Structure

Conclusion

The conclusion is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression. It synthesizes your argument, emphasizes significance, and gives readers something to think about.

Three-Part Structure

  1. Restate thesis — remind readers of your argument (in new words)
  2. Summarize key points — briefly recap main evidence
  3. Broader significance — answer "So what?" or call to action

Conclusion Types

  • Call to action — urge specific steps
  • Broader implications — connect to larger issues
  • Future-oriented — predict what's next
  • Circular — return to an image from your introduction

Example

Restatement: "The evidence demonstrates that unregulated social media poses significant risks to adolescent well-being."

Summary: "Through addictive design, rising depression rates, and profit-driven decisions, we've seen how platforms prioritize engagement over health."

Significance: "This isn't just about teenagers—it's about protecting an entire generation and ensuring technology serves human well-being."

Common Mistakes

  • Introducing new arguments
  • Simply copying your introduction
  • Ending abruptly without closure
  • Being overly emotional

Your conclusion should synthesize, not summarize. Show how your points work together.

Quick Tips

  • Don't use "In conclusion" if avoidable
  • Echo your introduction without repeating it
  • Leave readers with something memorable