Conclusions Flashcards
How long should a conclusion be?
Generally, it should be 2-3 sentences
What are three things you MUST have in the conclusion?
Restatement of the thesis (in a new way), a clear point of view, and “so what?” element
Should you simply rewrite your thesis verbatim in the conclusion?
No, you should instead consider a different way to say the same thing.
Should your conclusion restate your position on the topic?
Yes, it should restate your position as clearly and firmly as possible–no wishy-washy language or generalizations (like the thesis!)
What is the “so what?” element?
You’ve given us this argument…so what? Why does it matter? How does it apply beyond this hypothetical scenario? This essential statement usually follows the restatement of the thesis and can kick the conclusion up a notch.
What else could your “so what?” be?
It could be an implication for the future, a solution, or even a suggestion that goes along with your thesis and argument. This means digging into your argument a little more deeply to consider what these implications might be.
What are two nice things to have in conclusions, in space allows?
a brief (and non-redundant) summary and a callback to your hook
Why is it helpful to include a brief and non-redundant summary?
A summary can work well to send the reader off with a clear recollection of the points the student made.
What should you NOT do when summarizing your essay in the conclusion?
Do NOT simply plug in your examples in a way that is jarring and ineffective, or claim that three quick examples “prove something” (ex. Britanny Spears, the COVID-19 pandemic, and my 6th-grade class prove that decisions are… DO NOT DO THIS!)
What is a callback to your hook?
It is a reference to something you said earlier. Did you open your essay with a question? A quote? An analogy? The conclusion can be a great place to go back to this opening and reuse it.
