4.2 - Writing Compelling Conclusions
The purpose of a compelling conclusion
A conclusion is the final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your reader in any argumentative or analytical essay. It's not just a summary of what has been said; it's a chance to unify your argument, reinforce its significance, and ensure the audience walks away with a clear understanding of your stance. In the context of AP English Language and Composition, a well-crafted conclusion can elevate your writing by showing sophistication and rhetorical control, key elements in scoring higher on the rubric.
A strong conclusion brings closure to your argument while emphasizing its relevance. It should never feel abrupt or like an afterthought. Instead, it must tie together the points you've made and leave the reader with something to ponder, whether that's a new perspective, a call to action, or a deeper insight into the issue.
Why conclusions matter
- Unified ending - They bring all parts of the argument together, creating a sense of completeness.
- Rhetorical impact - They reinforce the purpose of your writing, making your position memorable.
- Audience engagement - They can inspire, challenge, or provoke thought, ensuring your argument resonates beyond the page.
- Scoring potential - A purposeful conclusion demonstrates control over structure and style, often contributing to higher marks in sophistication and organization.
Key strategies for effective conclusions
There are several approaches to writing conclusions that go beyond simply restating your main points. Each strategy serves a different purpose and can be adapted based on the tone, audience, and intent of your essay.
Strategies to conclude with impact
- Explain the broader significance - Show how your argument matters in a larger context, connecting it to bigger issues or universal themes.
- Make meaningful connections - Link your argument to other concepts, events, or ideas that resonate with the audience.
- Call to action - Urge the reader to do something specific, such as adopting a new behavior or supporting a cause.
- Suggest a change - Propose a shift in attitude or perspective based on the evidence you've presented.
- Propose a solution - Offer a practical resolution to the problem or issue discussed in your essay.
- Leave a compelling image - Paint a vivid picture or scenario that sticks with the reader long after they've finished reading.
- Explain implications - Highlight the potential consequences or future outcomes tied to your argument.
- Summarize without repetition - Recap the key ideas in a fresh way, synthesizing rather than restating the thesis or introduction.
- Connect back to the introduction - Revisit an idea, image, or question from the opening to create a full-circle effect.
How to choose the right strategy
When deciding which strategy to use, consider the purpose of your essay and the effect you want to have on your audience. For example, a call to action works well in persuasive arguments, while explaining broader significance might be more fitting for analytical essays. Think about what will make your argument feel most complete and impactful to the reader.
How conclusion strategies affect readers
Each conclusion technique influences the audience in a unique way, shaping how they perceive and remember your argument. Understanding these effects can help you select the most appropriate strategy for your essay in the AP English Language exam.
Reader impact of different strategies
| Strategy | Effect on reader | Best used when |
|---|---|---|
| Broader significance | Encourages reflection on larger issues | Argument ties to societal or universal themes |
| Meaningful connections | Builds relevance by linking to familiar ideas | Audience needs context or relatability |
| Call to action | Inspires immediate response or behavior change | Writing is persuasive or advocacy-focused |
| Suggest a change | Challenges existing beliefs or mindsets | Argument aims to shift perspectives |
| Propose a solution | Provides clarity and hope for resolution | Addressing a specific problem or issue |
| Compelling image | Creates emotional resonance or lasting memory | Seeking to evoke emotion or vivid imagery |
| Explain implications | Prompts thought about future outcomes | Argument has long-term consequences |
| Summarize without repetition | Reinforces key ideas with a fresh perspective | Complex arguments need a clear takeaway |
| Connect to introduction | Offers a satisfying sense of closure | Introduction uses a strong hook or narrative |
Practical tips for writing strong conclusions
When crafting your conclusion for an AP English Language essay, keep in mind that it should feel purposeful and complete. Avoid common mistakes that can undermine your argument's impact.
Tips for success
- Avoid mere repetition - Don't just restate your thesis or introduction word for word; instead, rephrase ideas in a way that adds new insight or emphasis.
- Keep it concise - A conclusion should be succinct, typically no more than a paragraph, focusing on the most critical takeaway.
- Consider your audience - Think about what will resonate with your readers, whether it's an emotional appeal, a logical insight, or a practical next step.
- End with confidence - Use strong, assertive language to leave the reader with a sense of conviction about your argument.
- Practice variety - Experiment with different strategies in practice essays to see which ones align best with your writing style and the essay's purpose.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Abrupt endings - Don't stop suddenly without tying up your argument; ensure there's a sense of resolution.
- Introducing new ideas - Avoid bringing up new points or evidence that hasn't been discussed in the body of your essay.
- Overly generic statements - Steer clear of vague or clichéd closings like "In conclusion, this is very important" (be specific to your argument).
- Weak language - Refrain from undermining your argument with phrases like "I think" or "Maybe"; maintain authority in your tone.
Examples of strong conclusions in action
To illustrate how these strategies work in practice, below are examples of conclusions for a hypothetical AP English Language argument essay on the importance of renewable energy. Each uses a different strategy to show the range of possibilities.
Example 1 - Broader significance
As the world grapples with the accelerating crisis of climate change, the shift to renewable energy is not just a practical choice but a moral imperative. By embracing solar, wind, and other sustainable sources, we secure not only our planet's future but also the legacy we leave for generations yet to come. This is more than a policy debate; it's a defining moment for humanity's survival.
This conclusion connects the argument to a universal concern, emphasizing the larger stakes involved and encouraging deep reflection.
Example 2 - Call to action
The evidence is clear: renewable energy offers a viable path to combat climate change and reduce dependency on finite resources. It's time to act: support policies that fund clean energy initiatives, advocate for sustainable practices in your community, and make the switch to green technologies in your own life. Every step counts in building a future we can all thrive in.
This conclusion urges the reader to take specific actions, making the argument feel urgent and personal.
Example 3 - Compelling image
Picture a world where cities hum with the quiet power of wind turbines, where children play under skies unmarred by smog, and where our planet breathes freely once more. Renewable energy holds the key to this vision, a promise of harmony between humanity and nature. Let us choose this path before the alternative becomes our reality.
This conclusion leaves the reader with a vivid, hopeful image, creating an emotional connection to the argument.
These examples demonstrate how varying your approach can tailor the impact of your conclusion. When writing for the AP exam, consider which strategy aligns with your essay's tone and purpose to maximize your rhetorical effect.