An argumentative essay is a piece of academic writing that presents an argument on a specific topic. A strong conclusion is crucial to leave a lasting impression on your reader and reinforce your main argument. In this article, we will explore the key elements of a strong conclusion and provide tips on writing one.
What is the Purpose of a Conclusion in an Argumentative Essay?
The primary purpose of a conclusion in an argumentative essay is to:
- Restate the thesis statement: Reiterate your main argument in a fresh way.
- Summarize the main points: Briefly recap the key points discussed in the body paragraphs.
- Provide a final thought or call to action: Leave a lasting impression and inspire your reader.
How to Write a Strong Conclusion
1. Restate the Thesis Statement
- Rephrase the thesis statement: Use different wording to avoid repetition.
- Maintain the core argument: Ensure the new phrasing conveys the same central idea.
- Example:
- Original thesis: School uniforms should be mandatory because they reduce bullying and promote a sense of community.
- Restated thesis: By implementing a school uniform policy, schools can foster a more inclusive and harmonious learning environment.
2. Summarize the Main Arguments
- Highlight key points: Briefly recap the main arguments from the body paragraphs.
- Emphasize the most crucial evidence: Focus on the strongest supporting evidence.
- Use concise language: Avoid unnecessary repetition and wordiness.
3. Provide a Final Thought or Call to Action
- Offer a thought-provoking statement: Encourage the reader to reflect on the implications of your argument.
- Suggest a course of action: Inspire the reader to take action or change their perspective.
- End on a strong note: Leave a lasting impression with a powerful concluding sentence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Conclusions
- Introducing new information: Avoid presenting new facts or arguments that haven’t been discussed in the body paragraphs.
- Apologizing for your position: Be confident in your argument and avoid undermining your claims.
- Using weak language: Employ strong, assertive language to reinforce your points.
- Overusing rhetorical questions: While rhetorical questions can be effective, overuse can weaken your conclusion.
Tips for Writing Effective Conclusions
- Start strong: Begin with a powerful sentence that grabs the reader’s attention.
- Be concise: Keep your conclusion focused and to the point.
- Use strong language: Employ vivid language and powerful verbs.
- Proofread carefully: Ensure your conclusion is free of errors in grammar and punctuation.
Example Conclusions
Example 1: Argumentative Essay on Climate Change
In conclusion, the overwhelming scientific consensus supports the claim that climate change is a serious threat to our planet. By taking immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and invest in renewable energy sources, we can mitigate the devastating effects of climate change and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Example 2: Argumentative Essay on School Uniforms
In light of the evidence presented, it is clear that school uniforms offer numerous benefits, including reduced bullying, improved academic performance, and a stronger sense of school community. By implementing a mandatory school uniform policy, schools can create a more positive and productive learning environment for all students.
Additional Resources
- Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL): https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/
- University of North Carolina Writing Center: https://writingcenter.unc.edu/
- Grammarly: https://www.grammarly.com/
This video offers detailed instructions on crafting effective concluding paragraphs.
FAQs
An argumentative essay is a type of academic writing that presents an argument on a specific topic. It involves researching a topic, developing a thesis statement, presenting evidence to support the thesis, and refuting counterarguments.
The length of a conclusion will vary depending on the overall length of the essay and the complexity of the argument. However, a general guideline is that the conclusion should be about one paragraph long.
To avoid common mistakes in conclusions, be sure to proofread carefully, avoid introducing new information, and use strong, assertive language.
Need Help with Your Argumentative Essay?
If you’re struggling to write a strong conclusion or need assistance with any other aspect of your argumentative essay, consider hiring a professional writing service like Smart Academic Writing. Our team of experienced writers can help you craft a high-quality essay that will impress your professors.
