When does “synthesis” occur during the research process?

"Synthesis" occurs during the research process in several stages, but it is most prominent during the analysis and writing stages. Here are the steps:

1. Research and Gathering Information: This is the initial stage where you collect all the necessary data and information related to your research topic from various sources like books, academic journals, online resources, etc.

2. Organizing Information: After gathering the information, you need to organize it in a systematic manner. This involves categorizing the information based on its relevance to your research topic.

3. Analyzing Information: This is the stage where synthesis primarily occurs. You analyze the information you've gathered, looking for patterns, trends, or relationships among the data. You might compare and contrast different sources, interpret their meanings, or draw inferences. This process of combining various pieces of information to form a new whole is synthesis.

4. Writing: Synthesis continues in the writing stage as you integrate the results of your analysis into your paper. You might present your synthesis in the form of an argument, a narrative, or a thematic summary. You're not just reporting what others have said, but you're using their ideas to support your own unique perspective.

5. Reviewing and Revising: After writing your initial draft, you review and revise your work, further refining your synthesis. You might find new connections, or you might need to clarify or strengthen your argument.

So, synthesis is not confined to a single stage in the research process, but is a critical thinking skill that you use throughout.