FAQ: How do I write a good conclusion for my paper?

Writing Conclusions

A good conclusion will remind your reader of the main points of your research and reflect on the implications of that research.

What should I include?

1. Begin by restating the main idea or thesis, first mentioned in the introduction of your paper, in a fresh, new way.
2. Summarize the main points from the body of your paper and try to show how it all fits together.
3. Leave your reader with a final thought.  This could be a suggestion for future research, next steps, or how your research matters in a broader context.

What should I avoid?

• Do not provide any new evidence or data. This should go in the body of the paper.
• Avoid direct quotes, especially for the last sentence.  This is your paper and you should have the last word.
• Stay clear of new subtopics or main ideas. Try to incorporate these into the body of your paper.

Recommended Resources

Video Resources

• The Online Writing Center has created this short video (3:10) which explains the format of academic essays, including what should go into a conclusion paragraph.  
• The Hoonuit (formerly Atomic Learning) database has a video clip entitled, “Writing Effective Conclusions” (1:56) in their “How do I Become a More Effective Writer?” series.

eBooks

• Writing Essays in English Language and Linguistics : Principles, Tips and Strategies for Undergraduates (especially part 2, chapter 7: “Writing summaries and conclusions”)  
• A Student's Writing Guide: How to Plan and Write Successful Essays (especially part 2, chapter 6: “Endings”)  
• The Elements of Academic Style: Writing for the Humanities (especially part II, chapter 17: “Ending Well”)

More Help

Further Help

This information is intended to be a guideline, not expert advice. Please be sure to speak to your professor about the appropriate way to write a good conclusion in your class assignments and projects.

Campus Students

To access academic support, visit your Brightspace course and select “Tutoring and Mentoring” from the Academic Support pulldown menu.

Online Students

To access help with citation and more, visit Academic Support via modules in Brightspace:

• The Complete Guide to Using Academic Support via Brightspace This link opens in a new window
• Accessing Writing STEM Help This link opens in a new window

Content authored by: GS