How to Write a Conclusion Paragraph

The Conclusion The conclusion begins with a restatement of the thesis, not a repetition. Borrows from the body paragraphs, without being flatly repetitive or listing points already covered.

The Conclusion Creates echoes of the introduction and body paragraphs to reinforce ideas. Moves outward with a statement that relates the thesis.

Strategies for Composing Conclusions: Strike a note of hope or despair. Give a symbolic or powerful detail/fact. Give an especially compelling example. Use a meaningful quotation. (If you used a meaningful quotation in your introduction, refer back to this quote.)

Recommend a course of action without being “preachy.” Echo the language and approach of the introduction.

Consider the following checklist when writing a conclusion: Avoid first- and second- person point of view and slang. Avoid simply repeating the thesis and/or listing the main points. Echo the language and ideas from your introduction and body paragraphs.

Ask yourself: So what. Why do we care about these ideas Ask yourself: So what? Why do we care about these ideas? What’s so important about what you’ve developed in your paper? Avoid any attempts at humor, cuteness, or sarcasm. The conclusion need not be longer than three to four sentences, as with the introduction.

Sample Conclusions: Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the sample conclusions to follow. Identify possible references to the thesis statements, introduction, and body paragraphs. Identify and evaluate other strategies used.