Introduction
A synthesis paper assignment is a type of research paper in which you are asked to combine information from multiple sources to create a new and original argument or perspective. Synthesis paper assignments are common in nursing school because they help students to develop their critical thinking skills and to learn how to apply research findings to nursing practice.
Why are synthesis paper assignments important in nursing school?
Synthesis paper assignments are important in nursing school because they help students to develop the following skills:
Critical thinking skills:
Synthesis paper assignments require students to evaluate the information they find in their sources and to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each source. Students must also be able to identify the relationships between different sources and to synthesize the information into a new and original argument or perspective.
Research skills:
Synthesis paper assignments require students to conduct thorough research on their chosen topic. Students must be able to identify relevant sources, to extract key information from those sources, and to cite their sources correctly.
Writing skills:
Synthesis paper assignments require students to write clear, concise, and well-organized papers. Students must be able to communicate their ideas effectively and to support their claims with evidence.
How to choose a topic for your synthesis paper assignment
When choosing a topic for your synthesis paper assignment, it is important to consider the following factors:
Your interests:
Choose a topic that you are interested in and passionate about. This will make the writing process more enjoyable and it will help you to produce a better paper.
The scope of the topic:
Make sure that the topic you choose is broad enough to allow you to find multiple sources of information. However, the topic should not be too broad, or you will find it difficult to focus your paper.
The availability of sources:
Make sure that there are enough relevant sources available on your chosen topic. You can do this by conducting a preliminary search of the literature.
Tips for writing a successful synthesis paper assignment
Here are some tips for writing a successful synthesis paper assignment:
Choose a topic that you are interested in and passionate about.
Do your research thoroughly.
Make sure to find multiple sources of information on your chosen topic.
Create an outline.
This will help you to organize your thoughts and to ensure that your paper is well-structured.
Write a clear and concise thesis statement.
Your thesis statement should state the main argument or perspective of your paper.
Support your thesis statement with evidence from your sources.
Be sure to cite your sources correctly.
Write a strong conclusion.
Your conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement.
Body
What is a synthesis paper assignment?
A synthesis paper assignment is a type of research paper in which you are asked to combine information from multiple sources to create a new and original argument or perspective. Synthesis paper assignments are common in nursing school because they help students to develop their critical thinking skills and to learn how to apply research findings to nursing practice.
Synthesis paper assignments can take many different forms. For example, you may be asked to:
- Compare and contrast two or more different perspectives on a nursing issue.
- Develop a new theory or model to explain a nursing phenomenon.
- Propose a solution to a nursing problem.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of a nursing intervention.
No matter what specific form your synthesis paper assignment takes, the goal is to demonstrate your ability to think critically about nursing research and to apply that research to nursing practice.
Here are some examples of synthesis paper assignments in nursing school:
- Compare and contrast the effectiveness of two different pain management interventions for patients with cancer pain.
- Develop a new model of nursing care for patients with heart failure.
- Propose a solution to the problem of nurse burnout.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of a nursing intervention to improve patient satisfaction.
How to choose a topic for your synthesis paper assignment
When choosing a topic for your synthesis paper assignment, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Your interests: Choose a topic that you are interested in and passionate about. This will make the writing process more enjoyable and it will help you to produce a better paper.
- The scope of the topic: Make sure that the topic you choose is broad enough to allow you to find multiple sources of information. However, the topic should not be too broad, or you will find it difficult to focus your paper.
- The availability of sources: Make sure that there are enough relevant sources available on your chosen topic. You can do this by conducting a preliminary search of the literature.
Here are some tips for choosing a good topic for your synthesis paper assignment:
- Start by brainstorming a list of topics that you are interested in. Once you have a list of topics, narrow it down to a few topics that you are most interested in and that you think you can find enough information on.
- Do some preliminary research to see if there are enough relevant sources available on your chosen topic. You can do this by searching for articles and books on your topic in the library database.
- Talk to your instructor about your topic. Your instructor can give you feedback on your topic and help you to narrow it down if necessary.
Once you have chosen a topic for your synthesis paper assignment, you can start to develop your research question or thesis statement.
Tips for writing a successful synthesis paper assignment
Here are some tips for writing a successful synthesis paper assignment:
Start by developing a research question or thesis statement.
Your research question or thesis statement should be clear, concise, and focused. It should also be arguable, meaning that there should be more than one side to the issue.
Do your research thoroughly.
Make sure to find multiple sources of information on your chosen topic. You should also try to find a variety of sources, including scholarly articles, books, and websites.
Take notes as you do your research.
This will help you to keep track of the information you find and to make it easier to write your paper.
Create an outline.
This will help you to organize your thoughts and to ensure that your paper is well-structured.
Write a clear and concise introduction.
Your introduction should introduce your topic and state your research question or thesis statement.
Support your research question or thesis statement with evidence from your sources.
Be sure to cite your sources correctly.
Write a strong conclusion.
Your conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your research question or thesis statement.
Conclusion
Synthesis paper assignments can be challenging, but they are an important part of nursing school. By following the tips above, you can write a successful synthesis paper assignment that will demonstrate your critical thinking, research, and writing skills.
FAQs
What is the difference between a synthesis paper and a summary?
A summary is a brief overview of a single source. A synthesis paper, on the other hand, combines information from multiple sources to create a new and original argument or perspective.
How many sources should I use for my synthesis paper assignment?
There is no set number of sources that you should use for your synthesis paper assignment. However, you will need to use enough sources to support your argument or perspective. A good rule of thumb is to use at least five sources.
How do I cite my sources in my synthesis paper assignment?
There are a number of different ways to cite your sources in your synthesis paper assignment. The most common citation style used in nursing school is APA style. You can find more information about APA style citation on the APA website.
Where can I find help with writing my synthesis paper assignment?
If you need help with writing your synthesis paper assignment, you can ask your nursing instructor for assistance. You can also consult with a writing tutor or librarian.
