Master the Art of Synthesis Essay Writing - How to Combine Two Essays into a Cohesive and Powerful Piece

Synthesis essay is a unique type of academic writing that requires a student to combine two or more sources and develop a coherent argument. It is a challenging task that requires critical thinking and analytical skills. In a synthesis essay, a student not only presents the information from various sources but also evaluates and interprets it.

One of the common assignments for students is to combine two essays into one synthesis essay. This task may seem difficult at first, but with proper preparation and organization, it can be successfully accomplished. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write a synthesis essay by combining two essays.

The first step in writing a synthesis essay is to carefully read and analyze the two essays that you will be combining. Pay attention to the main ideas, arguments, and examples presented in each essay. Take notes and highlight the key points that you want to include in your synthesis essay. Once you have a clear understanding of the two essays, you can start planning your synthesis essay.

Key Steps to Write a Synthesis Essay Combining Two Essays

Writing a synthesis essay that combines two essays requires careful planning and organization. This type of essay requires you to analyze and synthesize information from multiple sources to support a central argument or idea. If you want to effectively combine two essays into one cohesive piece, follow these key steps:

1. Read the essays carefully: Start by thoroughly reading and understanding both essays. Take note of the main ideas, arguments, and evidence presented in each essay.

2. Identify common themes: Look for common themes or ideas that are discussed in both essays. These can serve as the basis for your synthesis. Highlight or make notes of any similarities or connections you find.

3. Determine your thesis statement: Develop a clear thesis statement that reflects the overarching argument or idea you want to convey in your synthesis essay. This thesis should be supported by evidence from both essays.

4. Create an outline: Organize your thoughts and ideas by creating an outline for your synthesis essay. This outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs that discuss different aspects of your synthesis, and a conclusion.

5. Write the introduction: Start your essay with a strong introduction that provides background information on the topic and presents your thesis statement. Grab the reader's attention and make them interested in reading further.

6. Analyze the similarities and differences: In the body paragraphs, analyze the similarities and differences between the two essays. Use specific examples and evidence from each essay to support your analysis. Make sure to explain how these similarities and differences contribute to your overall thesis.

7. Provide evidence: Incorporate evidence from both essays to support your synthesis. This can include quotes, statistics, or examples from the original essays. Make sure to properly cite your sources according to the appropriate citation style.

8. Make connections: Look for ways to connect the ideas and arguments from both essays. Show how one essay builds upon or challenges the ideas presented in the other. This will help to create a sense of cohesion and integration in your synthesis essay.

9. Write a conclusion: Wrap up your synthesis essay with a strong conclusion that summarizes your main points and restates your thesis. Consider the broader implications or significance of your synthesis and provide a closing thought or call to action.

10. Revise and edit: Once you have written your synthesis essay, take the time to revise and edit it. Check for clarity, coherence, and grammatical errors. Make sure your arguments are well-supported and that your essay flows logically.

By following these key steps, you can effectively write a synthesis essay that combines two essays into one cohesive piece. Remember to carefully analyze the essays, identify common themes, create an outline, and provide evidence to support your synthesis. With practice and attention to detail, you can master the art of combining two essays into a powerful synthesis.

Understand the Essay Prompt

Before beginning the process of writing a synthesis essay combining two essays, it's essential to thoroughly understand the essay prompt. The prompt will provide you with the topic or theme that you need to explore in your essay, as well as any specific guidelines or instructions you must follow.

Take the time to carefully read and analyze the prompt, paying attention to keywords and phrases that indicate the main focus of your essay. Look for any specific questions or directives that will help guide your writing.

Understanding the essay prompt also involves identifying the key arguments or ideas presented in the two essays you are combining. This will help you determine how to synthesize the information and discern any similarities or differences between the two texts.

By fully understanding the essay prompt, you will be able to approach the synthesis process with clarity and purpose. This will help you create a well-structured and cohesive essay that effectively combines the two essays into a unified whole.

Analyze and Compare the Essays

In order to write a synthesis essay that combines two essays, it is important to analyze and compare the content, arguments, and perspectives presented in each essay. By doing so, you can identify the similarities and differences between the two essays and determine how they can be brought together in a cohesive manner.

Start by reading both essays carefully and taking notes on their main ideas, key arguments, and supporting evidence. Consider the overall thesis of each essay and how it is developed throughout the text. Look for any common themes or ideas that are present in both essays.

Next, compare the writing styles of the two authors. Pay attention to their use of language, tone, and rhetorical devices. Determine if one essay is more persuasive or effective than the other and consider why this may be the case.

Once you have analyzed and compared the essays individually, you can begin to think about how they can be synthesized. Look for points of agreement or disagreement between the two essays and consider how they can be addressed in your synthesis. Are there any points of overlap or contradiction that need to be clarified or reconciled?

Create a table or a list to highlight the main similarities and differences between the essays. This visual representation can help you organize your thoughts and identify areas of focus for your synthesis essay. Consider how the two essays can complement each other and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the topic at hand.

Finally, decide on a clear and concise thesis statement for your synthesis essay. This statement should reflect the main argument or perspective that you will develop throughout your essay, incorporating elements from both essays. Use the analysis and comparison of the two essays to support and strengthen your thesis.

By analyzing and comparing the essays, you can create a synthesis essay that effectively combines the ideas and arguments presented in the original essays. This synthesis will allow you to present a nuanced and comprehensive analysis of the topic, drawing on the strengths of each essay and providing a deeper understanding for your readers.