As a student, you may encounter various types of essays in your academic journey, including synthesis and argument essays. While both of these essay types aim to communicate ideas, opinions, and arguments on a particular topic, they differ in their purpose, structure, and approach. In this article, we will explore the differences between synthesis and argument essays and provide insights into how to write them effectively. If you are struggling to write synthesis or argument essay, you may want to consider using paper writing services, and learn more about them at The Jerusalem Post.
What is a Synthesis Essay?
A synthesis essay is an essay that involves combining information from multiple sources to create a new understanding or interpretation of a particular topic. The goal of a synthesis essay is to demonstrate the writer’s ability to understand and analyze different perspectives on a topic and synthesize them into a cohesive and well-supported argument.
The structure of a synthesis essay typically consists of an introduction that provides context and background information on the topic, a thesis statement that states the writer’s main argument or claim, body paragraphs that present evidence and analysis from multiple sources, and a conclusion that restates the thesis and summarizes the main points.
In a synthesis essay, the writer must demonstrate their ability to critically analyze and synthesize information from multiple sources, including articles, books, and other academic sources. The writer should evaluate the sources based on their credibility, relevance, and reliability and use them to support their argument.
What is an Argument Essay?
An argument essay, also known as a persuasive essay, is an essay that presents a claim and supports it with evidence and reasoning. The goal of an argument essay is to persuade the reader to agree with the writer’s viewpoint on a particular topic.
The structure of an argument essay typically consists of an introduction that presents the topic and the writer’s stance on it, a thesis statement that states the main argument or claim, body paragraphs that provide evidence and reasoning to support the claim, and a conclusion that restates the thesis and summarizes the main points.
In an argument essay, the writer must present a clear and well-supported argument that convinces the reader of the validity of their claim. The writer should use evidence, such as statistics, expert opinions, and examples, to support their argument and refute counterarguments.
Differences Between Synthesis and Argument Essays
While both synthesis and argument essays require the writer to present a thesis and support it with evidence, they differ in several ways. Here are some of the key differences between synthesis and argument essays:
Purpose
The purpose of a synthesis essay is to combine and synthesize information from multiple sources to create a new understanding or interpretation of a topic. The purpose of an argument essay is to persuade the reader to agree with the writer’s viewpoint on a particular topic.
Approach
In a synthesis essay, the writer must analyze and evaluate different perspectives on a topic and use them to support their argument. In an argument essay, the writer must present a clear and well-supported argument that convinces the reader of the validity of their claim.
Sources
A synthesis essay requires the writer to use multiple sources, such as articles, books, and academic sources, to support their argument. An argument essay can use a variety of sources, including statistics, expert opinions, and examples, to support the writer’s claim.
Structure
The structure of a synthesis essay typically consists of an introduction, thesis statement, body paragraphs, and conclusion. The structure of an argument essay also includes an introduction, thesis statement, body paragraphs, and conclusion, but it may also include counterarguments and rebuttals.
Tips for Writing a Synthesis Essay
Read and analyze the sources carefully and critically.
Organize the sources based on their similarities and differences.
Develop a thesis statement that presents your argument or claim.
Use evidence from the sources to support your thesis statement.