Chapter 13 Organizing, Writing, and Outlining Presentations 383Writing a Strong Conclusion
There’s a reason why courtroom dramas like
TV’s Suits almost always include footage of
the hero lawyer’s closing statements. When a
wealth of evidence, testimony, and facts have
been presented, it’s easy for juries (and televi-
sion audiences) to get bogged down in the
details and lose track of the bigger, more dra-
matic picture. For any speaker, it is important
to end a presentation with a compelling and
pointed conclusion. Once again, the “recency”
part of the primacy–recency effect reminds us
that the conclusion is the last thing the audi-
ence will hear in your speech, and it is likely
what they will remember most. As such, a
speech conclusion must address a number of
functions.
Signal the End
Your conclusion should alert the audience that the speech is coming to a close.
You might use a transitional phrase, such as “In conclusion,” “Finally,” or “Let
me close by saying... .” Such phrases serve as signposts, telling audiences
that you’re about to conclude and asking for their full attention one last time.
Remember to keep it brief. Audiences do not like to be overwhelmed with a lot
of new information at the end.
Reinforce Your Topic, Purpose, and Main Points
The conclusion of your speech is the last opportunity you’ll have to reinforce
the topic and purpose of your speech as well as to remind your audience about
the key points you want to live on in their memories. In other words, competent
speakers should reiterate this essential information so that listeners are able to
mentally check off what they have heard and what they should remember. For
example, “Today, I discussed the benefits of seeing your physician for an annual
physical, even if you’re young and feeling fine. Not only can this simple visit
offer peace of mind and help to prevent costly medical conditions in the future,
but it may also save your life if you have an underlying medical problem that
requires early diagnosis and treatment.”
Make an Impact
Your conclusion should be memorable and interesting for your audience
members, a culmination of all your efforts to develop your points and share
your research. Several techniques discussed in the section on introductions can
be useful for memorable conclusions as well.
WHETHER IN THE TV
show Suits or a real-world
courtroom, one of the most
crucial moments in a trial is
the closing statement. It’s
the lawyer’s last chance to
make his or her case to the
jury. Christos Kalohoridis / © USA
Network / Courtesy Everett Collection