How To Craft A Synthesis Essay – A Guide with Example

A synthesis essay is a type of academic writing or essay that requires you to gather data, information, and evidence from multiple sources and combine them into one idea and form a unified argument. Simply put, the writer synthesises their own idea by using the work of different research sources. 

Unlike other types of essays that focus on one source to present their arguments, a synthesis essay takes support from different sources with differing views. 

Here is a synthesis essay template that you can view or download:

Synthesis Essay Example

Here is an example of a synthesis essay on the topic: 

“Does Social Media Improve or Harm Human Connection?”

“Are we more connected than ever, or more alone than before? Social media was designed to bring people together, but rising loneliness rates suggest otherwise. While platforms allow instant communication, they may also reduce the depth of real relationships. This essay argues that social media both connects and isolates, and its impact depends on how it is used. 

Social media makes global communication instant. Pew Research Centre (2021) found that 81% of teens feel more connected to friends online. Boyd (2014) also notes that platforms create “networked publics” where people share experiences. For families and friends separated by distance, this is invaluable. Yet, easy access does not always equal meaningful connection.

Heavy use of social media often reduces real-world interactions. Turkle (2015) argues that it decreases empathy during conversations, while Primack et al. (2017) link high usage to social isolation. This suggests that while people may gain more “friends”, they lose the intimacy of in-person exchanges.

The effect on mental health further complicates the issue. Twenge (2019) links high social media use to rising anxiety, while Naslund et al. (2016) highlight benefits for those finding support online. These findings show that social media is neither entirely harmful nor entirely beneficial; it depends on context and moderation.

Some argue that social media builds strong communities, as seen in global movements like #MeToo. However, Gladwell (2010) points out that these are often “weak ties” that fail to translate into long-term offline support. Online unity may spark change, but it rarely replaces personal bonds.

Social media is both a tool of connection and disconnection. Evidence shows it increases access to networks, but often at the cost of deeper relationships. The key lies in balance, using digital platforms to complement, not replace, real-life connections.

References 

• Boyd, Danah. It’s Complicated: The Social Lives of Networked Teens. Yale UP, 2014.
• Gladwell, Malcolm. “Small Change: Why the Revolution Will Not Be Tweeted”. The New Yorker, 2010.
• Pew Research Centre. Teens, Social Media & Technology. 2021.
• Turkle, Sherry. Reclaiming Conversation. Penguin, 2015.
• Twenge, Jean M. iGen. Atria Books, 2019.
• Naslund, J. A., et al. “Peer-to-Peer Support and Social Media”. Psychiatric Services, 2016.
• Primack, Brian A., et al. “Social Media Use and Perceived Social Isolation”. AJPM, 2017.

Types of a Synthesis Essay

In addition, there are two types of synthesis essays: explanatory and argumentative synthesis essays. 

Synthesis Essay Structure

Here is the structure that is followed to write a synthesis essay:

• Introduction

You must start the introduction of an essay with a hook statement, an interesting fact or a question to engage the readers and grab their attention. 

You can provide background information on your chosen essay topic or the problem you are addressing. This helps readers get an idea of what they can expect in your essay. This also establishes the relevance of your essay. 

Additionally, you have to present a strong thesis statement in the introductory paragraph and clearly state your main argument or the purpose of the essay.

• Body Paragraphs

Each body paragraph should focus on a specific theme or point supporting your thesis. Let us break it down: 

• Topic Sentence: Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that states your main argument or idea of the paragraph. 
• Evidence: This is where you present the information of evidence that you have collected, with case studies or examples that support your claims. 
• Analysis: Explain how the evidence or findings support your argument by careful analysis. You can highlight their strengths and weaknesses to provide a well-structured argument. 
• Connection: You must link each paragraph smoothly with the other so that a connection is established between them. Always use transitions to maintain the flow of your synthesis essay.

• Counterargument & Rebuttal

You can provide counterarguments or opposing views to show a detailed understanding of the topic. You can also refute counterarguments with solid evidence to make your position stronger.

• Conclusion

Lastly, you need to summarise all your main points in a unified manner and clearly state your argument or stance in the essay. Restate your thesis in the conclusion in a new way and offer final thoughts on the research so that readers can have something to ponder upon. 

• References/Works Cited Page

Citation is a necessary part of academic writing. It is carried out to avoid plagiarism and give credit to the authors whose work you are using in your synthesis essay. Hence, accurately reference sources according to your preferred citation style (e.g., MLA, APA, Harvard, Chicago).

A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Synthesis Essay

Here are some steps that you can follow to write your synthesis essay:

Step 1: Brainstorm topics & understand your assignment

First, you need to select a topic that matches your interests. You can look at political scenarios, history, personal passions, academic disciplines, or current trends to choose a good topic. 

As a student or researcher, you must make sure that your topic allows various perspectives from multiple sources, as this is the main goal of a synthesis essay. 

Moreover, it is equally important to understand whether you want to explain a topic or present arguments. Hence, you must choose a topic that aligns with your objectives.

Step 2: Gather data and information sources

Gather information, data and evidence to support your arguments by critically analysing books, articles, online databases, libraries, and research papers. You must read every source carefully and extract points, arguments, and findings from it. 

Additionally, you must keep a record of your sources, such as bibliographic information, so that you can cite them at the end of the essay. 

Furthermore, you must only choose sources that are reliable, credible, and relevant to the topic of your synthesis essay.

Step 3: Develop a thesis statement

If you choose a topic on climate change, then you must write a strong and compelling thesis statement. Here is an example: “Renewable energy is the best solution to combat climate change, due to its sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits”

Step 4: Understand how to outline a synthesis essay

Create an outline for your synthesis essay. You can follow this essay synthesis example so that your work is structured well:

Step 5: Write the essay

Follow your outline and craft each section with care. Your hook statement must be engaging, and the body paragraphs must be detailed and comprehensive. Moreover, use correct punctuation and transitions for a smooth flow between paragraphs.

Step 6: Edit & proofread

In the end, proofread and edit your essay to find any mistakes, inaccuracies, or errors. Make sure that it is factually correct, accurately cited, and coherent so that readers enjoy reading your essay.

Frequently Asked Questions