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Writing a Conclusion Paragraph

The conclusion paragraph should achieve two things. First, this paragraph restates your points without
sounding repetitive (put your points in other words!) Secondly, this paragraph makes larger connections
to things outside the text. This second objective is tricky because you should not be introducing new
points or evidence from the text (that belongs in your body paragraphs!)
When possible, spend some time considering your conclusion. It is your last chance to make a lasting
impression regarding an argument and to win the readers favor! This worksheet recommends ONE
approach to writing a conclusion paragraph.

Senten Sentence Type Explanation/Correlation

ce
Number
Restate the topic and expectations, explaining why
1
Restate topicA
the subject of your paper is important.
Restate
*Do not just re-copy your thesis. Find another way
2
B
thesis/claim
to restate your points without sounding repetitive*
Explain the importance of your thesis (2nd
C
3
Defend thesis sentence), e.g. this changes the message of the
text, has major impacts/repercussions, etc.
A statement regarding the authors intent (not
Outside
4
yours, the author of the work youre writing about)
connectionsD
in relationship to the outside world.
When the reader has finished reading your conclusion paragraph, (s)he should be able to:
1. Restate your argument and your position.
2. Identify why it is relevant to them (the reader).
Sample:
Whereas one can interpret the events of Enders Game as hope for children in the future, Orson
Scott Card makes a strong statement regarding how children are not tolerated in technological societies.
Although Ender becomes the hero at the end of the book, Ender is celebrated because he did not exhibit
any childish characteristics and was able to flourish in many adult situations despite of his age. The ideal
child, therefore, is one that doesnt exist in society, one who becomes an adult and sacrifices himself for
the greater good. Through this ridiculous premise, Card brings to question whether children should bear
the burdens of their parents, making sacrifices for others who are irresponsible themselves.
The So What Strategy if youre stuck with the conclusion, ask yourself (or have a friend ask you) so what?
or why should anybody care? after each question. Then answer the so what questions. For example,
You: Basically, Im just saying that education was important to Douglass.

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Friend: So what?
You: Well, it was important because it was a key to him feeling like a free and equal citizen.
Friend: Why should anybody care?
You: Thats important because plantation owners tried to keep slaves from being educated so that they could
maintain control. When Douglass obtained an education, he undermined that control.