How to Write Better Essays

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26 Conclusions

In this chapter you will learn:

• the most effective ways of writing thought-provoking conclusions;


• how to use conclusions to tie up your arguments into a cohesive, rel-
  evant essay;


• how to leave your readers with a sense of discovery, that they have
  read something worthwhile.

It’s surprising how many people believe that the conclusion is for

them the most difficult part of writing an essay, whereas it should be

the easiest of the three parts. Having got your readers safely to this

point without losing them or confusing them as to the relevance of

your arguments, there is little you can do now to weaken your work.

However, there are still one or two problems that catch the unwary.

Some students are convinced they must finish on an upbeat note, with

a clear, firm declaration of their opinion. If the question asks for your

opinion, they argue, you must give it. The problem with this is that

such a declaration of opinion may just come completely out of the blue.

The essay may be full of the most skilful analysis and discussion of the

problems, leaving you with no clear grounds for absolute certainty one

way or the other. Therefore, to make a clear statement of your opinion,

showing no doubt or uncertainty, would be inappropriate.

The opinions you express in the conclusion must reflect the strength

and balance of the arguments that have preceded them in the body of

the essay. They must be carefully measured to match the discussion

you have developed, and this may not allow for a firm declaration

of certainty one way or the other. If you’ve genuinely discussed the

issues and not just given a one-sided defence of your opinion, your

conclusion might be pitched anywhere on a spectrum ranging from

unqualified opposition to the proposition in the question, to qualified

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