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The conclusion is a very important part of your essay. Although it is sometimes treated as a roundup of all of the bits that didn’t fit into the paper earlier, it deserves better treatment than that! It's the last thing the reader will see, so it tends to stick in the reader's memory. It's also a great place to remind the reader exactly why your topic is important. A conclusion is more than just "the last paragraph"—it's a working part of the paper. This is the place to push your reader to think about the consequences of your topic for the wider world or for the reader's own life!

A good conclusion should do a few things:

Restate your thesis

Synthesize or summarize your major points

Make the context of your argument clear

Restating Your Thesis

You've already spent time and energy crafting a solid thesis statement for your introduction, and if you've done your job right, your whole paper focuses on that thesis statement. That's why it's so important to address the thesis in your conclusion! Many writers choose to begin the conclusion by restating the thesis, but you can put your thesis into the conclusion anywhere—the first sentence of the paragraph, the last sentence, or in between. Here are a few tips for rephrasing your thesis:

Remind the reader that you've proven this thesis over the course of your paper. For example, if you're arguing that your readers should get their pets from animal shelters rather than pet stores, you might say, "If you were considering that puppy in the pet-shop window, remember that your purchase will support 'puppy mills' instead of rescuing a needy dog, and consider selecting your new friend at your local animal shelter." This example gives the reader not only the thesis of the paper, but a reminder of the most powerful point in the argument!

Revise the thesis statement so that it reflects the relationship you've developed with the reader during the paper. For example, if you've written a paper that targets parents of young children, you can find a way to phrase your thesis to capitalize on that—maybe by beginning your thesis statement with, "As a parent of a young child…"

Don’t repeat your thesis word for word—make sure that your new statement is an independent, fresh sentence!

Summary or Synthesis

This section of the conclusion might come before the thesis statement or after it. Your conclusion should remind the reader of what your paper actually says! The best conclusion will include a synthesis, not just a summary—instead of a mere list of your major points, the best conclusion will draw those points together and relate them to one another so that your reader can apply the information given in the essay. Here are a couple of ways to do that:

Give a list of the major arguments for your thesis (usually, these are the topic sentences of the parts of your essay).

Explain how these parts are connected. For example, in the animal-shelter essay, you might point out that adopting a shelter dog helps more animals because your adoption fee supports the shelter, which makes your choice more socially responsible.

One of the most important functions of the conclusion is to provide context for your argument. Your reader may finish your essay without a problem and understand your argument without understanding why that argument is important. Your introduction might point out the reason your topic matters, but your conclusion should also tackle this questions. Here are some strategies for making your reader see why the topic is important:

Tell the reader what you want him or her to do. Is your essay a call to action? If so, remind the reader of what he/she should do. If not, remember that asking the reader to think a certain way is an action in itself. (In the above examples, the essay asks the reader to adopt a shelter dog—a specific action.)

Explain why this topic is timely or important. For example, the animal-shelter essay might end with a statistic about the number of pets in shelters waiting for adoption.

Remind the readers of why the topic matters to them personally. For example, it doesn’t matter much if you believe in the mission of animal shelters, if you're not planning to get a dog; however, once you're looking for a dog, it is much more important. The conclusion of this essay might say, "Since you’re in the market for a dog, you have a major decision to make: where to get one." This will remind the reader that the argument is personally important!

Conclusion paragraphs

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How to Conclude an Essay (with Examples)

Last Updated: July 22, 2024 Fact Checked

Writing a Strong Conclusion

What to avoid, brainstorming tricks.

This article was co-authored by Jake Adams and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano . Jake Adams is an academic tutor and the owner of Simplifi EDU, a Santa Monica, California based online tutoring business offering learning resources and online tutors for academic subjects K-College, SAT & ACT prep, and college admissions applications. With over 14 years of professional tutoring experience, Jake is dedicated to providing his clients the very best online tutoring experience and access to a network of excellent undergraduate and graduate-level tutors from top colleges all over the nation. Jake holds a BS in International Business and Marketing from Pepperdine University. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 3,221,892 times.

So, you’ve written an outstanding essay and couldn’t be more proud. But now you have to write the final paragraph. The conclusion simply summarizes what you’ve already written, right? Well, not exactly. Your essay’s conclusion should be a bit more finessed than that. Luckily, you’ve come to the perfect place to learn how to write a conclusion. We’ve put together this guide to fill you in on everything you should and shouldn’t do when ending an essay. Follow our advice, and you’ll have a stellar conclusion worthy of an A+ in no time.

Tips for Ending an Essay

• Rephrase your thesis to include in your final paragraph to bring the essay full circle.
• End your essay with a call to action, warning, or image to make your argument meaningful.
• Keep your conclusion concise and to the point, so you don’t lose a reader’s attention.
• Do your best to avoid adding new information to your conclusion and only emphasize points you’ve already made in your essay.

• “All in all”
• “Ultimately”
• “Furthermore”
• “As a consequence”
• “As a result”

• Make sure to write your main points in a new and unique way to avoid repetition.

• Let’s say this is your original thesis statement: “Allowing students to visit the library during lunch improves campus life and supports academic achievement.”
• Restating your thesis for your conclusion could look like this: “Evidence shows students who have access to their school’s library during lunch check out more books and are more likely to complete their homework.”
• The restated thesis has the same sentiment as the original while also summarizing other points of the essay.

• “When you use plastic water bottles, you pollute the ocean. Switch to using a glass or metal water bottle instead. The planet and sea turtles will thank you.”
• “The average person spends roughly 7 hours on their phone a day, so there’s no wonder cybersickness is plaguing all generations.”
• “Imagine walking on the beach, except the soft sand is made up of cigarette butts. They burn your feet but keep washing in with the tide. If we don’t clean up the ocean, this will be our reality.”
• “ Lost is not only a show that changed the course of television, but it’s also a reflection of humanity as a whole.”
• “If action isn’t taken to end climate change today, the global temperature will dangerously rise from 4.5 to 8 °F (−15.3 to −13.3 °C) by 2100.”

• Focus on your essay's most prevalent or important parts. What key points do you want readers to take away or remember about your essay?

• For instance, instead of writing, “That’s why I think that Abraham Lincoln was the best American President,” write, “That’s why Abraham Lincoln was the best American President.”
• There’s no room for ifs, ands, or buts—your opinion matters and doesn’t need to be apologized for!

• For instance, words like “firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly” may be great transition statements for body paragraphs but are unnecessary in a conclusion.

• For instance, say you began your essay with the idea that humanity’s small sense of sense stems from space’s vast size. Try returning to this idea in the conclusion by emphasizing that as human knowledge grows, space becomes smaller.

• For example, you could extend an essay on the television show Orange is the New Black by bringing up the culture of imprisonment in America.

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• ↑ https://www.uts.edu.au/current-students/support/helps/self-help-resources/grammar/transition-signals
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/common_writing_assignments/argument_papers/conclusions.html
• ↑ http://writing2.richmond.edu/writing/wweb/conclude.html
• ↑ https://writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/ending-essay-conclusions
• ↑ https://www.pittsfordschools.org/site/handlers/filedownload.ashx?moduleinstanceid=542&dataid=4677&FileName=conclusions1.pdf
• ↑ https://www.cuyamaca.edu/student-support/tutoring-center/files/student-resources/how-to-write-a-good-conclusion.pdf
• ↑ https://library.sacredheart.edu/c.php?g=29803&p=185935

About This Article

To end an essay, start your conclusion with a phrase that makes it clear your essay is coming to a close, like "In summary," or "All things considered." Then, use a few sentences to briefly summarize the main points of your essay by rephrasing the topic sentences of your body paragraphs. Finally, end your conclusion with a call to action that encourages your readers to do something or learn more about your topic. In general, try to keep your conclusion between 5 and 7 sentences long. For more tips from our English co-author, like how to avoid common pitfalls when writing an essay conclusion, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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In a short paper—even a research paper—you don’t need to provide an exhaustive summary as part of your conclusion. But you do need to make some kind of transition between your final body paragraph and your concluding paragraph. This may come in the form of a few sentences of summary. Or it may come in the form of a sentence that brings your readers back to your thesis or main idea and reminds your readers where you began and how far you have traveled.

So, for example, in a paper about the relationship between ADHD and rejection sensitivity, Vanessa Roser begins by introducing readers to the fact that researchers have studied the relationship between the two conditions and then provides her explanation of that relationship. Here’s her thesis: “While socialization may indeed be an important factor in RS, I argue that individuals with ADHD may also possess a neurological predisposition to RS that is exacerbated by the differing executive and emotional regulation characteristic of ADHD.”

In her final paragraph, Roser reminds us of where she started by echoing her thesis: “This literature demonstrates that, as with many other conditions, ADHD and RS share a delicately intertwined pattern of neurological similarities that is rooted in the innate biology of an individual’s mind, a connection that cannot be explained in full by the behavioral mediation hypothesis.”  

Highlight the “so what”  

At the beginning of your paper, you explain to your readers what’s at stake—why they should care about the argument you’re making. In your conclusion, you can bring readers back to those stakes by reminding them why your argument is important in the first place. You can also draft a few sentences that put those stakes into a new or broader context.

In the conclusion to her paper about ADHD and RS, Roser echoes the stakes she established in her introduction—that research into connections between ADHD and RS has led to contradictory results, raising questions about the “behavioral mediation hypothesis.”

She writes, “as with many other conditions, ADHD and RS share a delicately intertwined pattern of neurological similarities that is rooted in the innate biology of an individual’s mind, a connection that cannot be explained in full by the behavioral mediation hypothesis.”  

Leave your readers with the “now what”  

After the “what” and the “so what,” you should leave your reader with some final thoughts. If you have written a strong introduction, your readers will know why you have been arguing what you have been arguing—and why they should care. And if you’ve made a good case for your thesis, then your readers should be in a position to see things in a new way, understand new questions, or be ready for something that they weren’t ready for before they read your paper.

In her conclusion, Roser offers two “now what” statements. First, she explains that it is important to recognize that the flawed behavioral mediation hypothesis “seems to place a degree of fault on the individual. It implies that individuals with ADHD must have elicited such frequent or intense rejection by virtue of their inadequate social skills, erasing the possibility that they may simply possess a natural sensitivity to emotion.” She then highlights the broader implications for treatment of people with ADHD, noting that recognizing the actual connection between rejection sensitivity and ADHD “has profound implications for understanding how individuals with ADHD might best be treated in educational settings, by counselors, family, peers, or even society as a whole.”

To find your own “now what” for your essay’s conclusion, try asking yourself these questions:

• What can my readers now understand, see in a new light, or grapple with that they would not have understood in the same way before reading my paper? Are we a step closer to understanding a larger phenomenon or to understanding why what was at stake is so important?  
• What questions can I now raise that would not have made sense at the beginning of my paper? Questions for further research? Other ways that this topic could be approached?  
• Are there other applications for my research? Could my questions be asked about different data in a different context? Could I use my methods to answer a different question?  
• What action should be taken in light of this argument? What action do I predict will be taken or could lead to a solution?  
• What larger context might my argument be a part of?  

What to avoid in your conclusion  

• a complete restatement of all that you have said in your paper.  
• a substantial counterargument that you do not have space to refute; you should introduce counterarguments before your conclusion.  
• an apology for what you have not said. If you need to explain the scope of your paper, you should do this sooner—but don’t apologize for what you have not discussed in your paper.  
• fake transitions like “in conclusion” that are followed by sentences that aren’t actually conclusions. (“In conclusion, I have now demonstrated that my thesis is correct.”)
• picture_as_pdf Conclusions

How to Write a Conclusion for an Essay

The conclusion is the final paragraph of your writing, and it holds significant weight. It allows you to leave a lasting impression on the reader. But how to write a conclusion that effectively summarizes your points and resonates with your audience? 

This article will guide you through the process of crafting a strong conclusion paragraph, step by step. Our term paper writers will break down the key elements and provide clear examples to illustrate each point. By following these steps and referencing the examples, you'll be well on your way to writing impactful conclusions that leave your reader feeling satisfied and informed.

What Is a Conclusion

Conclusion in an essay is the final paragraph or section that wraps up the main points and provides closure to the piece.

Imagine it as the bridge that connects your ideas to a broader significance. A well-crafted conclusion does more than simply summarize; it elevates your points and offers a sense of closure, ensuring the reader leaves with a clear understanding of your argument's impact. In the next section, you will find conclusion ideas that you could use for your essay.

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How to Write a Conclusion

A powerful conclusion not only summarizes but also reinforces your message and leaves a lasting impression. Here's a breakdown of how to write a conclusion for an essay:

• Restate Your Thesis: Briefly remind the reader of your central point. Don't simply copy and paste your thesis statement, but rephrase it using different words.
• Summarize Key Points: Revisit the main arguments or evidence you presented throughout your writing. This reminds the reader of the journey you took them on and ensures they grasp the core takeaways.
• Avoid Introducing New Information: The conclusion is not the place to introduce brand new ideas. Stick to summarizing and reinforcing the existing points.
• End on a Strong Note: Go beyond a simple summary. You can add a final thought, pose a question to spark further reflection, or highlight the significance of your topic.

Read more: Persuasive essay outline . 

The Purpose of a Conclusion

As you already understand, the conclusion paragraph serves a critical function in your writing. It serves as a final push to solidify your message in your readers’ minds. It's also your opportunity to:

• Remind the reader of your central point (thesis) and the key arguments or evidence used to support it. 
• Use this space to offer a final thought, pose a question that prompts further pondering, or emphasize the significance of your topic.

Remember, a concluding paragraph should NOT:

• Introduce New Information: The conclusion is not the place for brand new ideas. Its purpose lies in wrapping up and reinforcing what you've already established.
• Stray from the Thesis: Don't introduce arguments or evidence not discussed earlier in your writing. Maintain focus on the core message you've been building throughout your work.

How Long Should a Conclusion Paragraph Be

Generally, the ideal length depends on the overall length and complexity of your essay. However, it is not the sole factor. A well-written conclusion of 3 sentences can be far more effective than a rambling one that drags on for multiple paragraphs. 

Here are some general guidelines can help you achieve a balance when writing a conclusion:

• In most cases, you can effectively summarize your points and leave a lasting impression within 3-5 sentences.
• Prioritize delivering a clear and impactful message over unnecessary elaboration.
• Proportion matters. A lengthy research paper might warrant a slightly longer conclusion (think 5-7 sentences) to adequately address all the main points. Conversely, a shorter piece like a blog post might require a more concise conclusion (2-4 sentences).

Conclusion Transition Words

The right transition word can smoothly bridge the gap between your main body of text and your conclusion. Here are some transition words for conclusion categorized by their purpose:

7 Tips for Writing a Conclusion

Having grasped the core functions and structure of a conclusion paragraph, let's check out some practical tips to elevate your closing statements. Here are 7 effective strategies to consider from our dissertation writer :

• Vary Your Sentence Structure: Avoid a monotonous string of simple sentences. Use a mix of sentence structures (short, long, complex) to create a more engaging rhythm.
• Connect to the Introduction: For a cohesive feel, subtly tie your conclusion back to your introduction. You can reference an opening question you posed or revisit a key image you mentioned. Consider this tip especially when unsure how to start a conclusion.
• Embrace Figurative Language (Sparingly): There are different conclusion ideas but a well-placed metaphor or simile can help leave a lasting impression. However, use figurative language strategically and avoid clichés.
• Appeal to the Reader's Emotions: Did your writing highlight a pressing issue? Consider evoking emotions relevant to your topic when you want to know how to write a conclusion paragraph that tugs at the reader's heartstrings.
• Consider a Quote (if Relevant): A powerful quote from a credible source can add authority and depth to your essay conclusion. Ensure the quote aligns with your thesis and enhances your message.
• End with a Strong Call to Action (Optional): If your purpose is to persuade or inspire action, conclude with a clear call to action. Tell your reader exactly what you want them to do next.
• Proofread and Revise: Just like any other part of your writing, proofread your conclusion carefully. Ensure clarity and a smooth flow between your main body of text and the closing statement.

By this time, you already know how to write a conclusion for an essay. However, if you still need further guidance, buy essay from our expert writers anytime!

Do’s and Don’ts of Essay Conclusion

Let's now look at some simple tips from our online paper writing service to help you avoid common mistakes when writing a conclusion.

Conclusion Paragraph Examples

Here are three conclusion paragraph examples showcasing how powerful closings are crafted.

Recommended for reading: Nursing essay examples .

In closing, a strong conclusion is a must-have for any piece of writing. It reminds your reader of your main point and leaves them with a lasting impression. Here are some key things to reflect on how to write a good conclusion:

• Restate your thesis in a fresh way.
• Mention your key arguments.
• Leave a lasting thought or question.
• Consider your audience and tailor your ending to them.
• End with a strong statement.

Remember, a good conclusion is not merely about wrapping things up but rather about making your writing truly impactful.

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How To Write A Conclusion For An Essay?

How to write a good conclusion, how to write a conclusion for a college essay.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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• Essay Conclusions | UMGC. (n.d.). University of Maryland Global Campus. https://www.umgc.edu/current-students/learning-resources/writing-center/writing-resources/writing/essay-conclusions
• How to Write a Conclusion for an Essay | BestColleges. (n.d.). BestColleges.com. https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/how-to-write-a-conclusion/
• Ending the Essay: Conclusions | Harvard College Writing Center. (n.d.). https://writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/ending-essay-conclusions

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• Writing Tips

How to Write an Essay Conclusion

4-minute read

• 1st October 2022

Regardless of what you’re studying, writing essays is probably a significant part of your work as a student . Taking the time to understand how to write each section of an essay (i.e., introduction, body, and conclusion) can make the entire process easier and ensure that you’ll be successful.

Once you’ve put in the hard work of writing a coherent and compelling essay, it can be tempting to quickly throw together a conclusion without the same attention to detail. However, you won’t leave an impactful final impression on your readers without a strong conclusion.

We’ve compiled a few easy steps to help you write a great conclusion for your next essay . Watch our video, or check out our guide below to learn more!

1. Return to Your Thesis

Similar to how an introduction should capture your reader’s interest and present your argument, a conclusion should show why your argument matters and leave the reader with further curiosity about the topic.

To do this, you should begin by reminding the reader of your thesis statement. While you can use similar language and keywords when referring to your thesis, avoid copying it from the introduction and pasting it into your conclusion.

Try varying your vocabulary and sentence structure and presenting your thesis in a way that demonstrates how your argument has evolved throughout your essay.

2. Review Your Main Points

In addition to revisiting your thesis statement, you should review the main points you presented in your essay to support your argument.

However, a conclusion isn’t simply a summary of your essay . Rather, you should further examine your main points and demonstrate how each is connected.

Try to discuss these points concisely, in just a few sentences, in preparation for demonstrating how they fit in to the bigger picture of the topic.

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3. Show the Significance of Your Essay

Next, it’s time to think about the topic of your essay beyond the scope of your argument. It’s helpful to keep the question “so what?” in mind when you’re doing this. The goal is to demonstrate why your argument matters.

If you need some ideas about what to discuss to show the significance of your essay, consider the following:

• What do your findings contribute to the current understanding of the topic?
• Did your findings raise new questions that would benefit from future research?
• Can you offer practical suggestions for future research or make predictions about the future of the field/topic?
• Are there other contexts, topics, or a broader debate that your ideas can be applied to?

While writing your essay, it can be helpful to keep a list of ideas or insights that you develop about the implications of your work so that you can refer back to it when you write the conclusion.

Making these kinds of connections will leave a memorable impression on the reader and inspire their interest in the topic you’ve written about.

4. Avoid Some Common Mistakes

To ensure you’ve written a strong conclusion that doesn’t leave your reader confused or lacking confidence in your work, avoid:

• Presenting new evidence: Don’t introduce new information or a new argument, as it can distract from your main topic, confuse your reader, and suggest that your essay isn’t organized.
• Undermining your argument: Don’t use statements such as “I’m not an expert,” “I feel,” or “I think,” as lacking confidence in your work will weaken your argument.
• Using generic statements: Don’t use generic concluding statements such as “In summary,” “To sum up,” or “In conclusion,” which are redundant since the reader will be able to see that they’ve reached the end of your essay.

Finally, don’t make the mistake of forgetting to proofread your essay ! Mistakes can be difficult to catch in your own writing, but they can detract from your writing.

Our expert editors can ensure that your essay is clear, concise, and free of spelling and grammar errors. Find out more by submitting a free trial document today!

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Writing a Paper: Conclusions

Writing a conclusion.

A conclusion is an important part of the paper; it provides closure for the reader while reminding the reader of the contents and importance of the paper. It accomplishes this by stepping back from the specifics in order to view the bigger picture of the document. In other words, it is reminding the reader of the main argument. For most course papers, it is usually one paragraph that simply and succinctly restates the main ideas and arguments, pulling everything together to help clarify the thesis of the paper. A conclusion does not introduce new ideas; instead, it should clarify the intent and importance of the paper. It can also suggest possible future research on the topic.

An Easy Checklist for Writing a Conclusion

It is important to remind the reader of the thesis of the paper so he is reminded of the argument and solutions you proposed.

Think of the main points as puzzle pieces, and the conclusion is where they all fit together to create a bigger picture. The reader should walk away with the bigger picture in mind.

Make sure that the paper places its findings in the context of real social change.

Make sure the reader has a distinct sense that the paper has come to an end. It is important to not leave the reader hanging. (You don’t want her to have flip-the-page syndrome, where the reader turns the page, expecting the paper to continue. The paper should naturally come to an end.)

No new ideas should be introduced in the conclusion. It is simply a review of the material that is already present in the paper. The only new idea would be the suggesting of a direction for future research.

Conclusion Example

As addressed in my analysis of recent research, the advantages of a later starting time for high school students significantly outweigh the disadvantages. A later starting time would allow teens more time to sleep--something that is important for their physical and mental health--and ultimately improve their academic performance and behavior. The added transportation costs that result from this change can be absorbed through energy savings. The beneficial effects on the students’ academic performance and behavior validate this decision, but its effect on student motivation is still unknown. I would encourage an in-depth look at the reactions of students to such a change. This sort of study would help determine the actual effects of a later start time on the time management and sleep habits of students.

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Conclusion Paragraph for an Essay: Tips for the Perfect Ending

Table of contents

• 1 Purpose of the Conclusion
• 2.1 Restate the Thesis
• 2.2 Synthesize, Don’t Just Summarize
• 2.3 Use a Thought-Provoking Question
• 2.4 Potential Future Developments or Research Paths in the Topic
• 2.5 Use Transitional Phrases
• 2.6 Close the Loop
• 3.1 Introducing New Information
• 3.2 Using Cliches
• 3.3 Being Too Vague
• 3.4 Apologizing for Your Viewpoint
• 3.5 Lack of a Closing Statement or Unsupported Statements
• 4 Essay Conclusion Example
• 5 Summing Up Main Ideas
• 6.1 What should be in the conclusion of an essay?
• 6.2 Where does the conclusion go in an essay?
• 6.3 How long should a conclusion paragraph be?

When dealing with any type of essay, sticking to a particular essay structure is essential. This helps you formulate and orchestrate a sleek composition with in-depth research, a new idea, and supporting arguments. Presenting your content as engaging and informative is good, but it will look incomplete without a memorable essay conclusion paragraph. Writing an effective conclusion can be challenging. That’s why we prepared this guide covering the main points on how to write a successful conclusion:

• We explain the key points of the conclusion goal in an essay;
• Also, we provide helpful ways to end your paper efficiently and underline points to avoid when writing an easy conclusion.

Let’s move to the main sections of this guide and learn how to write a conclusion for an essay effectively.

Purpose of the Conclusion

The conclusion is the essay’s final paragraph. It should summarize the key aspects mentioned in the main body paragraphs and repeat the thesis statement from the introductory paragraph of an essay. The main purpose of a conclusion paragraph in an essay can be defined by three points:

• Reiteration of an Essay’s Main Points

If your research paper includes specific points in body paragraphs, it makes sense to remind readers about them in a conclusion. A main argument or a new insight of your research should be in a closing sentence.

• End with a Good Final Impression

While the introduction acts as a catchy hook to capture the reader’s interest, a conclusion paragraph is an impressive finalization. Strong essay conclusions must leave them with a strong impression and positive note of what they have just read.

• Sense of Closure

A conclusion is the last paragraph with the last word of final thoughts. It should be a brief summary consisting of a few sentences where you must mention the central idea and overall argument. Crafting a good conclusion makes your essay complete and lets you get a good assessment from your instructor. That’s why it is a good idea to allow an expert to write your college essay, which regards all essay parts clearly and precisely. So, what are the key points to start a conclusion paragraph? Follow the next section to learn more.

How to Craft an Effective Conclusion Paragraph

Like any other part of an essay, a conclusion might have a particular structure and broader implications. Yet, there is no strict instruction on how to write conclusion in essay. The conclusion content structure can depend on the theme, problem, or argument revealed in an essay at large. It should provide a personal connection to the introduction part of an essay and to its main paragraphs. Also, you shouldn’t overload it with many words and expressions. To come up with a strong conclusion, we outlined several helpful tips to consider.

Restate the Thesis

Make sure to mention the thesis statement in the conclusion paragraph structure. This will remind readers of the main idea of your essay’s message.

Synthesize, Don’t Just Summarize

A conclusion shouldn’t be a plain summary of the previous essay’s part. When analyzing different sources in your work, it is a good idea to merge various perspectives and come up with a unique solution, viewpoint, or approach. This helps introduce a comprehensive understanding of the subject or theory under investigation.

Use a Thought-Provoking Question

Thought-provoking questions are good insights in making a conclusion impressive. Thanks to statements formulated as questions, your essay has a high chance of winning the readers’ engagement. However, we’d like to provide several insights on question types that can provoke readers to contemplate your essay after reading its conclusion. Here they are:

• Make your question relevant to the essay’s argument or its main topic;
• Create an open-ended question that doesn’t lead to answers “yes” or “no;”
• Avoid making a question too broad to keep a reader’s focus on your essay’s theme;
• Use specific words or phrases like “Imagine if…” or “Consider for a moment…” that might help you lead the readers to reflection;
• Formulate one but deeply thought-provoking question that might have a better impact than many simple questions;
• Circumvent questions with direct answers; let readers meditate on what they have just read.
• End with a Quotation

Another powerful tool in making a conclusion more memorable is implementing quotations. Once you find a quotation that perfectly fits your essay’s topic or argument, it makes sense to use it. Doing this reinforces your key message in an essay and leaves your reader with different thoughts and viewpoints to contemplate.

Suppose you’ve written an essay about perseverance in the face of adversity. You might conclude with:

✏️Example: “As we’ve seen through various examples, resilience and determination can carry individuals through the most challenging times. As Winston Churchill once remarked, ‘Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.’ This sentiment captures the essence of perseverance, reminding us that it’s the journey and our tenacity that truly matter, not just the outcome.”

By incorporating a quotation in this manner, you reinforce your essay’s message while leaving the reader with a memorable thought to ponder.

Potential Future Developments or Research Paths in the Topic

If the main context of your essay requires more research and afterward findings, you should state this in a conclusion. This will add more significance to your work.

Use Transitional Phrases

Write an essay conclusion with a smooth transition from one point to another. They will help you introduce a summary of your thoughts and arguments in a better way. If you need any  argumentative essay help , feel free to contact our service. We have a professional staff that can provide qualified academic writing assistance.

Close the Loop

Apart from the function of the last part in essay writing, a conclusion plays the role of a closing loop. Each part of the writing should be smoothly connected by creating a loop of statements, arguments, or perspectives. To bring an essence of completeness, a conclusion should finalize the points mentioned in the introductory part of an essay. This approach enables you to bring up a cohesively structured essay with a clear understanding of a starting point and how it is supported to conclude the train of thoughts and arguments.

Once you comply with the tips above, you will indeed create an effective conclusion part of an essay. However, our PapersOwl team provides a few insights about what to avoid when crafting it. These insights are introduced in the next section.

✏️Example:

Introduction: “In the ever-evolving world of technology, many argue that traditional books will soon become obsolete.”

Conclusion: “While the digital age continues to surge forward, the tactile and nostalgic experience of flipping through the pages of a traditional book reminds us of the timeless value they still hold.”

By closing the loop, the essay feels complete, reinforcing its main argument and leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

What to Avoid in a Conclusion Paragraph

Although a conclusion summarizes all the key information from the main body, it should be short and concise. Earlier, we emphasized the crucial ways to conclude an essay. Apart from them, we provide you with five tips on what to avoid in crafting an effective conclusion. Check them below.

Introducing New Information

Never put new information in your conclusion statements. It will only bring more confusion and misunderstanding of your statements.

Using Cliches

To make your concluding paragraph in an essay more attractive, avoid using cliched phrases. Mostly, they are like “To summarize,” “In conclusion,” or “To sum up.”

Being Too Vague

A conclusion is where each sentence should be clear and concise. Avoid wishy-washy things, but be convincing in your concluding thoughts and statements.

Apologizing for Your Viewpoint

Your work is where you present your ability to analyze and synthesize information. You should sound confident in providing statements, arguments, or unique viewpoints. So there is no use in apologizing for this.

Lack of a Closing Statement or Unsupported Statements

Pay attention to how you conclude an essay. Ensure you use supported statements in your last sentence to finalize your main ideas in an essay.

Writing an essay conclusion might seem overwhelming for two reasons. On the one hand, you need to consider valuable insights to introduce a good conclusion for an essay. On the other hand, you should bear in mind things better not to implement in the last paragraph of an essay. To make it easier, request to do my essay on our platform. By doing this, you will receive a quick response to proceed with an essay conclusion template.

Essay Conclusion Example

Looking for a good essay conclusion example? We compose some for you:

✏️Example: “Viable crosses between chimpanzees and people are possible. However, recently, the natural experiment has not been tried too frequently. If such an offspring would ever be produced, then what should their legal status be? In my opinion, the cognitive abilities of chimps make us raise questions related to the boundaries of a being’s community that are subjected to specific ethical considerations; I hope that this can help us expand our perspectives in terms of ethics upward to extraterrestrial organisms (if there are any) and down through the taxa on Earth.”

✏️Example: “I don’t consider the literary meaning of language. Language is a tool for expression and not for hiding emotions and thoughts… It should recognize that the current political chaos is associated with the decomposition of language and that you can probably achieve some improvements, beginning with the verbal end. If you simplify your English, you will be freed from the worst stupidity of Orthodoxy. You wouldn’t speak any of the necessary dialects, and when you make a stupid remark, its stupidity would be obvious even to yourself. The political language aims to make lies seem truthful. You cannot change all this in an instant, but you can at least change your habits, and from time to time, even if one of the mockeries is loud enough, send some worn and useless phrase… to the trash can where it belongs.”

Summing Up Main Ideas

Every part of an essay is important and must be composed for the best. A conclusion is not an exception. The ending point of an essay also plays a significant role in work assessment. So, follow simple instructions and helpful tips on how to write a conclusion paragraph efficiently. We uncovered such insights in this review, and also noticed several hints on what you shouldn’t do to finish an essay. When sticking to all these recommendations, you can end up your essay in the best way.

If you find it difficult to write a conclusion in an essay, you can visit our website and place an order. Our support will help you find the best expert to assist you or provide you with essay conclusion examples. The only thing you will do is trust your essay’s conclusion to a professional and get it properly done according to set deadlines.

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Traditional Academic Essays In Three Parts

Part i: the introduction.

An introduction is usually the first paragraph of your academic essay. If you’re writing a long essay, you might need 2 or 3 paragraphs to introduce your topic to your reader. A good introduction does 2 things:

• Gets the reader’s attention. You can get a reader’s attention by telling a story, providing a statistic, pointing out something strange or interesting, providing and discussing an interesting quote, etc. Be interesting and find some original angle via which to engage others in your topic.
• Provides a specific and debatable thesis statement. The thesis statement is usually just one sentence long, but it might be longer—even a whole paragraph—if the essay you’re writing is long. A good thesis statement makes a debatable point, meaning a point someone might disagree with and argue against. It also serves as a roadmap for what you argue in your paper.

Part II: The Body Paragraphs

Body paragraphs help you prove your thesis and move you along a compelling trajectory from your introduction to your conclusion. If your thesis is a simple one, you might not need a lot of body paragraphs to prove it. If it’s more complicated, you’ll need more body paragraphs. An easy way to remember the parts of a body paragraph is to think of them as the MEAT of your essay:

Main Idea. The part of a topic sentence that states the main idea of the body paragraph. All of the sentences in the paragraph connect to it. Keep in mind that main ideas are…

• like labels. They appear in the first sentence of the paragraph and tell your reader what’s inside the paragraph.
• arguable. They’re not statements of fact; they’re debatable points that you prove with evidence.
• focused. Make a specific point in each paragraph and then prove that point.

Evidence. The parts of a paragraph that prove the main idea. You might include different types of evidence in different sentences. Keep in mind that different disciplines have different ideas about what counts as evidence and they adhere to different citation styles. Examples of evidence include…

• quotations and/or paraphrases from sources.
• facts , e.g. statistics or findings from studies you’ve conducted.
• narratives and/or descriptions , e.g. of your own experiences.

Analysis. The parts of a paragraph that explain the evidence. Make sure you tie the evidence you provide back to the paragraph’s main idea. In other words, discuss the evidence.

Transition. The part of a paragraph that helps you move fluidly from the last paragraph. Transitions appear in topic sentences along with main ideas, and they look both backward and forward in order to help you connect your ideas for your reader. Don’t end paragraphs with transitions; start with them.

Keep in mind that MEAT does not occur in that order. The “ T ransition” and the “ M ain Idea” often combine to form the first sentence—the topic sentence—and then paragraphs contain multiple sentences of evidence and analysis. For example, a paragraph might look like this: TM. E. E. A. E. E. A. A.

Part III: The Conclusion

A conclusion is the last paragraph of your essay, or, if you’re writing a really long essay, you might need 2 or 3 paragraphs to conclude. A conclusion typically does one of two things—or, of course, it can do both:

• Summarizes the argument. Some instructors expect you not to say anything new in your conclusion. They just want you to restate your main points. Especially if you’ve made a long and complicated argument, it’s useful to restate your main points for your reader by the time you’ve gotten to your conclusion. If you opt to do so, keep in mind that you should use different language than you used in your introduction and your body paragraphs. The introduction and conclusion shouldn’t be the same.
• For example, your argument might be significant to studies of a certain time period .
• Alternately, it might be significant to a certain geographical region .
• Alternately still, it might influence how your readers think about the future . You might even opt to speculate about the future and/or call your readers to action in your conclusion.

Handout by Dr. Liliana Naydan. Do not reproduce without permission.

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Parts of an essay

Published March 31, 2021. Updated June 4, 2022.

Parts of an Essay Definition:

An introduction, the body paragraphs, and the conclusion are the three main parts of an essay.

Overview of the Main Parts of an Essay:

An introduction is the first paragraph or possibly several paragraphs of the paper. The introduction needs to keep the reader engaged, provide context or background information for what the essay says, and state the claim. The hook, background information, and thesis statement are the different parts of an introduction. The longest part of the paper will be the body paragraphs. The number and length of the body paragraphs will vary from paper to paper. All of the body paragraphs will be structured in the same way. The conclusion will be the final part of the essay. The purpose of the conclusion is to bring all pieces of the essay together, reviewing the main points and leaving the reader with a good impression. Using an outline can also help to visualize all the different parts of an essay.

Worried about your writing? Submit your paper for a Chegg Writing essay check , or for an Expert Check proofreading . Both can help you find and fix potential writing issues.

The introduction

The introduction is the first paragraph or possibly several paragraphs of your paper. The introduction needs to engage your reader, provide context or background information for what you are going to say, and state your claim.

The hook is the first part of your introduction. A hook is an attention-grabbing first sentence or short paragraph. It is the first thing your audience will read, and its purpose is to engage the reader.

After you write your hook, you will flesh out the rest of your introduction with background information. While the background information will look different based on the type and purpose of your paper, it should help build context for the rest of the essay.

The final part of your introduction is your thesis statement. A thesis statement is the claim, or argument, you are making in your paper. It tells your reader what you believe or what stance you take on an issue.

The body paragraphs

The longest part of your paper will be your body paragraphs. The number and length of your body paragraphs will vary from paper to paper. Sometimes a traditional five paragraph essay with three body paragraphs is appropriate, but don’t assume you only need three. Instead, the number of body paragraphs you include should match the depth and complexity of your writing task.

All of your body paragraphs will be structured in roughly the same way. Each will have a topic sentence, examples or evidence, your analysis, and a concluding sentence.

The topic sentence is the first sentence of each body paragraph. It works as a mini-thesis statement for just that paragraph. The topic sentence should link the information in that paragraph back to your main claim, your thesis statement, as well as provide a smooth transition from the previous paragraph.

Each of your body paragraphs will also include examples or evidence that help support both your topic sentence and your primary claim. This information can include data, quotes from experts, examples from either an experiment or research, quotes from a novel or short story, and paraphrased or summarized information from your research. This information should be accurate, reliable, and directly related to the main idea of the paragraph.

Another essential part of your body paragraphs is an analysis of your evidence. After you present what you have found in your research, you will need to explain how it supports your claim. This analysis will vary in length, but there should be some analysis for each piece of evidence you include.

Finally, each body paragraph will include a concluding sentence. This is a short statement that will wrap up just that body paragraph, closing the loop between your topic sentence, evidence, and analysis.

The conclusion

The conclusion will be the final part of your essay. The purpose of your conclusion is to bring all pieces of your essay together, reviewing your main points and leaving the reader with a good impression.

Your conclusion will need to restate your thesis and review your main supporting ideas. You will want to restate without repeating verbatim; if you word the thesis statement exactly like you did in the introduction, it will probably feel repetitive and boring to your readers. While you want to review, don’t add new information to the conclusion. Now is not the time to introduce more evidence, as that can distract your audience from your overall claim.

One of the most challenging parts of writing a conclusion is adding something that will make a lasting impact on your reader. You will want to end your conclusion by connecting your claim to a bigger idea. One way to do so is to try to write a few sentences that answer the question “so what?” or “why does this matter?”

Essay outline example

Using an outline can help you visualize all the different parts of an essay. Look at the example below to see an overview of these different parts.

I. Introduction

B. Background information

C. Thesis statement

II. Body paragraph 1

A. Topic sentence

B. Supporting detail of main idea #1

1. Analysis and explanation

C. Supporting detail of main idea #1

III. Body paragraph 2

B. Supporting detail of main idea #2

2. Analysis and explanation

C. Supporting detail of main idea #2

D. Supporting detail of main idea #2

IV. Conclusion

A. Review and summarize

B. Link to bigger picture

Other considerations for your essay

The introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion are the heart of your essay, but there are a few other elements you want to be sure to include in your writing.

• Transitions: Be sure to include transition words and phrases between paragraphs and between ideas within one paragraph.
• Appropriate style and tone: Consider your audience and purpose of writing, and craft your essay to match.
• Citations: Check with your professor and include citations according to the correct style guide. Remember, all information that is not from your own head needs a citation.

Before you turn in that paper, don’t forget to cite your sources in APA format , MLA format , or a style of your choice.

Key takeaways

• There are three main parts of an essay: the introduction, the body paragraphs, and the conclusion.
• The number of body paragraphs will vary based on the complexity of the essay.
• All parts of the essay need to link together to support the claim you make in the thesis statement.

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Parts of an Essay Conclusion: How to Write a Good Conclusion Paragraph

The Parts of An Essay Conclusion

When writing an essay and you already have a stellar introduction and body paragraphs that fully explain your essay topic, it is time to formulate the conclusion. All essays require you to build up to a finish line which is the conclusion.

It is a very important part of the essay because you take everything you have written and condense it into one or two paragraphs depending on the essay length. A good conclusion will help you make a final good impression on the reader.

It should always give the reader the feeling that you have accomplished what you wanted to prove. Writing a conclusion can sometimes be hard if you do not have the right strategy to do it.

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Parts of an Essay Conclusion

A good conclusion should restate the thesis, summarize the major points, and make the context of your argument clear.

You have already created a thesis in the introduction of your essay and if you have done the right job, it is all that your body paragraphs are all about.

Just like your whole essay, the conclusion too should involve the thesis.

You can rephrase the thesis by reminding the reader that you have proven it all over the paper. Also, you can revise it in a way that reflects the relationship you have established with the reader in the paper.

You must not restate the thesis word to word as it is in the introduction. It should be an independent, fresh sentence.

This is where you remind the reader about what the essay entails. A good conclusion is not only a summary but also a synthesis. A summary just lists the main points but a synthesis draws those major points together and relates them to one another to make the reader apply how they are used in the essay.

To do that take the major points of the essay which are usually the topic sentences and give an explanation that shows how they are connected.

A good conclusion should always give provide context for your argument . A reader may fully understand all your arguments in an essay but fail to know why the argument is important. The conclusion provides you with the platform to avoid that.

The introduction should include the importance of the arguments made in the essay but the conclusion should point out the reason why those arguments matter.

To do this, for instance in a call for action essay, you can remind the readers what you want them to do.

Also, you can ask the readers to think in a particular way. Additionally, you can explain why the essay topic is important and timely. Moreover, you can remind the readers why the topic matters to them personally.

Make an argument that makes the reader have a personal connection with the content of your paper.

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How to Write a Good Conclusion Paragraph?

To write a good conclusion paragraph, the following steps must be taken:

Start With a Topic Sentence

Just like other paragraphs in the essay, conclusion paragraphs should start with a topic sentence . This sentence should remind the reader about your main argument in the essay.

Therefore, using your essay’s thesis statement as the topic sentence is the best way to remind the reader about what your essay is all about. The thesis statement should be reworded differently from the one in the introduction to avoid repletion.

Also, it is important to always keep the introduction close and use it as a reference. The information you include n the conclusion should reinforce the arguments made in the introduction.

This will help you include the thesis, integrate the main points of the essay, and provide an emotional appeal to the reader

Summarize the Main Ideas

The main ideas are the most important issues in the essay. These are the topic sentences in your essay’s body paragraphs. Effective conclusions must restate these sentences to sum up the essay’s main points.

Some essays, for example, research papers and argumentative essays can be long. Therefore, providing a summary of all the points in your essay in the conclusion paragraph can help to keep the reader up to speed.

Always note that the conclusion should only include information that has been included in the essay, any additional new information should not be included in the conclusion. When new ideas or research has been included in the instructions it can easily confuse the reader.

The conclusion should provide the reader with all information included in the introduction and body paragraphs of your essay. Basically, by reading the conclusion the reader should know everything about the essay.

Appeal to the Reader’s Emotions

To create a powerful image that will last in the reader’s mind, you need to use emotional and sensory language. Make the reader connect to the work they have already read.

This can include a call for action directed to the reader or a reminder of why the topic is personally important to them. To add to that, using emotional appeal is a great way to ensure that your main points of the essay are reinforced.

Include a Closing Sentence

To wrap up your essay, a closing sentence is important. This can be done with a sentence that is a synthesis of the main points of your essay.

It should be succinct and clear enough to provide closure to the reader and a significant strong impression of the wider context of the essay.

It should also be strong and decisive to leave the reader with a lingering and strong interest in your essay topic.

How to Start a Conclusion in an Essay?

An essay conclusion is started with a topic sentence just like other paragraphs in the essay. The topic sentence is mainly the thesis statement of the essay.

It is the main point of your essay and it should start the conclusion to remind the reader of what the essay is all about.

It should be paraphrased to avoid looking similar to the one included in the introduction of the essay. It should be paraphrased depending on how you have phrased the main argument throughout the essay. Rewriting the main argument signals that your essay is coming to an end.

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Words to Conclude an Essay

The conclusion should always begin with words that show a transition from the body paragraphs. Different transition words have different meanings. Therefore, you should ensure that the one you chose fits your essay most.

Some of the words used in transition include:

• In conclusion
• To conclude
• As previously stated

They should always be followed up by a comma.

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How to Conclude an Academic Essay?

To conclude an academic essay, you must restate the thesis statement. This should be included in the first sentence of your essay.

Next, provide a summary of all the main points of your essay. Whether your paper is long or short, every point that is included in the body paragraphs should be reflected in the summary of your conclusion.

You will need to be clear and concise while writing the conclusion to enable the reader to know that you clearly understood the topic. Note that no new argument that is not provided in the essay should be introduced.

Lastly, include the closing sentence of your essay. Show why the topic matters by zooming out a broader view of the topic. This sentence should always leave the reader with more interest in your topic.

With over 10 years in academia and academic assistance, Alicia Smart is the epitome of excellence in the writing industry. She is our chief editor and in charge of the writing department at Grade Bees.

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• Tags: Academic Writing , Essay , Essay Writing

Writing an effective and impactful essay is crucial to your academic or professional success. Whether it’s getting into the college of your dreams or scoring high on a major assignment, writing a well-structured essay will help you achieve it all. But before you learn how to write an essay , you need to know its basic components.

In this article, we will understand what an essay is, how long it should be, and its different parts and types. We will also take a detailed look at relevant examples to better understand the essay structure.

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What is an essay?

An essay is a concise piece of nonfiction writing that aims to either inform the reader about a topic or argue a particular perspective. It can either be formal or informal in nature. Most academic essays are highly formal, whereas informal essays are commonly found in journal entries, social media, or even blog posts.

As we can see from this essay definition, the beauty of essays lies in their versatility. From the exploration of complex scientific concepts to the history and evolution of everyday objects, they can cover a vast range of topics.

How long is an essay?

The length of an essay can vary from a few hundred to several thousand words but typically falls between 500–5,000 words. However, there are exceptions to this norm, such as Joan Didion and David Sedaris who have written entire books of essays.

Let’s take a look at the different types of essays and their lengths with the help of the following table:

How many paragraphs are in an essay?

Typically, an essay has five paragraphs: an introduction, a conclusion, and three body paragraphs. However, there is no set rule about the number of paragraphs in an essay.

The number of paragraphs can vary depending on the type and scope of your essay. An expository or argumentative essay may require more body paragraphs to include all the necessary information, whereas a narrative essay may need fewer.

Structure of an essay

To enhance the coherence and readability of your essay, it’s important to follow certain rules regarding the structure. Take a look:

1. Arrange your information from the most simple to the most complex bits. You can start the body paragraph off with a general statement and then move on to specifics.

2. Provide the necessary background information at the beginning of your essay to give the reader the context behind your thesis statement.

3. Select topic statements that provide value, more information, or evidence for your thesis statement.

There are also various essay structures , such as the compare and contrast structure, chronological structure, problem method solution structure, and signposting structure that you can follow to create an organized and impactful essay.

Parts of an essay

An impactful, well-structured essay comes down to three important parts: the introduction, body, and conclusion.

1. The introduction sets the stage for your essay and is typically a paragraph long. It should grab the reader’s attention and give them a clear idea of what your essay will be about.

2. The body is where you dive deeper into your topic and present your arguments and evidence. It usually consists of two paragraphs, but this can vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing.

3. The conclusion brings your essay to a close and is typically one paragraph long. It should summarize the main points of the essay and leave the reader with something to think about.

The length of your paragraphs can vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing. So, make sure you take the time to plan out your essay structure so each section flows smoothly into the next.

Introduction

When it comes to writing an essay, the introduction is a critical component that sets the tone for the entire piece. A well-crafted introduction not only grabs the reader’s attention but also provides them with a clear understanding of what the essay is all about. An essay editor can help you achieve this, but it’s best to know the brief yourself!

Let’s take a look at how to write an attractive and informative introductory paragraph.

1. Construct an attractive hook

To grab the reader’s attention, an opening statement or hook is crucial. This can be achieved by incorporating a surprising statistic, a shocking fact, or an interesting anecdote into the beginning of your piece.

For example, if you’re writing an essay about water conservation you can begin your essay with, “Clean drinking water, a fundamental human need, remains out of reach for more than one billion people worldwide. It deprives them of a basic human right and jeopardizes their health and wellbeing.”

2. Provide sufficient context or background information

An effective introduction should begin with a brief description or background of your topic. This will help provide context and set the stage for your discussion.

For example, if you’re writing an essay about climate change, you start by describing the current state of the planet and the impact that human activity is having on it.

3. Construct a well-rounded and comprehensive thesis statement

A good introduction should also include the main message or thesis statement of your essay. This is the central argument that you’ll be making throughout the piece. It should be clear, concise, and ideally placed toward the end of the introduction.

By including these elements in your introduction, you’ll be setting yourself up for success in the rest of your essay.

Let’s take a look at an example.

Essay introduction example

• Background information
• Thesis statement

The Wright Brothers’ invention of the airplane in 1903 revolutionized the way humans travel and explore the world. Prior to this invention, transportation relied on trains, boats, and cars, which limited the distance and speed of travel. However, the airplane made air travel a reality, allowing people to reach far-off destinations in mere hours. This breakthrough paved the way for modern-day air travel, transforming the world into a smaller, more connected place. In this essay, we will explore the impact of the Wright Brothers’ invention on modern-day travel, including the growth of the aviation industry, increased accessibility of air travel to the general public, and the economic and cultural benefits of air travel.

Body paragraphs

You can persuade your readers and make your thesis statement compelling by providing evidence, examples, and logical reasoning. To write a fool-proof and authoritative essay, you need to provide multiple well-structured, substantial arguments.

Let’s take a look at how this can be done:

1. Write a topic sentence for each paragraph

The beginning of each of your body paragraphs should contain the main arguments that you’d like to address. They should provide ground for your thesis statement and make it well-rounded. You can arrange these arguments in several formats depending on the type of essay you’re writing.

2. Provide the supporting information

The next point of your body paragraph should provide supporting information to back up your main argument. Depending on the type of essay, you can elaborate on your main argument with the help of relevant statistics, key information, examples, or even personal anecdotes.

3. Analyze the supporting information

After providing relevant details and supporting information, it is important to analyze it and link it back to your main argument.

4. Create a smooth transition to the next paragraph

End one body paragraph with a smooth transition to the next. There are many ways in which this can be done, but the most common way is to give a gist of your main argument along with the supporting information with transitory words such as “however” “in addition to” “therefore”.

Here’s an example of a body paragraph.

Essay body paragraph example

• Topic sentence
• Supporting information
• Analysis of the information
• Smooth transition to the next paragraph

The Wright Brothers’ invention of the airplane revolutionized air travel. They achieved the first-ever successful powered flight with the Wright Flyer in 1903, after years of conducting experiments and studying flight principles. Despite their first flight lasting only 12 seconds, it was a significant milestone that paved the way for modern aviation. The Wright Brothers’ success can be attributed to their systematic approach to problem-solving, which included numerous experiments with gliders, the development of a wind tunnel to test their designs, and meticulous analysis and recording of their results. Their dedication and ingenuity forever changed the way we travel, making modern aviation possible.

A powerful concluding statement separates a good essay from a brilliant one. To create a powerful conclusion, you need to start with a strong foundation.

Let’s take a look at how to construct an impactful concluding statement.

1. Restructure your thesis statement

To conclude your essay effectively, don’t just restate your thesis statement. Instead, use what you’ve learned throughout your essay and modify your thesis statement accordingly. This will help you create a conclusion that ties together all of the arguments you’ve presented.

2. Summarize the main points of your essay

The next point of your conclusion consists of a summary of the main arguments of your essay. It is crucial to effectively summarize the gist of your essay into one, well-structured paragraph.

3. Create a lasting impression with your concluding statement

Conclude your essay by including a key takeaway, or a powerful statement that creates a lasting impression on the reader. This can include the broader implications or consequences of your essay topic.

Here’s an example of a concluding paragraph.

Essay conclusion example

• Restated thesis statement
• Summary of the main points
• Broader implications of the thesis statement

The Wright Brothers’ invention of the airplane forever changed history by paving the way for modern aviation and countless aerospace advancements. Their persistence, innovation, and dedication to problem-solving led to the first successful powered flight in 1903, sparking a revolution in transportation that transformed the world. Today, air travel remains an integral part of our globalized society, highlighting the undeniable impact of the Wright Brothers’ contribution to human civilization.

Types of essays

Most essays are derived from the combination or variation of these four main types of essays . let’s take a closer look at these types.

1. Narrative essay

A narrative essay is a type of writing that involves telling a story, often based on personal experiences. It is a form of creative nonfiction that allows you to use storytelling techniques to convey a message or a theme.

2. Descriptive essay

A descriptive essay aims to provide an immersive experience for the reader by using sensory descriptors. Unlike a narrative essay, which tells a story, a descriptive essay has a narrower scope and focuses on one particular aspect of a story.

3. Argumentative essays

An argumentative essay is a type of essay that aims to persuade the reader to adopt a particular stance based on factual evidence and is one of the most common forms of college essays.

4. Expository essays

An expository essay is a common format used in school and college exams to assess your understanding of a specific topic. The purpose of an expository essay is to present and explore a topic thoroughly without taking any particular stance or expressing personal opinions.

While this article demonstrates what is an essay and describes its types, you may also have other doubts. As experts who provide essay editing and proofreading services , we’re here to help. 

Our team has created a list of resources to clarify any doubts about writing essays. Keep reading to write engaging and well-organized essays!

• How to Write an Essay in 8 Simple Steps
• How to Write an Essay Header
• How to Write an Essay Outline

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an argumentative and an expository essay, what is the difference between a narrative and a descriptive essay, what is an essay format, what is the meaning of essay, what is the purpose of writing an essay.

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• How to write an essay outline | Guidelines & examples

How to Write an Essay Outline | Guidelines & Examples

Published on August 14, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay outline is a way of planning the structure of your essay before you start writing. It involves writing quick summary sentences or phrases for every point you will cover in each paragraph , giving you a picture of how your argument will unfold.

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Table of contents

Organizing your material, presentation of the outline, examples of essay outlines, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about essay outlines.

At the stage where you’re writing an essay outline, your ideas are probably still not fully formed. You should know your topic  and have already done some preliminary research to find relevant sources , but now you need to shape your ideas into a structured argument.

Creating categories

Look over any information, quotes and ideas you’ve noted down from your research and consider the central point you want to make in the essay—this will be the basis of your thesis statement . Once you have an idea of your overall argument, you can begin to organize your material in a way that serves that argument.

Try to arrange your material into categories related to different aspects of your argument. If you’re writing about a literary text, you might group your ideas into themes; in a history essay, it might be several key trends or turning points from the period you’re discussing.

Three main themes or subjects is a common structure for essays. Depending on the length of the essay, you could split the themes into three body paragraphs, or three longer sections with several paragraphs covering each theme.

As you create the outline, look critically at your categories and points: Are any of them irrelevant or redundant? Make sure every topic you cover is clearly related to your thesis statement.

Order of information

When you have your material organized into several categories, consider what order they should appear in.

Your essay will always begin and end with an introduction and conclusion , but the organization of the body is up to you.

Consider these questions to order your material:

• Is there an obvious starting point for your argument?
• Is there one subject that provides an easy transition into another?
• Do some points need to be set up by discussing other points first?

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Within each paragraph, you’ll discuss a single idea related to your overall topic or argument, using several points of evidence or analysis to do so.

In your outline, you present these points as a few short numbered sentences or phrases.They can be split into sub-points when more detail is needed.

The template below shows how you might structure an outline for a five-paragraph essay.

• Thesis statement
• First piece of evidence
• Second piece of evidence
• Summary/synthesis
• Importance of topic
• Strong closing statement

You can choose whether to write your outline in full sentences or short phrases. Be consistent in your choice; don’t randomly write some points as full sentences and others as short phrases.

Examples of outlines for different types of essays are presented below: an argumentative, expository, and literary analysis essay.

Argumentative essay outline

This outline is for a short argumentative essay evaluating the internet’s impact on education. It uses short phrases to summarize each point.

Its body is split into three paragraphs, each presenting arguments about a different aspect of the internet’s effects on education.

• Importance of the internet
• Concerns about internet use
• Thesis statement: Internet use a net positive
• Data exploring this effect
• Analysis indicating it is overstated
• Students’ reading levels over time
• Why this data is questionable
• Video media
• Interactive media
• Speed and simplicity of online research
• Questions about reliability (transitioning into next topic)
• Evidence indicating its ubiquity
• Claims that it discourages engagement with academic writing
• Evidence that Wikipedia warns students not to cite it
• Argument that it introduces students to citation
• Summary of key points
• Value of digital education for students
• Need for optimism to embrace advantages of the internet

Expository essay outline

This is the outline for an expository essay describing how the invention of the printing press affected life and politics in Europe.

The paragraphs are still summarized in short phrases here, but individual points are described with full sentences.

• Claim that the printing press marks the end of the Middle Ages.
• Provide background on the low levels of literacy before the printing press.
• Present the thesis statement: The invention of the printing press increased circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.
• Discuss the very high levels of illiteracy in medieval Europe.
• Describe how literacy and thus knowledge and education were mainly the domain of religious and political elites.
• Indicate how this discouraged political and religious change.
• Describe the invention of the printing press in 1440 by Johannes Gutenberg.
• Show the implications of the new technology for book production.
• Describe the rapid spread of the technology and the printing of the Gutenberg Bible.
• Link to the Reformation.
• Discuss the trend for translating the Bible into vernacular languages during the years following the printing press’s invention.
• Describe Luther’s own translation of the Bible during the Reformation.
• Sketch out the large-scale effects the Reformation would have on religion and politics.
• Summarize the history described.
• Stress the significance of the printing press to the events of this period.

Literary analysis essay outline

The literary analysis essay outlined below discusses the role of theater in Jane Austen’s novel Mansfield Park .

The body of the essay is divided into three different themes, each of which is explored through examples from the book.

• Describe the theatricality of Austen’s works
• Outline the role theater plays in Mansfield Park
• Introduce the research question : How does Austen use theater to express the characters’ morality in Mansfield Park ?
• Discuss Austen’s depiction of the performance at the end of the first volume
• Discuss how Sir Bertram reacts to the acting scheme
• Introduce Austen’s use of stage direction–like details during dialogue
• Explore how these are deployed to show the characters’ self-absorption
• Discuss Austen’s description of Maria and Julia’s relationship as polite but affectionless
• Compare Mrs. Norris’s self-conceit as charitable despite her idleness
• Summarize the three themes: The acting scheme, stage directions, and the performance of morals
• Answer the research question
• Indicate areas for further study

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

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You will sometimes be asked to hand in an essay outline before you start writing your essay . Your supervisor wants to see that you have a clear idea of your structure so that writing will go smoothly.

Even when you do not have to hand it in, writing an essay outline is an important part of the writing process . It’s a good idea to write one (as informally as you like) to clarify your structure for yourself whenever you are working on an essay.

If you have to hand in your essay outline , you may be given specific guidelines stating whether you have to use full sentences. If you’re not sure, ask your supervisor.

When writing an essay outline for yourself, the choice is yours. Some students find it helpful to write out their ideas in full sentences, while others prefer to summarize them in short phrases.

You should try to follow your outline as you write your essay . However, if your ideas change or it becomes clear that your structure could be better, it’s okay to depart from your essay outline . Just make sure you know why you’re doing so.

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Caulfield, J. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Essay Outline | Guidelines & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved September 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/essay-outline/

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