Making a conclusion is a crucial step in writing, as it summarizes the main points and leaves the reader with a lasting impression. A well-crafted conclusion can make a significant difference in the overall impact of a piece of writing, whether it's an essay, a research paper, or a blog post. In this article, we'll explore the steps to make a conclusion, providing you with the tools and techniques to craft a compelling and effective conclusion.
Understanding the Purpose of a Conclusion
A conclusion serves several purposes, including summarizing the main points, reiterating the thesis statement, and providing a final thought or call to action. It’s essential to understand that a conclusion is not just a summary of the content, but rather a chance to leave the reader with a lasting impression. A well-written conclusion can make the reader think critically about the topic, consider different perspectives, and even inspire them to take action. When writing a conclusion, it’s crucial to keep in mind the audience and the purpose of the writing.
Steps to Make a Conclusion
To make a conclusion, follow these steps:
- Restate the thesis statement: Begin by restating the thesis statement in different words, to remind the reader of the main argument or point.
- Summarize the main points: Provide a brief summary of the main points, highlighting the key findings, arguments, or insights.
- Provide a final thought or call to action: Offer a final thought, recommendation, or call to action, to leave the reader with something to think about or consider.
- Use transitional phrases: Use transitional phrases, such as “in conclusion,” “to summarize,” or “finally,” to signal the conclusion and provide a sense of closure.
Here's an example of a conclusion:
"In conclusion, the importance of critical thinking cannot be overstated. By analyzing the main points and evaluating the evidence, we can see that critical thinking is essential for making informed decisions and solving complex problems. As we move forward, it's crucial that we continue to prioritize critical thinking and encourage others to do the same. By doing so, we can create a more informed, engaged, and critically thinking society."
Best Practices for Writing a Conclusion
When writing a conclusion, keep in mind the following best practices:
- Keep it concise: A conclusion should be brief and to the point, avoiding unnecessary details or information.
- Use clear and simple language: Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may confuse the reader.
- Avoid introducing new information: A conclusion should not introduce new information or arguments, but rather summarize and reinforce the main points.
- Use active voice: Using active voice can make the conclusion more engaging and dynamic.
| Conclusion Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Summary Conclusion | A conclusion that summarizes the main points and reiterates the thesis statement. |
| Analytical Conclusion | A conclusion that analyzes the main points and provides a deeper understanding of the topic. |
| Persuasive Conclusion | A conclusion that persuades the reader to take a particular action or adopt a specific point of view. |
What is the purpose of a conclusion?
+The purpose of a conclusion is to summarize the main points, reiterate the thesis statement, and provide a final thought or call to action.
How long should a conclusion be?
+A conclusion should be brief and to the point, typically no more than 10% of the total word count.
Can I introduce new information in a conclusion?
+No, a conclusion should not introduce new information or arguments, but rather summarize and reinforce the main points.
