The main difference between synthesis and summarizing in academic writing is:

The main difference between synthesis and summarizing in academic writing is:

• Summarizing involves condensing the main points of a single source, typically following the original source's structure.
• Synthesis involves combining information from multiple sources to create a new, coherent understanding or argument, often organized by a new, thematic outline.

Let's evaluate the options:

• A - Incorrect. Synthesis does not follow the original source's structure; summarizing does.
• B - Correct. Summarizing follows the original source's structure, while synthesis uses your own thematic outline to integrate information from various sources.
• C - Incorrect. This option reverses the definitions. Summarizing involves restating an author's points, while synthesis shows how different authors relate.
• D - Incorrect. Synthesis is integrative, while summarizing is descriptive.

The correct option is B.

B. When summarizing the structure that is followed is that of the original source, while synthesis follows your own thematic outline.