How to Conclude an Essay? 3 Easy Steps & 4 Examples
Struggling with how to conclude an essay? Nailing down your final thoughts can be challenging. The essay conclusion is more than just a summary. It is a last opportunity to drive home your central points, so then the reader might see how they all tie together.
This guide will discuss effective strategies for writing a conclusion, common pitfalls to avoid, and examples to sharpen the close of your piece.
How to Write a Conclusion？
An effective conclusion to your essay is important since it offers you one final opportunity to leave a resounding impression.
A good conclusion should not mechanically recapitulate your thesis and large points, but it does need to do that. Here's how you write an effective one:
Step 1: Restate the Thesis Statement
What to do:
Begin your conclusion by paraphrasing your thesis statement. This means expressing the main argument of your essay in a fresh way without repeating it verbatim. This restatement should reflect how the body of your essay has supported or proven your argument.
Example:
Original Thesis: "A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is crucial for preventing chronic diseases and maintaining optimal health."
Restated Thesis: "As highlighted, a diet abundant in fruits and vegetables is key to warding off chronic illnesses and promoting overall well-being."
Step 2: Summarize Key Points
What to do:
In this step, provide a concise overview of the main ideas discussed in the body of your essay. Briefly revisit the central arguments or pieces of evidence you presented, reminding readers how each supports your thesis. Be sure to keep your summary brief and focused, avoiding the introduction of any new information or arguments, which can confuse readers at this stage.
Example:
"Research indicates that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables reduces the risk of chronic diseases, while balanced meals support overall physical health."
Step 3: Provide a Final Thought or Insight
What to do:
Leave the reader with something meaningful—a solution, question, or broader implication. You can choose one of these techniques:
Call to Action: "Individuals and communities must prioritize nutritional education to foster healthier dietary habits and combat chronic disease."
Question for Reflection: "With so many unhealthy options available, how can we shift our focus back to nutrition that truly supports long-term health?"
Broader Context: "As dietary trends evolve, understanding the importance of nutrition remains a cornerstone in the fight against preventable diseases."
Warning or Prediction: "Without significant changes in our dietary habits, the prevalence of nutrition-related chronic diseases will continue to rise."
Now that we have taken this example apart, let's look at the complete example：
In conclusion, as highlighted, a diet abundant in fruits and vegetables is key to warding off chronic illnesses and promoting overall well-being. Research indicates that a diet rich in these foods reduces the risk of chronic diseases, while balanced meals support overall physical health. As dietary trends evolve, understanding the importance of nutrition remains a cornerstone in the fight against preventable diseases. Individuals and communities must prioritize nutritional education to foster healthier dietary habits and combat chronic disease.
What Should Not Be Included in Your Essay Conclusion?
A strong conclusion depends on what you include, but understanding what to leave out is just as important. If you have unnecessary elements in your piece, you can dilute your message and lessen the gravity of your point. Here are some common mistakes for which you should always give the air:
Introducing New Ideas:
Don't introduce new arguments, evidence, or ideas in the conclusion. This can muddle your readers and leave them with unanswered questions. Instead, focus on summarizing and synthesizing the existing content.
Providing Excessive Detail:
Do not delve into new details that you should have mentioned in the body of your paper. Provide a concise high level summary that captures the essence of your case.
Repetitive Statements:
Repeating your thesis or main points verbatim will only bore your reader. Say the same thing in different ways to remind your reader of what your essay is about without doing it in the same way.
Apologetic Language:
Avoid using language that erodes the authority of your claim or diminishes its importance, for example, apologies or timidity. Have confidence in your argument and the validity of your claims.
Examples of Essay Conclusions
Each type of essay requires a slightly different approach in the conclusion. Here are four well-crafted examples to use as inspiration.
1. Analytical Essay Conclusion:
"In conclusion, the analysis of [literary work] reveals that the recurring motif of resilience not only underscores the protagonist's journey but also reflects the broader societal challenges of [time period]. By examining the intricate layers of symbolism and character development, it becomes evident that [author]'s work remains a poignant commentary on the enduring human spirit. This exploration highlights the timeless relevance of literature as a mirror to our own struggles and triumphs."
2. Argumentative Essay Conclusion:
“The abolition of the death penalty is a necessary step toward building a more humane and just society. Capital punishment fails as a deterrent, risks executing innocent individuals, and disproportionately affects marginalized communities. Furthermore, the exorbitant costs associated with death penalty cases drain resources that could be redirected toward more effective crime prevention and rehabilitation programs. While proponents argue that it serves as a form of justice for victims' families, true justice lies in a fair and equitable legal system. Embracing alternative sentences, like life without parole, provides a more ethical and fiscally responsible approach to criminal justice.”
3. Informative Essay Conclusion:
"To sum up, renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower offer sustainable solutions to fossil fuel dependence. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, creating jobs, and lowering long-term costs, these technologies pave the way for a cleaner future. While challenges like infrastructure costs remain, the evidence overwhelmingly supports transitioning to renewables—not just as an option, but as a necessity."
4. Expository Essay Conclusion:
"In summary, the life cycle of a star is a fascinating journey marked by transformation, from the initial nebula formation to the eventual supernova or black hole. Throughout this cycle, stars contribute to the universe by creating elements during nuclear fusion and distributing them across galaxies. Understanding the stages of stellar evolution not only deepens our knowledge of astrophysics but also highlights the dynamic processes that shape the cosmos. This exploration underscores the interconnectedness and continuous renewal present in the universe."
5. Compare and Contrast Essay Conclusion:
"City and countryside living each present distinct advantages and challenges. Urban environments offer abundant job opportunities, cultural amenities, and convenience, while rural areas provide tranquility, natural beauty, and a closer-knit community feel. Depending on one's priorities—be it career prospects or quality of life—both environments have compelling qualities. The decision between city and countryside living highlights the diverse ways people seek fulfillment and balance in their daily lives."
FAQ
What Is the Purpose of a Conclusion in an Essay?
The conclusion has the role of tying up the main points of your essay and rehearsing your thesis. It consolidates the information you have presented to highlight the importance of your arguments, so that your reader takes your full message with them out of the essay.
How Long Should a Conclusion Be?
The length of a conclusion will generally be determined by the length of the essay itself. However, a conclusion should generally be concise, taking up roughly 10-15% of the total essay length.
What Is a Transition Word for a Conclusion?
For final signals, transition words in conclusions demarcate the end of the essay and sum up important ideas, such as:
In conclusion
In summary
Ultimately
To summarize
To sum up
Therefore
In general
Should I Apologize for Any Shortcomings in My Essay in the Conclusion?
No, avoid apologizing for any perceived weaknesses in your essay. Write confidently and dwell on the things you got right and the countless revelations you wield.
Conclusion
We’ve covered the key ingredients needed in forming effective conclusions, warned of the things that should be avoided, and gave a few examples. With a deeper understanding of these principles and experience probing example essays, you’ll read to write more competently knowing the audience’s last impression will be a lasting one. Remember, an impactful conclusion is the key to leaving a lasting impression.