Conclusions

Developing Conclusions FROM THE WRITING CENTER@ THE A.R.C.

Learning Objectives After viewing this presentation, you should be able to… Define what

• The conclusion is often similar to the introduction of a paper, albeit in reverse order.

• Normally, one begins a conclusion with a restatement of the thesis statement.

“With great artwork comes great responsibility to be as creative and entertaining as possible.

• Restating the thesis will refresh your reader on what the overall topic and direction of the paper is. But remember restate reword. Rewording is merely moving the words around or using a thesaurus. Restating is to say something in a new way that helps clarify the idea.

What is a Conclusion?

Constructing Your Conclusion• “It is impossible for the artwork on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel to be the greatest work of all time because it lacks crucial elements of great works such as giant monsters, space cowboys, and Cadbury's Crème Eggs.”

Restating the thesis can occasionally be repetitive if you are restating the same phrase. It is okay to rephrase your thesis in the concluding paragraph.•A summary of the main idea of the paper is given next. What can be offered is a call to action, an emotional appeal, or a simple solution to a problem being presented

The Example: Restating the idea, while also giving a solution

“Because there seems to be no element of danger from the monsters, no sense of adventure from the space cowboys, and no edible qualities from the crème eggs, the work comes across as lacking. A good alternative for those looking for a great work of art would be to stay home and create a diorama using Firefly figures, a large Gamera toy, and some candy from a local supermarket. This would save money and present a much more interesting sight. Image searches and photo editing software offer another avenue for creating masterpieces in one's own home.”

Tips for Concluding Effectively

•The paper should end with a final word from the writer. This should be the message the writer wants potential readers to take from the essay if nothing else.

“Don't settle for boring artwork painted on ceilings when far more exciting alternatives are available.”

Tips for Concluding Effectively (Continued)

•No new cited information should be included in the conclusion. This paragraph is just about tying together existing information.•The final sentence of the conclusion is the most important. It should be the ultimate payoff for all of the setup given up to this point.•Following these tips should give you the tools to understand how to write a great conclusion!

Things to Avoid in Your Conclusion

• Completely copying and pasting your thesis. Restating is no rewording.

• Bringing up new information that does not fit the topic of your paper.

• Avoid transitional clichés such as “Finally, Lastly, To conclude…”

• Do not overstate your information, try to remain concise and to the point.

• Do not end abruptly, your reader will remember the last thing you say in your paper. Try to make your ending meaningful.

• These tips should help make your conclusion a walk in the park!

In Conclusion…After viewing this presentation, you should now be able to...• Define what a conclusion is• Properly restate thesis• Restate and not reword• Avoid clichés • Do not end abruptly• Construct a strong conclusion