Writing a strong conclusion for an argumentative essay is equally as important as crafting an engaging introduction. The conclusion serves to wrap up your argument and emphasize why the viewpoint or solution you advocated for should be accepted. Readers will form lasting impressions based on how effectively you concluded your essay, so it is worth spending time to create a conclusion that leaves the desired impact.
Effective conclusions for argumentative essays follow a basic structure and accomplish specific goals. A well-written conclusion will:
Briefly restate the thesis and main argument points. Summarize in one or two sentences what you set out to prove in your introduction. Remind readers of the key reasons or pieces of evidence you provided in support of your thesis throughout the body paragraphs.
Emphasize the importance of your argument. Explain why adopting the viewpoint or solution you advocated is meaningful or matters. Discuss the implications or potential impact/consequences of accepting your argument. Convince readers that your position should be given serious consideration over alternative views.
Call the reader to action. An argumentative essay conclusion should call readers to believe or do something as a result of the argument presented. Directly state that based on the evidence and discussion, readers should accept your thesis as the most compelling perspective. Challenge oppositional viewpoints or provide a clear next step the reader or others should take in response to your argument.
Do not introduce any new information or analysis. Your conclusion should synthesize and emphasize what was already discussed rather than opening up new areas of discussion. Rely only on evidence and analysis directly referenced in the body paragraphs to recap your argument.
Be between 3-5 sentences. While conclusions can vary in length, 3-5 concise yet impactful sentences is usually sufficient. Avoid long, drawn-out paragraphs that detract from the power of your closing remarks.
Use impactful, persuasive language. Your conclusion is the last chance to sway readers, so choose words carefully to leave a convincing impression. Employ forceful diction and vivid descriptions to underscore why your perspective demands acceptance. Appeal to logic as well as emotion with carefully crafted rhetorical statements.
As you craft your conclusion, carefully review your thesis and evidence presented to craft impactful closing statements. Some additional tips:
Prewrite multiple potential conclusion paragraphs to identify the most resonant summarization of key points and themes. The conclusion is not the place for new insights or analysis – focus on recapping essential pieces in a compelling way.
Avoid phrases like “in conclusion,” “to conclude,” or “in summary.” Your reader knows it is the conclusion without being told. Jump right into restating your thesis or important evidence.
Consider potential counterarguments and anticipate oppositional viewpoints the reader may still hold. How will you directly refute these in your closing remarks to eliminate all possible doubts?
Invoke a sense of finality and resolution through words and sentence structure. Words like “ultimately,” “therefore” or phrases like “the only logical decision is…” signal closure and resolution of the discussion.
Proofread carefully to correct any grammatical errors or awkward phrasing that could undermine the power of your conclusion. It must leave readers with a clear, lasting impression of your persuasive argument.
Practicing writing multiple draft conclusions and getting feedback will strengthen your ability to wrap up an argumentative essay powerfully. The conclusion is your last opportunity to impact and influence the reader, so spending time crafting resonant closing statements is critical. With an engaging, persuasive conclusion that ties everything together through clear restatement of your thesis and convincing final remarks, readers will walk away fully accepting your perspective as the most compelling side of the argument.