Essay Conclusion: Summary & Final Comment
A conclusion has two components: a summary of the main points, and a final comment on the topic.
The summary restates the thesis using different words and includes all the main (controlling) ideas of the essay. It should begin with a clear transition signal (in conclusion, to sum up) and add no new information.
Example (summary — cars essay):
In conclusion, while the car is advantageous for its convenience, it has some important disadvantages, in particular the pollution it causes and the rise of traffic jams.
The final comment comes after the summary and is related to the ideas in the body. It might offer solutions to problems raised, make recommendations for future action, or suggest future research.
Example (final comment — cars essay):
If countries can invest in the development of technology for green fuels, and if car owners can think of alternatives such as car sharing, then some of these problems can be lessened.
Tip: Begin the conclusion with a transition signal, restate (don't copy) the thesis, and end with a forward-looking final comment — a solution, recommendation, or suggestion.
Common mistake: Adding brand-new information or arguments in the conclusion. The conclusion only summarises and comments — it never introduces new points.
✏️ Test Yourself
1. A conclusion has two components: a summary and a ___ comment.
2. The summary should begin with a transition ___ .
3. You must add ___ new information in a conclusion.
4. A final comment may offer solutions, recommendations, or future ___ .
📒 Words to learn
Meaning — To force an issue that has already ended.
“He keeps trying to do it but I think he is b eating a dead horse.”
Meaning — capable of being perceived
“There is palpable dust on your face.”
Meaning — To eat.
“We can chow this pizza down within 2 minutes.”
Meaning — pause or hold back in uncertainty or unwillingness
“She wavers to meet my friends.”
Meaning — cannot be removed or erased
“This is an indelible stain, therefore I can’t remove it.”