Conclusions
Effective conclusions are of paramount importance in any piece of writing as they leave a lasting impact on the reader and reinforce the main points of the text.
A well-crafted conclusion provides closure to the writing, bringing together the key ideas and arguments presented throughout. It offers the opportunity to summarize the main points in a concise and memorable way, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of the message or argument.
Really, effective conclusions help to leave a final impression that lingers in the reader's mind, emphasizing the significance of the topic and its broader implications. A strong conclusion not only enhances the overall cohesiveness and coherence of the writing but also allows the writer to make a compelling final statement, leaving the reader with a sense of satisfaction and a call to action or reflection.
Here are some key considerations when writing conclusions:
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Summarize and restate: A conclusion should briefly summarize the main points of your writing, reminding the reader of the key ideas you presented. However, avoid merely restating what you have already said; instead, strive to provide a concise summary that reinforces your thesis or main argument.
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Reflect on significance: Take the opportunity to reflect on the broader significance of your topic or findings. How does your writing contribute to the larger conversation or understanding of the subject? Emphasize the implications or consequences of your work, and highlight its relevance and importance.
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Leave a memorable impression: Craft a conclusion that leaves a lasting impact on the reader. Consider using a thought-provoking statement, a compelling quote, or a powerful anecdote to engage the reader's emotions and reinforce the main message of your writing.
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Avoid introducing new information: While a conclusion can introduce fresh perspectives or avenues for further exploration, it is generally not the place to present entirely new information or arguments. Keep the focus on summarizing and synthesizing what has already been discussed.
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End with a call to action or reflection: Depending on the purpose of your writing, you may choose to end with a call to action, encouraging readers to take specific steps or consider a particular viewpoint. Alternatively, you can invite readers to reflect on the broader implications of the topic or ask thought-provoking questions to stimulate further thinking.
A well-crafted conclusion leaves a strong impression and reinforces the main points of your writing. Take the time to carefully consider how to wrap up your piece in a way that leaves your readers satisfied, engaged, and perhaps even inspired.
Suggestions for an Effective Conclusion
- Summarize and restate: A conclusion should briefly summarize the main points of your writing, reminding the reader of the key ideas you presented. However, avoid merely restating what you have already said; instead, strive to provide a concise summary that reinforces your thesis or main argument.
- Reflect on significance: Take the opportunity to reflect on the broader significance of your topic or findings. How does your writing contribute to the larger conversation or understanding of the subject? Emphasize the implications or consequences of your work, and highlight its relevance and importance.
- Leave a memorable impression: Craft a conclusion that leaves a lasting impact on the reader. Consider using a thought-provoking statement, a compelling quote, or a powerful anecdote to engage the reader's emotions and reinforce the main message of your writing.
- Avoid introducing new information: While a conclusion can introduce fresh perspectives or avenues for further exploration, it is generally not the place to present entirely new information or arguments. Keep the focus on summarizing and synthesizing what has already been discussed.
- End with a call to action or reflection: Depending on the purpose of your writing, you may choose to end with a call to action, encouraging readers to take specific steps or consider a particular viewpoint. Alternatively, you can invite readers to reflect on the broader implications of the topic or ask thought-provoking questions to stimulate further thinking.
Example
Clemson University stands as an exceptional institution known for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and storied athletic tradition. Through its commitment to providing a well-rounded education and fostering a strong sense of community, Clemson offers students a transformative experience that prepares them for success in their chosen fields. The university's rich history, innovative research endeavors, and unwavering dedication to student success make it a remarkable place to learn and grow. Whether exploring the picturesque campus, cheering on the Tigers at sporting events, or engaging in academic pursuits, the Clemson experience leaves an indelible mark on students, instilling in them a sense of pride, resilience, and lifelong connections. As a beacon of educational excellence, Clemson University continues to shape the lives of its students, propel innovative discoveries, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge, making it a source of inspiration and achievement for generations to come.
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Summarizes key points: The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points discussed throughout the paper about Clemson University. It provides a concise overview of the institution's academic excellence, campus life, and athletic tradition, reinforcing the main ideas presented in the body of the paper.
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Reflects on significance: The conclusion goes beyond a mere summary by reflecting on the broader significance of Clemson University. It highlights the university's commitment to providing a well-rounded education, fostering a sense of community, and preparing students for success. By emphasizing the transformative experience and lifelong impact of attending Clemson, the conclusion underscores the significance of the institution.
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Leaves a lasting impression: The conclusion leaves a memorable impression on the reader by evoking a sense of pride, resilience, and lifelong connections associated with the Clemson experience. The use of descriptive language and positive sentiments creates an emotional resonance that lingers with the reader.
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Circular structure: The conclusion circles back to the introduction by referencing the main themes introduced at the beginning of the paper. This circular structure creates a sense of unity and closure, giving the paper a cohesive and satisfying ending.
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Inspires and looks to the future: The conclusion ends on an inspiring note, highlighting Clemson's continued impact and its role as a source of inspiration and achievement for future generations. It leaves the reader with a sense of optimism and the idea that the university's legacy will endure.
This conclusion effectively wraps up the paper by summarizing key points, reflecting on significance, leaving a lasting impression, employing a circular structure, and inspiring the reader. These elements contribute to its strength and effectiveness in creating a memorable and impactful conclusion.
Tropes and Clichés
Conclusion tropes and clichés are common phrases or patterns of writing that are overused and can diminish the impact of your conclusion. In a word, they're boring! While some of these tropes may have been effective in the past, they have become clichés due to their excessive use and lack of creativity.
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"In conclusion" or "To sum up": These phrases are often seen as formulaic and unnecessary. Instead, aim for a more seamless transition to your concluding remarks.
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Repetition of the thesis statement: Restating your thesis statement verbatim without adding any new insights or perspectives can come across as repetitive and lacking in creativity.
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Empty generalizations: Making broad statements without providing specific evidence or examples can weaken your conclusion and make it seem superficial. "As I've argued, Clemson University is an excellent school..." may undersell the points in the preceding paper.
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Asking rhetorical questions: While rhetorical questions can be effective in certain contexts, they can also be seen as cliché or predictable. Be cautious when using them and ensure they add value to your conclusion.
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Quoting a famous person: While quotations can be powerful, using a well-known quote without offering any personal analysis or connection to your topic can be seen as cliché and lacking originality.
To make your conclusion more impactful, try to avoid these clichéd approaches, and instead focus on providing a fresh perspective, summarizing key points in a concise and meaningful way, and leaving the reader with a strong final thought that reinforces the main message of your writing.
Return to Thesis Statement
In a well-structured conclusion, it is essential to circle back to your thesis statement to provide a sense of closure and reinforce the central argument of your piece. By returning to your thesis, you remind your readers of the main focus and purpose of your writing. A strong conclusion reiterates the significance and relevance of your thesis, emphasizing its enduring importance and the implications it holds.
This can be done by restating your thesis in a concise and impactful manner, summarizing the key points or arguments that support it, and reinforcing the overall message you aimed to convey.
By bringing your readers back to the central thesis, you leave them with a lasting impression of your argument's strength and relevance, leaving no doubt about the core idea you have presented.
Conclusion Length
The length of a conclusion will vary depending on the length and complexity of the overall piece of writing.
Generally, a conclusion should be concise and to the point. It should aim to provide a brief summary of the main points or arguments discussed in the body of the writing without delving into excessive detail or introducing new information.
As a guideline, a conclusion typically ranges from a few sentences to a short paragraph. However, it's essential to prioritize clarity and coherence over a specific word count. Focus on effectively wrapping up your ideas, leaving a lasting impression, and reinforcing the main message of your writing, rather than getting caught up in strict length requirements. Quality and relevance are key when determining the length of a conclusion.
