Elements of a Fantastic Conclusion English 115

Conclusions!! What is a Conclusion? Why do you need a Conclusion? A conclusion is a definite ending whereby the reader of the essay will feel that the ideas are tied together and that the essay has been completed. Why do you need a Conclusion? Essays need endings. Including a conclusion shows the reader you understand the proper structure of the essay and have implemented it successfully. How do you create a conclusion? Think of your essay as if it were a circle. You started at one point and now (in the conclusion) you need to bring everything back around again to complete the loop.

Techniques a student can use to craft a strong conclusion. Restate your thesis. Restate your topic sentences End on a universal thought.

Keep in mind… The conclusion is the final say. The purpose of the conclusion is to hammer home an idea and make a point. This is no time for wishy-washy language nor unclear positions. Take a side and assert your thesis.

DO’s for the conclusion… Tie up the major points of the essay. Give the reader a sense that the essay is completely finished. Hammer home an idea and let the reader know precisely the position the author of the essay has taken on the subject matter being discussed. Draw a direct line to the thesis statement.

DON’T’s for the conclusion… Start talking about new points and side issues that haven’t been mentioned in the essay prior to this paragraph. Give the reader a sense that the essay might go on and may not be finished with yet. Use weak, soft language that doesn’t really make a point about anything in particular. Doesn’t leave an impression that the author of the essay has any particular belief about the subject matter being discussed. Draws no connection to the thesis statement.