How to Write a Conclusion Paragraph for an Argumentative Essay: A Detailed Guide
In the final stage of an argumentative essay, the conclusion paragraph plays a pivotal role. It summarizes the main points, wraps up the discussion, and leaves a lasting impact on the reader. Here’s a detailed guide on how to craft a compelling conclusion paragraph for your argumentative essay.
1. Recap the Main Arguments: Start your conclusion paragraph by restating the main argument or thesis of your essay. This is a brief overview of the essay’s central idea and why it’s important.
2. Summarize Key Points: Next, summarize the key points or evidence you presented in support of your argument. This could include the main ideas from your body paragraphs, highlighting the most significant points that reinforce your thesis.
3. Link Back to the Introduction: It’s important to link back to your introduction in the conclusion. Do this by reminding readers of the hook or introduction you used to captivate their interest and how it relates to your main argument. This ties your essay together and gives it a sense of cohesion.
4. Draw a Balance in Conclusion: Ensure to present both sides of the argument, even if your essay presents one viewpoint as superior. This demonstrates that you’ve considered all perspectives and are aware of any potential counterarguments, making your argument more credible.
5. Make a Final Statement or Call to Action: Your conclusion should end with a strong statement that leaves a lasting impact on readers. This could be a summary of why your argument is important, a prediction of future outcomes based on current trends, or a call for action for readers to consider. It’s essential that this statement is aligned with your argument and reinforces your overall message.
6. Avoid Introduction of New Ideas: While it’s okay to expand on ideas presented in the body of your essay, avoid introducing completely new information or arguments in the conclusion paragraph. This could throw off readers’ understanding of your main argument and leave them confused about your stance.
7. Proofread and Edit for Clarity: Before submitting your argumentative essay, make sure to proofread and edit your conclusion paragraph for clarity and grammar errors. Ensure that your language is concise and coherent, making it easy for readers to understand your main points and why you’ve concluded what you have.
Here’s an example of a conclusion paragraph following these guidelines: “In conclusion, the significance of early childhood education is pivotal in shaping our future society. Throughout this essay, we’ve discussed the numerous benefits of quality education at a young age, from increased cognitive abilities to socialization skills and a strong educational foundation. Although there are differing viewpoints on the matter, it’s clear that investing in early childhood education is crucial in ensuring our children’s success in later life. Therefore, I call upon parents, policymakers, and educators to prioritize early childhood education as a fundamental part of our educational system.”
Related Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: What should I avoid in my conclusion paragraph?
A1: Avoid introducing new ideas or arguments that haven’t been discussed in the body of your essay. Additionally, avoid making any statements that are unrelated to your main argument or thesis.
Q2: How should I ensure my conclusion is clear?
A2: Make sure to proofread and edit your conclusion paragraph for clarity and grammar errors. Use simple language that’s easy for readers to understand, and avoid long, complex sentences that may confuse readers about your argument or position.
Q3: How long should my conclusion paragraph be?
A3: The length of your conclusion paragraph depends on the length of your entire essay. However, it should be concise and shouldn’t exceed several sentences summarizing your main points and restating your thesis.