7.1 Working with Sources

What synthesis asks

The synthesis essay provides several sources on an issue and asks you to develop your own argument that synthesizes — combines and converses with — at least three of them.

Sources serve your argument

Sources are tools, not the point. Your thesis leads; you use sources as evidence to support, complicate, or qualify your claim — never just summarize them one by one.

Citation

Refer to sources clearly (for example, 'Source A' or by author). Integrate quotations and paraphrases smoothly, and always show how each source connects to your reasoning.

Key terms

Synthesis essay

An essay developing your argument from multiple sources.

Sources as evidence

Sources support your thesis; they are not the thesis.

Source-by-source summary

A common weakness — no real argument of your own.

Integration

Tying each quotation or paraphrase to your reasoning.

Minimum sources

The synthesis prompt usually requires at least three.

Try an AP-style question

In the synthesis essay, you must use…

1. none of the provided sources
2. at least three of the provided sources
3. exactly one of the provided sources
4. outside sources and nothing else