Synthesis Essay & AP Lang: Examples, How to Write & Tips

The synthesis essay asks you to synthesize multiple sources to support a strong purpose. This can seem intimidating at first; how do you accurately paraphrase and connect the sources cohesively and effectively?

In this guide, we’ll analyze the synthesis essay and give you some pointers, so you’ll be able to confidently write a meaningful and effective response, especially for AP Lang. You'll learn how to effectively synthesize information and evidence into your argument while maintaining clarity and organization.

What Is a Synthesis Essay?

A synthesis essay is a type of academic writing that draws from multiple sources to support a unified, nuanced argument or explanation. Unlike essays that merely summarize each source, the synthesis essay connects ideas, examines relationships and weaves a cohesive perspective on a selected topic.

Synthesis essays are a common requirement in high school and college. Classes such as English, history, and social sciences will ask students to write synthesis essays to test their ability to analyze information, identify central themes, and make supported arguments using information from different sources.

There are two main types of synthesis essays:

1. Explanatory Synthesis Essay – In the text, facts are reported objectively, explaining different sides or dimensions of a topic without showing favor or disfavor. The purpose is to inform the reader about the subject rather than influence their opinion.

✅ Example: A paper analyzing the causes of climate change by synthesizing research from environmental studies, meteorology, and political science.

2. Argumentative Synthesis Essay – This type of essay identifies a disagreement on an issue, selects a side, and utilizes evidence from various sources to support the position. The purpose is to convince authoritative readers using logic and factual evidence.

✅ Example: An essay arguing for stricter gun control laws by incorporating data from crime statistics, legal studies, and psychology.

What Is an AP Lang Synthesis Essay?

In the AP English Language and Composition exam, students are required to write a synthesis essay as part of the free-response section. This essay tests a student’s ability to analyze multiple sources and develop a strong argument within a limited time.

How Does the AP Lang Synthesis Essay Work?

• Students are provided with six to seven sources on a particular topic. They can consist of a selection of articles, essays, charts, images, or historical documents.

• Your task is to create a clear thesis and use at least three of the sources provided to support your argument.

• The essay must synthesize the sources by linking ideas and forming a coherent argument rather than just summarizing each one separately.

• You must correctly cite sources within the essay (e.g., “Source A states that…”).

Key Differences Between a Regular and an AP Lang Synthesis Essay

Synthesis Essay Structure: Types and Approaches

When writing a synthesis essay, understanding how to structure your content is crucial to creating a logical flow and effectively integrating multiple sources. Below, we’ll explore different synthesis essay structures, including a general recommendation, a blended approach, and two common structures used in AP Lang synthesis essays: by topic and by source.

1. General Synthesis Essay Structure: Introduction, Body, and Conclusion

Introduction

Your introduction serves as the opening to your essay. It’s where you introduce your topic, offer context or background information, and present your thesis (your main argument or claim). The purpose of the introduction is to grab the reader’s attention and explain what the synthesis essay will aim to accomplish.

What to Include:

• Hook: Launch the reader’s interest with an opening statement. A question, quote, statistic or short anecdote will work.

• Background Information: Provide a reasonable explanation of the topic or problem so readers understand its relevance.

• Thesis Statement: Your essay’s main argument or central idea. The thesis of an argumentative synthesis essay should take a clear position.

✅ Example:

Hook: In a world where 3.6 billion people use social media, can its widespread use be the cause of rising mental health issues worldwide?

Background Information: Social media has transformed how we communicate, socialize, and receive information. However, its increased popularity has raised concerns about its impact on mental well-being. While many individuals find connection and community online, others report increased feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression linked to excessive use. The consequences of social media on mental health are complex and multifaceted, requiring a closer examination to determine its full impact.

Thesis Statement: Despite the benefits of social media in fostering global communication and community, its overuse and the unrealistic portrayal of life on these platforms contribute significantly to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.

2. Body Paragraphs: Synthesizing the Sources

Each body paragraph should address a focused point that aids in supporting the thesis. Synthesis means integrating multiple sources within the paragraph and not discussing them independently from each other.

What to Include in Each Paragraph:

• Topic Sentence: States the main idea of the paragraph and connects it to the thesis.

• Integration of Sources: Use two or more sources as evidence for each paragraph. Do not simply summarize each source’s contributions; demonstrate how they are in conversation with one another.

• Analysis & Commentary: Explain the significance of evidence and how it supports your thesis statement. What connections can you draw between evidence?

• Counterarguments (if applicable): Consider opposing perspectives and counter them using additional evidence or logical reasoning.

• Transition Sentence: Smoothly lead into the next paragraph.

✅ Example:

Body Paragraph 1:  

Topic Sentence: Social media, when used thoughtfully, can provide important social connections and support systems, improving mental well-being.

Integration of Sources: Research by Smith et al. (2020) suggests that online support communities help people with mental health struggles by providing a safe space for sharing experiences and offering emotional support. Additionally, Turner (2019) highlights that social media helps reduce loneliness by enabling individuals to stay connected with family and friends, even across long distances.

Analysis & Commentary: These findings show that social media can indeed foster a sense of belonging and community, particularly for those who may feel isolated due to geographical or social circumstances. For example, those with rare medical conditions or mental health disorders can find groups that help them cope by sharing common experiences, which can significantly reduce feelings of isolation.

Counterarguments: While some might argue that online interactions lack the depth of in-person communication, studies suggest that social media can supplement face-to-face relationships, offering benefits without completely replacing them.

Transition Sentence: However, while social media can provide these positive effects, its potential for harm cannot be ignored.

3. Conclusion

The last line serves to further prove the main point and leaves the reader with impact.

What to Include:

• Restate the central argument in different words.

• Summarize the main ideas that you discussed in the body paragraphs of your essay.

• Include a thought-provoking statement, a call to action, or a reflection destination.

✅ Example:

Restate the Thesis: Social media, though beneficial in many ways, poses significant risks to mental health when used excessively and passively.

Summarize Key Points: The essay has discussed both the positive and negative effects of social media, showing that while it can foster connection and support, it also contributes to issues such as anxiety, depression, and body image dissatisfaction. Additionally, the importance of mindful social media use has been emphasized as a way to mitigate these harmful effects.

Final Thought: Moving forward, it’s crucial for individuals, especially young users, to develop healthy social media habits to ensure that these platforms continue to be sources of support rather than sources of stress.

2. A Blended Approach: Complicated but Not Recommended for AP Lang Synthesis Essay

The blended approach combines features of the point-by-point and by-source approaches. This approach allows you to discuss multiple sources in each body paragraph and link them directly to your main points. The drawback is that this approach can get complicated, and in the case of the AP Lang synthesis essay, too complicated for the time you have during the exam.

How It Works:

• You mix arguments and sources in each paragraph.

• Each paragraph may include ideas and evidence from multiple sources, synthesizing them in service of your overall argument.

• The power of this structure is its ability to offer a multitude of points as a singular, cohesive one.

✅ Example of Blended Approach:

Introduction:

• Introduce the topic of climate change and its increasing urgency.

• Thesis: While governments and businesses have a role to play in addressing climate change, individuals must also take action by altering consumption habits.

Body Paragraph 1:

• Topic Sentence: Government intervention is a crucial factor in fighting climate change.

• Source A: Governments can implement policies like carbon taxes (Source A).

• Source B: Source C suggests that government regulations have proven successful in reducing carbon emissions in countries like Sweden.

• Synthesis: These policies are effective but can only be truly impactful if citizens also reduce personal carbon footprints.

Body Paragraph 2:

• Topic Sentence: Consumer behavior plays a large role in mitigating climate change.

• Source D: Research shows that reducing meat consumption can significantly lower personal carbon footprints (Source D).

• Source E: Similarly, Source F argues that reducing energy consumption in homes is also essential for long-term environmental sustainability.

• Synthesis: While individual efforts may seem small, together they form a collective push that complements governmental action.

Conclusion:

• Reinforce that both government intervention and individual actions are necessary to combat climate change effectively.

Why it’s Not Recommended for AP Lang:

• This approach can be time-consuming since it requires you to manage both source integration and argument development in each paragraph.

• You may run out of time and not be able to properly develop your ideas.

3. By Topic (Point-by-Point): Recommended for AP Lang Synthesis Essay

This type of organization structures the body paragraph of your essay not by source but by topics or points. This allows you to discuss separate points or aspects of the argument and then provide supporting evidence from your sources for each.

How It Works:

• Each body paragraph should have a main point that supports the thesis.

• Within each paragraph, you integrate evidence primarily from multiple sources relevant to that point.

• This structure is manageable and easy to execute, which is critical for AP Lang essays given the time constraints.

✅ Example of By Topic Structure:

Introduction:

• Topic introduction and thesis: The rise of social media has both positive and negative effects on society, particularly on communication and mental health.

Body Paragraph 1:

• Topic Sentence: Social media improves communication in some ways.

• Source A: Studies show that social media connects people across the globe (Source A).

• Source B: Similarly, Source C highlights how social media enables professional networking.

• Synthesis: Social media serves as a powerful tool for connecting people, especially in the digital age.

Body Paragraph 2:

• Topic Sentence: Social media has negative effects on mental health.

• Source D: Research shows that excessive social media use can lead to depression (Source D).

• Source E: Source F also discusses the impact of social media on body image and self-esteem.

• Synthesis: These negative effects can outweigh the benefits if not used mindfully.

Conclusion:

• Restate the thesis and summarize the positive and negative effects of social media on communication and mental health.

Why it’s Recommended for AP Lang: This approach is straightforward and easy to follow. It allows you to organize your ideas clearly while integrating multiple sources to support each point.

4. By Source: A Different Approach for Synthesis Essays

In the by-source structure, each body paragraph discusses one source at a time, comparing the ideas and how they contribute to your thesis. This approach is less common in AP Lang synthesis essays but may be useful if the assignment asks for a thorough source analysis.

How It Works:

• Each body paragraph focuses on a specific source and its contribution to your argument.

• After summarizing the key points from the source, you synthesize the information and connect it to your thesis.

• This structure emphasizes the sources themselves rather than the topics they support.

✅ Example of By Source Structure:

Introduction:

• Introduce the topic and provide a clear thesis statement on the impact of fast food on health.

Body Paragraph 1:

• Focus on Source A, a study that explores the link between fast food consumption and obesity.

• Summary of the source and its findings.

• Synthesis: This study highlights the negative impact of fast food, which aligns with the broader health concerns.

Body Paragraph 2:

• Focus on Source B, which discusses the economic benefits of the fast food industry.

• Summary of the economic points presented in the source.

• Synthesis: While the economic benefits of fast food are significant, they don’t outweigh the long-term health consequences.

Conclusion:

• Conclude by summarizing the key arguments and reinforcing that while fast food offers economic benefits, its health risks cannot be ignored.

Why it’s Less Common for AP Lang: It can be time-consuming and less efficient when trying to quickly integrate multiple perspectives in an exam setting. However, it may be useful in more explanatory essays where each source needs to be analyzed individually.

Synthesis Essays Outline

General Synthesis Essay Outline Template

📌 I. Introduction

• Hook

• Background Information

• Thesis Statement

📌 II. Body Paragraphs (3-4 paragraphs recommended):

• Topic Sentence

• Multiple Source Integration

• Analysis & Commentary

• Counterarguments (if needed)

• Transition Sentence

📌  III. Conclusion:

• Restate Thesis

• Summarize Key Points

• Final Thought

For Topic-Based Structure

📌 I. Introduction

• Hook to engage the reader.

• Background on the issue.

• Thesis statement outlining the key themes.

📌 II. Topic 1

• Source A’s perspective on Topic 1. Supporting evidence or key argument.

• Source B’s perspective on Topic 1. Supporting evidence or contrasting viewpoint.

📌 III. Topic 2

• Source A’s discussion of Topic 2.

• Source B’s discussion of Topic 2.

📌 IV. Topic 3 (if applicable)

• Continue with additional topics following the same format.

📌 V. Conclusion

• Restate the thesis.

• Summarize key themes and insights.

• Provide a final thought or call to action.

For Source-Based Structure

📌 I. Introduction

• Hook and background information.

• Thesis statement introducing the sources.

📌 II. Source 1

• Discussion of Topic A from Source 1.

• Discussion of Topic B from Source 1.

📌 III. Source 2

• Discussion of Topic A from Source 2.

• Discussion of Topic B from Source 2.

📌 IV. Source 3 (if applicable)

• Continue with additional sources following the same format.

📌 V. Conclusion

• Restate the thesis.

• Highlight major similarities and differences among sources.

For Combined Structure

📌 I. Introduction

• Introduce the topic and sources.

• State the thesis.

📌 II. Key Topics with Multiple Sources

• First key point: Discussed by multiple sources.

• Second key point: Discussed by multiple sources.

📌 III. Special Focus on a Key Source

• Discussion of one critical source that significantly influences the argument.

📌 IV. Additional Topics with Synthesis

• Continue integrating points and sources as needed.

📌 V. Conclusion

• Restate thesis and summarize findings. 

Which Structure Should You Use?

• By Topic → Best for comparing different perspectives on key themes.

• By Source → Best for analyzing individual sources in detail.

• Combined Approach → Best for complex arguments that need deep analysis.

How to Complete an AP Lang Synthesis Essay

When you first read the AP Lang synthesis essay prompt, you might be confused. How do you synthesize information from multiple sources to create a unified argument? Using the example in the link, we will explain how to effectively respond to an AP Lang synthesis essay.

✅ Example: https://secure-media.collegeboard.org/apc/ap06_englang_synthesisessay2.pdf

Key Parts of the Prompt

It introduces a global issue—invasive species—which are non-native plants or animals that cause harm to the environment and economy when introduced to new regions.

• Task: The prompt asks you to evaluate the factors that a business or government agency should consider before importing a species that could potentially become invasive.

• Sources to Use: There are seven sources offered in the prompt. You must incorporate information from at least three sources into a cohesive argument to support your claim. It is not enough to summarize the sources; information must be tied together to support your argument.

Here’s a breakdown of how to approach the essay:

1. Introduction:

Analysis & Explanation:

• Introduction: Begin by briefly identifying the issue. This sets the context for the essay. You don’t need to go into too much detail at first but should provide a clear overview of the problem you're addressing.

• Thesis: The thesis should answer the prompt directly. In this case, you're stating that before transferring non-native species, key factors—environmental, economic, and social—must be carefully evaluated.

• This section introduces the context and your main argument in response to the prompt, guiding the reader on what to expect in the rest of the essay.

✅ Example:

Invasive species, or non-native plants and animals introduced to new environments, pose serious risks to ecosystems, economies, and public health. As globalization accelerates, the intentional or unintentional introduction of such species has become a pressing issue. Before transferring a hardy but non-indigenous species to another country, a government agency or business must consider the environmental, economic, and social consequences of such an action. These considerations are critical because while some species may provide short-term benefits, their long-term effects could be disastrous for both the environment and society.

2. Body 1: Environmental Impact

Analysis & Explanation:

• Topic Sentence: First, identify one key aspect relevant to context, in this case, environmental impact. The topic sentence reveals the main idea of the paragraph that follows.

• Supporting Evidence: To support the point, use evidence from the sources. In this case, you can use Source B’s description of diseases spread by non- native species and Source A’s reference to invasive species disrupting native biodiversity.

• Connection to Argument: Articulate how this evidence supports your overall argument (the importance of intentionally thinking about environmental impact). Through examples (SARS and balsam woolly adelgid), you establish the reality of environmental harm resulting from the movement of species, which strengthens your argument.

• Conclusion Sentence: The final sentence reemphasizes the need for environmental assessments prior to species translocation.

✅ Example:

One of the primary factors that must be considered is the potential environmental impact of introducing a non-native species. According to Source B (Dybas), non-native species can spread diseases, disrupt ecosystems, and threaten native biodiversity. For example, in the case of the SARS outbreak in 2003, the disease was transmitted by an exotic animal, the civet, which was inadvertently brought into new environments through global trade. This exemplifies how the movement of species can have unintended and harmful effects on both human health and the environment. A similar risk is posed by the introduction of invasive plants and animals that can outcompete native species for resources, leading to the extinction of indigenous plants and animals. This has been seen in cases like the introduction of the balsam woolly adelgid to the United States, which devastated balsam fir trees (Source A). These examples underscore the need for strict environmental assessments before transferring non-native species to new regions.

3. Body 2: Economic Considerations

Analysis & Explanation:

• Topic Sentence: This paragraph introduces another factor—economic considerations. The topic sentence should directly address the economic risks of introducing non-native species.

• Supporting Evidence: In this section, we use Source C and Source D as supporting evidence. Source C provides an example of how non-native species are used in aquaculture to boost production, but Source D highlights the economic consequences of introducing a virus that hurts the papaya industry.

• Connecting to Thesis: The evidence is explained in the context of the long-term economic harm that can result from introducing species without full consideration. The focus here is on long-term risks versus short-term economic benefits.

• Analysis of Impact: Notice how we analyze not just the source, but also its broader implication, stating how to link evidence back to the argument and make it more meaningful.

✅ Example:

In addition to environmental risks, the economic impact of introducing a hardy but non-native species must be carefully evaluated. While non-native species may be imported for economic reasons—such as for use in agriculture or aquaculture—they can often have unforeseen negative consequences. Source C (Hewitt et al.) discusses the increasing role of aquaculture in developing countries, where businesses import species from other regions to boost food production. However, the introduction of these species can cause long-term economic harm if they disrupt local ecosystems, damaging industries that rely on native species. The case of papaya farming in Hawaii illustrates this issue, where the introduction of a virus from an invasive species nearly wiped out the local papaya industry (Source D). This highlights the need for businesses to assess the long-term economic viability and risks of introducing non-native species, rather than focusing solely on short-term gains.

3. Body 3: Social and Ethical Considerations:

Analysis & Explanation:

• Topic Sentence: Introduce the social and ethical considerations. This should highlight the need to think about how transferring species can affect people and society.

• Evidence and Explanation: Here, Source F about cane toads is used to show how the introduction of a non-native species can lead to unintended consequences for local populations and the environment.

• Ethical Connection: This paragraph isn’t just about the facts—it’s about weighing moral consequences. The ethical implications of transferring a species go beyond economic and environmental risks, and the student should explore these considerations as well.

• Reflection: By asking ethical questions at the end of the paragraph, we invite deeper reflection on the decision-making process, encouraging students to think critically and not just about the facts but the broader social impact.

✅ Example:

Beyond environmental and economic concerns, the social and ethical implications of transferring non-native species must also be considered. Introducing species that could potentially harm human health, damage livelihoods, or displace local populations is a major ethical issue. Source F (Spotts) highlights the disastrous effects of introducing cane toads to Australia in 1935. Initially, these toads were imported to combat pests in sugar-cane fields, but they quickly became a widespread nuisance, poisoning predators and threatening local wildlife. The ethical question arises when considering the potential harm such species can cause to local communities. Should businesses or governments prioritize economic gain over the well-being of local populations and ecosystems? These questions require careful thought before making decisions about transferring non-native species.

4. Conclusion:

Analysis & Explanation:

• Restate the Thesis: Summarize the main points, reinforcing the necessity of considering environmental, economic, and social factors.

• Recap the Evidence: Briefly mention the sources again, showing how they’ve supported the argument throughout.

• Concluding Thought: End with a strong concluding thought that encourages the reader to think critically about the decision-making process. This section ties the essay together and should leave a lasting impression.

✅ Example:

In conclusion, when transferring a hardy but non-native species to another country, businesses and government agencies must consider a variety of factors, including the environmental, economic, and social consequences. While the introduction of non-native species may offer short-term benefits, the long-term risks—such as environmental degradation, economic loss, and social harm—can outweigh these benefits. The examples discussed in the sources, such as the introduction of the balsam woolly adelgid, the papaya ringspot virus, and the cane toad, illustrate the unintended consequences of such actions. Therefore, careful risk assessment, environmental studies, and ethical consideration are essential before making decisions about the importation of non-native species. By weighing all these factors, businesses and governments can make informed decisions that protect both the environment and society.

FAQ

Which tense do I use?

For the AP Lang synthesis essay, employ present tense when referencing the sources or their information. For example, “Source A argues…” or “Source B reveals…” This practice keeps the reader’s attention on what is being said, not on its pastness.

What’s the source’s position on this issue?

To assess the position of each source, use verbs to help you identify the author's tone. Argumentative sources may “argue,” “insist,” or “reject.” Research centered sources may “add,” “state,” or “find.” Sources aimed at authorizing a position may “warn,” “predict,” or “propose.” Pay attention to verbs to get a better sense of the author’s position, and thus, your own analysis.

How long should a synthesis essay be? 

Typically, you can expect 4-5 paragraphs (roughly 600-800 words). This includes the introduction, 2-3 body paragraphs synthesizing the sources, and a conclusion.

Synthesis essay vs. argumentative essay: What’s the difference?

Synthesis essay: The purpose of a synthesis essay is to combine and evaluate information from multiple sources to form a coherent argument. Your purpose is to synthesize, not argue.

Argumentative essay: Take a clear and personal stance on the issue, then support your position with evidence from personal knowledge, experience, or research. 

What is a good synthesis essay structure? A good structure involves:

• Introduction: Present the topic and your thesis.

• Paragraphs (body): each paragraph discusses a factor and includes evidence drawing on multiple studies.

• Conclusion: Summarize the core information and restate the argument or importance of the sources collectively.

Do you bring your own knowledge to bear in the essay? Do we bring our own opinions?

For the synthesis essay, the main support should come from the sources provided in the question. Although your opinion is not the focus of the essay, real life examples or historical context regarding the issue can be useful if they enhance your argument. Remember to support your thesis by synthesizing the sources, not your knowledge.

Conclusion

That's all about the synthesis essay. It’s all about combining information from different sources to make a solid argument.  

We also talked about how to tackle AP Lang. The key is to stay focused on the evidence given, explain how the sources support your point, and wrap up by stressing the importance of what you’re discussing. Simple, right?