What Should Be in the Conclusion of an Argumentative Essay: A Journey Through Unrelated Yet Intriguing Thoughts

What Should Be in the Conclusion of an Argumentative Essay: A Journey Through Unrelated Yet Intriguing Thoughts

The conclusion of an argumentative essay is a critical component that ties together all the threads of your argument, providing a final perspective on the topic. It should restate the thesis in a new light, summarize the main points, and leave the reader with a lasting impression. However, as we delve into this topic, let’s also explore the curious idea that the conclusion might just be the perfect place to insert a random fact about the migratory patterns of monarch butterflies.

Restating the Thesis

One of the primary functions of the conclusion is to restate the thesis. This doesn’t mean simply copying and pasting the original thesis statement. Instead, it involves rephrasing it in a way that reflects the insights gained through the essay. For example, if your thesis was about the importance of renewable energy, your conclusion might emphasize how the evidence presented underscores the urgency of transitioning to sustainable energy sources.

Summarizing Key Points

A good conclusion also summarizes the key points made in the essay. This helps to reinforce the argument and ensures that the reader leaves with a clear understanding of the main ideas. For instance, if your essay argued that social media has a negative impact on mental health, your conclusion might briefly recap the studies and statistics that support this claim.

Providing a Final Thought

The conclusion is your last chance to make an impact on the reader. This is where you can offer a final thought or call to action. Perhaps you want to encourage readers to reconsider their own habits, or maybe you want to inspire them to take action on an issue. For example, if your essay was about climate change, you might end with a powerful statement about the importance of individual and collective action in combating this global crisis.

The Unrelated Yet Intriguing Thought

Now, let’s circle back to our earlier musing about monarch butterflies. Did you know that these butterflies migrate up to 3,000 miles each year, from Canada to Mexico? This incredible journey is one of the most remarkable in the animal kingdom. While this fact may seem unrelated to the conclusion of an argumentative essay, it serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most compelling conclusions are those that leave the reader with a sense of wonder and curiosity.

Additional Considerations

Emotional Appeal

In some cases, it can be effective to appeal to the reader’s emotions in the conclusion. This can help to make your argument more memorable and impactful. For example, if your essay was about the importance of animal conservation, you might end with a poignant story about a specific endangered species.

Broader Implications

Another strategy is to discuss the broader implications of your argument. This can help to situate your essay within a larger context and demonstrate its relevance. For instance, if your essay was about the benefits of a plant-based diet, you might conclude by discussing how this dietary shift could contribute to global food security and environmental sustainability.

Avoiding New Information

It’s important to avoid introducing new information in the conclusion. This can confuse the reader and detract from the coherence of your argument. Instead, focus on synthesizing the information that has already been presented.

Final Tips

  • Be Concise: Keep your conclusion concise and to the point. Avoid unnecessary repetition or lengthy explanations.
  • End with a Bang: Aim to end your essay with a strong, memorable statement that leaves a lasting impression.
  • Reflect on the Journey: Consider reflecting on the journey of your argument, highlighting how the evidence has led you to your final conclusion.

Q: Can I include a quote in the conclusion of my argumentative essay? A: Yes, a well-chosen quote can be a powerful way to reinforce your argument and leave a lasting impression on the reader. Just make sure it aligns with your thesis and the overall tone of your essay.

Q: How long should the conclusion be? A: The conclusion should be proportionate to the length of your essay. For a standard 5-paragraph essay, a conclusion of 3-5 sentences is usually sufficient. For longer essays, you might need a more detailed conclusion, but it should still be concise.

Q: Is it okay to end with a question? A: Ending with a question can be an effective way to engage the reader and encourage further thought. However, make sure the question is relevant to your argument and doesn’t leave the reader feeling unresolved.

Q: Can I use humor in the conclusion? A: Humor can be a great way to make your conclusion memorable, but it should be used judiciously. Make sure it aligns with the tone of your essay and doesn’t undermine the seriousness of your argument.

Q: Should I restate all my main points in the conclusion? A: While it’s important to summarize your key points, you don’t need to restate every single one. Focus on the most important aspects of your argument and how they support your thesis.