THE CONCLUSION

Just as you want to make a good impression with your introduction, you should aim to make a lasting one in your conclusion. To conclude effectively, you should:

 

1. ​reaffirm your thesis, but never use exactly the same words as you used in your introduction.

2. briefly highlight your main arguments, but do not summarize every single point.

3. end on a note that reaches closure on the argument.

4. show the significance of your interpretation for understanding the text as a whole.

5. show the significance of your interpretation for understanding some aspect of human experience in general.

​

• In your conclusion, you should never start with: In conclusion …… or I have proved …..

• Never reduce the meaning of a text to a cliché  e.g. Don’t judge a book by its cover. 

• Never preach at your reader and tell them what s/he should or should not do.

• Avoid sweeping generalizations with words like “always” and “never. “ Human experience is rarely true for absolutely everyone.

• Do not introduce new topics or ideas in your conclusion. Although this is done in French essays, it is not acceptable in English essays.

​​

An Example of an Acceptable Conclusion:

 

​Wright’s autobiography Black Boy realistically depicts the inescapable racist milieu which most white Southerners accepted at the time. He illustrates the discrimination which was occurring in the 1920s through his usage of setting, plot and characterization. Thus, Wright is able to convey his own feelings about the subject through his writing, and explore the idea of alienation or withdrawal from a social group. Due to the fact that he is unable to conform to the racist norms instilled in the Southern mentality, he chooses to seek his fate elsewhere by rejecting the Southern lifestyle. Wright’s message is clear: it is crucial to stand up for one’s moral beliefs and to eliminate all forms of discrimination in order to live a healthy life. He shows how humanity is made up of many races and all races are equal.