Barbara P
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Synthesis Essay Outline - Template and Examples

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Synthesis Essay Outline

Ever wonder how to bring different ideas together in your essays seamlessly? That's what synthesis essays are all about – blending information from various sources to build a strong argument. 

You might find outlining such an essay difficult but no worries we are here to help!

This blog provides a comprehensive roadmap for developing a synthesis essay outline, saving you time and effort. Keep reading to learn how to create a perfect outline from this step-by-step guide. 

Let’s begin!


On This PageArrow Down

  • 1. Defining Synthesis Essay
  • 2. What is a Synthesis Essay Outline?
  • 3. How to Write a Synthesis Essay Outline?
  • 4. Synthesis Essay Outline Example
  • 5. Tips to Craft a Perfect Synthesis Essay Outline

Defining Synthesis Essay

A synthesis essay collects information from a variety of sources and then combines them together to make a new whole. The ‘new whole’ is your essay that explains your point of view while analyzing both sides of the issue.

This type of essay needs to be properly structured and it should be well organized. If the information in the essay is not connected logically, it will confuse the reader. The reader won’t get anything out of it if it does not provide cohesive information.

Difference Between a Synthesis Essay and an Argumentative Essay

The synthesis essay is somewhat similar to an argumentative essay but it is a more complex type of essay. 

In an argumentative essay, you have to present an issue, support it with evidence, and prove that your views are right. On the other hand, in the synthesis essay, you have to evaluate the factors of an issue to consider the implications of a decision.

What is a Synthesis Essay Outline?

A synthesis essay outline is like a roadmap for your writing journey. It's a plan that spells out what you'll write in your essay.

A typical outline for a synthesis essay will begin with an introduction. Begin with something to grab attention, then state your thesis – what your essay will argue. 

After that, outline what each of your three body paragraphs will discuss. Be sure to include details from various sources.

Lastly, map out what your conclusion will cover. This is where you wrap up your argument. 

An outline helps you see how information connects, so make sure to clearly summarize the key points.

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Synthesis Essay Structure

Here is a synthesis essay outline template that you can follow while writing your essay:

1. Introduction

    • Grab reader’s attention
    • Provide a little background information
    • Explain the specific terminology
    • Write the thesis statement

2. Body Paragraph I

    • The least important reason supporting the thesis statement
    • Present evidence, facts, and examples
    • A sentence of contemporary that explains how this reason supports your thesis
    • A concluding statement

3. Body Paragraph II

    • The second most important reason supporting the thesis statement
    • Present evidence, facts, and examples
    • A sentence of contemporary that explains how this reason supports your thesis
    • A concluding statement

4. Body Paragraph III

    • The most important reason supporting the thesis statement
    • Present evidence, facts, and examples
    • A sentence of contemporary that explains how this reason supports your thesis
    • A concluding statement

5. Refutation and Concession

    • Consider an argument contrary to your thesis statement
    • State why it is not valid
    • Provide evidence that explains it is a good idea but it is wrong
    • A concluding sentence

6. Conclusion

    • Restate the thesis statement
    • Summarize your argument and all key concepts that you were intended to deliver
    • Persuade the audience why your claim is the most valid
    • Provide a call to action from an ethical standpoint.

Be mindful of using the correct synthesis essay outline structure for your essay. Here is an outline worksheet to help you write a fabulous essay without getting into any trouble.

How to Write a Synthesis Essay Outline?

Crafting a perfect outline is crucial in order to write a good synthesis essay. Without an outline, your synthesis paper might end up in multiple directions. 

Let’s explore the steps to write a perfect outline:

Step 1: Choose a Relevant Topic

Select a topic that aligns with your interests and the assignment requirements. Ensure it's broad enough to find multiple sources but specific enough for focused research.
If you are looking for intriguing topics check out our synthesis essay topics blog!

Step 2: Conduct Thorough Research 

Explore various sources, including articles, books, and academic journals, to gather information on your chosen topic. Take note of key arguments, data, and perspectives.

Step 3: Synthesis Essay Introduction

The introduction is the section where you introduce the topic of your paper. Start with a hook statement to grab the reader’s attention at the beginning. Provide a brief background of the issue and state the purpose of your essay. 

Convince the reader to review your work by stating the importance of your point of view. Lastly, state the thesis statement that briefly summarizes the whole agenda of your essay.

Here is a sample synthesis essay thesis template, take a look: 

"In light of [issue or topic], this essay synthesizes [main idea 1], [main idea 2], and [main idea 3] from various sources to [argue, analyze, or explore] the [central claim or perspective]."

Step 4: Synthesis Essay Body Paragraphs

The body section starts with the topic sentence that supports the thesis statement. Invoke relevant facts and data that strengthen your argument. Then relate all the evidence and target points to conclude the overall essay.

TIP: 

Refutation

When dealing with counter-arguments, carefully acknowledge opposing views. State that these perspectives are valid, but clarify why they don't undermine your main point. Support your stance by presenting evidence that reinforces your argument and effectively refutes the counter-arguments. This strengthens the overall credibility of your essay.

Step 5: Synthesis Essay Conclusion

In the conclusion section just summarize the information that you have presented earlier. Restate the thesis statement to enforce the message of your essay. Reiterate the main points of your essay provide a call to action and close the essay nicely.

Step 6: Synthesis Essay Bibliography

As this is an outline, we'll touch on the key aspects without diving into specific sources:

  • Citation Style: Choose a writing style (MLA, APA, etc.) based on your assignment requirements.
  • List of Sources: Compile a list of major sources supporting your argument. While this outline won't detail every source, ensure impactful references are included in your essay.
  • Credit Research: Properly credit each source, acknowledging its role in supporting your research and argument.

Here's a handy synthesis essay outline sample for you. Download and keep it for reference as you write your essay outline.

Synthesis Essay Outline Example

An example essay helps a lot in understanding the format and how to structure the information. Whether you are writing a college essay or a research paper, taking help from sample essays is always a good idea.

Be mindful of using the correct synthesis essay outline structure for your essay. Here is an outline worksheet to help you write a fabulous essay without getting into any trouble. 


Expert Tip

Need more sample essays for inspiration? Check out our synthesis essay examples blog!

Tips to Craft a Perfect Synthesis Essay Outline

Here are some valuable tips to guide you while structuring a synthesis essay:

  • Clarity is Key: Ensure your outline reflects a clear flow of ideas, making it easy for readers to follow your argument.
  • Balance Your Arguments: Distribute evidence evenly across your body paragraphs to maintain a balanced and cohesive essay.
  • Thesis Precision: Fine-tune your thesis statement for clarity and specificity, guiding the focus of your synthesis.
  • Varied Source Integration: Use a mix of sources to enrich your essay, providing diverse perspectives on the topic.
  • Counter-Argument Consideration: Anticipate counter-arguments and address them strategically within your outline to strengthen your position.
  • Logical Sequencing: Arrange your points in a logical order, creating a seamless transition between ideas in your essay.
  • Concise Summary: Craft a concise yet impactful conclusion in your outline, summarizing key points without introducing new ideas.
  • Revise and Refine: Regularly review and refine your outline to ensure it aligns with your evolving ideas and research.
  • Thematic Unity: Maintain thematic unity throughout your outline, emphasizing connections between different sections of your essay.
  • Reflect on Purpose: Periodically revisit the purpose of your essay to ensure your outline aligns with your overarching goals.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some mistakes you should avoid while structuring your essay: 

  • Fragmented Flow: Creating an outline without a logical sequence can lead to a disjointed essay, making it challenging for readers to follow your argument.
  • Overloading Evidence: Including an excessive amount of evidence in your outline may overwhelm your essay, diluting the impact of key points.
  • Vague Thesis: A poorly defined thesis in your outline can result in a lack of focus, making it difficult to synthesize ideas effectively in the essay.
  • Source Monotony: Relying heavily on a single type of source in your outline can limit the richness of your synthesis, offering a narrow perspective on the topic.
  • Ignoring Counter-Arguments: Failing to address potential counter-arguments in your outline may weaken your essay's overall persuasiveness and credibility.
  • Illogical Sequencing: Disorganized sequencing of ideas in your outline can confuse readers, hindering their understanding of your synthesis.
  • Excessive Detail: Including too much detail in your outline may lead to an overwhelming essay structure, detracting from the clarity of your main ideas.

Wrapping it up!

Hopefully, this ultimate outline writing guide and samples will help you craft a perfect outline for your essay. However, if you still face some difficulty in crafting the outline, take help from a professional writer.

Writers at MyPerfectWords.com provide impeccable essays written just according to your requirements. You can purchase any type of essay, research paper, thesis, dissertation, book review, and any other type of paper from our best writing services. Just say " do my paper" and leave the rest to us!

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Barbara P

WRITTEN BY

Barbara P

Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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