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Synthesis
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What is Synthesis Essays (Examples)?

A synthesis essay is a very specific type of research paper, where you are asked to draw upon specific sources to support your thesis.  These sources are generally ones that have been assigned as reading for a class or that relate to reading and lectures from your class.  The synthesis referred to in the title is the ability to connect these sources to each other to support a unifying theme or idea in your paper.

There are two main types of synthesis essays: argumentative and explanatory.  An explanatory synthesis essay helps the reader better understand an idea and is similar to an expository essay.  An argumentative synthesis essay uses information gained from the various sources to support an argument.  In your introduction, you will make it clear whether you are writing an explanatory or argumentative essay.  This is usually done via your thesis statement, which provides a very brief explanation of the goal of your essay.

Because a synthesis draws upon your knowledge of sources, you can expect part of the body of your synthesis to focus on summarizing your sources.  Depending on the nature of the essay, you may be summarizing the entire source or simply summarizing one or more of the ideas contained in the source. 

In the body of your synthesis essay, you are also going to carry out the goals you outlined in your introduction.  For an explanatory essay, you will develop the relationship between the sources and show how they work together to explain your topic.  In an argumentative essay, you will focus more on developing the relationship between the ideas expressed in your sources and how, when put together, those ideas support your thesis statement.

The conclusion of your synthesis essay will restate your thesis and then highlight how you have supported that thesis.  If you are still confused about the structure of a synthesis essay, we suggest looking through our free example essays for more guidance.

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Paper Undergraduate
Data management strategy and enterprise resource planning in healthcare
At the most strategic level, the role of a data management strategy to a healthcare organization is one of unifying the diverse set of information assets, systems, processes and platforms into unified architecture that can support an organization in the attainment of its objectives. Data management strategies have progressed far beyond the development of static, difficult-to-change data structures that take months to re-architect to meet internal information requirements (Hickman, Smaltz, 2008). The focus of data management strategies in healthcare are centered on creating a more agile, patient-centered and market responsive IT architecture that can flex over time to the needs of stakeholders and served communities (Tan, Payton, 2010). Another critically important aspect of an effective data management strategy in healthcare is the exponential increase in the reliance healthcare providers have on analytics. The real-time reporting of analytics, key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics is now driving disruptive innovation throughout many healthcare organizations globally as they are gaining greater insights into their operations than they ever had in the past (Hickman, Smaltz, 2008). Data management strategies in healthcare organizations make all of these innovations possible and drive greater levels of intelligence and insight into healthcare providers than ever before. It all starts with a scalable, effective data management strategy that unifies all available information assets.
Paper Undergraduate
The academic research and writing process in scholarly work
The research process roughly begins with a basic area of study, and then from that a literature review that brings the researcher up to speed on the latest developments in the field. From there, the researcher must narrow down a research topic and select a research question that adds to the current body of study.
Paper Doctorate
Carl Jung's cognitive process types in engineering education
The document considers the three cognitive types "Extraverted Sensing," "Extraverted Intuiting" and "Introverted Feeling." Each type is discussed along with a study relating to the specific type. The conclusion is that there is always rich potential for further study in the cognitive field, with many potential benefits. One of these is more effective leadership and education.
Research Paper Doctorate
Nutritional benefits of soy and Japanese longevity
As an annual Asian legume (meaning that it grows in a pod), soy is one of the most amazing members of the bean family, due mostly to its significant health benefits. Many studies done by nutritionist worldwide have…
Research Paper Undergraduate
Family treatment approaches for conduct disorder in adolescents
Although Burke, Loeber, and Birmaher (2002) are pessimistic regarding the current state of efficacious interventions for CD and recommend restructuring of diagnostic criteria to capture adequate subtypes and indicators, clarification of the neurological underpinnings of the disorder, and editing of the models used to explain DBD (ibid) in order to arrive at more certain conclusions, their opinion that a synthesis of modalities may be helpful support the conclusions of Kumpfer and Alvorado (2003) and Brestan and Eyebarg (1998). It is interesting also that conclude that: If any single risk domain is to be singled out, aspects of parenting convey risks (including parenting behavior, psychopathology, and genetic contributions) and provide a useful focus for intervention. (1288) All authors, therefore, assert the value of family-orientated interventions and research unanimously shows this to be the most important component of addressing CD.
Thesis Masters
Triclosan's molecular mechanisms, resistance development, and environmental effects
Describe how Triclosan works on a molecular level. Explain how Triclosan differs from soap and bleach in its antimicrobial activity.
Research Paper Doctorate
DNA fingerprinting as a forensic identification tool in criminal investigations
This essay is about DNA fingerprinting and how it has become a silent partner in the war on crime. The ever popular O.J. Simpson murder trial in the early 90's made DNA evidence another household concept.
Paper Undergraduate
Meta-analysis in criminal justice rehabilitation effectiveness
On most topics, especially those associated with clinical research and the implementation of solutions to solve a problem, such as recidivism and other criminal justice issues, a great body of work exists.
Paper Doctorate
Applying Fiedler's contingency theory to military leadership in reconstruction operations
The Wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have highlighted the practical and philosophical challenges of moving from occupation to reconstruction and self-determination. Using Fiedler's Contingency Theory as a basis, the research here describes the practical role of leadership in helping to achieve both the cultural sensitivity and contingency planning required for a smooth transition of power.
Research Paper Doctorate
Family presence during critical medical procedures and resuscitation
One of the central problem areas in nursing is dealing with family presence in medical and procedural situations. This area is particularly problematic when the procedures involve critical and terminal health care issues.