Read the prompt carefully and identify the issue
Determine the central claim you will make
Analyze each source for its main idea, purpose, and evidence
Group sources by common themes or positions
Choose sources that best support your claim
Write a clear thesis that answers the prompt
Organize body paragraphs by theme or line of reasoning
Use multiple sources in each paragraph
Explain how the sources support your argument
Compare, contrast, and connect the sources
Include your own reasoning to link the evidence
Address counterarguments when relevant
Cite sources clearly and accurately
Use transitions to show relationships between ideas
Keep your writing focused on the prompt
End with a strong final statement that reinforces your claim