How to Write a Perfect Synthesis Essay Outline (And Score Your Paper)

What is a Synthesis Essay?

In its most simple terms, a synthesis essay is a reflection on information gathered from multiple sources. In many ways, it’s a discussion between the writer and the sources included. It is similar to an argumentative essay but focuses more on the discussion aspect. Most often, the sources back up a thought or idea that the writer wants to share.

What Format Should Be Followed for a Synthesis Outline Structure?

When it comes to formatting a synthesis essay and knowing how to use quotation marks, it’s important to use one of the more common styles. APA is a very common citation that is easy to use and simple to understand. Another common (and easy) format accepted within a synthesis paper is MLA. The last possibility is Chicago, which is less common than the average college synthesis essay, but still accepted.

What is an Essay Outline and Why is it Important?

Creating an essay outline means developing the structure of the paper prior to writing it. Typically, an outline will start with the introduction and include the attention grabber and thesis statement. It will then move into the body paragraphs, which should include the details for multiple points of information. Lastly, the outline will show the conclusion, which wraps everything up.

The synthesis essay outline is important because it allows the writer to develop a logical flow. Without an outline, it is possible that the paper will end up going in multiple directions. By utilizing a structured guide, the writer can ensure that all imperative information is included in a logical sequence.

Introduction

Like any qualified academic writer would say, the introduction is the biggest part of getting a reader’s attention. A quality introduction begins with a hook or attention-grabbing statement. It will then briefly approach the main points and state the thesis statement. The best introductory paragraphs intrigue readers and entice them to read further.

Body Paragraphs

In a 5-paragraph synthesis essay, 3 paragraphs will make up the body. Even when the essay is longer, the body paragraphs make up the largest portion. Within the body section of the paper, a college synthesis essay will provide information surrounding any evidence and analysis that occurs.

A section of the body should be dedicated to supporting evidence. Evidence in an ap lang synthesis essay is meant to support the thesis statement mentioned in the introductory paragraph. Analysis of the topic should be another section of the body.

Synthesis Conclusion

When writing a conclusion, it is important to refer to the synthesis essay outline. A synthesis outline will provide the information needed to construct a proper conclusion. By briefly going over the main points listed in the body section, a conclusion will close the paper nicely. Restating the thesis statement in different vernacular will also remind readers of the purpose of the essay.

Template for a Synthesis Outline

A synthesis outline should follow the template below:

1. Introduction
   1. Hook
   2. Mention the main points
   3. Thesis Statement
2. Body Section 1
   1. Main point
   2. Evidence
   3. Analysis
3. Body Section 2
   1. Main point
   2. Evidence
   3. Analysis
4. Body Section 3
   1. Main point
   2. Evidence
   3. Analysis
5. Conclusion
   1. Reiterate main points
   2. Repeat thesis statement

By using this outline for the paper, a writer is sure to make the process easier. Without the use of an outline, the writing procedure can get more complicated than necessary.

How to Write a Good Synthesis Essay?

Writing a good synthesis essay starts with correct formatting and styling. Without this, the essay can be hard to read from the get-go. By following the prompts and steps to write a quality document, it can be a simple process.

How Should One Follow Format and Style?

The correct format and style of this kind of essay are important to follow. Because of the amount of information included in a synthesis essay, ensuring that all sources are documented properly is key. Since most assignments come with specific style requirements, following the requested style will keep track of each source.

How Might a Writer Use Prompt?

Many essays of this kind come from teachers and professors. This means that the topics are often prompted. In order to write a good paper from a prompt, finding a sense of passion for the topic is ideal. From there, the purpose of the prompt is easier to discover. A prompt should also come with a specific rubric to follow and ensure that the work is up to standard.

What are the Proper Steps to Write this Essay?

Writing an essay of this type requires a handful of steps to end up with a good result. It starts with an appropriate title, followed by finding out the best speaking voice for the topic. Whether the paper is written in the first, second, or third person, it’s important to write according to the audience. Then, the writer should place focus on sentence structure and vernacular.

Proofreading, stylizing proper citations, and ensuring that there are proper transitions between paragraphs leaves the essay looking professional and well put together. Taking these steps will guide the writer in writing a good synthesis essay.

To conclude, there are several aspects involved in creating a synthesis essay. A writer must create a detailed outline and follow the required format. It’s also important to adhere to the expectations of the professor. Doing these things are helpful in writing a good synthesis paper.

Prof. Cecil

Cecil holds a Master's Degree in Education Arts from Stanford University. She is a competent writer with five years' experience in online academic writing. Over the years, she has gained enough expertise in fields such as Business, Medicine, Psychology, Engineering, Communication, and Philosophy, among other areas of specialization.