How to Write Conclusion Argumentative Essay: Unlocking the Secrets to a Captivating Ending

Writing a compelling conclusion for an argumentative essay is an art that requires a blend of clarity, persuasion, and finesse. The conclusion is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your reader, reinforcing your argument and ensuring that your message resonates long after they’ve finished reading. In this article, we will explore various strategies and techniques to craft a powerful conclusion that not only summarizes your points but also elevates your essay to new heights.

1. Summarize Your Main Points

The most fundamental aspect of a conclusion is to succinctly summarize the main points of your argument. This doesn’t mean simply repeating what you’ve already said; rather, it involves synthesizing your key ideas into a cohesive summary that reinforces your thesis. By doing so, you remind the reader of the strength and coherence of your argument.

2. Restate Your Thesis

Restating your thesis in the conclusion is crucial, but it should be done in a way that adds depth or a new perspective. Avoid copying your thesis statement word-for-word from the introduction. Instead, rephrase it to reflect the journey your essay has taken, showing how your argument has evolved or been supported throughout the essay.

3. Address Counterarguments

A strong conclusion often acknowledges and addresses counterarguments. By briefly mentioning opposing viewpoints and explaining why your argument still holds, you demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the topic. This not only strengthens your position but also shows that you’ve considered multiple perspectives, making your argument more credible.

4. End with a Call to Action

A call to action is a powerful way to conclude your essay, especially if your argument is meant to inspire change or provoke thought. Encourage your readers to take specific steps, whether it’s to reconsider their beliefs, take action on an issue, or further explore the topic. This gives your essay a sense of purpose and urgency.

5. Use a Thought-Provoking Quote

Incorporating a relevant and thought-provoking quote can add depth and resonance to your conclusion. Choose a quote that encapsulates the essence of your argument or provides a fresh perspective. This can leave your reader with a memorable takeaway that reinforces your message.

6. Pose a Rhetorical Question

Ending with a rhetorical question can be an effective way to engage your reader and encourage them to think critically about your argument. The question should be relevant to your thesis and provoke further reflection, leaving your reader pondering the implications of your essay.

7. Highlight the Broader Implications

Discussing the broader implications of your argument can elevate your conclusion. Explain how your points extend beyond the immediate topic and impact larger issues or future developments. This shows that your argument has relevance and significance beyond the scope of your essay.

8. Use a Personal Anecdote

If appropriate, a personal anecdote can humanize your argument and make it more relatable. Sharing a brief story or experience that ties into your thesis can create an emotional connection with your reader, making your conclusion more impactful.

9. Emphasize the Importance of Your Argument

Reiterate why your argument matters. Highlight the significance of your points and why they should be taken seriously. This reinforces the value of your essay and ensures that your reader understands the importance of your perspective.

10. Avoid Introducing New Information

One of the most common mistakes in writing conclusions is introducing new information or arguments. The conclusion is not the place to present new ideas; it’s a space to wrap up and reinforce what has already been discussed. Introducing new points can confuse your reader and weaken the impact of your conclusion.

11. Maintain a Confident Tone

Throughout your conclusion, maintain a confident and assertive tone. This doesn’t mean being overly aggressive, but rather expressing your points with conviction. A confident tone reassures your reader that your argument is well-founded and worth considering.

12. Keep It Concise

While it’s important to cover all necessary points, your conclusion should be concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary repetition or overly lengthy explanations. A concise conclusion is more likely to leave a strong impression on your reader.

13. Use Transitional Phrases

Transitional phrases can help guide your reader through your conclusion smoothly. Phrases like “in conclusion,” “to sum up,” or “ultimately” signal that you’re wrapping up your argument and help maintain the flow of your essay.

14. Reflect on the Essay’s Journey

Take a moment to reflect on the journey your essay has taken. Acknowledge the complexity of the topic and the depth of your exploration. This reflection can provide a sense of closure and completeness to your essay.

15. End with a Strong Closing Sentence

Your final sentence should be powerful and memorable. It should encapsulate the essence of your argument and leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s a bold statement, a poignant observation, or a call to action, make sure your closing sentence resonates with your reader.

Related Q&A

Q: How long should a conclusion be in an argumentative essay? A: A conclusion should typically be around 5-7 sentences, or about 10% of the total essay length. It should be concise yet comprehensive enough to summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression.

Q: Can I introduce new arguments in the conclusion? A: No, the conclusion is not the place to introduce new arguments. It should only summarize and reinforce the points already made in the essay.

Q: Should I restate my thesis in the conclusion? A: Yes, but it should be rephrased to reflect the development of your argument throughout the essay. Avoid simply copying your thesis statement from the introduction.

Q: How can I make my conclusion more impactful? A: To make your conclusion more impactful, consider using a call to action, a thought-provoking quote, or a rhetorical question. These techniques can engage your reader and leave a lasting impression.

Q: Is it okay to end with a personal anecdote? A: Yes, if it’s relevant and adds depth to your argument. A personal anecdote can humanize your essay and create an emotional connection with your reader.