Spencer Lanoue
Wrapping up an essay can feel like the final piece of an intricate puzzle. While the introduction hooks your reader and the body delivers your message, the concluding sentence is your chance to leave a lasting impression. It’s the cherry on top, the grand finale that ties everything together. In this guide, I'll walk you through crafting a concluding sentence that resonates with your audience and reinforces your main point.
Why the Concluding Sentence Matters
The concluding sentence in an essay serves a unique purpose. It’s not just about summarizing your points but about reinforcing the core message of your essay. Think of it as the moment in a movie when everything clicks into place. A strong conclusion can make your argument more persuasive and memorable. A good essay can become a great one.
But why is it so important? Well, the concluding sentence is your last chance to impact your reader. It’s the final thought or image you leave them with. It can determine how they feel about your entire essay. Whether you're writing an academic paper, a persuasive piece, or a narrative, that last sentence can make all the difference.
What Makes a Good Concluding Sentence?
A great concluding sentence has a few key ingredients. First and foremost, it should encapsulate the main idea of your essay without simply repeating it. It’s like the melody that lingers after the song ends. You want it to echo the essence of your argument, leaving the reader with something to ponder.
Here’s a quick checklist for crafting your concluding sentence:
- Clarity: Make sure your sentence is clear and concise. Avoid jargon or complex language that might confuse the reader.
- Relevance: Tie your conclusion back to your main argument or thesis. It should feel like a natural end to your discussion.
- Impact: Aim for a sentence that resonates emotionally or intellectually. It should provoke thought or evoke a strong feeling.
For example, if your essay discusses climate change, a concluding sentence might look like this: "As our planet continues to warm, the time for action is now, not tomorrow." This sentence is clear, relevant to the topic, and leaves a powerful impression on the reader.
Strategies for Writing Your Concluding Sentence
Writing a compelling concluding sentence can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can craft a sentence that truly stands out. Here are some approaches to consider:
1. Summarize Your Main Points
One effective way to conclude is by briefly summarizing your main points. This doesn’t mean rehashing everything you’ve already said but rather distilling your argument into a single, impactful statement. Think of it as a final reminder of why your argument matters.
"In the end, renewable energy isn't just a choice; it's a necessity for a sustainable future."
2. Pose a Thought-Provoking Question
Questions can be powerful tools for engaging your reader. By asking a question, you encourage them to think deeply about your topic and consider their own opinions.
"If not now, when will we take responsibility for our planet's future?"
3. Use a Quotation
A relevant quote can add authority to your conclusion and provide a fresh perspective. Choose a quote that aligns with your argument and enhances its credibility.
"As Albert Einstein once said, 'The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything.'"
4. Call to Action
If your essay is persuasive, a call to action can be a powerful way to conclude. Encourage your reader to take a specific action in response to your argument.
"Join the movement today and be part of the solution, not the problem."
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Writing an effective concluding sentence requires avoiding some common pitfalls. Here are a few missteps to watch out for:
1. Avoid Repetition
It’s tempting to repeat your thesis or main points verbatim, but this can make your conclusion feel redundant. Instead, rephrase your ideas in a way that adds depth and nuance.
2. Steer Clear of Introducing New Ideas
Your conclusion isn’t the place to introduce new arguments or evidence. Stick to what you’ve already covered and focus on reinforcing your existing points.
3. Don’t Undermine Your Argument
Avoid phrases that weaken your argument, like "In my opinion" or "I could be wrong, but...". Your conclusion should convey confidence and conviction.
How Spell Can Assist You in Crafting Concluding Sentences
Here at Spell, we know that writing a strong conclusion can be challenging. Our AI-powered document editor is designed to help you refine your writing and craft compelling conclusions. Whether you're summarizing your main points, posing a question, or issuing a call to action, Spell can assist you in finding the perfect words to leave a lasting impression.
With Spell, you can generate drafts quickly and refine them using natural language prompts. Our editor is like having a writing coach by your side, helping you turn your ideas into polished prose. From brainstorming to final edits, Spell streamlines the writing process, saving you time and effort.
Concluding Sentence Examples Across Different Essay Types
To give you a clearer picture, let's look at some examples of concluding sentences across various types of essays. These examples will demonstrate how to tailor your conclusion to fit the specific style and purpose of your essay.
1. Narrative Essay
In a narrative essay, your concluding sentence should reflect on the story's theme or moral. It’s a chance to highlight the lesson learned or the change experienced by the protagonist.
"In finally letting go of the past, she discovered the freedom to embrace her future."
2. Analytical Essay
For an analytical essay, your conclusion should reiterate your analysis and highlight its implications. It should emphasize the significance of your insights.
"Thus, the recurring motifs not only enhance the narrative but also deepen our understanding of human nature."
3. Argumentative Essay
In an argumentative essay, your concluding sentence should reinforce your stance and encourage the reader to see the issue from your perspective.
"Ultimately, adopting universal healthcare is not just a possibility; it is a moral imperative."
4. Expository Essay
For an expository essay, your conclusion should tie together the information presented and underscore its relevance.
"In summary, understanding the water cycle is essential for managing our planet's most vital resource."
Personal Anecdote: My Journey with Concluding Sentences
When I first started writing essays, I struggled with conclusions. I’d often wrap up with a simple summary, leaving my essays feeling flat. It wasn’t until I started experimenting with different techniques — like posing questions and using quotes — that I found a style that resonated with me.
One memorable moment was during a college assignment on climate change. I ended my essay with a quote from Greta Thunberg, which added weight to my argument and left a lasting impression on my professor. It was a turning point, and since then, I've always strived to end my essays with a sentence that echoes long after the last word is read.
How to Practice Writing Concluding Sentences
Like any skill, writing concluding sentences improves with practice. Here are a few exercises to help you hone your skills:
- Write Multiple Endings: Take one of your essays and write three different concluding sentences. Experiment with different techniques — summarizing, questioning, quoting — and see which resonates most.
- Analyze Examples: Read essays from various sources and study their conclusions. Consider what makes them effective and how they reinforce the essay’s main points.
- Peer Feedback: Share your essays with friends or peers and ask for feedback specifically on your concluding sentences. Sometimes an outside perspective can highlight areas for improvement you might have missed.
These exercises can help you develop a keen sense for what works and what doesn’t, ultimately enhancing your ability to craft strong concluding sentences.
Final Thoughts
Crafting a powerful concluding sentence is an art that can elevate your entire essay. By summarizing key points, posing questions, or issuing calls to action, you can leave a lasting impression on your reader. And if you're looking for a way to streamline your writing process, Spell is here to help. Our AI-powered editor makes it easier than ever to craft polished, professional documents in record time.
