What Colleges Require the SAT Essay: Lists With Explanations
- 19 July 2020
- 3324 words
Writing academic papers requires students to master different forms of writing in a given discipline. Basically, one of these forms is a writing process of synthesis essays, which are of three types: evaluative, argumentative, and review papers. Like any other academic writing, a student should follow specific citation rules out of four main formats – APA, MLA, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian. Regardless of a particular type of synthesis essay and its format, academic papers must have an outline whose structure should have three parts: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. In summary, authors of such papers aim to use different sources to strengthen their arguments concerning assigned topics. Hence, scholars need to know how to write a good synthesis essay by considering this guide and providing high-quality documents as a result of their hard work.
General Aspects
Academic writing is a broad discipline with diverse forms of writing. In principle, one of these forms is essay writing, which comes in different formats, including synthesis essays. By definition, a synthesis essay is a discussion paper where a student incorporates evidence from several sources with differing views. In this case, a primary reason for writing such a document is based on a specific requirement to examine different viewpoints concerning a matter, where a student develops a thesis statement and then searches for evidence from various sources that align with a main claim. Then, these sources include written sources, such as articles, journals, books, magazines, and even newspapers, and unwritten sources, like lectures, observations, and interviews. In turn, synthesis writing is used where a student is expected to research a topic extensively to gain more in-depth insight into a concept and combine pieces of evidence to develop convective writing for readers.
What Is a Synthesis Essay and Its Purpose
According to its definition, a synthesis essay is a unique type and form of academic paper writing that combines various pieces of information from different sources and presents a cohesive argument or perspective on a particular topic. For example, the main purpose of writing a synthesis essay is to demonstrate a writer’s ability to analyze and integrate diverse viewpoints, evidence, findings, arguments, and ideas into a single, unified discussion, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of a specific subject (Babin et al., 2020). Unlike a standard summary, which merely recounts main points of sources, a synthesis essay involves critically analyzing and integrating these points to draw new conclusions or insights. Moreover, this type of essay challenges a person to identify relationships between sources, highlight patterns, and make connections that contribute to a deeper understanding of a given paper’s topic. By synthesizing information from various texts, students also learn how to construct well-founded arguments and present them in a clear, organized manner, enhancing their research skills, critical thinking, understanding of a specific subject, and ability to engage with and contribute to a scholarly discourse (Machi & McEvoy, 2022). In terms of pages and words, the length of a synthesis essay depends on academic levels and unique assignment requirements, while general writing guidelines for such papers are:
High School
- Length: 1-3 pages
- Word Count: 250-750 words
College
- Length: 2-6 pages
- Word Count: 500-1,500 words
University (Undergraduate)
- Length: 4-10 pages
- Word Count: 1,000-2,500 words
Master’s
- Length: 6-20 pages
- Word Count: 1,500-5,000 words
Ph.D.
- Length: 20-40+ pages (can be longer depending on a specific depth of research)
- Word Count: 5,000-10,000+ words (or more, depending on dissertation or thesis requirements)
Format
| Section | Content |
|---|---|
| Title | Covers a concise and relevant essay’s topic. |
| Introduction | Introduces a chosen topic, provides background, and states a central synthesis thesis. |
| Background Information | Provides a necessary paper’s context and background information. |
| Body Paragraph 1 | Presents a first point, integrates sources, and provides analysis. |
| Body Paragraph 2 | Presents a second point, integrates sources, and provides analysis. |
| Body Paragraph 3 | Presents a third point, integrates sources, and provides analysis. |
| Body Paragraphs 4+ | Repeat a standard structure provided above and follow essay requirements. |
| Counterarguments | Discusses opposing views and refutes them. |
| Conclusion | Summarizes main points, restates a thesis, and offers paper’s final thoughts. |
| List of References | Lists all sources cited in a synthesis essay in accordance with APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago/Turabian citation rules. |
Note: Some sections of a synthesis essay can be added, deleted, or combined with each other, and it depends on topic complexities and assignment instructions. For example, a standard format of a synthesis paper typically includes an introduction paragraph with a well-formulated thesis statement, body paragraphs that integrate and analyze multiple credible sources, and a conclusion paragraph that summarizes main points and reinforces a central claim (Losh et al., 2021). Further on, a synthesis essay combines information from multiple sources to present a cohesive analysis or argument, while an argumentative essay focuses on establishing a specific position and persuading a reader using evidence and reasoning. However, a synthesis essay can be an argumentative essay only if such a paper combines information from multiple sources to support a specific claim or position on a topic (Babin et al., 2020). In turn, an example of a synthesis in writing is an essay that combines data from multiple research studies on climate change to present a comprehensive analysis of its impacts on global agriculture. Finally, to start a synthesis essay, people begin with an engaging introduction paragraph that provides background on a specific topic, introduces key sources, and presents a clear thesis statement that outlines a paper’s main argument or perspective.
Types
There are three main essay types of synthesis writing students should familiarize themselves with if they are required to use any for their papers. For example, synthesis in writing involves combining information from two or more credible sources to create a coherent and comprehensive understanding or argument about a particular topic (Babin et al., 2020). In turn, these types of essays are explanatory, argumentative, and review papers.
Explanatory Synthesis Essay
An explanatory or descriptive synthesis essay focuses on educating a reader concerning a particular paper’s topic. Basically, this type of paper’s primary focus is descriptions that help a student to convince readers of an issue (Losh et al., 2021). As opposed to an argumentative composition, an explanatory synthesis paper makes no arguments or opinions, while it only relies on facts. In turn, an essential detail a student should master when writing such an essay is to subdivide a specific topic into different sections and ensure its content is concise and understandable.
Argumentative Synthesis Essay
An argumentative synthesis essay focuses on strengthening a writer’s opinion concerning a certain point through a particular use of various pieces of evidence from different sources for writing such a composition. Unlike an explanatory paper, this type of writing is more like a debate forum because a writer must highlight both sides of a specific argument and then give their stand to a reader convincingly (Losh et al., 2021). In this case, an important detail authors of argumentative synthesis papers should master is a particular need to evaluate a topic from unique perspectives of proponents and opponents. After that, they should take a stand in support of one side and provide evidence to back up a main argument.
Review Synthesis Essay
A review synthesis essay focuses on providing readers with an insight into previous discussions on a topic by analyzing different sources that addressed a given issue in some way. For instance, an essential detail an author of a review should master is a particular need to demonstrate that extensive research was done on a topic or that previous discussions have been shallow (Losh et al., 2021). Basically, this aspect means a review synthesis is a paper whose intention is to show satisfactory or unsatisfactory academic or research work concerning a particular topic.
Examples of Assignments
When writing academic papers, students use synthesis essay topics their instructors provide or choose for themselves. Basically, it all depends on a specific direction instructors decide to take. In either case, there are several assignments authors of such essays can use for each of the three types of papers described above. Regardless of a particular subject, a person’s goal should be to demonstrate their ability to conduct research and relate information from different sources. Concerning evaluative synthesis papers, writers can choose topics such as:
- Understanding the Environmental Impact of Electric Vehicles
- The Link Between Abortion Laws and Women’s Rights
- Effects of Climate Change on the Global Hospitality Industry
- Assessing the Illegitimacy of Organized Crime
Examples of topics students can choose to write about in argumentative synthesis papers include:
- Analyzing the Social Consequences of Internet Privacy Infringements
- Is Global Warming Real?
- Do Video Games Contribute to Adolescent’s Mental Health?
- Impacts of Modern Technology on Education
About review synthesis papers, authors can choose topics such as:
- Gaps in Maternal Health Care
- Strengths and Weaknesses of the Criminal Justice System
- The Ethical Question in Animal Research
Steps on How to Write a Synthesis Essay
To write a synthesis essay, people combine information from diverse credible sources to form a cohesive argument, ensuring an entire integration and analysis of the evidence while maintaining a clear and organized structure. Like any other kind of academic writing, synthesis writing requires a writer to follow a particular protocol to deliver a quality paper (Darowski et al., 2020). As discussed, the primary goal of a synthesis essay, including its types, is to use various sources to provide evidence in support of a discussion on a particular topic. In this case, a student should follow the following step-by-step process when writing evaluative, argumentative, or review synthesis essays:
Step I: Examine a Topic
In essence, students must familiarize themself with a specific topic they intend to write about, which means undertaking several actions. For example, a first action is to understand a particular purpose of a synthesis essay they intend to write – whether it is an evaluative, argumentative, or review paper (Losh et al., 2021). Then, a second action is to choose a right topic. Basically, a key secret for writers is to pick not only a broad enough topic that requires a particular use of several sources but also not too broad when implementing sources from outside a given discipline. Further on, a third action is to write down a thesis statement, which is all about a writer’s opinion on a particular matter under discussion (Babin et al., 2020). An example of a synthesis statement is: “While various studies highlight unique benefits and drawbacks of online jobs, integrating these findings reveals that remote work can enhance overall levels of employee productivity and job satisfaction when supported by effective communication tools and flexible policies.” In turn, this statement serves as a writer’s primary idea throughout an entire paper and should appear as a concluding sentence in an introductory part of an essay. Next, a fourth action is to read credible sources, which allows people to seek evidence of a unique stand they want to cover on a matter under discussion (Lingard & Colquhoun, 2022). In essence, the evidence should not only support an author’s argument but also correspond to a given purpose of writing. Finally, a fifth action is to reread sources to identify information that supports a central idea (Vandermeulen et al., 2022). In particular, it is this information that authors should use in a body section of a synthesis essay as evidence of their claim and also as a support base for a paper’s primary purpose. Moreover, the information should entail facts, statistics, and quotes. For objectivity, people should also use information that supports an opposite opinion in their essays, especially in argumentative papers (Losh et al., 2021). In the case of evaluative and review papers, authors should use information that challenges their thesis statement.
Step II: Outline a Paper
Outlining a synthesis paper is all about indicating its overall structure. Basically, a conventional structure of a synthesis paper entails three main components: introduction, body, and conclusion. In an introduction paragraph, people should start with a statement that captures a reader’s attention – a captivating hook (Losh et al., 2021). Then, they should introduce a specific issue (topic) under discussion and close with a thesis statement. In a main body, authors should use several paragraphs with the same structure. Moreover, a body structure involves a particular use of a topic sentence, evidence that supports a single claim, and an explanation of how such a stance substantiates a thesis (Babin et al., 2020). It is here that a particular use of sources comes in handy. Finally, in a conclusion part, authors explain an actual significance of a discussed paper’s topic, restate a central thesis statement, and close with a thoughtful remark. As such, people should conclude a synthesis essay by summarizing main points, reinforcing a central thesis, and highlighting an actual significance or implications of an examined information.
Step III: Write a Synthesis Essay
After outlining an entire essay, a student should embark on a writing activity. For example, a first action is to write a first draft without necessarily following an essay’s structure strictly (Babin et al., 2020). Basically, this activity allows authors to think creatively about their topic, even if they keep in mind that a final draft should have an introduction with a thesis statement, a main body, and a conclusion. Then, a second action is to ensure a paper is professional. In this case, this writing process includes a particular use of third-person language, complete sentences, and credible sources in an essay (Machi & McEvoy, 2022). Finally, a last activity is to ensure there are sufficient paragraphs, and that each is connected to the next in a logical sense. Besides, a particular use of transitions between paragraphs allows people to achieve this professional requirement. In turn, some examples of sentence starters for beginning a synthesis essay are:
- In today’s society, a specific issue of [topic] takes significant attention, prompting diverse studies and opinions that highlight its complex nature and a real need for a comprehensive understanding.
- An ongoing debate surrounding [topic] presents a complex landscape of conflicting viewpoints and evidence, making it essential to synthesize information from various sources to draw informed conclusions and propose viable solutions.
- To fully comprehend various intricacies of [topic], it is necessary to examine a particular interplay of numerous factors, including [specific factors], which collectively shape a particular discourse and influence public perception and policy.
- A thorough analysis of [topic] underlines several key themes that recur throughout existing literature, suggesting corresponding patterns and offering a valid foundation for a more integrated perspective.
- While a topic of [topic] has been extensively studied in the past, a synthesis of recent research from multiple disciplines provides a broader context and reveals new insights that are critical for advancing a current understanding.
- Recognizing complexities of [topic] involves synthesizing a wide range of viewpoints, each contributing unique insights and evidence that, when combined, paint a more complete picture of an issue at hand.
- An actual significance of [topic] in contemporary discourse cannot be overstated, and, by integrating findings from diverse studies, this essay aims to offer a comprehensive analysis that bridges gaps and highlights key areas of agreement and contention.
- A complex nature of [topic] has led to conducting research, with scholars approaching an issue from different angles, while synthesizing these perspectives is crucial for identifying common ground and advancing a conversation.
- To navigate diverse complexities of [topic], it is important to synthesize information from various academic and empirical sources, constructing a cohesive narrative that reflects a particular depth and breadth of a current understanding.
- Exploring various dimensions of [topic] necessitates a synthesis of research that addresses [specific aspects], providing a well-rounded view that informs both theoretical and practical considerations.
Step IV: Finalize a Document
Upon completing writing a synthesis essay, a student should read a whole paper through to identify any mistakes and correct them. In other words, rereading written drafts allows students to revise and make improvements. Basically, scholars must be sure a synthesis essay is easy to read and has no inconsistencies or unnecessary sentences (Babin et al., 2020). In turn, this writing activity allows authors to proofread papers and fix any grammatical errors, including spelling and punctuation. Moreover, they take this opportunity to ensure they use sources correctly, both in-text and reference citations. Finally, a last action for students is to ensure an essay’s topic reflects their thesis, meaning a paper’s title should come after a particular writing process and not before.
Template
A standard outline of a synthesis paper is all about following a conventional structure. As mentioned previously, the five main steps to writing a synthesis essay include analyzing credible sources, developing a thesis statement, creating an outline, organizing a paper with integrated articles, and revising a document for clarity and coherence (Losh et al., 2021). As such, a template of a synthesis essay has three parts as follows:
Introduction Section
Comment: Here, people should begin with an introductory sentence that ‘hooks’ a reader’s attention. Basically, doing so makes readers develop an interest to continue reading an entire essay. Then, they should introduce a given discussion and make a personal opinion through a paper’s thesis statement.
Body Section
Comment: In this section, authors should divide their content into several paragraphs and ensure each has a topic sentence, evidence with a relevant in-text citation, and an explanation linking a single topic sentence with a paper’s thesis.
Conclusion Section
Comment: Here, students should state an actual significance of an entire discussion, restate a thesis statement, and conclude an essay with an insightful remark.
Outline
I. Introduction
This paper’s part should have a hook, an introduction to a particular discussion, and a thesis statement.
A. Hook
B. Background
C. Thesis Statement
II. Body Paragraphs
This paper’s section should have a topic sentence, a source that provides evidence, and an explanation that links a topic sentence with a central thesis. As such, people need to apply this rule for each body paragraph.
A. Body Paragraph 1
B. Body Paragraph 2
C. Body Paragraph 3
D. Body Paragraphs 4+
III. Conclusion
This paper’s part should have a statement highlighting an actual significance of a presented topic, a re-statement of a thesis statement, and a concluding remark that captures a writer’s thinking about a subject.
A. Significance
B. Restated Synthesis Thesis
C. Concluding Remark
Synthesis Essay Example
Topic: Global Warming
Introduction
Global warming is a hot topic of discussion that is increasingly becoming controversial in international relations. In recent times, world governments and international agencies have noted negative impacts of global warming on communities and the way of life. Despite a particular controversy surrounding a given topic, a consensus is emerging that global warming is increasingly becoming a global security threat.
Understanding Global Warming
Although it is difficult to imagine a society without industries, these drivers of an economy play a central role in global warming. Recent research studies confirm that manufacturing industries are significant sources of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming (Peter, 2018). Therefore, governments and other stakeholders must take action to regulate industries to ensure that, while they support a local and national economy, their role in driving global warming is checked and managed.
Conclusion
Undoubtedly, global warming is becoming an issue of great concern to governments worldwide due to a serious threat it poses. While such a topic remains controversial, there is an emerging consensus that global warming is increasingly becoming a global security threat. Ultimately, governments and relevant international bodies’ actions to curb global warming would depend on a given level of risk they attach to this environmental phenomenon.
Reference
Peter, S. C. (2018). Reduction of CO2 to chemicals and fuels: A solution to global warming and energy crisis. ACS Energy Letters, 3(7), 1557-1561. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.8b00878
Paper Formats
APA
In academic writing, students follow four different formats when writing essays. Basically, these styles are APA, MLA, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian formats. According to the American Psychological Association (2019), headings (introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion) remain, and an example follows APA format rules:
In-Text Citation:
Recent research studies confirm that manufacturing industries are significant sources of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming (Peter, 2018).
References:
Peter, S. C. (2018). Reduction of CO2 to chemicals and fuels: A solution to global warming and energy crisis. ACS Energy Letters, 3(7), 1557-1561.
https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.8b00878
MLA
In the case of MLA format, an example would remain the same in structure. However, headings of sections (introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion) are missing (Modern Language Association of America, 2021). Moreover, another significant difference is in formats of an in-text and Work Cited citation, which read as follows in MLA:
In-Text Citation:
Recent research studies confirm that manufacturing industries are significant sources of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming (Peter 1558).
Works Cited:
Peter, Sebastian C. “Reduction of CO2 to Chemicals and Fuels: A Solution to Global Warming and Energy Crisis.” ACS Energy Letters, vol. 3, no. 7, 2018, pp. 1557-1561, doi:10.1021/acsenergylett.8b00878.
Harvard
For Harvard format, headings (introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion) would remain (Pears & Shields, 2022). However, in-text and reference citations would appear as follows:
In-Text Citation:
Recent research studies confirm that manufacturing industries are significant sources of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming (Peter 2018).
List of References:
Peter, SC 2018, ‘Reduction of CO2 to chemicals and fuels: A solution to global warming and energy crisis,’ ACS Energy Letters, vol. 3, no. 7, pp.1557-1561. Available from: <https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.8b00878>.
Chicago/Turabian
In Chicago/Turabian format, headings (introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion) would be missing (The University of Chicago Press, 2017). However, footnote and Bibliography citations would be as follows:
In-Text Citation:
Recent research studies confirm that manufacturing industries are significant sources of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming.1
Footnote:
1. Sebastian C. Peter, “Reduction of CO2 to Chemicals and Fuels: A Solution to Global Warming and Energy Crisis,” ACS Energy Letters 3, no. 7 (2018): 1558, https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.8b00878.
Bibliography:
Peter, Sebastian C. “Reduction of CO2 to Chemicals and Fuels: A Solution to Global Warming and Energy Crisis.” ACS Energy Letters 3, no. 7 (2018): 1557-1561. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.8b00878.
Writing Tips
Writing a synthesis essay is one of the activities students in higher institutions of learning undertake during their education. In line with academic writing conventions, students writing these types of essays must follow specific guidelines, depending on a specific type of paper they are writing and a given format they are to use (Babin et al., 2020). As stated previously, the three types of synthesis papers are evaluative, argumentative, and review, while the four main paper formats are APA, MLA, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian. In summary, the following tips are essential for anyone hoping to write a good synthesis paper:
- Establish a specific purpose of a synthesis essay to shape opinion and thesis.
- Choose a right topic. In writing, it is highly recommended to choose a unique topic after completing drafts to ensure a paper’s title aligns with a thesis.
- Select credible sources and read them to identify information that is helpful in an entire discussion. Various types of information, which include facts, statistics, and quotes, should strengthen a paper’s thesis.
- Develop an essay outline by highlighting a standard structure: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Ensure each paragraph has a topic sentence, evidence, and an explanation that links a given topic sentence with a central thesis.
- Cite sources correctly by ensuring every citation (in-text and reference) follows basic writing standards of a paper format (APA, MLA, Harvard, or Chicago/Turabian).
- Read a whole essay after completion to eliminate any inconsistencies.
- Proofread a complete paper to correct any grammatical and other errors.
What to Include
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Credible Sources | Diverse and reliable sources, such as scholarly articles, books, and reputable websites. |
| Key Points | Main ideas and arguments from observed sources relevant to a thesis. |
| Supporting Evidence | Data, statistics, examples, and facts that support key points. |
| Quotes | Direct quotations from sources to illustrate important ideas. |
| Paraphrasing | Rewritten information from sources to convey understanding without direct copying. |
| Analysis | Examination and interpretation of the evidence and how it supports a paper’s central claim. |
| Comparisons | Comparison of different viewpoints or findings to highlight similarities and differences. |
| Themes | Common themes or patterns identified across multiple sources. |
| Diverse Perspectives | Opposing viewpoints and their refutation to strengthen a paper’s main argument. |
| Synthesis | Integration of ideas from various sources to present a unified argument or new perspective. |
Common Mistakes
- Lack of a Clear Thesis: Failing to establish a clear, well-structured, and focused thesis statement that guides an entire synthesis essay.
- Poor Organization: Not organizing a paper logically, leading to a confusing or disjointed presentation of ideas.
- Insufficient Integration of Sources: Merely summarizing sources without effectively integrating and connecting them to a central argument.
- Ignoring Counterarguments: Neglecting to address and refute opposing viewpoints, which weakens an overall argument.
- Overreliance on Quotations: Relying too heavily on direct quotes from sources instead of paraphrasing or summarizing key points in one’s own words.
- Lack of Analysis: Failing to provide sufficient analysis or commentary on credible sources, resulting in a descriptive rather than analytical essay.
- Inadequate Source Selection: Choosing sources that are not credible, relevant, or diverse enough to support a main thesis effectively.
- Weak Conclusion: Ending a synthesis essay abruptly or without effectively summarizing main points and reinforcing a central thesis.
- Poor Transition Between Ideas: Using weak or nonexistent transitions between paragraphs, causing a paper to lack coherence and flow.
- Grammar and Spelling Errors: Allowing grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors to lower an overall clarity and professionalism of a synthesis essay.
Summing Up
Writing a synthesis essay involves combining information from various sources to form a coherent argument. Such a composition typically follows a specific format, including an introduction paragraph with a thesis statement, body paragraphs with evidence from multiple sources, and a conclusion paragraph. Moreover, there are three main types of synthesis essays: explanatory, argumentative, and review papers. In turn, key steps in writing a synthesis essay include examining a chosen topic, outlining a text’s structure, writing a first draft, and finalizing a paper through revision and proofreading. Finally, such a writing process emphasizes a particular use of credible sources and structured arguments and strict adherence to formatting rules of APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago/Turabian, and other citation styles.
References
American Psychological Association. (2019). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.).
Babin, M., Burnell, C., Pesznecker, S. M., Rosevear, N., & Wood, J. R. (2020). The word on college reading and writing. Open Oregon Educational Resources.
Darowski, E. S., Helder, E., & Patson, N. D. (2020). Explicit writing instruction in synthesis: Combining in-class discussion and an online tutorial. Teaching of Psychology, 49(1), 57–63. https://doi.org/10.1177/0098628320979899
Lingard, L., & Colquhoun, H. (2022). The story behind the synthesis: Writing an effective introduction to your scoping review. Perspectives on Medical Education, 11(5), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40037-022-00719-7
Losh, E. M., Alexander, J., Cannon, Z., & Cannon, K. (2021). Understanding rhetoric: A graphic guide to writing. Bedford/St. Martin’s, Macmillan Learning.
Machi, L. A., & McEvoy, B. T. (2022). The literature review: Six steps to success. Corwin.
Modern Language Association of America. (2021). MLA Handbook (9th ed.).
Pears, R., & Shields, G. J. (2022). Cite them right: The essential referencing guide (12th ed.). A&C Black.
The University of Chicago Press. (2017). The Chicago manual of style (18th ed.).
Vandermeulen, N., Van Steendam, E., & Rijlaarsdam, G. (2022). Introduction to the special issue on synthesis tasks: Where reading and writing meet. Reading and Writing, 36(4), 747–768. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11145-022-10394-z
