How to Write a Conclusion: Step-by-Step Guide with Examples

The format of a conclusion

The format refers to the appearance or aesthetics of the text. The conclusion follows the same guidelines that should be applied to the rest of the text.

• Font Type: It is recommended to use Arial or Times New Roman, font size 12.
• Line Spacing: The line spacing should be 1.5.
• Alignment: The text should be justified, meaning the edges should form a square or rectangle with straight lines, as in the text to the right of this image.
• Paragraph length: Paragraphs should have a minimum of 3 lines and a maximum of 10 lines.
• Number of pages: The average is 2 pages, but it depends on the size of the paper, for example, a 20-page paper can have a conclusion of two pages.
• Size: Ideally, the conclusion should have a size equal to or similar to the introduction, although this recommendation is primarily based on aesthetic considerations. If it is an essay, the conclusion can be written in a single paragraph. If it’s more extensive and requires more space, it is recommended to have a size similar to the introduction for visual coherence.

Content of a conclusion

What goes in a conclusion?

In the conclusion, one places as clearly as possible what is asserted about the subject in question, and it will depend on the type of text or academic work. Now, let’s see what should be included:

• Topic statement: If the text focuses on the presentation of a topic, the conclusion should summarize what has been maintained about the subject.
• Presentation of a question: In case the text poses a question, the conclusion should provide an answer to that question.
• Problem statement If a problem has been addressed, the conclusion should present the solution or the necessary steps and indicators for its resolution; this is often seen in theses.
• Definition of terms: If the text has focused on the definition of terms, the conclusion should include personal or collective hypotheses held about them.

Structure and other rules

• Beginning of the conclusion. The conclusion begins with a connector that indicates the end, especially in the case of essays to establish a connection between the body text and the conclusion. For example “To conclude”, “To summarize”, etc.
• Connection with the body text. The conclusion must refer to the topics addressed in the text.
• Emphatic reiteration. In the case of essays, personal opinion is expected to be emphatic. That is, the author expresses his or her opinion clearly on the subject. Therefore, in the conclusion, the author’s points of view should be reaffirmed using resources such as “I want to emphasize” or “it is my opinion”, among others.

Examples of conclusions

• Example 1

Below is an example of a conclusion of a text about”School dropout as a barrier to the development of nations.” In this case, it is a topic statement or an essay where the topic is introduced and argued. First, read the essay example here, and then read the conclusion provided below.

Conclusion

Based on the above and to conclude, (Begin the conclusion with connectors) i want to emphasize the importance of education for the development of the countries around the world, and it’s role as the basis for democratic, prosperous and fair countries with a Rule of Law. It’s the citizens who decide the fate of their countries and the improvement of living standards, social and institutional aspects, and contribute to a self-sustaining growth.

When school dropout is the exception and not the rule, and more opportunities are created for marginalized groups by directly attacking the causes and risk factors, the whole society wins because everyone is directly or indirectly affected by the consequences of a low educational level.

I also want to highlight (emphatic reiteration) the need for changes in government policies in the economic and educational fields and social programs, as well as the need for a well-formulated plan to eliminate or reduce the incidence of risk factors and causes of school dropout, which necessarily requires the leading participation of citizens along government institutions so the goal of educating a greater number of people and doing it well materializes, and the positive effect can be seen in all areas of society.

See also: How to make an introduction: Step-by-step guide with examples

Now, short but illustrative examples are presented for each of the cases, and it is important to adhere to the previously described rules regarding the size that a conclusion should have.

• Example 2. Topic statement

Topic statement”The impact of technology on education”

Conclusion: In summary, throughout the detailed analysis of this text, we have explored how technology has revolutionized education on multiple fronts. From the introduction of virtual classrooms and the availability of online educational resources to the rise of distance learning, we have witnessed a profound transformation in how knowledge is accessed and imparted. The need for ongoing adaptation in the educational system to fully harness the potential of these technological tools and improve the quality of teaching is emphasized.

• Example 3. Presentation of a question

Question: “How does air pollution affect human health?”

Conclusion: After examining the available research and studies in detail, we can conclude that air pollution has an undeniable impact on people’s health. The harmful effects of exposure to pollutant particles range from chronic respiratory diseases to severe cardiovascular problems. The urgent need to address this environmental issue and promote policies and practices that reduce air pollution for the benefit of public health is highlighted.

• Example 4. Problem statement

Problem: “Youth unemployment in today’s society”

Conclusion: In this comprehensive study on youth unemployment, we have identified multiple factors contributing to this persistent issue in our society. As we analyze statistics and labor trends, it becomes clear that comprehensive solutions are needed. This includes strengthening educational and training programs that prepare young people for the current job market, as well as promoting government and business initiatives that create sustainable employment opportunities. Solving youth unemployment is a challenge that requires a coordinated approach and decisive action.

• Example 5. Definition of terms

Term: “Environmental sustainability”

Conclusion: In summary, environmental sustainability is a fundamental concept in the conservation of our environment and responsible management of natural resources. As we have explored in this analysis, it involves the ability to maintain a harmonious balance between the use of natural resources and the preservation of biodiversity and ecosystems for future generations. This comprehensive definition of environmental sustainability underscores the importance of making conscious and responsible decisions to protect our planet.