How to Write Effective Conclusions

Many scholars fail to recognize the importance of conclusions. Even if the introduction forcefully presents the problem and its significance, and even if the body of the document is logical and well developed, you still need to pay considerable attention to the conclusion. After all, these are usually the last words your audience will read. Readability studies have suggested that a powerful conclusion is second only to the introduction in terms of its effect on a reader. Consequently, present the gist of your argument energetically and concisely. If there is a persuasive aspect to your document, this can be an excellent place to present some emotional appeals.

Of course, your rhetorical situation defines how much detail you will need to go into in your conclusion. A 200-page document, for example, will place different demands on you than a conclusion to a short letter. When attempting to draft a memorable conclusion, consider the following questions:

1. What are the broad implications of your work? What recommendations can you make based on the material you have presented?
2. Would it be appropriate for you to speculate on what will happen next?
3. What do you want readers to do once they have reviewed your document? Should they agree with you about the validity of an argument or theory? Should they change their teaching practices? Should they pour their creative energies into examining an innovative research question?
4. Did you pose a question in the introduction that can now be answered? Is there a way of extending a metaphor that was presented in the introduction?

Throughout the time you spend writing a document, you should keep your ear tuned for a clever closing statement. To develop a powerful conclusion, consider the above questions and the most important message you want to leave with your readers. Also study the ways writers you enjoy conclude their documents.