Brainstorming the Synthesis Essay
The goal of the synthesis essay is to 1) identify patterns of repetition (similarity) or
opposition and 2) answer the question, “So what?” or “What do these patterns
mean?” as a way to move towards your thesis.
Finding Patterns
1. Repetition of words, images, or themes:
What are some words that you see repeated in multiple texts? Try to identify at
least 2 words that can be found in multiple places.
What are some images that you see repeated? Try to name at least two.
What are some themes that you see repeated in multiple texts? (Themes are usually
1-2 words, usually nouns, that connect texts)
2. Opposing Ideas or Binaries
Another very interesting way to approach a synthesis is to ask where oppositions
can be found (e.g. male/female, dark/light, hope/despair); these oppositions link
texts in fascinating ways. Identify at least 3 binaries or significant tensions that can
be found in these texts.
Working Towards the Thesis
Looking above, pick two ideas (patterns of repetition or binaries) that you find
interesting or potentially useful. Why are they interesting or worth writing about?