Mastering The Conclusion
Crafting a compelling conclusion to a term paper or essay is akin to landing a plane: it requires precision, control, and a clear path to the runway.
A strong conclusion paragraph serves not just as a recap of the journey but as a final, resonant chord that ties the piece together, leaving the reader with a sense of closure and direction. This brief article will guide you through the essential components of an effective conclusion: restatement of the thesis, summary of findings, and a call to action, each vital for ensuring your essay lands smoothly and leaves a lasting impression.
The Three Pillars of a Powerful Conclusion
- Restatement of Thesis: Begin by revisiting your thesis statement. This reminds your reader of the essay or paper’s claim and reinforces the purpose of your work.
- Summary of Findings: Follow this with a concise summary of your main argumentative or informational points. This part should highlight the journey through your essay, underscoring the logical progression of your ideas and how they support your thesis.
- Call to Action: Cap it off with a call to action which is a statement that encourages the reader to apply your insights and / or reflect deeply on the validity of your claim. This element transforms your conclusion from a mere summary into an avenue to broader application or contemplation for the reader.
Failure Examples and Fixes: Elevating Your Conclusion
Concluding a term paper or essay is your final opportunity to make an impact on your reader, akin to the closing scene of a film leaving the audience in thought long after the credits roll.
A well-structured conclusion paragraph should remind the reader of the main idea, summarize the specific points made, and encourage further reflection or action. However, even seasoned writers can stumble in the homestretch. Let’s dissect three typical missteps—one for each critical element of a conclusion—and explore how to avert them.
Failure Example 1: Weak Restatement of Thesis
Faulty Conclusion Paragraph:
“While there are many perspectives on the impact of digital media on youth, it is crucial to highlight the studies by Smith (2020) and Liu (2021), which found significant correlations between screen time and reduced social skills and attention spans. In my paper, I argued that excessive screen time negatively affects children’s developmental processes. This underscores the necessity for moderated use of digital media among the younger generation.”
The Issue:
This conclusion fails to lead with the restatement of the thesis, burying it in the middle instead, which disrupts the logical flow and diminishes its emphasis. Furthermore, the phrasing “In my paper, I argued” unnecessarily distances the writer from the argument and weakens the authoritative stance of the conclusion.
The Fix:
“Excessive screen time significantly affects children’s developmental processes, impacting their social skills and attention spans. Studies by Smith (2020) and Liu (2021) reinforce this argument, revealing stark correlations between increased screen time and diminished interpersonal interactions and concentration among youth. These findings highlight the critical need for a balanced approach to digital media use in children’s lives, emphasizing the importance of moderation to foster healthier development.”
Pro Tip: Dive straight into restating your thesis without introductory phrases. Use assertive language that reflects your ownership of the argument.
Failure Example 2: Vague or Confusing Summary of Findings
Faulty Conclusion Paragraph:
“Renewable energy sources present a viable solution to the pressing issue of climate change, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. However, the transition to these energy sources is fraught with challenges, including technological limitations and high initial costs. It is evident from this essay that renewable energy can significantly reduce carbon emissions and dependency on non-renewable resources. To combat climate change effectively, it is imperative that individuals and policymakers alike prioritize the adoption of renewable energy technologies.”
The Issue:
This conclusion attempts to restate the thesis and issue a call to action but falters with the summary of findings. The summary of findings does not specifically connect to the main points in the body of the essay. Rather, it continues to make an argument rather than review material that has already been covered. This common mistake makes the conclusion paragraph feel like a continuation of your argument, rather than summarizing key information. To avoid this, make sure your summary of findings echoes the information presented in the body of your essay or paper.
The Fix:
“Renewable energy sources offer a critical solution to the challenge of climate change, providing a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Effective renewable solutions include solar, wind, and hydroelectric energy, all of which offer viable benefits. Given the urgency of addressing climate change, this calls for immediate action from both policymakers and the public to invest in renewable technologies, overcome these challenges, and move towards a sustainable future.”
Failure Example 3: Missing Call to Action
Faulty Conclusion Paragraph:
“In summary, this essay has reasserted the thesis that climate change is a critical issue needing immediate attention and discussed several major effects on global ecosystems. Through analyzing changes in weather patterns, rising sea levels, and increased carbon emissions, we have seen the breadth of climate change’s impact.”
The Issue:
While this conclusion revisits the thesis and summarizes key points, it misses an opportunity to inspire the reader to action or deeper reflection. It ends on a passive note, leaving the reader informed but directionless.
The Fix:
“In summary, this essay has not only reasserted the urgent issue of climate change but also illuminated its dire effects on our global ecosystems. Having seen the evidence—from shifting weather patterns to rising seas and soaring emissions—the time to act is now. Let this be a call to arms: engage in sustainable practices, advocate for policy change, and educate others on the importance of our collective action. Our planet’s future hangs in the balance.”
In Summary
A conclusion is more than a mere summary; it’s your final word on the subject and your chance to make your argument resonate. By directly restating your thesis without introductory fluff, summarizing your findings with precision, and delivering a focused call to action, your conclusion will not only be strong but memorable. Remember, the goal is to leave your reader with a clear understanding of your argument’s significance and a sense of how they can engage with or reflect on the topic further. With these adjustments, your conclusion will serve as a powerful endnote to your scholarly symphony.