How To Write An Effective Conclusion
56The conclusion of an essay is extremely important yet it is surprising how many people underestimate it when finishing their essay. Sometimes an inadequate conclusion is due to time constraints if the essay or coursework is written under examination conditions.
Remember that the conclusion, being the last part of the work, is the part which is fresh in the examiner's mind.
A well written essay may be downgraded by a poor conclusion and conversely a mediocre essay may be enhanced by a stunning conclusion.
On reading the essay the examiner should feel that the student has addressed the issues raised and been though provoking in the concluding remarks. A conclusion which leaves the examiner confused or uninspired has failed to make an impact.
Sometimes, fresh material is introduced in a conclusion which has not been referred to and discussed earlier. This will lose marks but often students panic when writing the conclusion and pluck material which has just come into their mind. Unless there is time to amend the earlier part of the essay, such new material must not be used under any circumstances.
The conclusion should be treated like a sponge, absorbing material used in the essay and wringing out any excess, so that the salient points are referred to in order that the reasoning for the writer’s conclusion is drawn out.
The conclusion is a good point to reflect on the question asked, ensuring that it is actually answered. Remember how important it is to ensure that the angle of the question is addressed which will be dependent on how it is phrased. Common angles to questions are: discuss; compare and contrast; do you agree; suggest reforms; advise A and B on any liability.
If academic commentators and judges have commented on something which supports your argument, then this should be referred to or possibly reproduced if it is short. However the examiner is looking for your views, arguments and your approach to the issues raised.
A bad conclusion would consist of writing “I agree completely with Professor X in his Book Y”.
Remember that it is most unlikely that you will be able to agree with everything one commentator says as most questions include some scope for ambiguity and reasoning which will require your own views.
A well written conclusion will often leave the examiner with a feeling that he/she would like to explore the writer’s thoughts more; or may arouse issues which the examiner had not considered. Providing the issues raised are based on solid ground and, in the case of a Law essay, are reinforced by case law and correct legal interpretation, the conclusion will be favourably received.
