The outline of a synthesis essay does not differ much from the standard essay format, comprising three major parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. The writer ought to be well informed about the topic being analyzed to make the essay format distinctive and interesting to read. The uniqueness of the synthesis essay is found in the flow of information and the usage of citations of referenced publications.

Synthesis Essay Template

Introduction

The writer must make sure that the introduction part meets the following criteria.

1. Drawing the reader’s attention by using an interesting or fun opening. The objective is to catch the reader’s attention and keep one motivated to read through the essay.
2. Provide detailed background information about the title.
3. Give an explanation as to why the topic is interesting, or alluring, or controversial and worth discussing.
4. End the introduction by writing a clear thesis statement. A good thesis statement should have three points that are discussed further in the body of the essay.

Body of the essay

The body of the paper needs to contain a good flow of ideas supporting the thesis statement. However, the writer is urged to also discuss a contrary or alternative opinion about at the beginning of the essay to make the reader interested in the work. The essay format may have the following features.

1. Refute the argument
2. Topic sentence: the writer is to choose at least one word from the introduction and use it differently to introduce a reason which contradicts the thesis statement.
3. Discuss a quote from a source that does not support a thesis in one sentence.

• Write a sentence to show why the quote is not valid.

1. Write another sentence of the contrary opinion from a different source.
2. Again, show why it is good, but not valid.
3. Write a concluding statement supporting your argument.
4. Support
   1. Take a concept word from the previous part and use it differently to introduce the first major reason that supports your argument.
   2. Write a sentence that supports the thesis as described in another source.

• Write a commentary by using the quoted concept to support your idea.

3. Support
4. Choose a word from the last part and use it to show the second major reason that supports your argument.
5. Expand your thinking and write a commentary to persuade the reader that your argument is valid.

• Write a sentence that includes a quote from a source supporting your argument.

1. Discuss it further to expand your thinking.
2. Support
3. Use a sentence from the previous paragraph to support the third major reason for your argument.
4. Use a quote from previous publications that supports your argument.

• Write a detailed commentary to expand your thinking about the argument.

Conclusion

Restate your arguments using supportive facts and include quotes by famous persons, the Bible, or politicians you trust.