synthesis in a research paper

Synthesizing Research

When combining another author’s ideas with your own, we have talked about how using the can help make sure your points are being adequately argued (if you have not read our handout on the  evidence cycle,  check it out!). Synthesis takes assertions (statements that describe your claim), evidence (facts and proof from outside sources), and commentary (your connections to why the evidence supports your claim), and blends these processes together to make a cohesive paragraph.

In other words, synthesis encompasses several aspects:

• It is the process of integrating support from more than one source for one idea/argument while also identifying how sources are related to each other and to your main idea.
• It is an acknowledgment of how the source material from several sources address the same question/research topic.
• It is the identification of how important factors (assumptions, interpretations of results, theories, hypothesis, speculations, etc.) relate between separate sources.

TIP: It’s a fruit smoothie!

Think of synthesis as a fruit smoothie that you are creating in your paper. You will have unique parts and flavors in your writing that you will need to blend together to make one tasty, unified drink!

Why Synthesis is Important

• Synthesis integrates information from multiple sources, which shows that you have done the necessary research to engage with a topic more fully.
• Research involves incorporating many sources to understand and/or answer a research question, and discovering these connections between the sources helps you better analyze and understand the conversations surrounding your topic.
• Successful synthesis creates links between your ideas helping your paper “flow” and connect better.
• Synthesis prevents your papers from looking like a list of copied and pasted sources from various authors.
• Synthesis is a higher order process in writing—this is the area where you as a writer get to shine and show your audience your reasoning.

Types of Synthesis

Demonstrates how two or more sources agree with one another.

The collaborative nature of writing tutorials has been discussed by scholars like Andrea Lunsford (1991) and Stephen North (1984). In these essays, they explore the usefulness and the complexities of collaboration between tutors and students in writing center contexts.

Demonstrates how two or more sources support a main point in different ways.

While some scholars like Berlin (1987) have primarily placed their focus on the histories of large, famous universities, other scholars like Yahner and Murdick (1991) have found value in connecting their local histories to contrast or highlight trends found in bigger-name universities.

Accumulation

Demonstrates how one source builds on the idea of another.

Although North’s (1984) essay is fundamental to many writing centers today, Lunsford (1991) takes his ideas a step further by identifying different writing center models and also expanding North’s ideas on how writing centers can help students become better writers.

Demonstrates how one source discusses the effects of another source’s ideas.

While Healy (2001) notes the concerns of having primarily email appointments in writing centers, he also notes that constraints like funding, resources, and time affect how online resources are formed. For writing centers, email is the most economical and practical option for those wanting to offer online services but cannot dedicate the time or money to other online tutoring methods. As a result, in Neaderheiser and Wolfe’s (2009) reveals that of all the online options available in higher education, over 91% of institutions utilize online tutoring through email, meaning these constraints significantly affect the types of services writing centers offer.

Discussing Specific Source Ideas/Arguments

To debate with clarity and precision, you may need to incorporate a quote into your statement. Using can help you to thoroughly introduce your quotes so that they fit in to your paragraph and your argument. Remember that you need to use the to bridge between your ideas and outside source material.

Berlin, J. (1987).  Rhetoric and reality: Writing instruction in American colleges, 1900-1985 . Carbondale: Southern Illinois University Press.

Boquet, E.H. (2001). “Our little secret”: A history of writing centers, pre- to open admissions. In R.W. Barnett & J.S. Blumner (Eds.),  The Allyn and Bacon guide to writing center theory and practice  (pp. 42-60). Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Carino, P. (1995). Early writing centers: Toward a history.  The Writing Center Journal ,  15 (2), 103-15.

Healy, D. (2001). From place to space: Perceptual and administrative issues in the online writing center. In R.W. Barnett & J.S. Blumner (Eds.), T he Allyn and Bacon guide to writing center theory and practice  (pp. 541-554). Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Lunsford, A. (1991). Collaboration, control, and the idea of the writing center.  The Writing Center Journal ,  12 (1), 310-75.

Neaderheiser, S. & Wolfe, J. (2009). Between technological endorsement and resistance: The state of online writing centers.  The Writing Center Journal .  29 (1), 49-75.

North, S. (1984). The idea of a writing center.  College English ,  45 (5), 433-446.

Yahner, W. & Murdick, W. (1991). The evolution of a writing center: 1972-1990.  Writing Center Journal ,  11 (2), 13-28.

How to Write a Synthesis Paper: Key Strategies and Examples

Here’s how to write a synthesis paper . Whether you’re a student tackling an academic assignment or a professional seeking to improve your writing skills, this writing guide will provide you with key strategies and examples to help you succeed.

Here's What You'll Learn

A synthesis paper is a written discussion that incorporates support from multiple sources to examine a variety of viewpoints related to a thesis. It is commonly used in various types of assignments such as analysis papers, research papers, argument papers, and business reports.

To write an effective synthesis essay , it is crucial to establish a clear purpose, carefully select and evaluate sources, develop an organizational plan, and properly document sources to avoid plagiarism. Additionally, understanding different strategies for organizing a synthesis paper , such as climactic order, problem/solution, and comparison and contrast, can greatly enhance the structure and flow of your writing.

Remember that the tense to use in a synthesis paper depends on the citation style you are following, with MLA using present tense and APA using past tense.

Whether you’re new to synthesis writing or looking to refine your skills, this guide will take you step-by-step through the process and provide you with valuable insights and examples. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

• A synthesis paper incorporates support from multiple sources to examine different viewpoints related to a thesis.
• Important tips for writing an effective synthesis essay include establishing a clear purpose, selecting and evaluating sources, developing an organizational plan, and documenting sources to avoid plagiarism.

Strategies for organizing a synthesis paper include climactic order, problem/solution, and comparison and contrast.

• Choose the appropriate tense based on the citation style you are using, with MLA using present tense and APA using past tense.
• Mastering the art of writing a synthesis paper can help you convey your ideas effectively and engage with multiple perspectives.

Understanding the Process of Synthesizing Multiple Sources

A synthesis essay is an intricate task that requires the writer to bring multiple sources into conversation with each other. It involves identifying connections between ideas and points of view from different authors in order to develop a well-rounded analysis. To successfully navigate this process, several key steps should be followed.

Pre-writing Techniques for a Synthesis Essay

• Identify the debate or issue: Start by clearly understanding the topic and the various perspectives that exist.
• Determine points of agreement and disagreement: Analyze the sources to identify common ground and areas of contention between writers.
• Imagine a verbal discussion: Envision a conversation between the writers, imagining how they would respond to each other’s arguments.

These pre-writing techniques help provide a solid foundation for the synthesis essay, allowing the writer to have a clear understanding of the sources and their respective viewpoints.

Organizing Ideas in a Synthesis Essay

Organizing a synthesis essay is crucial for presenting a coherent and well-structured argument. Three main approaches can be used:

• Point by point organization: This approach focuses on discussing similar points among multiple sources. It allows for a comparison and analysis of ideas that are aligned.
• Source by source organization: Here, each source is summarized and interpreted individually. This approach is useful when the sources have distinct perspectives.
• Blended organization: A blended approach combines both point by point and source by source methods. It allows for a more sophisticated and comprehensive analysis.

By selecting the appropriate organization style, the writer can present the information in a structured and logical manner, facilitating understanding and engagement for the readers.

How to develop a Synthesis Essay Thesis Statement

A synthesis essay thesis statement acts as the foundation of the essay. It should be carefully crafted to acknowledge alternative points of view and demonstrate an understanding of complexity. A strong thesis statement will:

• State a strong position on the topic
• Briefly summarize the writer’s main points
• Introduce the sources that will be analyzed

By establishing a clear and compelling thesis statement, the writer sets the tone for the entire essay, guiding the analysis and providing a roadmap for the reader to follow.

How to Write a Synthesis Paper in 5 Proven Steps,

Do you find the process of writing a synthesis paper intimidating? Are you unsure of where to start or how to effectively organize your ideas? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Writing a synthesis paper can be a challenging task, but with the right strategies and examples, it can become a much more manageable endeavor.

In this article, we will provide you with the key steps and techniques to write an engaging synthesis essay or synthesis paper. Whether you’re a student working on an academic assignment or a professional looking to develop your writing skills, this guide will equip you with the tools you need to succeed.

First, we will dive into understanding the synthesis paper format. By familiarizing yourself with the structure and requirements of a synthesis paper, you will be able to approach your writing with clarity and precision. Next, we will explore the importance of conducting in-depth research. You’ll learn how to gather and analyze relevant sources, ensuring that your synthesis paper is well-informed and well-supported.

Effective organization of ideas is crucial in any form of writing, and synthesis papers are no exception. We’ll provide you with strategies to arrange your thoughts and arguments in a logical and compelling manner. Additionally, crafting a strong thesis statement is essential for a successful synthesis paper. We’ll show you how to develop a concise and impactful thesis that serves as the backbone of your writing.

But that’s not all—we will guide you through the five proven steps of actually writing a synthesis paper. From outlining your paper to revising and polishing your final draft, we’ll cover each stage of the writing process. Furthermore, we will delve into writing clear and cohesive paragraphs, ensuring that your ideas flow seamlessly and your message resonates with your readers.

By following these five proven steps, you will be well-equipped to tackle any synthesis paper with confidence. Don’t let the writing process intimidate you anymore. Start unlocking your synthesis paper writing potential today and achieve the academic success you deserve! So, let’s dive in and discover how to write a synthesis paper that captivates and convinces.,

Understanding the Synthesis Paper Format

Understanding the Synthesis Paper Format is crucial when it comes to crafting a compelling and coherent piece of writing. By grasping the structure and components of this specific type of academic paper, you will be able to present your ideas in a clear and organized manner. In the following section, we will explore the key elements of the synthesis paper format and how to effectively utilize them to convey your arguments persuasively.

To begin with, the synthesis paper typically consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction serves as a roadmap for your readers, providing them with a concise overview of the topic you will be discussing and the thesis statement that anchors your paper. This section should capture the attention of your audience and establish the relevance and significance of your chosen topic.

Moving on to the body paragraphs, these form the backbone of your synthesis paper. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or subtopic that supports your thesis statement. It is essential to present information from multiple sources and critically analyze them, highlighting the connections, patterns, and conflicts among the sources. As you incorporate evidence and examples, ensure that you cite your sources accurately and consistently according to the required citation style.

Furthermore, maintaining a logical flow between paragraphs is crucial to ensure that your synthesis paper is cohesive and easy to follow. Use transitional words and phrases to smoothly connect ideas and demonstrate the relationships between different concepts. This will help your readers navigate through your paper effortlessly and grasp the central argument you are presenting.

Finally, the conclusion brings your synthesis paper to a close by summarizing your key points and restating your thesis statement in light of the evidence you have presented. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the significance of your findings and suggest potential avenues for future research or discussion. The conclusion should leave your readers with a sense of closure and reinforce the main ideas you have conveyed throughout your paper.

By understanding and implementing the synthesis paper format effectively, you will be able to create a strong and impactful piece of writing. In the next section, we will delve into the first step of the writing process, which is conducting in-depth research.,

Conducting In-Depth Research

Conducting in-depth research is a crucial step in writing a synthesis paper as it lays the foundation for the entire writing process. It involves gathering relevant and credible sources, thoroughly understanding the material, and identifying the key concepts and arguments presented. By immersing yourself in the research phase, you will be equipped with the necessary knowledge and understanding to effectively organize your ideas and create a cohesive synthesis paper that resonates with your readers.

To begin conducting in-depth research, it is important to first identify your topic and determine the specific areas or aspects you want to explore. This will help you narrow down your search and find the most relevant sources. Utilize a wide range of resources, including books, scholarly articles, reputable websites, and even interviews or surveys, to gather a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

As you navigate through the sea of information, critically evaluate the sources you come across. Consider the expertise and credibility of the authors, the publication date, and the reliability of the sources themselves. By doing so, you can ensure that the information you include in your synthesis paper is accurate and trustworthy.

While conducting research, take notes and highlight the key points, arguments, and evidence presented in each source. This will help you keep track of the information and easily refer back to it later when organizing your ideas. Additionally, make note of any opposing viewpoints or gaps in the literature, as addressing these in your synthesis paper can strengthen your argument and provide a more well-rounded perspective.

To enhance your understanding of the material, go beyond surface-level comprehension and strive to grasp the underlying themes, connections, and implications presented in the sources. Look for patterns, similarities, and differences among the various viewpoints and arguments, as these will be the building blocks of your synthesis paper.

By immersing yourself in thorough research, you will be able to gain a deep understanding of your topic and develop a strong foundation on which to build your synthesis paper. With this knowledge in hand, you can now move on to organizing your ideas effectively, ensuring that your paper flows smoothly and engages your readers from start to finish.,

Organizing Your Ideas Effectively

To truly capture the essence of your synthesis paper, it is essential to organize your ideas effectively. After immersing yourself in thorough research, gaining a deep understanding of your topic, and establishing a strong foundation, it’s time to structure your thoughts in a way that flows smoothly and engages your readers.

Start by identifying the key themes and arguments from your sources. Look for patterns, similarities, and differences among the various viewpoints. By organizing these elements, you can create a logical flow that guides your readers through your paper.

Consider creating an outline to map out the structure of your synthesis paper. Begin with a strong introduction that sets the stage for your topic and captures your readers’ attention. Then, arrange your main points in a coherent order that supports your thesis statement. Each paragraph should be dedicated to a specific idea or argument, and transitions between paragraphs should be seamless, guiding your readers smoothly from one point to the next.

Within each paragraph, use topic sentences to clearly introduce your main ideas. These topic sentences serve as signposts for your readers, highlighting the focus and purpose of each paragraph. Connect these ideas with supporting evidence from your sources, ensuring that your arguments are well-supported and persuasive.

Remember to consider the balance between your own voice and the voices of your sources. Aim for a synthesis that blends your own analysis and insights with relevant quotes and evidence from your research. This integration creates a cohesive narrative that showcases your understanding of the material while demonstrating your ability to critically evaluate multiple perspectives.

Ultimately, organizing your ideas effectively lays the groundwork for crafting a strong thesis statement. Through a thoughtful arrangement of your main points and arguments, you can guide your readers towards your central claim with finesse and conviction. So, let’s dive into the next section and explore how to craft a thesis statement that captures the essence of your synthesis.,

Crafting a Strong Thesis Statement

Organizing your ideas effectively lays the groundwork for crafting a strong thesis statement. Through a thoughtful arrangement of your main points and arguments, you can guide your readers towards your central claim with finesse and conviction. As we delve into the next section, we will explore how to craft a thesis statement that captures the essence of your synthesis, setting the stage for the five proven steps of writing a synthesis paper.,

Five Steps of Writing a synthesis Paper

Through a thoughtful arrangement of your main points and arguments, you can guide your readers towards your central claim with finesse and conviction. As we delve into the next section, we will explore how to craft a thesis statement that captures the essence of your synthesis, setting the stage for the five proven steps of writing a synthesis paper. These steps will provide you with a clear roadmap to effectively synthesize information from multiple sources and present it in a cohesive and compelling manner, ensuring that your readers can follow your thought process seamlessly. By following these steps, you will be able to not only convey your understanding of the topic but also showcase your ability to critically analyze various viewpoints and synthesize them into one coherent narrative. So, let’s dive into the five steps of writing a synthesis paper and unleash your expertise in crafting insightful and persuasive arguments.,

Writing Clear and Cohesive Paragraphs

Crafting clear and cohesive paragraphs is crucial when writing a synthesis paper. Your paragraphs serve as building blocks for your overall argument, allowing you to present your ideas in a logical and organized manner. By following a few key principles, you can ensure that your paragraphs flow smoothly and effectively communicate your message to your readers.

Firstly, it’s important to start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that succinctly introduces the main point you will discuss. This topic sentence acts as a guide for both you and your readers, setting the stage for the information that follows. It should be concise, yet informative, giving your readers a preview of what they can expect to learn in the upcoming paragraph.

Once you have established your topic sentence, it’s essential to provide evidence and examples that support your main point. This evidence can come from your synthesis of multiple sources, showcasing your ability to analyze various perspectives and integrate them seamlessly. Be sure to use credible sources and cite them appropriately to bolster the credibility of your argument.

Furthermore, as you develop your paragraphs, it’s crucial to maintain coherence and cohesion throughout. This can be achieved by using transitional words and phrases to smoothly connect your ideas. Words like “furthermore,” “in addition,” and “similarly” can help bridge different concepts, enabling a seamless flow of information. Additionally, using pronouns and referencing previously mentioned ideas can reinforce the connections between paragraphs, creating a sense of continuity.

In terms of paragraph length, aim for a balance between brevity and depth. While overly long paragraphs can become unwieldy and difficult to follow, excessively short paragraphs can lack the necessary substance to fully develop your ideas. As a general rule, try to limit paragraphs to around four to six sentences, ensuring that each paragraph focuses on a single main point.

Finally, don’t forget to wrap up your paragraphs effectively. Consider including a concluding sentence that summarizes the main idea and provides a smooth transition to the next paragraph. This helps create a cohesive narrative, allowing your readers to easily follow your thought process and understand the progression of your argument.

By writing clear and cohesive paragraphs, you can effectively convey your understanding of the topic and present your synthesis in a compelling manner. This attention to paragraph structure and organization not only enhances the readability of your paper but also showcases your ability to critically analyze information and construct persuasive arguments. So, with these principles in mind, let’s continue our exploration of the five steps of writing a synthesis paper, further honing your skills in crafting insightful and persuasive content.,

In conclusion, writing a synthesis paper may seem like a daunting task, but with these five proven steps, you can approach it with confidence and ease. By understanding the synthesis paper format, conducting thorough research, organizing your ideas effectively, crafting a strong thesis statement, and following the step-by-step process, you will be well-prepared to tackle any synthesis paper that comes your way.

Remember, the key to success lies in writing clear and cohesive paragraphs that seamlessly bring together different sources and ideas. This will not only impress your readers but also provide a comprehensive and insightful analysis.

So, don’t let the writing process intimidate you any longer. Start unlocking your synthesis paper writing potential today and watch as your academic success soars to new heights. As the saying goes, “The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” Embrace the challenge, trust in your abilities, and let your newfound synthesis paper skills take center stage.

Now, armed with the knowledge and strategies outlined in this article, it’s time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and let your ideas flow. Remember, your synthesis paper has the power to inform, persuade, and inspire change. So, use your voice, make your mark, and leave a lasting impression.

In the words of Albert Einstein, “The only source of knowledge is experience.” So go forth, gain experience, and let your synthesis paper be a testament to your growth, intelligence, and passion. Good luck on your writing journey, and may your synthesis papers shine brightly among the sea of academic excellence.

Concluding Thoughts on Writing a Synthesis Paper

Synthesis essays require a thoughtful analysis of multiple sources and the ability to synthesize their ideas into a cohesive argument or narrative. It is in the conclusion that we bring together all the threads of our analysis and present a final statement that encapsulates the main points discussed.

Effective writing

in a synthesis essay involves crafting a strong thesis statement that acknowledges alternative points of view while demonstrating an understanding of the complexity of the topic. This thesis statement sets the tone for the entire essay and guides the reader through the writer’s analysis.

Organizing ideas effectively is another vital aspect of synthesis writing. Whether using a point-by-point, source-by-source, or blended approach, the goal is to present a well-structured essay that showcases the writer’s ability to connect different sources and their perspectives.

In conclusion , writing a synthesis paper allows us to delve into multiple perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of complex topics. By employing the right strategies and examples, anyone can master the art of synthesis writing and effectively convey their ideas to readers. The journey of writing a synthesis paper may be challenging, but it is a rewarding process that enables us to engage with diverse viewpoints and contribute to the academic discourse.

What is a synthesis paper?

A synthesis paper is a written discussion that incorporates support from multiple sources to examine a variety of viewpoints related to a thesis.

What types of assignments require synthesis?

Synthesis is used in various types of assignments such as analysis papers, research papers, argument papers, and business reports.

What are the tips for writing an effective synthesis essay?

Tips for writing an effective synthesis essay include establishing a clear purpose, selecting and evaluating sources, developing an organizational plan, and documenting sources to avoid plagiarism.

What are the strategies for organizing a synthesis paper?

How should i analyze the position of each source.

Use different verbs to analyze the position of each source depending on its argumentative, research-focused, or emphasis-driven nature.

What tense should I use in a synthesis paper?

The tense to use in a synthesis paper depends on the citation style, with MLA using present tense and APA using past tense.

What is the purpose of a synthesis essay?

A synthesis essay brings multiple sources into conversation with each other, requiring the writer to identify the connections between ideas and points of view.

What are the pre-writing techniques for a synthesis essay?

Pre-writing techniques for a synthesis essay include identifying the debate or issue, determining points of agreement and disagreement among writers, and imagining a verbal discussion between writers.

How can I organize my thoughts for a synthesis essay?

Creating a grid of common points can help organize thoughts and identify categories for analysis.

What are the different ways to organize a synthesis essay?

Organizing a synthesis essay can be done in three ways: point by point, source by source, or blended.

How should I craft a thesis statement for a synthesis essay?

A synthesis essay thesis statement should be qualified to acknowledge alternative points of view and show an understanding of complexity.

What should be included in the introduction of a synthesis essay?

The introductory paragraph of a synthesis essay should state a strong position on the topic, briefly summarize the writer’s main points, and introduce the sources being analyzed.

What is the importance of analysis in a synthesis essay?

Synthesis essays require a careful analysis of multiple sources and the ability to synthesize their ideas into a coherent argument or narrative.

How should I conclude a synthesis essay?

The conclusion of a synthesis essay should summarize the main points discussed and emphasize the significance of the analysis.

What are the key elements of successful synthesis writing?

Crafting a strong thesis statement, organizing ideas effectively, and including sufficient evidence and analysis are key elements of successful synthesis writing.

How can writing a synthesis paper enhance understanding?

By understanding the process of synthesizing multiple sources, writers can create compelling and well-structured synthesis papers.

Why should I write a synthesis paper?

Writing a synthesis paper allows writers to engage with multiple perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of complex topics.

How can I master the art of writing a synthesis paper?

With the right strategies and examples, anyone can master the art of writing a synthesis paper and effectively convey their ideas to readers.

Source Links

• https://www.bgsu.edu/content/dam/BGSU/learning-commons/documents/writing/synthesis/planning-synthesis-essay.pdf
• https://writingcenterofprinceton.com/synthesis-essays-a-step-by-step-how-to-guide/
• https://www.lsu.edu/hss/english/files/university_writing_files/item35404.pdf

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Summarizing and synthesizing

Part 3: Chapter 10

Questions to consider

A. What distinguishes a synthesis from a summary?

B. How much “author voice” is present relative to source material?

C. What is the nature of the material contributed to a synthesis by the author?

The purpose of synthesizing

Combining separate elements into a whole is the basic dictionary definition of synthesis. It is a way to make connections between numerous and varied source materials. A literature review presents a synthesis of material, grouped by topic, to create a broad and comprehensive view of the literature relevant to a research question. Here, the research questions are often modified to the realities of the information, or information may be selected or rejected based on relevance. This organizational approach helps in understanding the information and structuring the review.

Because research is an iterative process, it is not unusual to go back and search information sources for more material while remaining within the parameters of the topic and research questions. It can be difficult to cope with “everything” on a topic; the need to carefully select based on relevancy is ongoing.

The synthesis must demonstrate a critical analysis of the papers assembled as well as an integration of the analytical results. All included sources must be directly relevant and the synthesis writer should make a significant contribution. As part of an introduction or literature review, the syntheses not only illustrate the evolution of research on an issue, but the writer’s own commentary on what this information means .

Many writers begin the synthesis process by creating a grid, table, or an outline organizing summaries of the source material to discover or extend common themes with the collection. The summary grid or outline provides a researcher an overview to compare, contrast and otherwise investigate the relationships and potential deficiencies. [1]

Language in Action

• How many different sources are used in the synthesis (excerpted from “Does international work experience pay off? The relationship between international work experience, employability and career success: A 30-country, multi-industry study” ) that follows? (IWE: international work experience)
• How do the sources contribute to the message of the paragraph?
• What are the elements of a strong synthesis?
• What information is contributed by the authors themselves?

1 Taking stock of the literature, several characteristics stand out that limit our understanding of the IWE−career success relationship. 2 First, many studies focus on individuals soon after their return from an IWE or while they are still expatriates (Kraimer et al., 2016). 3 These findings may therefore report results pertaining to a short-lived career phase. 4 Given that careers develop over time, and success, especially in the form of promotions and salary increases, may take some time to materialise, it is perhaps not surprising that findings have been mixed. 5 Some authors note that there are short-term, career-related costs of IWE and the career ‘payoff’ occurs after a time lag for which cross-sectional studies may not account (Benson & Pattie, 2008; Biemann & Braakmann, 2013). 6 Second, the majority of studies use samples consisting only of individuals with IWE (Jokinen et al., 2008; Stahl et al., 2009; Suutari et al., 2018). 7 Large samples that include both individuals with and without IWE are needed to provide the variance needed to identify the influence of IWE on career success (e.g., Andresen & Biemann, 2013). 8 Third, studies tend to focus on the baseline question of whether IWE or IWE-specific characteristics (e.g., host country, developmental nature of assignment) are related to a particular career success variable (e.g., Bücker et al., 2016; Jokinen et al., 2008; Stahl et al., 2009). 9 Yet there may be an indirect relationship between IWE and career success (Zhu et al., 2016). 10 More complex models that examine the possible impact of mediating variables are thus needed (Mayrhofer et al., 2012). 11 Lastly, while studies acknowledge that findings from specific countries/nationalities, industries, organisations or occupational roles may not be transferable to all individuals with IWE (Biemann & Braakmann, 2013; Schmid & Wurster, 2017; Suutari et al., 2018), the specific role of national context is rarely considered. 12 However, careers do not develop in a vacuum. 13 Contextual factors play an important role in moderating the career impact of various career experiences such as IWE (Shen et al., 2015). [2]

Organizing the material

Beginning the synthesis process by creating a grid, table, or an outline for summaries of sources offers an overview of the material along with findings and common themes. The summary, grid, or outline will allow quick comparison of the material and reveal gaps in information. [3]

The process of building a “library” from which to draw information is critical in developing the defense, argument or justification of a research study. While field and laboratory research is often engaging and interesting, understanding the backstory and presenting it as an explanation of a proposed method or approach is essential in obtaining funding and/or the necessary committee approval.

Returning to the foundational skill of producing a summary , and combining that with the maintenance of a system to manage source material and details, an annotated bibliography can be both an intellectual structure that reveals connections among sources and a means to initiating – on a manageable level – the arduous writing.

Example – Two entries from an annotated bibliography

Nafisi, A. (2003). Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books. New York: Random House.

A brave teacher in Iran met with seven of her most committed female students to discuss forbidden Western classics over the course of a couple of years, while Islamic morality squads staged raids, universities fell under the control of fundamentalists, and artistic expression was suppressed. This powerful memoir weaves the stories of these women with those of the characters of Jane Austen, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Henry James, and Vladimir Nabokov and extols the liberating power of literature.

Obama, B. (2007). Dreams from My Father. New York: Random House.

This autobiography extends from a childhood in numerous locations with a variety of caregivers (a single parent, grandparents, boarding school) to an exploration of individual heritage and family in Africa, revealing a broken/blended family, abandonment and reconnection, and unresolved endings. Obama describes his existence on the margins of society, the racial tension within his biracial family, and his own identity conflict and turmoil.

Using a chart or grid

Below is a model of a basic table for organizing source material.

Exercise #1

• Read the excerpts from three sources below. Determine the common topic and themes.
• Complete a table like the one above using information from these three sources.

1 Completion of a dissertation is an intense activity. 2 For both groups [completers and non-], the advisor and the student’s family and spouse served as the major source of emotional support and are most heavily invested in the dissertation. 3 Other students and the balance of the dissertation committee were rated as providing little support. 4 Since work on the dissertation is highly individual and there are no College organized groups of students working on the dissertation that meet regularly, the process can be a lonely one. 5 Great independence and a strong sense of direction is required. 6 Although many students rated themselves as having little experience with research, students are dependent on their own resources and on those closest to them. 7 It was noted that graduates rated emotional support from all sources more highly than students rated it. 8 This may be a significant factor associated with dissertation completion.

9 The scales and checklists suggest that there are identifiable differences between the two groups. 10 Since the differences are not great, the implications are that with some modification of procedures, a greater proportion of students can become graduates. 11 Emotional support, financial support, experience with research, familiarity with university and college dissertation requirements, and ready access to university resources and advisors may be factors to build into a modified system to achieve a greater proportion of graduates.

Kluever, R., Green, K. E., Lenz, K., Miller, M. M., & Katz, E. (1995). Graduates and ABDs in colleges of education: Characteristics and implications for the structure of doctoral programs. In  Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association. San Francisco, CA. Retrieved from the ERIC database .

1 In this writing group, students evaluated their goal achievement, reflected on the obstacles before them, and set new targets. 2 This process encouraged them to achieve their goals, and they could modify or start a new target instead of giving up. 3 The students also received positive feedback and support from other members of the group. 4 This positive environment helped the students view failure as part of the nature of writing a thesis.

5 On the other hand, daily monitoring encouraged the students to focus more on the process and less on the outcome; therefore, they experienced daily success instead of feeling a failure when the goals were not achievable.

Patria, B., & Laili, L. (2021). Writing group program reduces academic procrastination: a quasi-experimental study.  BMC Psychology ,  9 (1), 1–157. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-021-00665-9

1 The promotion of awareness of the tension between core qualities and ideals, and inner obstacles, in particular limiting thoughts, in combination with guidelines for overcoming the tension by being aware of one’s ideals and character strengths is characteristic of the core reflection approach and appears to have a strong potential for diminishing academic procrastination behavior. 2 These results make clear that a positive psychological approach focusing on strengths can be beneficial for diminishing students’ academic procrastination. 3 In particular, supporting and regenerating character strengths can be an effective approach for overcoming academic procrastination.

Visser, L., Schoonenboom, J., & Korthagen, F. A. J. (2017). A Field Experimental Design of a Strengths-Based Training to Overcome Academic Procrastination: Short- and Long-Term Effect. Frontiers in Psychology , 8, 1949–1949. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01949

A topical outline is another tool writers may use to organize their material. It begins as a simple list of facts gleaned from various sources and arranged by category. [4]

A topical outline might look like this:

a. fact #1/source #1

b. fact #2/source #1

a. fact #3/source #1

b. fact #4/source #2

Exercise #2

Identify relevant facts presented by the three sources in Exercise #1. Determine the relationships between them. Consider how to categorize and arrange them in order to support or extend a related concept.

Exercise #3

A word about primary sources

Primary source material is information conveyed by the author(s) of the publication. The information they use to support or extend their ideas – their source material – is secondary source material for their readers. Anything considered for inclusion in research writing should be derived from primary sources. When writers find very valuable material cited, they retrieve the original work rather than paraphrase what has already been paraphrased.

Example – Synthesis

The excerpted synthesis below is the work of Joellen E. Coryell, Maria Cinque, Monica Fedeli, Angelina Lapina Salazar, and Concetta Tino. The two primary sources they use in the paragraph were authored by Niehaus and Williams (2016), and Urban, Navarro, and Borron (2017). Because research writers are urged to only use primary sources, further investigation into the paper of Niehaus and Williams would be required in order to use their work as a source. As discussed in Identifying and deploying source material , an effective strategy in finding useful sources is to explore the references of particularly valuable articles or papers.

University Teaching in Global Times: Perspectives of Italian University Faculty on Teaching International Graduate Students

1 Other researchers (Niehaus & Williams, 2016; Urban et al., 2017) offered analyses of faculty’s experiences participating in various training programs for internationalization of their courses.  2 Niehaus and Williams (2016) studied a 4-year global faculty development program aimed at transforming faculty perspectives and internationalizing the curriculum.  3 Findings indicated that participants integrated international and comparative topics to support their learners’ development of global perspectives.  4 They worked to integrate international students’ viewpoints on research, and participants reported professional and personal gains defined by expanded professional networks of faculty members and higher standing that comes with teaching international students.  5 Similarly, Urban et al. (2017) reported findings from a training program that assisted teaching staff to internationalize their courses.  6 The program included a 12-day field trip to a different country.  7 Semi-structured interviews with faculty members, 6 years after participating in the program, affirmed updated course content, new and broader perspectives, and a supportive environment for implementing the internationalized courses and teaching activities.

Primary source:

Coryell, J. E., Cinque, M., Fedeli, M., Lapina Salazar, A., & Tino, C. (2022). University Teaching in Global Times: Perspectives of Italian University Faculty on Teaching International Graduate Students. Journal of Studies in International Education , 26(3), 369–389. https://doi.org/10.1177/1028315321990749

Secondary sources:

Niehaus, E., & Williams, L. (2016). Faculty Transformation in Curriculum Transformation: The Role of Faculty Development in Campus Internationalization. Innovative Higher Education, 41(1), 59–74. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10755-015-9334-7

Urban, E., Navarro, M., & Borron, A. (2017). Long-term Impacts of a Faculty Development Program for the Internationalization of Curriculum in Higher Education. Journal of Agricultural Education, 58(3), 219–238. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2017.03219

Experienced researchers often have a strong hypothesis and search for evidence that supports or extends this. However, students often learn about their topic during the research process and formulate a hypothesis as they learn what is established in the field on their topic. Both approaches are acceptable, as is a hybrid.

Discovery phase

Researchers typically begin by paraphrasing any important facts or arguments, tracking their discoveries in a table, outline or spreadsheet. Some good examples include definitions of concepts, statistics regarding relevance, and empirical evidence about the key variables in the research question. The original source information (citations in the appropriate style and format) is as important as the content under consideration.  As shown in the model syntheses here, multiple sources often support a common finding.

Evaluation and analysis phase

A strong synthesis must demonstrate a critical analysis of the papers as well as an integration of analytical results; this is the voice of the synthesis writer, interpreting the relationships of the cited works as they are assembled. Each paper under consideration should be critically evaluated according to its relevancy to the topic and the quality of its content.

Writers first establish relationships between cited concepts and facts by continuously considering these questions:

A. Where are the similarities within each topic or subtopic?

B. Where are the differences?

C. Are the differences methodological or theoretical in nature?

The answers will produce general conclusions for each topic or subtopic as the entire group of studies relate to it.

As the material is organized logically using a grid, table or outline, the most logical order must be determined. That order might be from general to specific, sequential or chronological, or from cause to result. [5]

Review and Reinforce

Summarizing and synthesizing are key building blocks in research writing. Read with an awareness of

A. what information has been added for support;

B. what the source of that information is; and

C. how the information was incorporated (quotations or summaries) and documented (integral or parenthetical citations) into the material.

Research writing is a process itself that synthesizes new information, stylistic tendencies, and established conventions with the background knowledge of the researcher.

Media Attributions

• chameleon © Frontierofficial is licensed under a CC BY (Attribution) license
• 5182866555_18ae623262_c © rarebeasts is licensed under a CC BY (Attribution) license
• Adapted from Frederiksen, L., & Phelps, S. F. (2017). Literature Reviews for Education and Nursing Graduate Students . Open Textbook Library. ↵
• Andresen, M., Lazarova, M., Apospori, E., Cotton, R., Bosak, J., Dickmann, M., Kaše, R., & Smale, A. (2022). Does international work experience pay off? The relationship between international work experience, employability and career success: A 30-country, multi-industry study. Human Resource Management Journal , 32(3), 698–721. https://doi.org/10.1111/1748-8583.12423 ↵
• Adapted from DeCarlo, M. (2018). Scientific Inquiry in Social Work . Open Textbook Library. ↵
• Adapted from DeCarlo, M. (2018). Scientific Inquiry in Social Work. Open Textbook Library. ↵
• Adapted from Frederiksen, L., & Phelps, S. F. (2017). Literature Reviews for Education and Nursing Graduate Students . Open Textbook Library.   ↵

combining separate elements into a whole, generally new, result

a condensed version of a longer text

a list of sources on a particular topic, formatted in the field specific format, which includes a brief summary of each reference

a reference presenting their own data and information

reference material used and cited by a primary source

Sourcing, summarizing, and synthesizing:  Skills for effective research writing  Copyright © 2023 by Wendy L. McBride is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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• University of Oregon Libraries
• Research Guides

How to Write a Literature Review

• 6. Synthesize
• Literature Reviews: A Recap
• Reading Journal Articles
• Does it Describe a Literature Review?
• 1. Identify the Question
• 2. Review Discipline Styles
• Searching Article Databases
• Finding Full-Text of an Article
• Citation Chaining
• When to Stop Searching
• 4. Manage Your References
• 5. Critically Analyze and Evaluate

Synthesis Visualization

Synthesis matrix example.

• 7. Write a Literature Review

• Synthesis Worksheet

About Synthesis

Approaches to synthesis.

You can sort the literature in various ways, for example:

How to Begin?

Read your sources carefully and find the main idea(s) of each source

Look for similarities in your sources – which sources are talking about the same main ideas? (for example, sources that discuss the historical background on your topic)

Use the worksheet (above) or synthesis matrix (below) to get organized

This work can be messy. Don't worry if you have to go through a few iterations of the worksheet or matrix as you work on your lit review!

Four Examples of Student Writing

In the four examples below, only ONE shows a good example of synthesis: the fourth column, or  Student D . For a web accessible version, click the link below the image.

Long description of "Four Examples of Student Writing" for web accessibility

• Download a copy of the "Four Examples of Student Writing" chart

Click on the example to view the pdf.

From Jennifer Lim

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• Last Updated: Aug 12, 2024 11:48 AM
• URL: https://researchguides.uoregon.edu/litreview

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