To help you achieve this fluency, you should start with a sentence that links the conclusion to the main body of the text. [1] X Research source This might be a statement that reflects the content of your essay but connects your essay to the wider points that your conclusion will then go on to briefly discuss. The sentence “A sense of the impermanence of human achievement permeates this poem”, indicates a transition to the conclusion by articulating the key argument in one sentence.
For example, what if the essay question asks you “to what extent did the Battle of Monte Casino change the course of the Second World War”? Here, you could begin with a sentence such as “The Battle of Monte Casino was a crucial moment that reflected the shifting dynamic of WWII, but did not in itself turn the tide of the war”.
A short summary can be useful in a longer essay, but do not simply restate what you have said in the same terms. [5] X Research source Rather, indicate your key points while situating them within a larger context, which displays a deeper understanding and potentially opens up new lines of inquiry.
In your conclusion structure, this discussion of the broader implications should follow the transition sentences and the explanation of how the different elements of your argument fit together. [6] X Research source This could include universalizing the topic of essay, making a connection to a contemporary issue, or providing a call to action.
Phrases such as “in conclusion”, and “to summarise”, which you wouldn’t use in a written essay, can be useful for a spoken presentation. Indicating that you are about to conclude will encourage your listeners to focus on what you are about to say. [7] X Research source
For example, you could ask yourself the main question at the start of the conclusion. “So, how do I suggest we improve our sales in the Mid-West?” before going on provide a summary of your key points.
Generally, listening to a presentation will be more passive than reading an essay, so it is more beneficial to summarise your key points in the conclusion of a spoken presentation. The last things your audience hear will most likely be what they take away with them, so be sure all your key points are covered in the conclusion.
You might also include a short anecdote that supports your argument and acts as a call to action to the other people in the room. A strong ending can make a personal connection with the audience, by demonstrating how you can resolve a problem for the audience member. [9] X Research source
Using an action verb in your final sentence can highlight exactly how you want your audience to respond. For example, when John F. Kennedy said, “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do or your country,” he was encouraging action from the audience. [10] X Research source Finishing this way both demonstrates your personal conviction and indicates that you think your ideas should be followed up.
