While it might seem easier, this approach can weaken your argument. Instead, let the evidence guide your discussion. By researching first, you allow the strongest, most relevant sources to shape your points, ensuring your argument is well-supported and grounded in credible evidence. In this post, we’ll explore why letting the research lead is key to academic success.

While these two may sound similar and can sometimes be used together, they’re actually quite different and should be used for distinct purposes. Summarising condenses a single source, whereas synthesising combines ideas from multiple sources to create something new. In this post, we’ll dive into when and how to use each one effectively.