Synthesis Worksheet
A synthesis is a discussion that forges connections between the arguments of two or more authors. A
synthesis does more than list similarities and differences between texts, or assert agreement with the
argument of one text over another. Instead, a synthesis sets up your own argument. Once you discover
connections between texts, you have to decide what those connections mean in the context of your
argument and its readers.
In the most general terms, what is the subject area of your proposed synthesis?
For each source, list the idea(s) you intend to use as well as a counter-claim/counter-argument for each.
First Source
Second Source
Third Source
How do the ideas from each source relate to your subject area? Do you agree in whole or in part with the
writer's idea/argument? Is there an argument you'd like to make in response to it? Is there some aspect
of the argument you'd like to look into further? Is there some information that the argument ignored that
you'd like to investigate? Is there a connection to one of the other texts/ideas you'd like to explore?
First Source
Second Source
Third Source
You want to present an overarching idea that brings together the ideas you've noted in the texts you've
annotated. When you write your thesis, it should be a succinct statement that brings into focus not the
central ideas of one text but the relationship among different key ideas in multiple texts.
Drawing from your list of ideas and connections on the opposite page, outline the progression of your
story about your central idea. If presenting an argumentative synthesis, outline the specific claims,
grounds, warrants, qualifiers and rebuttals that support your thesis. If pursuing an explanatory thesis,
outline your understanding or interpretation of your central ideas, providing support for your analysis.