So, you've poured your heart and soul into your essay, meticulously crafting each paragraph to build a compelling argument. But now you face the final hurdle: the conclusion. It's easy to feel stuck, unsure how to gracefully wrap things up and leave a lasting impression. Forget the tired, formulaic approaches. Let's explore a fresh perspective on how to start a conclusion paragraph that truly shines.
Beyond "In Conclusion..." - Finding Your Unique Opening
The phrase "In conclusion..." is so overused it's practically cliché. It's a robotic sentence starter that instantly signals the end, often leaving readers feeling deflated rather than satisfied. To avoid this common pitfall, we need to think creatively. Instead of announcing the conclusion, imply it. Here are some powerful alternative approaches:
1. The Echo Technique:
This elegant method subtly mirrors your introduction. If you started with a captivating anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a striking statistic, consider revisiting that element in your conclusion, but with a fresh perspective shaped by the argument you've presented. This creates a satisfying sense of closure and reinforces your main point.
Example: If your introduction began with "Imagine a world without..." your conclusion could start with "Now, having explored the implications..., we can envision a future where..."
2. The Synthesis Approach:
Summarize your key arguments concisely but powerfully. Don't simply list them; instead, weave them together to show how they support your overall thesis. This demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of your topic and strengthens your argument's impact.
Example: Instead of "First, I discussed X, then Y, and finally Z," try "The interconnectedness of X, Y, and Z highlights the crucial importance of..."
3. The "Looking Forward" Strategy:
Shift your focus to the future implications of your topic. What are the potential consequences of your findings? What further research is needed? This approach encourages readers to think critically about the broader context of your argument and leaves them with a sense of anticipation.
Example: Instead of ending abruptly, you could begin your conclusion with: "The implications of this research suggest a need for future studies to investigate..." or "This exploration opens up exciting avenues for..."
4. The "Call to Action" Method:
Especially relevant for persuasive essays, this approach directly engages your reader by encouraging them to take action. This could be anything from supporting a cause to changing a behavior or promoting further discussion. This makes your conclusion memorable and leaves a lasting impact.
Example: "By understanding these challenges, we can collectively strive towards a more sustainable future." or "Let us engage in a national conversation to address this critical issue."
Crafting a Memorable Conclusion: Beyond the Opening Line
While the opening is crucial, it's only part of the equation. Remember, your conclusion needs to effectively summarize your main points, restate your thesis (in a new and insightful way), and leave a lasting impression on the reader. A strong conclusion is the cherry on top of a well-written essay, making it memorable and impactful. So, ditch the clichés and experiment with these fresh techniques – your readers (and your grades!) will thank you for it.
