Endings / Conclusions

Clearly connects introduction and body of the paper with insightful comments or analysis.

Wraps up the writing and gives the reader something to think about.

Should answer “So what?” for the reader (why they should care)**

Lame Conclusions

I hope you enjoyed reading my… In this essay/letter you have

learned… I just told you about

(exact thesis)…

Parts of a Conclusion

Restated thesisBrief summary of subpoints,

restatedFinal thought

A writer may end withan interesting facta call to actiona self-reflection a response to a “so what?” question

Final Thoughts

Example:

There is something to be said for pushing yourself to your physical limits; everything else sort of falls away and you’re left with a core of determination and not a little bit of smugness at what is possible. People often wonder why people do things like the STP, and the short answer is, “Because we can.” The longer answer is, I think, only intelligible to those who try these kinds of feats. So, go out and try it, and get back to me.

Example:

Your online presence is something you need to guard responsibly. At some point, someone you know, be it a college recruiter, an employer thinking of offering you a job, or even the parents of someone you’re dating will look at what you have put out there on your social media. These people will make decisions about your character based on what they see. Your online presence is forever. Guard it well.

•Play the “So What” Game. If you’re stuck and feel like your conclusion isn’t saying anything new or interesting, ask a friend to read it with you. Whenever you make a statement from your conclusion, ask the friend to say, “So what?” or “Why should anybody care?” Then ponder that question and answer it. Here’s how it might go:

•You: Basically, I’m just saying that education was important to Douglass.•Friend: So what?•You: Well, it was important because it was a key to him feeling like a free and equal citizen.•Friend: Why should anybody care?•You: That’s important because plantation owners tried to keep slaves from being educated so that they could maintain control. When Douglass obtained an education, he undermined that control personally.

•You can also use this strategy on your own, asking yourself “So What?” as you develop your ideas or your draft.