How To Write An Argumentative Conclusion
Writing an argumentative essay is a journey. You build a case, gather evidence, and present your reasoning. But the destination – the conclusion – is arguably the most crucial part. It’s where you leave your lasting impression, summarize your arguments, and ultimately, convince your reader of your perspective. A weak conclusion can undermine even the most compelling arguments. This guide will break down exactly how to craft a powerful argumentative conclusion that resonates.
The Importance of a Strong Conclusion
Why is the conclusion so vital? Think of it as the final scene in a movie. It’s the moment where the audience gets to reflect on everything they’ve seen and heard. A well-written conclusion:
- Reinforces your thesis: It reminds the reader of your main argument.
- Summarizes key points: It concisely reiterates the supporting evidence.
- Leaves a lasting impact: It encourages the reader to think about your argument long after they’ve finished reading.
- Provides closure: It gives the reader a sense of completion and finality.
- Answers the “So What?” question: It explains why your argument matters and what implications it has.
Key Elements of an Effective Argumentative Conclusion
Several key elements are essential for a compelling argumentative conclusion. Let’s delve into each one.
Restating Your Thesis in a Fresh Way
Resist the temptation to simply copy and paste your thesis statement from the introduction. Instead, rephrase it, using different wording to demonstrate a deeper understanding and provide a fresh perspective. The goal is to remind the reader of your main argument without being repetitive. Consider using synonyms, re-ordering the clauses, or summarizing the core concept in a new and engaging way.
Summarizing Your Main Arguments Concisely
This isn’t about repeating every detail of your body paragraphs. Instead, distill your key arguments into a few concise sentences. Focus on the most compelling evidence and reasoning that supports your thesis. Think of this as a highlights reel of your argument. The summary should be brief, impactful, and directly relevant to your thesis.
Synthesizing, Not Just Repeating, Information
Go beyond simply listing your points. Synthesis involves weaving together your arguments to create a cohesive whole. Show the reader how your different points connect and contribute to your overall argument. This demonstrates a deeper understanding and strengthens your persuasive power. It’s about making the reader see the big picture and understand the interconnections within your argument.
The “So What?” Factor: Explaining the Significance
This is arguably the most important element. The “So What?” factor answers the question: Why should the reader care? Explain the broader implications of your argument. What are the real-world consequences? What are the potential benefits or drawbacks? Connecting your argument to larger issues makes it more relevant and memorable. This step moves your conclusion from a simple summary to a powerful call to action or a thought-provoking reflection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Argumentative Conclusions
Certain pitfalls can weaken even the strongest arguments. Avoiding these common mistakes is crucial for a successful conclusion.
Introducing New Information
Never introduce new evidence or arguments in your conclusion. This is where you wrap things up, not where you start new tangents. If you have new information, it should be integrated into the body of your essay. Introducing new material at the end can confuse the reader and weaken your overall argument.
Simply Restating the Introduction Word-for-Word
As mentioned earlier, repetition is a sign of a weak conclusion. A good conclusion builds upon what came before it, providing fresh insights and a stronger final impression. Simply repeating your introduction word-for-word shows a lack of understanding and leaves the reader feeling shortchanged.
Using Clichéd Phrases or Formulaic Conclusions
Avoid generic phrases like “In conclusion,” “In summary,” or “To sum up.” These phrases are overused and can make your writing sound formulaic and uninspired. Instead, aim for a more creative and engaging approach that reflects your unique voice and perspective.
Weakening Your Argument with Hesitation
Avoid phrases like “I think,” “I believe,” or “It seems.” These phrases can undermine your confidence and make your argument sound less persuasive. State your claims directly and confidently.
Different Approaches to Concluding an Argumentative Essay
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to writing a conclusion. The best method depends on your topic, your audience, and your overall goals. Here are a few effective strategies:
The Call to Action
If appropriate, conclude with a call to action. Encourage the reader to take a specific action based on your argument. This might involve voting for a particular candidate, supporting a cause, or changing their behavior. This approach is particularly effective for persuasive essays.
The Prediction
You can conclude by making a prediction about the future based on your argument. This can be a powerful way to leave a lasting impression and highlight the importance of your topic. This approach is particularly effective when discussing trends or potential consequences.
The Reflection
Offer a thoughtful reflection on the implications of your argument. This can involve exploring the ethical, social, or philosophical implications of your topic. This approach is particularly suited for essays that deal with complex or controversial issues.
The Solution
If your essay has focused on a problem, you can conclude by offering a potential solution. This can be a practical solution or a theoretical one. This approach demonstrates your understanding of the issue and your commitment to finding a resolution.
Refining Your Conclusion: Practical Tips for Improvement
Writing a strong conclusion takes practice. Here are some practical tips for honing your concluding skills:
Read Your Conclusion Aloud
Reading your conclusion aloud can help you identify awkward phrasing, grammatical errors, and areas where your argument could be strengthened. It can also help you assess the flow and rhythm of your writing.
Get Feedback from Others
Ask a friend, classmate, or teacher to read your conclusion and provide feedback. They can identify areas where your argument is unclear, unconvincing, or underdeveloped.
Revise and Edit
Don’t be afraid to revise and edit your conclusion multiple times. This is a crucial step in the writing process. Pay close attention to clarity, conciseness, and overall impact.
Practice Writing Conclusions Regularly
The more you practice writing conclusions, the better you’ll become at it. Experiment with different approaches and techniques to find what works best for you.
FAQs About Writing Argumentative Conclusions
Here are a few frequently asked questions about writing argumentative conclusions, distinct from the main headings:
What’s the ideal length for an argumentative conclusion?
The length of your conclusion should be proportionate to the length of your essay. As a general rule, a conclusion should be approximately 5-10% of the total word count. However, the most important factor is that your conclusion is comprehensive and effectively addresses all the key elements.
Should I include any sources in my conclusion?
You should not introduce new sources in your conclusion. However, if you’re summarizing arguments from sources you’ve already cited, you can briefly reference them. The focus should be on synthesizing information you’ve already presented, not on introducing new evidence.
How can I make my conclusion more engaging?
Use vivid language, strong verbs, and rhetorical devices to capture the reader’s attention. Consider using a memorable quote, an anecdote, or a thought-provoking question to leave a lasting impression.
Is it okay to express my personal opinion in the conclusion?
While you’ve presented an argument, your conclusion is an opportunity to leave a personalized touch. You can express your opinion, provided you do so in a thoughtful and well-reasoned manner. The key is to connect your personal view back to the argument you’ve made.
How can I ensure my conclusion is memorable?
Strive for originality and clarity. Use a strong closing sentence or paragraph that encapsulates the essence of your argument. Consider using a rhetorical device, such as a metaphor or a call to action, to leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion: Mastering the Argumentative Conclusion
Writing a compelling argumentative conclusion is a skill that can be learned and refined. By understanding the key elements, avoiding common mistakes, and experimenting with different approaches, you can craft conclusions that resonate with your readers and leave a lasting impact. Remember to rephrase your thesis, summarize your main arguments, synthesize information, and explain the “So What?” factor. By following these guidelines, you can transform your conclusions from mere summaries into powerful statements that solidify your argument and persuade your audience. This final section is your chance to shine; use it wisely to create a lasting impression.