A conclusion is the final paragraph of a research paper, tying together everything you have discussed in the paper. Here is an example outline for conclusions they typically contain:
I. Restate thesis statement/main point
The thesis is repeated to remind the reader of the main argument or point of the paper. For example: “My research has shown that exercise is beneficial for children’s cognitive and physical development.”
II. Briefly summarize key findings/main supporting points
Summarize the 2-3 most important pieces of evidence, examples, or perspectives that support the thesis. For example: “I found that exercise improves children’s attention, memory, and test scores. Regular physical activity also reduces stress and helps maintain a healthy weight.”
III. Express significance/importance of topic
Explain why the topic is meaningful or relevant. For example: “Given these benefits, schools should ensure children have daily physical education classes and recess to help their development and learning.”
IV. Suggest areas for further research
Pose additional questions the research has brought up that still need exploring. For example: “While a link between exercise and cognition has been established, further research could look at optimal amounts, types, and intensities of activity that are most effective for children.”
V. Concluding sentence that wraps it up
A strong closing statement that reinforces the importance and/or meaning of the conclusions. For example: “Promoting physical activity in schools should be a priority to support children’s health, education success, and life-long habits.”
That covers the basic elements most research paper conclusions contain. Let’s look at a full example:
In this paper, I have sought to understand the impact of exercise on children’s cognitive and physical development. My research has shown that regular physical activity provides multiple benefits for children. I found that exercise improves children’s attention, memory, and test scores through increased blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Regular exercise also reduces stress levels and symptoms of depression and anxiety in children. Promoting physical fitness helps children maintain a healthy weight, lowering their risk for obesity and related health issues.
Given these cognitive and physical benefits, schools should make daily physical education classes and recess a priority. Providing opportunities for structured and unstructured play can help children focus and learn while also supporting their health. While a link between exercise and cognition has been established, further research could explore optimal amounts, types and intensities of different activities that are most effective. Additional longitudinal studies tracking children over many years could provide deeper insight into long-term effects.
Ensuring children engage in regular physical activity should be an important component of education. Promoting exercise in schools has the potential to positively impact children’s academic achievement, psychological well-being, and fitness – all of which are crucial for success in school and quality of life. More research can continue to elucidate exercise’s role in children’s development, but the evidence clearly demonstrates that physical activity belongs in the school day.
This example follows the general outline structure, restating the thesis that exercise benefits children’s cognitive and physical development. It then summarizes the key findings of improved attention/memory, reduced stress/anxiety, and maintained health. Significance is expressed by arguing schools should prioritize physical education and play. Suggestions for further research are given. The conclusion wraps it all together by emphasizing how promoting exercise in schools can support children long-term.
While research paper conclusions will vary in specific content and phrasing depending on the topic, this format provides a solid structure most academic papers would adhere to. Restating the thesis, summarizing evidence, discussing significance, suggesting further questions, and ending with a concluding statement are key elements to effectively wrap up the essay and leave the reader with a cohesive takeaway. Following an outline, like the example here, can help write polished, well-organized conclusions that tie a neat bow on the research.