Writing the Conclusion for a Research Paper
The conclusion of a research paper needs to summarize the content and purpose of the paper without just restating information. The conclusion should tie everything together and leave the reader with a sense of closure and understanding of why the research was important. Here are some tips and best practices for writing an effective conclusion for a research paper:
Restate the Thesis
The first thing the conclusion should do is restate the thesis statement. Rephrase the thesis in new wording to remind the reader of the overall purpose or central question of the paper. This helps reinforce the main argument and holds everything together at the end. For example: “This paper examined how standardized testing has impacted schools and student learning outcomes over the past 20 years.”
Summarize Key Findings
The body of the paper provides evidence and details to support the thesis. The conclusion should summarize the main points and most significant findings without going into as much detail. Highlight 2-3 of the strongest arguments or most important discoveries. For instance: “Three significant findings from this research were that standardized tests have led to a narrowing of curriculum, caused undue stress on students, and not correlated well with other measures of student achievement and college performance.”
Connect Back to Introduction
Echo elements from the introduction to come full circle. The introduction framed the topic and importance, so the conclusion should reiterate this. Remind readers why the research question matters. For example: “As discussed in the introduction, the use of standardized testing has widespread implications for educational policy and student outcomes. The research presented provides insight into these impacts and implications.”
Address Broader Context
Discuss how the findings relate to the larger issue being explored. Communicate the relevance and importance beyond just the paper itself. Add a line or two about applicability, further questions, or need for additional research. For example: “This highlights the need for education leaders and policymakers to reconsider standardized testing policies and how multiple assessment measures could provide a more comprehensive evaluation of students and schools.”
Limit Additional Information
Do not introduce any new evidence, examples, quotes, research in the conclusion. Simply analyze and discuss what has already been presented. Resist the urge to add more details or deviate from summarizing the main arguments. The job of the conclusion is to wrap up what came before, not intoduce new pieces.
Provide Closure
Finish with a final statement that brings closure and emphasis to the thesis. Restate the primary purpose and leave the reader with a clear takeaway of the main idea explored. For example: “This research demonstrates the multi-faceted impacts of standardized testing on curriculum, teaching practices, and student outcomes. A re-examination of these high-stakes testing policies could enhance learning and better serve students.”
Keep it Concise
A strong conclusion should be concise yet cohesive. Strive for 3 well-developed paragraphs (5 sentences each). Avoid rambling or unnecessarily lengthening the conclusion. Tight, precise writing that hits the key points will leave the best lasting impression. Check that each sentence clearly advances the wrap-up of the paper.
Edit Thoroughly
Give the conclusion multiple reviews with a critical eye. Ensure flow and transition between points. Check for grammatical errors, clarity of language, and logical development. The conclusion represents the lasting impression, so it requires careful editing. Ask oneself if it accomplishes satisfying closure on the thesis in a cohesive manner.
Getting the conclusion right is essential for a successful research paper. It must tie up all loose ends and arguments in a thoughtful, well-written summary. Following best practices like restating the thesis, highlighting key findings, connecting to the introduction, addressing broader context, and providing closure will result in an outstanding conclusion that leaves the desired impact. With practice and multiple revisions, students can craft conclusions that bring their papers to a logical and satisfying end.