Introduction
The conclusion is one of the most important sections of any argumentative essay. It is where you wrap up your argument and drive home your overall thesis. Unlike other essay types where you may simply restate your main points, an argumentative essay conclusion must take the argument to the next level and convince the reader of your position. There are a few key types of conclusions writers use to achieve this goal in argumentative essays.
Restated Thesis Conclusion
The simplest and most straightforward type of conclusion is the restated thesis conclusion. In this type of conclusion, you directly restate your thesis statement from the introduction nearly verbatim at the start of your conclusion paragraph. This grounds the reader by reminding them of your central argument. After restating your thesis, you may also list the main points of evidence or arguments that supported it throughout the essay. A simple restatement alone is not usually compelling enough on its own for an argumentative essay conclusion. It needs more to truly drive the argument home.
Call to Action Conclusion
A more persuasive type of conclusion is the call to action conclusion. Here, rather than just restating your position, you explicitly call on the reader to take some kind of action or believe based on the arguments presented. You may state that based on the evidence and reasoning laid out, the reader should now accept your thesis position or view on the issue. You could also call for specific actions to be taken by the reader or other groups as a result of accepting your argument, such as contacting representatives, changing policies or behaviors, etc. This direct call for acceptance or action is more compelling than a plain restatement.
Forecast Conclusion
Another effective type is the forecast conclusion. In this type of conclusion, rather than just restating arguments, you look ahead by briefly predicting or forecasting what might happen in the future if the reader does not accept your thesis position. You may speculate on negative consequences that could result if the problem you argue about is not addressed or your recommendations are not followed. You can also suggest necessary future actions or policies that will need to take place if the audience does not change their view based on your argument. Effective forecasts add a sense of urgency that pushes the reader towards your side of the issue.
Concession Conclusion
A concession conclusion acknowledges an opposing argument or weakness in your own argument, then provides reasons why your overall thesis should still be accepted despite this. You may briefly summarize an opposing position raised earlier in your essay. Rather than just dismissing it, you concede a minor point of that counterargument while still emphasizing why your own position ultimately remains stronger. Done well, a concession conclusion shows fair-mindedness and strengthens your ethos, making the reader more inclined to accept your overall thesis even when considering opposing views.
Broadened Thesis Conclusion
For a truly masterful conclusion, try broadening your thesis to an even higher level. Take your narrow thesis argument and place it into a wider context by relating it to larger issues, themes or implications. Show how accepting your thesis has further important ramifications beyond the scope of the immediate issue discussed. Make connections to other topics, debates, or universal principles to demonstrate the widespread significance and stakes involved in this debate. A broadened thesis conclusion leaves the most persuasive and memorable lasting impression for readers.
Conclusion
Argumentative essay conclusions require more than just a simple restatement of the thesis. To truly drive your argument home in a compelling conclusion, consider directly calling readers to action, forecasting potential consequences, conceding an opposing point, or broadening your thesis to a larger context. Choosing the right type of persuasive conclusion structure for your content and purpose will allow you to best convince readers of your position by the end of your argumentative essay. With an impactful conclusion, your essay will reach its full persuasive potential.