Every research paper or essay has a concluding paragraph in which you sum up your main points. The conclusion brings your argument or assertions around full circle. This will be the last paragraph of your paper, and as such, it should give your reader a sense of satisfaction and completion.
Your Conclusion Should
- Remind readers what you said and let them know, again, that your points are valid.
- Reassert your point creatively.
- Suggest further reading and explain why your topic is important for readers.
- Synthesize your entire paper in a professional voice.
- Sound authoritative.
Don’t sound wimpy! Be confident and give your reader the impression that you truly know what you’re talking about.
Your Conclusion Should Not
- Propose new ideas that weren’t addressed in your paper.
- Introduce new evidence.
- Sound too much like your introduction.
- Sound too dramatic.
A common mistake is to try to add a dramatic flair at the end. This will make you sound unprofessional and conflict with your authoritative voice.
