Begin your conclusion by restating your thesis statement in a fresh and insightful way. This reinforces your main argument and reminds the reader of the essay’s purpose.
Example: “Social media’s impact on communication is profound, fostering instant connectivity and community building across the globe.”
Step 2: Summarize Main Points
Briefly recap the key points you discussed in your body paragraphs. This summary should be concise and focus on the most critical elements of your argument.
Example: “Throughout this essay, we have explored how social media enables real-time interaction, enhances personal relationships, and facilitates the exchange of ideas on a global scale.”
Step 3: Synthesize, Don’t Summarize
Go beyond merely summarizing by synthesizing the information. Show how the points you made and the support and examples you used fit together to reinforce your thesis.
Example: “These interconnected benefits illustrate how social media is not just a tool for communication but a catalyst for societal change.”
Step 4: Provide a Closing Thought
End with a thought-provoking statement, question, or call to action. This could be a broader implication of your argument, a quote that encapsulates your point, or a forward-looking statement that suggests further areas for consideration or action.
Example: “As social media continues to evolve, its role in our lives will undoubtedly expand. It is up to us to harness its potential responsibly, ensuring that it remains a force for positive change in our increasingly digital world.”
Step 5: Avoid Common Pitfalls
- Avoid introducing new information: The conclusion is for wrapping up your argument, not adding new evidence or points.
- Steer clear of clichés: Phrases like “in conclusion,” “in summary,” or “to sum up” can feel redundant and unoriginal.
- Don’t repeat your thesis verbatim: Restate it in a new way to add depth and insight.
Example Conclusion
“Social media’s impact on communication is profound, fostering instant connectivity and community building across the globe. Throughout this essay, we have explored how social media enables real-time interaction, enhances personal relationships, and facilitates the exchange of ideas on a global scale. These interconnected benefits illustrate how social media is not just a tool for communication but a catalyst for societal change. As social media continues to evolve, its role in our lives will undoubtedly expand. It is up to us to harness its potential responsibly, ensuring that it remains a force for positive change in our increasingly digital world.”
Final Tips
- Keep it concise: Aim for a conclusion that is proportionate to the length of your essay. Generally, a conclusion should be around 10% of the essay’s total length.
- Leave a lasting impression: Your closing thought should stick with the reader, encouraging them to reflect on your essay’s themes and implications.
- Revise and polish: Just like the rest of your essay, revise your conclusion to ensure clarity, coherence, and impact.
By following these steps, you can craft a conclusion that not only wraps up your essay neatly but also leaves your reader with a clear understanding of your main points and a lasting impression of your argument.
