Effective Paragraphs: Learn It 4

Conclusions

A good conclusion leaves your reader with a solid understanding of your main points and a fresh perspective on the topic. When writing a conclusion, ask yourself, “So what?” What do you want your readers to think or feel when they finish your essay?

If your reader is new to your topic, it can be helpful to restate your main points in the conclusion to reinforce your argument. However, avoid repeating the exact sentences from your introduction. Instead, rephrase your thesis in a fresh, engaging way. That said, a strong conclusion should go beyond simply restating your thesis. Use it to emphasize why your argument matters. Highlight the significance of your topic and the potential impact of your ideas. For example, explain how adopting your perspective could bring about meaningful change or improve people’s lives.

Every once in a while, you will want to use the phrase “In conclusion” when you get to your final paragraph. It can be so satisfying! However, you don’t always need to start your conclusion with “In conclusion.” Instead, focus on wrapping up your ideas clearly and showing readers the big picture—why your points matter and how they connect to a larger context. Think about your audience and what you want them to take away. 
Read this short passage. What is the answer to the “So, what?” question?

  • In a society fixated on the latest and smartest digital technology, a consumer can easily become confused by the countless options and specifications. The ever-changing state of digital technology challenges consumers with its updates and add-ons and expanding markets and incompatible formats, and restrictions–a fact that is complicated by salespeople who want to make a sale. In a world that is increasingly driven by instant gratification, it’s easy for people to buy the first thing they see. The solution for many people should be to avoid buying on impulse. Consumers should think about what they really need, not what is advertised.

What is the main takeaway? Notice the final call to action here–insisting that consumers think before they buy instead of being driven by advertising. This tells the reader (a consumer) to consider how consumption is shaped and distorted by ever-changing technology, instant gratification, and relentless advertising.

You might also point out the limitations of the present understanding of your topic, suggesting or recommending future action, study, or research that needs to be done. A strong conclusion does not need to suggest only conclusions or answers; you may, at this stage in your writing, suggest new questions or considerations for further discussion. Note, however, that your conclusion is not the place to question or raise counterpoints to your argument.

writing good conclusions

Hands painted with a global map.
Figure 1. What do you expect the reader to gain from reading your essay? Use the conclusion to issue calls of action, make emotional appeals, and consider further action that may be needed in relation to your topic.

Below is a list that captures these ideas and other potential goals of a conclusion. Conclusions may have different functions in your writing. They may:

  • summarize the argument in fresh language (especially in longer pieces of writing)
  • provide or “bookend” a story or idea that started in the introduction
  • include an emotional appeal, with which you (explicitly or implicitly) connect the “logic” of the argument to a more passionate reason intended to sway the reader
  • issue a call to action
  • make some sort of prediction or assessment about the future of your topic or future research that needs to be done on the topic

Often, a conclusion will work in tandem with an introduction, having some kind of “call back” element to remind your reader of the powerful opening you provided.

Remember that introductions and conclusions are not independent sections of your writing. They should work together and fit with the rest of your paragraphs or sections. For example, a conclusion should pick up from the final body paragraph and feature an effective transition. Likewise, your introduction should set up the direction of your writing and lead nicely into the first body paragraph.