How to Write a Conclusion for a Research Paper
Just like the introduction of a research paper, the conclusion should leave a strong impression on the reader’s mind. They should be convinced beyond doubt that you got this whole research right and that you have more to say and do about even after concluding. Your audience should not be left with more questions than answers after reading the last statement on your paper. Instead, a curiosity about what you will do beyond that study should arise and give them the interest to follow up on the same. Make your conclusion count by following the points below:
Developing a Compelling Conclusion
For you to come up with a compelling conclusion, you can consider the following:
- Recommend a course of action. Even though it is not entirely your responsibility to save the world, it would be great if you recommend a course of action in your conclusion. That way, your reader will know that you own your research.
- Avoid adding new information. At this point, do not bring in new information or facts. In the case of a contemporary issue, you could just state what would happen if the problem is not solved.
- Avoid the words, ‘In conclusion’ or any other that may sound stiff and obvious. A strong conclusion should stand out by itself without being announced.
- Go for expert opinions to make your conclusion more authoritative.
- Maintain your paper tone even in your conclusion. If you use a different tone as you conclude, your readers will cast doubts on your work. Consistency is key.
- Choose a fact or a key statistic that represents the main point in your work and repeat it in your conclusion. Failure to comment on key issues will weaken your study.
- Include personal reflections. This will cause people to relate better with your study. You can even use personal experiences to drive your point home.
- Make your conclusion concise. Being too wordy and inconclusive is both unnecessary and irritating.
- Demonstrate urgency. Based on the objectives and findings of your study, you will need to portray some urgency in your conclusion. This makes your study legit and your readers will know that you have faith in your entire research.
- Give your readers some food for thought. A good study should leave the audience thinking about something. It is in the conclusion where you bring back the main points of your work and make your readers do some critical thinking.
- Be truthful. If your research does not answer all the questions, do not be shy to mention that. This will give your work authenticity and someone might pick it from where you left.
In Conclusion
By the time you get to the conclusion of your study, you are probably too tired to tie everything together perfectly. Take your time to go through your paper and take note of the key points, or give it to a professional proofreading service to revise my paper. Giving your conclusion the same amount of attention you gave to the introduction will lead you to a great ending. The points discussed here will help you to come up with a compelling conclusion.