Writing a Conclusion in an Introductory Essay: Summation Strategies

Writing a conclusion for an introductory essay involves summarizing the main points, restating the thesis, and providing a sense of closure for the reader. Here are some strategies to help you write an effective conclusion:

1. Summarize Key Points:

   • Briefly review the main points you've discussed in the body of the essay. Highlight the key arguments or evidence that support your thesis. Be concise but comprehensive in your summary.

2. Restate the Thesis:

   • Remind the reader of your main thesis or central argument. However, avoid simply copying and pasting your thesis statement from the introduction. Instead, rephrase it to reinforce the main idea.

3. Provide a Sense of Closure:

   • Offer a sense of closure by making it clear that your essay is coming to an end. Signal to the reader that you have covered the necessary points and are bringing the discussion to a close.

4. Connect to the Introduction:

   • Establish a connection with your introduction. Reference an idea, image, or theme from the introduction to create a sense of symmetry and unity in your essay. This helps to create a cohesive narrative.

5. Reflect on the Significance:

   • Reflect on the broader significance or implications of your arguments. Consider the "So what?" question. Why is your topic important, and what are the broader implications or applications of your ideas?

6. End with a Strong Statement:

   • Conclude your essay with a powerful and memorable statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. This could be a thought-provoking idea, a call to action, or a statement that emphasizes the importance of your topic.

7. Avoid Introducing New Information:

   • In your conclusion, avoid introducing new information or bringing up new points that haven't been discussed in the body of the essay. The conclusion is a place for wrapping up, not for introducing new content.

8. Consider the Tone:

   • Maintain a tone that is appropriate for your essay. If your essay is more formal, keep the conclusion in line with that tone. If it's a more personal or creative essay, your conclusion can reflect that style.

9. Leave Room for Thought:

   • Consider leaving the reader with something to think about. This could be a question, a challenge, or a statement that encourages further reflection on the topic.

10. Revise and Edit:

    • After writing your conclusion, take the time to revise and edit. Ensure that your conclusion aligns with the overall tone and content of your essay and that it effectively summarizes and concludes your discussion.

Remember that the conclusion is the last impression your reader will have, so make it count. A well-crafted conclusion can leave a lasting impact and reinforce the significance of your essay's main ideas.