Synthesis Essay-Outline

I. Introduction
1. Grab your readers attention with a broad, engaging hook about the ideas of your general topic.
2. Begin with a broad perspective (maybe even global) of your general topic and narrow it down to the
specific topic/issue at hand. Frame the discussion regarding your topic. Discuss the occasion and prepare
readers for your thesis.
4. In one sentence (in may be quite long, but that is OK) state your clear and concise thesis statement,
including the three main claims/reasons you will address in each body paragraph.
II. Body
1. Body Paragraph #1
A. Topic sentence: State your first claim/reason.
i. State specific, concrete example(s)/evidence/detail(s) from the source(s) to support
your claim
a. Explain how and why the example/evidence/detail relates to your topic
sentence and to your thesis. Always explain WHY your opinion is the correct one.
ii. State specific, concrete example(s)/evidence/detail(s) from the source(s) to support
your claim
a. Explain how and why the example/evidence/detail relates to your topic
sentence and to your thesis. Always explain WHY your opinion is the correct one.
B. Reiteration of your main point and how it relates to your thesis. Wrap up and clarify this
paragraph.
2. Body Paragraph #2
A. Topic sentence: State your second claim/reason
i. State specific, concrete example(s)/evidence/detail(s) from the source(s) to support
your claim
a. Explain how and why the example/evidence/detail relates to your topic
sentence and to your thesis. Always explain WHY your opinion is the correct one.
ii. State specific, concrete example(s)/evidence/detail(s) from the source(s) to support
your claim
a. Explain how and why the example/evidence/detail relates to your topic
sentence and to your thesis. Always explain WHY your opinion is the correct one.
B. Reiteration of your main point and how it relates to your thesis. Wrap up and clarify this
paragraph.
3. Body Paragraph #3
A. Topic sentence: State your third claim/reason
i. State specific, concrete example(s)/evidence/detail(s) from the source(s) to support
your claim
a. Explain how and why the example/evidence/detail relates to your topic
sentence and to your thesis. Always explain WHY your opinion is the correct one.

ii. State specific, concrete example(s)/evidence/detail(s) from the source(s) to support

your claim
a. Explain how and why the example/evidence/detail relates to your topic
sentence and to your thesis. Always explain WHY your opinion is the correct one.
B. Reiteration of your main point and how it relates to your thesis. Wrap up and clarify this
paragraph.
4. Concession and Refutation
A. Present an opposing view using the source(s)
i. Explain the possible advantages/disadvantages of this view.
B. Explain how and why your view is more correct and a better view.
C. Present an opposing view using the source(s)
i. Explain the possible advantages/disadvantages of this view.
D. Explain how and why your view is more correct and a better view.
III. Conclusion
1. Make sure your main claim is clear by restating your thesis in new words.
2. Artfully remind your readers of your main points (from your body paragraphs).
3. Bring the topic out to a broad perspective
A. Relate this information to the real world.
B. Signify what the reader can do to contribute positively to your topic
4. Conclude with a positive, hopeful tone