How to Start a Conclusion Paragraph in an Argumentative Essay: Tips and Strategies
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In the final stage of an argumentative essay, the conclusion paragraph is a pivotal component that wraps up the discussion and summarizes the main points. It not only restates the thesis but also provides a sense of closure and reflects on the overall argument. Here are some tips and strategies to help you start a conclusion paragraph effectively:
- Restating the Main Argument
Begin your conclusion paragraph by restating the main argument or thesis of your essay. This is a crucial step as it provides a clear overview of your essay’s focus and helps the reader understand the significance of your discussion. Use slightly different words or rephrasing to avoid sounding repetitive.
- Recapping Key Points
Next, summarize the key points you have discussed in your essay. This could include the main evidence, arguments for your stance, and any significant counterarguments you have addressed. Ensure to present these points in a concise manner, highlighting their relevance to your thesis.
- Transitioning to Closing Thoughts
Use transitional phrases or sentences to smoothly move into your closing thoughts. This could include pointing out the implications of your argument, highlighting its significance in the real world, or suggesting possible future directions of research.
- Closing with a Strong Statement
End your conclusion paragraph with a strong statement that leaves a lasting impact on the reader. This could be a call for action, a summary of your opinion, or a thought-provoking question that encourages the reader to reflect on the topic further. Ensure that your closing statement is relevant to your argument and adds value to your essay.
- Avoiding Common Mistakes
While concluding your argumentative essay, it’s important to avoid common mistakes such as introducing new ideas or arguments that weren’t discussed in the body paragraphs. Stick to summarizing and closing the discussion, rather than introducing new points that might confuse the reader. Additionally, avoid being too vague or abstract in your closing statement, ensuring it directly relates to your thesis and the arguments presented in your essay.
Now, let’s delve into some sample sentences and phrases that could help you craft an effective conclusion paragraph:
Sample Sentences and Phrases for Conclusion Paragraphs:
- “As we have discussed, it is evident that…”
- “In summing up, it is worth noting that…”
- “Upon reflecting on the arguments presented, it becomes apparent that…”
- “In conclusion, it is my belief that…”
- “With the evidence presented, we can safely conclude…”
- “The significance of this argument lies in its real-world implications…”
- “The future of this discussion holds potential for further research and exploration…”
- “As a final thought, it’s crucial to remember that…”
Now let’s consider some questions related to this topic: Question 1: What are some common pitfalls to avoid while writing a conclusion paragraph? Answer: Some common pitfalls to avoid while writing a conclusion paragraph include introducing new ideas or arguments, being vague or abstract in closing statements, and not summarizing the key points of your essay effectively. Question 2: How should you transition from summarizing key points to closing thoughts in a conclusion paragraph? Answer: Transitioning from summarizing key points to closing thoughts in a conclusion paragraph can be achieved by using transitional phrases or sentences that smoothly connect the two parts of your conclusion. You can also link the key points to broader implications or future directions of research to provide a sense of closure. Question 3: What makes an effective closing statement in an argumentative essay? Answer: An effective closing statement in an argumentative essay should be strong and leave a lasting impact on the reader. It should sum up your opinion, call for action, or pose a thought-provoking question related to the topic of your essay. The statement should be relevant to your argument and add value to your essay by tying together the various points you have discussed.