The document provides tips for writing an effective conclusion, including transitioning smoothly from the last paragraph, summarizing the main points quickly without restating the thesis verbatim, giving the reader something to think about or answering why the topic is important, and synthesizing the ideas rather than just relisting the main points or thesis. The conclusion should leave the reader with a strong last impression.

1. Writing an Effective Conclusion!

2.  Even though you may be in a
time crunch toward the end
(once you hit your writing
stride), be sure to leave a
strong last impression!

3.  Begin with a good TRANSITION
 Don’t just “restate” the thesis – sum up your
main points quickly
 Don’t use trite phrases like “in conclusion,”
“to sum up,” “as you can see” . . .

4.  A good way to finish strong is to give the
reader something to think about …
 Be sure to answer the “so what” question –
why is what you wrote about important or
meaningful?
 SYNTHESIZE your thoughts – don’t just your
thesis or main points – tie them together

5. To complete your essay and
leave the grader with a solid
last impression!