What does it mean to synthesize information in writing?

To synthesize information in writing means to combine ideas from different sources to create a new understanding. This process involves not just gathering facts or data from various texts but also connecting those pieces of information in a meaningful way. When you synthesize, you explore relationships between different viewpoints, concepts, or arguments and generate insights that may not have been apparent by looking at each source in isolation. This critical thinking skill is essential for developing a well-rounded perspective on a topic, allowing you to construct a coherent narrative or argument that reflects a nuanced understanding of the material.

In this context, summarizing information from a single source would fall short of synthesis, as it does not involve integrating multiple perspectives. Evaluating the reliability of a source, while important in research, is a distinct step that contributes to the synthesis process but does not define it. Quoting information directly from sources pertains more to documentation rather than integrating those ideas into a broader understanding. Therefore, the ability to synthesize is a higher-order thinking skill that enhances writing by fostering deeper insights and more informed conclusions.