Conclusion Paragraph

Basic Structure (detailed descriptions below):
Conclusion (3-5 sentences)
     A. Restate your argument
     B. Answer the “So What?”
     C. Concluding Statement



Detail:

A. Restate your Argument
  • Reword your thesis.  DO NOT repeat it word-for-word

B. Answer the "So What?"

C. Concluding Statement
  • You have options (must relate directly to your Argument):
    • a statement of universal truth (a.k.a. a global statement)
    • a charge or call for action
    • a warning to the reader (suggest results or consequences)
    • evoke a vivid image



Notes:
  1. Do NOT introduce new information.
  2. Write with authority (do NOT apologize for or qualify the points you have made-- "These are just my opinions..." or "This is just what I think, but...").
  3. Do NOT state what you've done in the essay ("In this essay I have shown...").
  4. Do NOT repeat the contents of the three body paragraphs.
  5. Do NOT make "Hallmark Card" statements (sweeping generalizations, cheesy phrases, cliches, etc)




Resources
Effective vs. Ineffective Conclusions