want an Essay that Sings, Sparkles, and Stuns?

How Should You Conclude a Synthesis Essay?

What are your chances of acceptance?

Your chancing factors

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:

Discover your chances at hundreds of schools

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

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Choose Your Test

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

Full Breakdown of a Real AP Lang Synthesis Essay Prompt

Step 1: Analyze the Prompt

Step 2: Read the Sources Carefully

Step 3: Write a Strong Thesis Statement

Step 4: Create a Bare-Bones Essay Outline

Step 5: Draft Your Essay Response

Real-Life AP Synthesis Essay Example and Analysis

Example Synthesis Essay AP Lang Response

Thesis Development

Evidence and Commentary

Sophistication of Thought

4 Tips for How to Write a Synthesis Essay

Tip 1: Read the Prompt First

Tip 2: Make Notes While You Read

Tip 3: Start With the Thesis Statement

Tip 4: Focus on Your Commentary

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