Which of the following best describes synthesis in academic writing?

Synthesis in academic writing refers to the process of integrating ideas and information from multiple sources to form a cohesive understanding or argument. This approach allows the writer to create a new perspective by drawing connections among different viewpoints, evidence, or information. By combining ideas from various sources, the writer not only demonstrates comprehension of the material but also engages in critical thinking and analysis, leading to a more nuanced argument.

In contrast, summarizing each source separately would not allow for the interconnection of ideas, as it focuses on individual perspectives rather than melding them into a larger narrative. Listing sources without connections fails to engage with the content meaningfully and does not contribute to a developed argument or thesis. Focusing deeply on one source alone limits the breadth of the argument and does not take advantage of the diverse perspectives available in the research. Thus, combining ideas from various sources stands out as the most accurate representation of synthesis in academic writing.