How to Close an Argumentative Essay: A Journey Through the Art of Persuasion

Closing an argumentative essay is akin to the final act of a theatrical performance—it leaves a lasting impression on the audience. The conclusion is not merely a summary; it is the crescendo that resonates with the reader, compelling them to reflect on the arguments presented. In this exploration, we delve into the multifaceted strategies to craft a compelling conclusion, ensuring that your essay not only informs but also inspires.

The Power of Restatement

One of the most effective ways to close an argumentative essay is through restatement. This technique involves revisiting the thesis statement and the main arguments, but with a fresh perspective. By rephrasing the core ideas, you reinforce the central message without redundancy. For instance, if your essay argues for the implementation of renewable energy, you might conclude by emphasizing the urgency of transitioning to sustainable energy sources, highlighting the long-term benefits for both the environment and the economy.

The Call to Action

A call to action is a dynamic way to conclude an argumentative essay. It transforms the passive reader into an active participant, urging them to take specific steps based on the arguments presented. For example, if your essay advocates for stricter gun control laws, your conclusion could encourage readers to contact their legislators, participate in advocacy groups, or educate others about the importance of gun safety. This approach not only reinforces your argument but also empowers the reader to contribute to the cause.

The Reflective Conclusion

A reflective conclusion invites the reader to ponder the broader implications of the arguments. It transcends the immediate topic, encouraging a deeper understanding of the underlying issues. For instance, if your essay discusses the impact of social media on mental health, you might conclude by reflecting on the balance between connectivity and privacy, urging readers to consider how they engage with digital platforms. This method fosters critical thinking and leaves a lasting impression.

The Predictive Conclusion

Predictive conclusions offer a glimpse into the future, based on the arguments presented. They speculate on potential outcomes if the advocated changes are implemented or ignored. For example, if your essay argues for increased funding for public education, you might conclude by predicting the societal benefits of a more educated population, such as reduced crime rates and increased economic productivity. This approach not only reinforces the importance of your argument but also provides a forward-looking perspective.

The Anecdotal Conclusion

An anecdotal conclusion uses a personal story or a relatable example to drive home the argument. It humanizes the topic, making it more accessible and emotionally resonant. For instance, if your essay argues for the importance of mental health awareness, you might conclude with a personal anecdote about overcoming mental health challenges, illustrating the transformative power of support and understanding. This method connects with the reader on a personal level, making the argument more compelling.

The Rhetorical Question

Ending with a rhetorical question can be a powerful way to engage the reader’s mind. It prompts them to think critically about the topic, even after they’ve finished reading. For example, if your essay argues for the ethical treatment of animals, you might conclude by asking, “Can we truly claim to be a compassionate society if we turn a blind eye to the suffering of sentient beings?” This technique leaves the reader with a lingering thought, encouraging further reflection.

The Quotation Conclusion

Incorporating a relevant quotation from a respected authority or a literary figure can add weight to your conclusion. It provides an external validation of your argument and lends credibility to your essay. For instance, if your essay argues for the importance of perseverance, you might conclude with a quote from Winston Churchill: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” This method not only reinforces your argument but also adds a layer of sophistication to your writing.

The Contrast Conclusion

A contrast conclusion juxtaposes the current state of affairs with the desired outcome, highlighting the disparity between the two. It emphasizes the urgency of the issue and the need for change. For example, if your essay argues for climate action, you might conclude by contrasting the current trajectory of environmental degradation with the vision of a sustainable future. This approach underscores the importance of your argument and motivates the reader to take action.

The Synthesis Conclusion

A synthesis conclusion integrates the various arguments presented in the essay, demonstrating how they collectively support the thesis. It provides a cohesive overview, showing the interconnectedness of the points made. For instance, if your essay argues for the benefits of a plant-based diet, you might conclude by synthesizing the health, environmental, and ethical arguments, illustrating how they collectively advocate for a shift towards plant-based eating. This method reinforces the strength of your argument and provides a comprehensive conclusion.

The Emotional Appeal

An emotional appeal conclusion taps into the reader’s emotions, creating a sense of empathy or urgency. It connects the argument to the reader’s personal experiences or values, making it more relatable. For example, if your essay argues for the importance of community service, you might conclude by evoking the sense of fulfillment and purpose that comes from helping others. This approach resonates on a deeper level, making the argument more persuasive.

The Universal Truth

Concluding with a universal truth or a timeless principle can lend a sense of gravitas to your essay. It transcends the specific topic, connecting the argument to broader human experiences. For instance, if your essay argues for the importance of honesty, you might conclude by stating that honesty is the foundation of trust, and without trust, no relationship—personal or societal—can thrive. This method elevates the argument, making it universally relevant.

The Circular Conclusion

A circular conclusion brings the essay full circle, returning to the introduction or a key theme introduced at the beginning. It creates a sense of closure and completeness. For example, if your essay begins with a personal story about overcoming adversity, you might conclude by revisiting that story, showing how the arguments presented have reinforced the initial theme. This approach provides a satisfying resolution, tying the essay together cohesively.

The Provocative Conclusion

A provocative conclusion challenges the reader to reconsider their beliefs or assumptions. It pushes the boundaries of conventional thinking, encouraging a deeper exploration of the topic. For instance, if your essay argues for the decriminalization of certain drugs, you might conclude by questioning the societal norms that perpetuate the stigma around drug use. This method stimulates critical thinking and invites the reader to engage with the topic on a more profound level.

The Visual Conclusion

A visual conclusion uses imagery or metaphor to leave a lasting impression. It paints a vivid picture in the reader’s mind, making the argument more memorable. For example, if your essay argues for the preservation of natural habitats, you might conclude by describing the serene beauty of an untouched forest, contrasting it with the devastation of deforestation. This approach appeals to the reader’s imagination, making the argument more impactful.

The Humorous Conclusion

A humorous conclusion can lighten the tone of an argumentative essay, making it more engaging and relatable. It uses wit or irony to underscore the argument, leaving the reader with a smile. For instance, if your essay argues for the importance of work-life balance, you might conclude with a humorous anecdote about the perils of overworking, illustrating the absurdity of neglecting personal well-being. This method adds a touch of levity, making the argument more approachable.

The Ethical Appeal

An ethical appeal conclusion emphasizes the moral implications of the argument, appealing to the reader’s sense of right and wrong. It underscores the ethical imperative of the advocated position. For example, if your essay argues for the abolition of the death penalty, you might conclude by highlighting the moral responsibility to uphold the sanctity of life. This approach resonates with the reader’s ethical convictions, making the argument more persuasive.

The Historical Perspective

A historical perspective conclusion draws parallels between the current issue and historical events, providing context and depth. It shows how the argument fits into a broader historical narrative. For instance, if your essay argues for the importance of voting rights, you might conclude by referencing the struggles of past civil rights movements, illustrating the ongoing fight for equality. This method adds historical weight to the argument, making it more compelling.

The Future-Oriented Conclusion

A future-oriented conclusion focuses on the potential long-term impacts of the argument, emphasizing the importance of taking action now. It looks beyond the immediate context, considering the broader implications for future generations. For example, if your essay argues for the adoption of renewable energy, you might conclude by envisioning a future where clean energy powers the world, free from the shackles of fossil fuels. This approach inspires hope and motivates the reader to contribute to a better future.

The Personal Reflection

A personal reflection conclusion allows the writer to share their own insights or experiences, adding a personal touch to the argument. It humanizes the essay, making it more relatable and authentic. For instance, if your essay argues for the importance of mental health awareness, you might conclude by sharing how your own journey with mental health has shaped your perspective. This method connects with the reader on a personal level, making the argument more impactful.

The Philosophical Conclusion

A philosophical conclusion delves into the deeper philosophical questions raised by the argument, encouraging the reader to contemplate the broader implications. It transcends the specific topic, exploring the underlying principles and values. For example, if your essay argues for the importance of free speech, you might conclude by reflecting on the balance between individual liberty and societal harmony. This approach stimulates intellectual curiosity, making the argument more thought-provoking.

The Call for Unity

A call for unity conclusion emphasizes the importance of collective action and solidarity in addressing the issue. It appeals to the reader’s sense of community and shared responsibility. For instance, if your essay argues for the importance of addressing climate change, you might conclude by calling for a united global effort to combat the crisis. This approach fosters a sense of togetherness, making the argument more compelling.

The Final Thought

The final thought conclusion leaves the reader with a poignant or memorable statement that encapsulates the essence of the argument. It serves as the last impression, lingering in the reader’s mind. For example, if your essay argues for the importance of kindness, you might conclude with the simple yet powerful statement: “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” This method leaves a lasting impact, ensuring that the argument resonates long after the essay is finished.

Related Q&A

Q: How can I make my conclusion more impactful? A: To make your conclusion more impactful, consider using a combination of techniques such as restatement, call to action, and emotional appeal. Tailor your conclusion to resonate with your audience, ensuring that it leaves a lasting impression.

Q: Should I introduce new information in the conclusion? A: Generally, it’s best to avoid introducing new information in the conclusion. The conclusion should synthesize and reinforce the arguments already presented, providing a cohesive and satisfying closure to the essay.

Q: How long should the conclusion be? A: The length of the conclusion depends on the overall length of the essay. For a standard argumentative essay, a conclusion of 5-7 sentences is typically sufficient. However, for longer essays, the conclusion may extend to a paragraph or more.

Q: Can I use humor in the conclusion? A: Yes, humor can be an effective tool in the conclusion, especially if it aligns with the tone of the essay. However, ensure that the humor is appropriate and enhances the argument rather than detracting from it.

Q: What is the difference between a summary and a conclusion? A: A summary briefly recaps the main points of the essay, while a conclusion synthesizes those points, provides closure, and often includes a call to action or a final thought. The conclusion goes beyond mere repetition, offering a deeper reflection on the arguments presented.