Writing Strong Conclusions
A conclusion is one of the most important sections of any academic paper or essay. It’s your last chance to reinforce your thesis and leave the reader with a powerful final impression. Crafting an effective conclusion can be one of the most challenging parts of the writing process. In this article, we will discuss some best practices and strategies for writing strong conclusions that properly wrap up your paper.
Summarize Your Main Points
The conclusion should briefly summarize the major points or findings that supported your thesis statement. Restate the most important evidence and analysis presented in the body paragraphs. Don’t introduce entirely new information here – focus on recapping what has already been discussed. Summarizing the key takeaways allows you to reinforce your overall argument and narrative arc for the reader.
For example, if writing a paper arguing that technological advances will lead to more remote work opportunities, your conclusion might state: “This paper examined how increased connectivity through new communication technologies is enabling remote and distributed work models. By analyzing workforce trends and case studies of companies implementing remote programs, strong evidence was presented that remote work will continue growing exponentially in the coming decades.”
Reiterate Your Thesis
Reiterate your central thesis statement to bring the reader full circle. Your thesis should be the logical ending point that ties everything together. Restate it using different words if possible to avoid verbatim repetition. Keep it brief yet memorable. For instance: “In closing, while remote work arrangements pose management challenges, the evidence overwhelmingly demonstrates they benefit both employers and employees by enhancing work-life balance and unlocking a larger global talent pool.”
Provide Closure or Broader Implications
Go beyond simply restating old points – draw conclusions about what the implications are for your topic moving forward. Discuss any broader impacts, relevance to other issues, or opportunities for further exploration based on your analysis. You can also acknowledge limitations or unanswered questions to complete the throughline.
If analyzing the portrayal of women characters in 1980s films, for example, implications might include: “While progress has undoubtedly been made, this study finds representation of women on screen still has room for improvement. Continued examination of gender bias and empowering diverse storytelling will be crucial to shape popular culture and reflect a changing society.”
Call Readers to Action
Dynamic conclusions call readers to do something – think differently, act, engage with the issue further. Avoid limp conclusions that just summarize points. Light a spark by empowering readers with a sense of motivation, curiosity or ability to enact positive change based on insights shared.
For instance, instead of a generic summary, a paper on reducing plastic pollution might call readers to take personal responsibility: “It is clear that collective action is needed now more than ever to curb plastic waste and preserve our planet. Each small change we make – refusing a straw, bringing reusable bags to the store – adds up to make a meaningful difference. I invite you to join me in making sustainable choices daily to green our world.”
Use Appropriate Tone
The conclusion should match the overall tone established in the rest of the paper. Formal academic writing requires an authoritative yet balanced tone. More creative or persuasive pieces permit greater emotionality if done tastefully. Stick with the linguistic style, level of formality and vocabulary consistent with the overall essay. Avoid flippant, off-topic or overly conversational passages that undermine credibility.
Check for Cohesiveness
Review that your conclusion effectively ties back to the introduction. There must be full circle continuity between beginning, middle and end. Check that key terms, theories and discussion points brought up early on are appropriately revisited at the conclusion. This demonstrates a cohesive thread of analysis rather than disconnected or unfocused sections. Your readers should feel satisfied that the paper delivered on what it set out to prove.
Leave a Lasting Impression
A strong conclusion is remembered long after reading. It cements why the topic, findings or call to action matter on a higher level. Use poignant, polished prose to drive your final points home powerfully yet concisely without belaboring old details. Edit resolutely for impact – every word should advance your message and parting thought for the reader. With finesse and care, conclusions can transform an otherwise average paper into a thought-provoking work that lingers in the mind.
Proofread Thoroughly
The conclusion is not the place for sloppy errors – proofread with an especially critical eye. Check flow, consistency with introduction, proper grammar, spelling and punctuation. Ask someone else to also review for objectivity. Nothing detracts from conclusions like visible mistakes. Polish your conclusion to a high shine before submitting. With a strong conclusion, you ensure readers walk away fully persuaded by your argument.
Conclusions are the wrapper on the gift of your paper. Use them to tie up loose ends neatly yet elegantly, reiterate key points, and give readers that satisfying sense of resolution and completeness. Following these guidelines will help you craft impactful conclusions that bring papers to a fitting and thoughtful conclusion.
Andrew Stroud