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Write a
conclusion that “summarizes, extends or elaborates on points or ideas in the
writing.” Just
as the purpose of the introduction is to provide a “roadmap” for the reader
that tells them where they are going and how they are going to get there, the
purpose of a conclusion is to tell the reader where they’ve been. To
summarize means to present a condensed or concise form of what
you’ve written. To
extend means to build onto and provide a larger context for the
topic you’ve discussed. To
elaborate means to develop thoroughly. When writing
your conclusion, you should avoid only
summarizing, but if your conclusion requires some summary, avoid repeating,
word-for-word, a statement you have made earlier in the paper. In an effort to go
beyond summary, it might be helpful to think of your conclusion as something
that might . . .
A good conclusion should: Ø be more than just a summary. It should be a thoughtful end
to a piece of writing; for example, by applying what you have written to the
outside world. Ø emphasize or reinforce your main ideas, but with your ideas
restated in a fresh way: don't use the same language again. You should refer
back to your introduction, either with key words or parallel concepts and
images. Ø fit in with the rest of the assignment. Different types of
writing require different types of conclusion. A short piece will probably
not require extensive restatement of your main points, whereas a longer piece
probably will. Ø perhaps include a provocative question or two; evoke vivid
images or use quotations if appropriate. Ø if appropriate, suggest results or consequences or make a
call for some sort of action. Ø make predictions or suggest solutions, again if appropriate. A good conclusion should NOT: Ø include completely new ideas. If they're important, include them
in your main text. Ø be apologetic! Be confident with what you say: avoid
phrases such as: "I may not be an expert .." or "At least this
is my opinion" Ø focus on minor points. Ø qualify the impact of any previous points. Many tutors would argue that
the conclusion is the most important part of your writing. It is where you
can demonstrate once and for all that you are in control of your ideas and
material and that you have thought of the implications and issues involved.
Don't worry if writing your conclusion leads you to re-writing other parts of
your text. This is in fact a good sign! Resources to try for more help: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/workshops/hypertext/ResearchW/conclude.html http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/conclude.html http://www.ssdd.uce.ac.uk/learner/writing/conclus.htm |