Crafting Effective Essay Conclusions

The Concluding Paragraph

The concluding paragraph is the final part of your essay. It summarizes the entire essay in a few sentences and offers a final perspective: a prediction, recommendation, solution, or personal opinion. It reminds the reader of the main ideas presented in the thesis statement and topic sentences, reinforces the argument, and ensures clarity.

Components of a Conclusion

1. Summary

The summary restates the key points of the thesis statement and the essay's body. Avoid simply repeating the same words used earlier. Useful transition phrases include "To sum up," "In conclusion," "To conclude," "I have considered," and "I have seen."

2. Predictions, Recommendations, Opinions, or Solutions

Following the summary, offer a concise prediction, recommendation, personal opinion, or solution. Avoid introducing new ideas or information in this section.

Common Mistakes in Concluding Paragraphs

1. Too Short: A single sentence is insufficient.
2. Too Long: Introducing new ideas or excessive detail.
3. Repetitive: Using the same wording as in the essay's body.
4. Missing Element: Omitting a recommendation, opinion, or solution.
5. Lack of Summary: Failing to summarize the main points.
6. Ineffective Recommendation/Opinion/Solution: Offering a cliché or unhelpful suggestion.

Regarding the last point, when providing a solution or recommendation, focus on the how, not just the what. For example, if the problem is excessive car traffic in Madrid, instead of stating the obvious ("There should be fewer cars"), propose concrete solutions, such as increasing parking availability or improving public transportation.

Important Considerations

In essays where the primary goal is to present an opinion or solution, this should be addressed in the body paragraphs, not just the conclusion. The concluding paragraph should still offer a personal reflection and a summary of the main points.