Synthesis

Additionally, Bloom’s taxonomy is a framework for categorising learning goals into six levels of complexity and specificity. In order, it is divided into remembering, understanding, applying, analysing, evaluating, and creating. The paper stands on the sixth or last level, which is creating. This means the person who studied has learned, understood, applied, and analysed the topic. With those key factors, it is time for them to create a product or develop a new approach through synthesising it.

What is a synthesis in research?

Synthesis is a way of analysis that combines comparison and contrast, classification, and division to make a complete understanding. This approach combines different ideas, sources, and pieces of information. It aims to create a new, coherent understanding. People usually use this in the educational system for academic writing, critical thinking, and research, especially in scientific terms.

It helps conduct a few complex statements into make-sense information. The outcome of this process can be used to support theory. A good result can show how the information connects to each supporting idea. It can be in the form of agreement, disagreement, or more depth with one another.

Moreover, the synthesis essay is not only about creating a summary or quoting based on two or more sources. It supports relationships and patterns between each material. It also requires processes through analysis and comparison. As a result, it will show how they relate to or contrast with the other statements. In doing so, learners can build a new argument or viewpoint from the theory they have learnt.

Steps to write a synthesis

Writing in this type of paper can not be done randomly. It has structures and steps people need to follow. Without the right instruction, the process can become confusing due to disorganisation. In contrast, a structured process helps to ensure the final outcome is clear, accurate, and insightful. It guides the writer through gathering relevant information, making connections, and presenting a well-formed argument. Not following the steps might result in a disconnected summary that is contradictory to a true synthesis.

By following the structured process, this activity connects ideas to support an argument or insight. Moreover, the process itself starts with understanding the source information to revise and finalise the paper. Therefore, here are the four steps to make this paper writing more manageable while keeping it effective and meaningful:

Read and understand the sources

The first step to creating this paper is to carefully read and understand all references. This means it goes beyond just skimming. You need to have a full grasp of each main idea, argument, and evidence. While reading it, you should highlight key points, take notes, and look for common themes. Also, look for repeated ideas or opposing viewpoints. Nevertheless, you cannot combine or connect ideas for synthesis if you don’t understand them clearly.

Plan your paper

Once you understand the sources, it’s time to look for connections among them. Questions like “How do these ideas relate?” or “Are the authors agreeing or disagreeing?” can be useful for this situation. Through critical thinking, you can analyse these connections from your insight. Then, you can create a thesis statement, which will be the main message or argument in your synthesis essay.

Organise and write the draft

After you have the main connection and thesis in mind, the next step is to organise the ideas and begin the writing process. The focus of this process is comparing the result and the source by themes or points. This means each paragraph should contain two or more pieces of evidence to show how the ideas are connecting. In addition, it shall include your point, support it with evidence, and make sure to cite the right statements. Having smooth transitions between ideas can be helpful to improve the flow of your writing.

Revise and finalise

The final step in a synthesis is revision and finalisation. It is important to go back and read your work with a critical eye. The paper should have ideas logically organised, and make sure you are truly creating a new, whole understanding. Lastly, check for grammar, spelling, and sentence structure to ensure it is readable. After it is polished, the paper will become clear and coherent. Then, a thoughtful piece of writing is done.