This presentation teaches students how to move beyond summary to skillfully synthesize multiple sources in their academic writing. Designed for thesis writers and researchers, the session explores how to identify connections, contradictions, and themes across scholarship in order to support a strong, original argument. Students will learn how to structure synthesis within paragraphs, develop synthesis sentences, and integrate source material seamlessly into literature reviews and research papers. This presentation also includes examples, strategies, and pitfalls to avoid, equipping graduate writers to confidently position themselves in scholarly conversations.
00:00 Introduction 01:00 What is Synthesis in Academic Writing? 01:50 Why Synthesis Matters in Grad Writing 02:30 Synthesis vs Summary - What's the Difference? 03:15 Strategies for Synthesizing Sources 04:05 Structuring Paragraphs with Synthesis 04:45 Sample Paragraph with Synthesis 05:25 Integrating Synthesis Into Your Literature Review 06:08 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them 06:40 Final Thoughts on Mastering Synthesis 07:25 Thank You! (Contact Info)