Step Four: Writing a Conclusion

Be sure to write a paragraph-long conclusion to your essay, or your score for the exercise will most likely be lowered.

For your conclusion you could.

• Summarize the main points you have made in the essay, but be sure to use different wording. This approach makes for an adequate conclusion.
   
• In one or two sentences, summarize what you have argued, then make an appeal to values you are likely to share with the opposition: What can all parties agree upon, given the issue or problem at hand? Why do all people likely to debate the issue cherish this value or these values? How does the action you propose best serve to uphold those values? This approach can make for a good conclusion.
   

Wording that may prove useful when taking this approach:
"We can all agree that."

• In one or two sentences, summarize what you have argued, then use descriptive writing to portray the positive changes that your proposed action will bring about, OR, portray the negative outcomes that will result from not taking the course of action you propose. This approach can make for a fine conclusion.
   
• In one or two sentences, summarize what you have argued, then offer yet another and perhaps novel reason for endorsing the position you support. This approach can make for a fine conclusion.

Sample Argument Essay with an Elaborated Conclusion