If introductions are the hook and the body paragraphs are the backbone, the conclusion is the heart of your essay. It’s your final chance to connect with your readers and leave a lasting impression. But writing a conclusion isn’t just about repeating what you’ve already said, it’s about delivering extra value and tying everything together in a way that’s both meaningful and memorable.

Before we dive in, here’s a basic outline of what a conclusion should look like:

• Restate your thesis in a fresh way: Remind readers of your main point, but don’t repeat it word for word. Instead, reframe it to reinforce your argument.
• Highlight the significance of your ideas: Show why your argument matters by connecting it to broader implications or real-world relevance.
• Provide a sense of closure: Tie all your points together cohesively without introducing new information.
• End with impact: Leave your reader with something memorable—a thought-provoking question, a compelling call-to-action, or a powerful quote.

Table of contents

• Bring fresh insights
• Address hidden needs
• Curate value
• Clarify the next step
• Add interactive tools
• Add broader context
• Get creative

Bring fresh insights: Go beyond the basics

Most conclusions tend to rehash the main points of the essay. While summarizing is important, don’t stop there. Instead, try to answer the “So what?” question. Ask yourself:

• Why should the reader care about your essay’s topic?
• How can they apply what they’ve learned?

For example, in an essay about the importance of sustainable living, a conclusion might emphasize how small, everyday choices can contribute to larger environmental change. Add a touch of personal perspective or future implications to make your argument resonate on a deeper level.

Pro tip: Incorporate proprietary research

If possible, back up your final statements with unique data or findings. For instance:

“According to a recent survey by [source], individuals who adopt three simple eco-friendly habits reduce their carbon footprint by 20% annually.”

This not only lends credibility but also distinguishes your essay from others.

Address hidden needs and gaps

Every piece of writing has a visible purpose, but great conclusions also address the hidden needs of the reader. Many readers skim to the end looking for practical advice, answers to lingering questions, or simply reassurance that their time spent reading was worthwhile.

Let’s say your essay explores effective study techniques. Beyond summarizing the methods, your conclusion could address a hidden intent:

“And remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to studying. Experiment, reflect, and find what works best for you. It’s a process, not a destination.”

By recognizing these unstated needs, you make your conclusion far more engaging and reader-centric.

Curate value: Offer more than just your words

To stand out, consider incorporating additional resources or examples that reinforce your essay’s message. Think beyond what’s already in the essay:

• Link to real-world applications: Suggest case studies, articles, or videos that expand on your topic.
• Share examples or anecdotes: If you’ve written an argumentative essay, include a brief real-life success story to illustrate your point.

For instance, if your essay discusses the benefits of mindfulness, you could link to free meditation apps or testimonials from people who have transformed their lives through mindfulness practices.

The goal is to show readers that your essay isn’t just theoretical but rather practical, grounded, and actionable.

Simplify actions for your readers

We all love a clear “what’s next” moment, and your conclusion is the perfect place to provide one. Actionable steps make your essay not only memorable but also useful.

For example:

• If your essay discusses personal finance, your conclusion might include a checklist:
  “Start today with three simple actions: track your spending, create a budget, and set aside at least 10% of your income as savings.”
• If your essay explains the steps of essay writing, you could leave readers with a structured guide:
  “And don’t forget—plan, draft, revise. Great writing is built on layers of effort.”

Add interactive tools

Why stop at words when you can enhance your conclusion with interactive elements? Consider offering:

• A checklist or template: For instance, in this case, a "Perfect Essay Conclusion Checklist" might include items like:
  • Did I restate the thesis in a fresh way?
  • Did I highlight the significance of my argument?
  • Did I leave the reader with a thought-provoking insight or call to action?
• A calculator or quiz: If your essay focuses on productivity, you could link to a simple calculator for measuring how time is spent during the day.

These small additions transform your essay into a resource that readers will want to revisit.

Add layers of historical or broader context

Context gives depth. You can add a deeper layer to your conclusion by exploring:

• Historical parallels: For example, if your essay discusses innovation, tie your argument to major historical breakthroughs.
  “Just as the Industrial Revolution reshaped societies, today’s AI advancements promise a similar transformation.”
• Global or cultural implications: A conclusion on climate change could connect local actions to global trends, emphasizing collective responsibility.

This approach elevates your essay by showing that you understand the bigger picture.

Get creative and leave an Impression

The best conclusions linger in the reader’s mind long after they’ve finished reading. Don’t be afraid to get creative:

• Use a powerful quote that encapsulates your argument.
• Pose a thought-provoking question that invites further reflection.
• End with a compelling statistic that underscores the importance of your topic.

For example:

“The choices we make today shape the world of tomorrow. Are you ready to take the first step toward change?”

What to avoid in the conclusion of an essay

A strong conclusion leaves a lasting impression, but there are a few common pitfalls you should avoid.

• First, don’t simply restate your thesis and main points word for word; this can make your conclusion feel redundant and uninspired.
• Avoid introducing new arguments or evidence that wasn’t covered in the body of the essay—this can confuse the reader and weaken the overall coherence of your piece.
• Generic phrases like “In conclusion” or “To sum up” should be minimized unless they add value, as they often come across as filler.
• Additionally, resist the temptation to make your conclusion overly lengthy; a concise, impactful ending is far more effective than one that drags on.
• Lastly, don’t end on a vague or uncertain note. Conclusions are meant to provide closure, so ensure your final sentences are clear, confident, and purposeful.

A great conclusion not only summarizes the key points but also adds value by offering fresh insights, actionable steps, or broader context. Whether it’s through a thought-provoking question, a memorable quote, or a call-to-action, your conclusion should inspire readers to reflect, act, or delve deeper into the topic.
So, the next time you sit down to write, remember: a strong conclusion has the power to elevate your essay from good to unforgettable.

Frequently asked questions about writing an essay conclusion

How do you write a good conclusion for an essay?

A good conclusion effectively summarizes your main points, highlights the significance of your argument, and leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Using Samwell.ai, you can generate a conclusion that not only wraps up your essay but also adds fresh insights, actionable takeaways, or thought-provoking perspectives tailored to your topic.

How do you start a conclusion?

The best way to start a conclusion is to reframe your thesis statement in a fresh, insightful way. Instead of repeating it verbatim, consider rephrasing it to reflect the journey your essay has taken. Samwell.ai can help you craft an engaging and polished opening for your conclusion, ensuring it connects seamlessly with the rest of your essay.

How to start a conclusion for an essay without saying in conclusion?

While “in conclusion” is acceptable, it’s often better to use a more natural and engaging transition. For example, start by connecting the final paragraph to the essay's key theme or presenting a fresh perspective on your main idea. With Samwell.ai, you can generate polished transitions and creative alternatives to the traditional “in conclusion” phrase, ensuring a smooth and professional ending.

Is it OK to write in conclusion in an essay?

Yes, but it’s not always necessary. While “in conclusion” signals the end of your essay, overusing it can feel repetitive or uninspired. Instead, consider starting with a statement that directly ties back to your thesis or key ideas. If you're unsure, Samwell.ai can suggest professional and engaging ways to begin your conclusion, tailored to your writing style.

What is the smartest way to start a conclusion?

The smartest way to start a conclusion is by reflecting on the essay’s thesis in a fresh way while tying it to the essay’s broader implications. For example, you might open with a question, a call to action, or a thought-provoking insight. Samwell.ai excels at suggesting compelling ways to start your conclusion, ensuring it resonates with your readers.

How to conclude an essay?

To conclude an essay, you should:

1. Restate your thesis in a new light.
2. Summarize key arguments without repeating them verbatim.
3. Tie everything together by showing the broader significance of your essay.
4. End with a memorable final sentence or takeaway.
   With Samwell.ai, you can streamline this process and generate conclusions that are cohesive, insightful, and impactful in just a few clicks.

What is the first key point to write the conclusion?

The first key point is to revisit your thesis and frame it in a way that reflects the development of your argument throughout the essay. Samwell.ai can help you craft this essential starting point by suggesting refined, contextually relevant ways to rephrase your thesis.

What not to do when writing a conclusion?

Avoid introducing new arguments, repeating points verbatim, using vague statements, or ending with a weak or uncertain tone. A conclusion should provide closure and leave a strong impression. Samwell.ai ensures your conclusion avoids these pitfalls by guiding you toward clear, concise, and impactful writing.

How to write a comparative essay conclusion?

In a comparative essay conclusion, emphasize the key similarities and differences you’ve discussed, and explain their broader implications. End by reinforcing why the comparison matters to the reader. With Samwell.ai, you can generate conclusions that succinctly and effectively tie together both sides of your comparison, ensuring your essay ends on a thoughtful and professional note.