The conclusion serves two main purposes: 1) to signal to the audience that the speech is ending and 2) to reinforce the central idea of the speech. Some ways to signal the ending include using phrases like "in conclusion" and changing the tone, pacing, and rhythm of the speech. The central idea can be reinforced by summarizing the main points, using a relevant quotation, or making a dramatic concluding statement that may refer back to the introduction. When preparing the conclusion, speakers should consider possible concluding materials while researching, aim to end strongly with emotional appeal or drama, and keep the conclusion brief at around 10% of the total speech length.

1. The conclusion
SPE 108

2. The conclusion
• Your closing remarks are your last chance to drive
home your ideas!
The conclusion has two major functions:
1.To let the audience know you are ending the
speech
2.To reinforce the audience's understanding
of, or commitment to, the central idea

3. Signal to end the
speech
•Sometimes a speaker ends
so abruptly it takes you by
surprise; a sudden ending will
leave the audience puzzled
and unfulfilled
•Vocal cues: "in conclusion,"
"my purpose has been,""let
me end by saying."

4. Signal to end the
speech
• Manner of deliver y: by use of the voice it's tone, pacing, intonation, and rhythm - a
speaker can build the momentum of a speech
so there is no doubt when it's over
• Dissolve ending: a conclusion that
generates emotional appeal by fading pet by
step to a dramatic final statement

5. Reinforce the central
idea
• Summarize your
speech: restate the
main points
• End with a
quotation: when you
find a brief quotation
that perfectly captures
your central idea, keep
it in mind for a possible
conclusion

6. Reinforce the central
idea
• Make a dramatic
statement: utilize pausing
and inflection for maximum
impact
• Refer to the
introduction: gives your
speech psychological unity
by referring to ideas from
the introduction in the
conclusion

7. Tips for preparing the
conclusion
• As with the introduction, keep an eye out for possible
concluding materials as you research and develop the
speech.
• Conclude with a bang, not a whimper. Be creative, use
emotional appeal and drama. Work a few different endings,
and choose the one with the most impact.
• Don't be long winded. Your conclusion should be about
10% of your total speech.
• Don't leave anything in your conclusion to chance. Work it
out in detail, and practice delivering it.