Short on time? This page is the recap. For explanations and worked examples, use the full study guide.
Recap
- Synthesising means drawing upon multiple sources, strategically selecting the most relevant information and combining apt, specific source material as part of your own argument.
- A source provides information for an argument; some sources are more reliable or credible than others.
- In reading, identify and explain claims and evidence within an argument. In writing, develop paragraphs that include a claim and supporting evidence.
Key relationships
| Ways to bring in a source | Use when |
|---|---|
| Quotation | The exact words matter |
| Paraphrase | You can restate the point in new words |
| Summary | A long passage needs compressing |
| How sources relate | Language |
|---|---|
| Agreement | “Both… suggest” |
| Extension | “goes further, showing” |
| Qualification | “but this does not account for” |
| Conflict | “while X claims…, Y argues…” |
| Summary | Synthesis |
|---|---|
| “Source A says… Source B says…” | Claim first; sources serve it |
| No link between sources | Link by agreement, extension, qualification or conflict |
| Little commentary | Commentary throughout |
Assumptions and conventions
- Refer to sources by author, title or the label given (for example, Source A) and be consistent.
- Do not invent facts about a source.
- Use a signal phrase with a verb that shows how you are using the source.
- Three well-chosen sources can be enough; you need not use all six.
Mistakes to avoid
- Writing “Source A says…” paragraph after paragraph.
- Dropping a quotation with no introduction or commentary.
- Using a source that does not support your point.
- Letting the sources speak while the writer disappears.
- Ignoring a source’s weakness (a small sample, a clear bias).
- Copying wording instead of quoting or paraphrasing properly.
- Describing “use of sources” in analysis without saying how they combine.
Worked mini-example
Summary: “Source A says residents want green space. Source B says shops need parking.”
Synthesis: “Residents want green space, as the council’s survey shows, but a shopkeeper warns that visitors who drive in would be lost, so the plan should keep both in mind.”
The synthesis puts the writer’s claim first, attributes each source and shows how they relate (support, then qualification).
On the exam
On the synthesis essay, choose at least three sources, group them by idea and keep your own claim in charge. Refer to each source consistently, by author or by the label you are given.
Quick self-check
- What is the main difference between summary and synthesis? (Summary reports each source in turn; synthesis uses them together to support your claim.)
- Name two ways sources can relate. (Agreement, extension, qualification, conflict.)
- Why organise by idea? (It keeps the writer’s argument in charge and lets the sources work together.)
Next: practice questions.