how to write a good conclusion for an argumentative essay: what's the most important part of your argumentative essay?

Writing a Strong Conclusion for Your Argumentative Essay

The conclusion is the final chapter of your argumentative essay and serves as the culmination of all your efforts. It’s the last opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your readers, so it’s crucial that you make it count. A strong conclusion should summarize the main points of your argument, restate your thesis in a new light, and provide a closing thought or call to action. Here are some strategies to help you craft a compelling conclusion for your argumentative essay:

Restate Your Thesis

Restating your thesis in your conclusion is an effective way to remind your readers of the main point you’re making. However, it’s not enough to simply repeat your original statement verbatim. Instead, you should refine it slightly to reflect the insights gained throughout your essay. For example, if your thesis was “Social media has a detrimental effect on mental health,” you might conclude with something like, “In summary, while social media can indeed have negative impacts on mental health, there are also numerous ways to mitigate these effects.”

Summarize Main Points

A well-crafted conclusion should briefly summarize the key arguments made throughout your essay. This reinforces the importance of each supporting detail and ensures that your readers don’t forget the core points. When summarizing, be concise but comprehensive. Include a few sentences that encapsulate the evidence, examples, and explanations used to bolster your argument. This helps to reinforce the credibility of your claims and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

For instance, if you were arguing that stricter gun control laws would reduce crime rates, you could conclude with something like, “In sum, research shows that increased regulation of firearms leads to fewer instances of violent crime. By tightening restrictions on purchasing and carrying guns, communities can significantly lower their risk of becoming victimized.”

Provide a Closing Thought or Call to Action

A concluding paragraph doesn’t have to end abruptly. Consider adding a thought-provoking sentence or a call to action that ties together the themes discussed in your essay. This could be a reflection on the broader implications of your argument, a suggestion for future research, or even a personal anecdote that illustrates your point. Such elements add depth to your essay and engage your readers on a more profound level.

For example, if you were writing about the benefits of community service, you could conclude with, “Ultimately, participating in volunteer work isn’t just about giving back; it’s about building stronger, more compassionate societies. As we move forward, let us continue to prioritize collective well-being and foster a culture where everyone feels valued and supported.”

Avoid Repetition and Redundancy

While repetition can be powerful, overusing it can make your conclusion feel stale and unoriginal. Ensure that your final thoughts are fresh and unique. Don’t simply rehash the same ideas you presented earlier in the essay. Instead, offer new insights or perspectives that add value to your argument.

Keep It Concise

Remember that a conclusion is meant to wrap up your essay and leave a lasting impact without overwhelming your readers. Aim for brevity while still delivering a meaningful message. Strive for clarity and conciseness in your language, ensuring that your final thoughts are easily digestible.

By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling and impactful conclusion that enhances the overall quality of your argumentative essay. Whether you’re addressing a controversial topic or defending a position, a well-crafted conclusion will ensure that your argument remains memorable and influential.