How to Write a Conclusion Paragraph for an Argumentative Essay

A well-crafted conclusion paragraph serves as the final chapter of your argumentative essay, where you summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression on your readers. It is not only a reflection of your understanding of the topic but also an opportunity to reinforce your stance in a compelling manner. Here’s how to construct a strong conclusion paragraph for an argumentative essay:

Restate Your Thesis Statement

The first step in writing a conclusion paragraph is to restate your thesis statement. This does not mean you should simply repeat what you said earlier; rather, it involves restating your main argument in a new way, often using different words or phrasing. For example, if your thesis was “Technology has revolutionized the way we communicate,” you might rephrase it as “Innovations in technology have fundamentally transformed the dynamics of communication.”

Summarize Key Points

Following the restatement of your thesis, it’s important to briefly summarize the key points of your essay. This helps to reinforce the ideas you’ve discussed throughout the body of your essay. Make sure to highlight the most crucial evidence or examples used to support your argument. For instance, you could mention the increased speed and accessibility of communication due to technological advancements.

Connect Back to Broader Implications

An effective conclusion should not just summarize your arguments but also connect them to broader implications or future directions. Discussing the consequences of your argument can help readers understand its significance beyond the immediate context of your essay. Consider how your findings might impact society, policy, or other areas of interest. For example, if your essay discusses the benefits of renewable energy, you might conclude by discussing potential future challenges and opportunities in transitioning to sustainable energy sources.

Offer a Call to Action

Your conclusion should inspire action or thought among your readers. Whether it’s encouraging them to take specific steps or prompting them to continue exploring the topic, offering a call to action can leave a lasting impact. This could be as simple as suggesting further reading or research, or as complex as calling for societal change. For example, if your essay argues for stronger environmental regulations, you might conclude with a suggestion to advocate for stricter policies and encourage community involvement.

Avoid Repetition or New Arguments

While it’s important to review your main points, avoid introducing any new information in the conclusion. This would risk confusing your audience and detract from the coherence of your argument. Stick to summarizing what you’ve already covered and reinforcing your central message.

Use Persuasive Language

To make your conclusion more impactful, use persuasive language. This could involve employing rhetorical devices such as repetition, alliteration, or metaphorical expressions. A well-crafted conclusion can leave a lasting impression on your readers, making your argument more memorable and compelling.

Conclusion Example

In summary, crafting a strong conclusion paragraph for an argumentative essay requires careful consideration of restating your thesis, summarizing key points, connecting to broader implications, offering a call to action, avoiding repetition, and using persuasive language. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your conclusion paragraph effectively reinforces your argument and leaves a lasting impact on your readers.

FAQ

Q: What should I do if I run out of things to say in my conclusion?

A: If you feel like you’re running out of ideas, consider revisiting your introduction or the body paragraphs. Think about how your conclusion can tie back to the opening of your essay. Alternatively, you could explore the implications of your argument in greater depth or suggest potential solutions to the issues you’ve raised.

Q: Can I add a personal anecdote in the conclusion?

A: While adding a personal anecdote can make your conclusion more engaging, it’s generally best to keep the conclusion focused on summarizing your argument and leaving a lasting impression. If you feel strongly about including a personal story, consider integrating it seamlessly into the restated thesis or broader implications sections.

Q: How long should my conclusion paragraph be?

A: Your conclusion paragraph should be around 50-75 words, depending on the length of your overall essay. It should be concise yet comprehensive enough to reinforce your argument without being too brief.