Basic Conclusion Information

Restatement This type rephrases the thesis by rewording it. Avoid using the same words in the thesis in the conclusion. If you do, it will sound too repetitive. Thesis: Michael Jordan was one of the best basketball players to ever play the game because of his dedication, hard work, and determination. Example of Restatement: Even though there are many great professional NBA players, not all of them have the talent of Jordan. To prove himself, Michael was the first to enter the gym and the last to leave.

Quotation & Dialogue This type uses a quote from a person that relates to your topic (see your thesis). You may place the quote at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end. It must have a smooth flow into the quote, or it will sound like it is just thrown together. Thesis: Music is defined as any sweet, pleasing, or harmonious sounds or sound, but Michael Jackson took music to another level by relating his art to everyday life. Example of Q & D: After the tragic death of Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson said, "The more I think about Michael and talk about Michael the more I think that 'King of Pop' is not good enough. I think he is simply the greatest entertainer that ever lived." Jackson was idealized by many due to his music, dance, and inspiration.

Illustration Gives a specific example or a comparison that relates to your topic that has probably not been mentioned elsewhere in your essay. The example of comparison should be very brief. If it is too long, it will sound like you are writing a body paragraph with a concluding sentence. Thesis: The Penn State women’s volleyball team is great because of their spectacular tradition, talented recruits, and great coaches. Example of Illustration: Great teams come and go within the collegiate and professional level. Just as the New York Yankees are at the top of Major League Baseball, the Penn State women’s volleyball team has a reputation of conquering their sport.

Refer to Story Uses the same “story” at the beginning and the end. However, the whole essay is not a story. The story is simply the attention getter and concluding device. One topic is what pulls the whole essay together. Thesis: A great athlete is one that displays maximum effort, control, and skill, to provide the team with the best opportunity to win. Example of Referring to Story: I was never really the best athlete on any of the teams I played for, but what I did offer the team was a sense of understanding and competiveness that goes beyond the gridiron, hard- wood, or diamond. On many of the teams I played for, I was the coach in the middle of all the action.

Cleverly Crafted Generalization Uses a short summary followed by a snappy, snazzy, profound, philosophical, cliché-ish sentence. Thesis: Opponents of Sullivan High School have no chance when it comes to competing on the hardwood floor of the gymnasium. Example of CCG: The Sullivan Redskins don’t just win games; they dominate the court. They went to Tuscola, decapitated the Warriors, and traveled back to the streets of Sullivan with their heads held high. The battle is over, and we know who the victor is.

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