1. How to Write a FABULOUS Conclusion Paragraph Provided by: Suzanne Dabbs Edited by: Michelle Sims

2. THE CONCLUSION OF YOUR ESSAY Just as every essay has a clear beginning, it should have a clear ending. The last paragraph, also know as the conclusion, should make your essay sound finished.

3. The concluding paragraph typically has two parts: The summary statement The clincher

4. The summary statement is one or two sentences which restate the thesis in a fresh way to reinforce the essay's main idea. The clincher is a final thought which should create a lasting impression on the reader.

5. THE SUMMARY STATEMENT The summary statement is a good way to start your concluding paragraph. It helps to drive home the ideas you've expressed in your essay.

6. Hints for Writing a Summary Statement Look at your thesis statement again and rewrite it in a new way. Avoid repeating key words and phrases from the thesis statement because you don't want the summary statement to sound boring or repetitive. Using a thesaurus is a good way to find new, interesting words.

7. Thesis Statement: Many Americans are buying the Honda Accord because of its competitive price, fuel economy, and high resale value. Summary Statement: Reasonable pricing, low miles per gallon, and an attractive resale value have all contributed to the popularity of the Honda Accord in today's market.

8. Thesis Statement: San Francisco is a stimulating place to visit because of its magnificent location, its theaters and art galleries, and its many fine restaurants. Now YOU write the summary statement: If you love beautiful surroundings, world class theater and art, and an exquisite meal, then San Francisco is the place for you.

9. THE CLINCHER The clincher, also referred to as the closer, is your last opportunity to connect with the reader. One way to make the most of this moment is to return to the technique you used for your grabber.

10. INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH – Using an Anecdote The young man with the hammer hoisted himself onto the top of the wall. All around him on the wall and on the ground, people chanted and cheered. The young man knelt down, with his hammer, and began to chip at the cold, gray concrete. Little by little, the wall began to crumble. As I watched in amazement, it was hard to comprehend the fact that I was watching the Berlin Wall coming down. SUMMARY STATEMENT Nothing can compare to being an eye witness to this moving moment in history. CLINCHER As I watched the people hammering away at that concrete wall, some with tears of joy streaking their faces, I could not help think of the many people who died trying to destroy the wall and the tyranny that it once stood for.

11. INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH – Using a Fact or Data A study at the University of North Carolina indicates that persons riding in a passenger van are twice as likely as other riders to suffer serious or fatal injuries. Recently I learned from personal experience that the shape of a vehicle is a major factor in how safely it handles. SUMMARY STATEMENT It is important to consider the shape of a vehicle when considering how safe it is for you and your family. CLINCHER As the University of North Carolina study shows, a van may not be the safest vehicle for your family.

12. INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH – Use a Rhetorical Question If you became seriously ill and needed to be hospitalized for several weeks, would you be able to afford to pay thousands of dollars for proper medical care? Unfortunately, many Americans have already found out that they cannot. Therefore, the federal government must provide national health insurance for all of its citizens. SUMMARY STATEMENT As the population continues to age, the need for medical care will only increase. Without the support of our government, many people will suffer and die needlessly. CLINCHER Can we let this happen to the people in this country?

13. INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH – Use a Quotation Writer Dave Gentry once said, "True friendship comes when silence between two people is comfortable." I know exactly what Mr. Gentry means. My best friend, Elizabeth Reynolds, and I, can talk on the phone for hours or we can sit together in the mountains or at the beach and just enjoy the silence. Since she's been my best friend for twenty-five years, we're able to connect in many ways. SUMMARY STATEMENT I feel lucky to have been friends with Elizabeth for all of these years. No one understands me like she does. CLINCHER So I try to keep in my heart what Robert Fuller said, “If you have one true friend, you have more than your share comes to.”

14. INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH – Description Its left ear is partially detached. One of its black plastic eyes is gone. Parts of its fur is worn and matted from being hugged and tugged around the house. Food and juice stains dapple its tan coat in places. Some people might think this little stuffed bunny should be thrown into the junk heap. But this old bunny is one of my favorite childhood possessions, and we've been through a lot together. SUMMARY STATEMENT Even though people may think I am crazy for being attached to an old toy, I cannot think of giving up Mr. Hoppers. CLINCHER Every torn stitch, every missing pieces, every worn spot brings back a childhood memory I will always treasure.