A persuasive essay, literary analysis, or research paper should include a thoughtful introduction and conclusion. If written correctly, the conclusion acts as a summary and explanation of the reasons for the importance of the subject being discussed. A good conclusion is also needed in a speech or presentation. Most of the principles are the same, but you must draw your conclusions carefully.
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Method 1 of 2: Writing Conclusions for Essays or Papers
Step 1. Start with a transition sentence
If you are writing a conclusion essay or paper for a school or college assignment, understand the function of that conclusion. The conclusion should not simply restate the main points of the argument that are unrelated to the rest of the text. Conclusions should flow smoothly and be written in a way that readers expect.
- To achieve that fluency, you should start with a sentence that links the conclusion to the main discussion.
- This may be a statement that reflects the content of the essay, but relates the essay to broader points which are then briefly discussed at the conclusion.
- The phrase "The transience of human achievement permeates this poem" indicates the transition to the conclusion by affirming the key argument in one sentence.
Step 2. Avoid the words "in conclusion"
If you're concluding an essay or research paper, avoid phrases like "in conclusion" or "in conclusion" at the beginning of the sentence. This phrase is unimaginative. You should be able to indicate the conclusion has already begun without breaking the flow of such sharp writing.
Step 3. Consider starting by referring to the original question
One way to start a conclusion is to refer to the essay question or topic outlined in the introduction. If there are relevant phrases or quotes, include them in the conclusion to indicate that your essay is a complete and coherent argument. Recalling the main idea from the introduction is a great way to start the conclusion.
- For example, the original question in the essay was "To what extent did the Battle of Monte Casino change the course of World War II"?
- Here, you can start your conclusion with the sentence "The Battle of Monte Casino was a crucial moment that reflected the changing dynamics of WWII, but did not change the course of the war."
Step 4. Don't just summarize
Conclusions are an opportunity to summarize the main points of the argument, but you have to go beyond that. Show that your essay is coherent and all points are connected. This can be done in conclusion. Instead of just repeating point by point, try to summarize the argument in a way that shows the relationships between the various sets of arguments.
- Summaries work well in long essays, but don't just restate what you've already stated in the same sentence.
- Instead, point out the main points by stating them in a broader context, which provides deeper understanding and potentially opens up new sets of questions.
Step 5. Point out the broader implications
Conclusions serve several functions in an essay or paper. A good conclusion can emphasize the importance of a particular argument and relevance, as well as the significance of a unique finding or result. However, the conclusion can also show that your essay has wider implications and applications than what has been discussed.
- In the structure of the conclusion, a discussion of these broader implications should follow transitional sentences and explanations of the suitability of the various elements of the argument.
- This can be achieved by stating the universality of the essay topic, making connections with contemporary issues, or including a call to action.
Method 2 of 2: Concluding a Presentation or Speech
Step 1. Indicate that you are starting to conclude
While there are many similarities in the techniques of concluding essays and presentations, there are also some important differences. Since presentations are delivered verbally rather than in writing, the starting point for conclusions is not always clear. So it's a good idea to clearly indicate that you're starting a conclusion.
- Phrases like "summary" and "bottom line" that shouldn't be used in a written essay can be very useful in presentations.
- By indicating that you are going to conclude, the listener will focus on what you are going to say.
Step 2. Back to the original question
Once you've got the audience's attention, show that your presentation is over by returning to the original question or problem you introduced in the introduction. This will help present a coherent and comprehensive argument. You can do this in the same technique as the essay conclusion, by returning to the original question, or to a key phrase or quote stated at the beginning of the presentation.
For example, rephrase the main question before providing a summary of key points, such as "So, what are my suggestions for increasing our sales in Eastern Indonesia?"
Step 3. Provide a clear summary
In a presentation, the summary is clearly a very important conclusion element. It's possible that the audience's attention is slightly distracted while you're speaking, and the summary can remind them of your argument.
- In general, listening to presentations is usually more passive than reading essays. So, a summary of the key points is crucial in a presentation.
- Usually, the last thing an audience hears is what they remember. So, make sure all the important points are included in the conclusion.
Step 4. Show enthusiasm and confidence
End the presentation with confidence and enthusiasm that leaves a deep impression. There are several ways, such as using clear and straightforward phrases, memorable and meaningful words, and establishing eye contact with the audience.
- You can also include a short anecdote that supports the argument and a call to action.
- Strong endings can establish a personal connection with your audience, by showing how you can solve their problems.
Step 5. Finish with a strong impact
When concluding a presentation, try to create a deep impression and engage the audience in the topic. This can be achieved with a call to action, which encourages the audience to respond actively to you and your ideas, while demonstrating the relevance of the presentation to the audience.
- Use the verb in the final sentence to indicate what kind of action you expect from the audience.
- For example, when Bung Karno said, "My struggle is easier because it expelled the invaders, but your struggle will be more difficult because it is against your own people", he encouraged the audience to think and act.
- An ending like this demonstrates your personal beliefs and indicates that your idea should be acted upon.
