How to write a strong conclusion

A simple, clear and effective conclusion is just as important for an effective essay as a strong introduction (read more about writing a perfect introduction in this article). In the same way that the introduction is partly about first impressions, the conclusion is the last thing the reader will see and can affect their view of the whole essay. An essay without a conclusion is effectively unfinished and will feel unsatisfactory to any reader.

So what makes an effective conclusion? 

A good conclusion should: 

• not be more than two to three sentences long;
• restate the thesis by making the same point with other words (paraphrase);
• briefly summarise your main points and restate the rest of the essay;
• bring the essay to a clear, satisfying end — connect back to the essay hook and relate your closing statement to the opening one;
• not include any new ideas or arguments. 

Here are some examples of conclusion phrases for different types of question:

1. ‘To what extent …’ Topics (Opinion) — For the reasons mentioned above, I believe that… (+ repeat your opinion).

2. ‘Discuss both views and …’ Topics (Discussion + Opinion) — In conclusion, there are convincing arguments both for and against… (paraphrased topic), but I believe that… (if the question asks for your opinion).
3. ‘Advantages and Disadvantages’ Topics (Do the … outweigh the …?) — In conclusion, I would argue that the benefits of… (paraphrased topic) outweigh the drawbacks.
4. ‘Cause/Effect and Solutions’ Topics (Problem and Solution) — In conclusion, it is clear that there are various reasons for… (paraphrased topic), and steps need to be taken to tackle this problem.

Look at these introduction and conclusion from the essay in answer to the question “These days more fathers stay at home and take care of their children while mothers go out to work. What could be the reasons for this? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?

Introduction

It is true that men are increasingly likely to take on the role of househusband, while more women than ever are the breadwinners in their families. There could be several reasons for this, and I consider it to be a very positive trend.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the changing roles of men and women in the family are a result of wider changes in society, and I believe that these developments are desirable.

As you can see, the sentence summarises the main point and clearly states the writer’s position. Without reading the rest of the essay it’s clear that the writer believes that the trend has a positive development. The conclusion revisits the same as in introduction points, just using different words and summarising the examples and arguments included in the body of the essay. For example:

• The introduction says ‘positive trend’. The conclusion says it is ‘developments are desirable’.
• The introduction talks about ‘several reasons’. It does not mention any of them, those come in the body of the essay. The conclusion summarises this and says ‘a result of wider changes in society’.

Even if you are running out of time, make sure you write a conclusion. Don’t worry too much about the conclusion; make it short, simple and fast.