What To Write In A Conclusion: Crafting a Powerful Ending
The conclusion. The final curtain call. The last impression you leave on your audience. It’s a crucial element, often overlooked, that can make or break the impact of any piece of writing, from a simple blog post to a complex academic paper. Knowing what to write in a conclusion is essential for solidifying your arguments, summarizing your key points, and leaving your reader with a lasting takeaway. This guide will walk you through the art of crafting compelling conclusions that resonate.
The Importance of a Well-Written Conclusion
Why is the conclusion so important? Think of it as the final opportunity to reinforce your message. It’s where you can tie everything together, reminding your audience of the journey they’ve just taken and the key insights they’ve gained. A strong conclusion can:
- Enhance Understanding: Clarify any lingering confusion and ensure your reader fully grasps your core arguments.
- Increase Retention: Make your writing more memorable by summarizing and highlighting the most significant information.
- Leave a Lasting Impression: Shape how your audience perceives your overall work, potentially influencing their future thoughts and actions.
- Encourage Action: If your piece is persuasive, a well-crafted conclusion can inspire your reader to take the next step.
Key Elements to Include in Your Conclusion
A powerful conclusion typically includes several key elements. Neglecting these elements can weaken your impact and leave your reader feeling unfulfilled.
Restating Your Thesis (But Not Just Repeating It)
The cornerstone of a good conclusion is revisiting your thesis. However, avoid simply copying and pasting your original thesis statement. Instead, rephrase it. Synthesize your main points into a concise summary that reflects the journey you’ve taken your reader on. Show them how you’ve proven your argument, or how the evidence supports your claims.
Summarizing Your Main Points
Briefly recap the core arguments and supporting evidence presented in your writing. This is not about listing everything again; it’s about highlighting the most crucial takeaways. Focus on the most impactful evidence that supports your thesis. This reinforces the validity of your arguments.
Providing a Sense of Closure
The conclusion should provide a sense of finality. Let your reader know that the discussion is coming to an end. This can be achieved through transitional phrases like “In conclusion,” “In summary,” or “Ultimately.” This helps your audience understand that they are approaching the end of the piece.
Offering a Broader Perspective or Insight
Go beyond simply summarizing. Provide a broader context or insight related to your topic. This can involve:
- Connecting to a Larger Issue: Linking your topic to a wider societal issue or trend.
- Suggesting Future Research: Highlighting areas where further investigation is needed.
- Offering a New Perspective: Presenting a new angle or a different way of thinking about the topic.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Conclusions
Several common mistakes can undermine the effectiveness of your conclusion. Being aware of these pitfalls will help you avoid them.
Introducing New Information
Never introduce entirely new information in your conclusion. The conclusion should be a synthesis of what you’ve already discussed, not a place to present fresh arguments or data. This can confuse the reader and weaken the impact of your overall work.
Being Too General or Vague
Avoid making sweeping generalizations or offering vague statements. The conclusion should be focused and specific, reinforcing your main points with clarity.
Apologizing or Weakening Your Argument
Refrain from apologizing for your arguments or weakening your stance. The conclusion is about strength and conviction. Avoid phrases like “I may not have covered everything” or “This is just my opinion.” Confidence is key.
Simply Repeating the Introduction
Do not merely restate your introduction. Your conclusion should build upon your introduction, offering a deeper understanding and a more comprehensive summary of the arguments presented.
Tailoring Your Conclusion to Different Types of Writing
The approach to crafting a conclusion may vary depending on the type of writing. Here are some considerations:
Academic Papers
Academic conclusions often need to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the topic. They might include a recap of the methodology used, a discussion of the limitations of the study, and suggestions for future research. Objectivity and precision are paramount.
Essays and Articles
In essays and articles, the conclusion should directly address the thesis statement, summarize the key arguments, and leave the reader with a lasting impression. Consider offering a thought-provoking perspective or a call to action, depending on the content. Clarity and engagement are essential.
Persuasive Writing
In persuasive writing, the conclusion is a critical opportunity to reinforce your argument and urge the reader to take a specific action. Clearly state your desired outcome and reiterate the benefits of agreeing with your position. Focus on the desired outcome and the benefits.
Tips for Polishing Your Conclusion
Refining your conclusion is just as important as writing it. Here are some tips to help you polish your final thoughts:
Read Your Conclusion Aloud
Reading your conclusion aloud can help you identify awkward phrasing, grammatical errors, and areas where the flow can be improved. Listen for clarity and impact.
Get Feedback from Others
Ask a friend, colleague, or editor to read your conclusion and provide feedback. They can offer a fresh perspective and help you identify areas for improvement. Welcome constructive criticism.
Revise and Edit
After receiving feedback, revise and edit your conclusion carefully. Ensure it is concise, clear, and impactful. Pay close attention to every word.
Vary Your Sentence Structure
Avoid repetitive sentence structures. Varying your sentence structure can make your conclusion more engaging and dynamic. Keep your reader interested.
Examples of Effective Conclusion Starters
Here are a few examples of effective ways to begin your conclusion, depending on the tone and purpose of your writing:
- “In conclusion, the evidence strongly suggests…”
- “Ultimately, the findings underscore the importance of…”
- “As we’ve seen, the key takeaway is…”
- “To summarize, the arguments presented highlight…”
- “Looking back, it’s clear that…”
Frequently Asked Questions about Writing Conclusions
Here are some frequently asked questions about crafting a powerful conclusion.
What if I don’t have a clear thesis statement?
If you’re struggling with your thesis, the conclusion is where you can clarify your main point. Revisit the core of your argument and articulate what you want the reader to understand. Even without a formal thesis statement, you can still summarize your key takeaways and leave a lasting impression.
Can I use rhetorical questions in my conclusion?
Yes, rhetorical questions can be effective, but use them sparingly and with purpose. They can encourage the reader to reflect on the topic or consider a specific point. However, be mindful not to overuse them, as it can weaken your overall argument.
How long should my conclusion be?
The length of your conclusion should be proportional to the length and complexity of your writing. Generally, a conclusion should be concise and focused, typically comprising 5-10% of the total word count. Make sure it is long enough to effectively summarize your points and leave a lasting impression, but avoid unnecessary length.
Should I cite sources in my conclusion?
Generally, you don’t need to cite new sources in your conclusion, unless you are referring to a specific study or idea that you haven’t previously discussed. Focus on synthesizing the information already presented.
Is it okay to end on a cliffhanger?
While a cliffhanger can be effective in some forms of creative writing, it’s generally not recommended for academic papers, essays, or articles. Your goal should be to provide a sense of closure and leave the reader with a clear understanding of your message. A satisfying conclusion is usually preferable.
Conclusion: Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Crafting a compelling conclusion is an art. It requires careful planning, thoughtful execution, and a keen understanding of your audience. By restating your thesis, summarizing your main points, providing closure, and offering a broader perspective, you can create conclusions that resonate with your readers. Avoiding common pitfalls, tailoring your approach to the type of writing, and polishing your final thoughts will further enhance the impact of your work. Remember, the conclusion is not just the end; it’s the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.