The Writing

What makes a good conclusion?

 

• Stress your main ideas and points

• Restate your thesis in different words

• Briefly summarize main points

• Explain the larger significance of your essay

  • What is the justification of your essay?

  • Why is your argument or topic important?

  • What significance does it have beyond your essay?

• Consider the broader issues and make new connection.

 

Additional strategies depending on topic.

 

• Propose solutions, policies, recommendations or actions.

• Offer suggestions for further investigation.

• Look at the consequences of your topic.

• Supply a mental picture or brief narrative.

• Invite the reader to respond to the information presented.

• Add a sense of closure by referring to an element of the introduction.

 

Things to avoid

 

• Ending with a revised thesis statement that contains no substantive change.

• Introducing a new idea or subtopic.

• Focusing on minor part of the essay.

• Apologizing for your point of view.

• Coming to a sudden stop by using obvious statements such as, "In conclusion..." or "In closing..."

• Preaching to the reader.

• Becoming emotional or melodramatic.