How to Start a Conclusion Sentence: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Writing a conclusion is often one of the most difficult aspects of an essay. After all the hard work of crafting an argument and supporting it with evidence, it can be tricky to figure out how to start a conclusion sentence that both wraps up the main points and leaves readers with something to think about. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can be used to craft a compelling conclusion.

Restating the Main Point of the Argument

One of the most effective ways to start a conclusion sentence is by restating the main point of the argument. This serves to remind readers of the central idea of the essay and helps to tie together the various pieces of evidence that have been provided. In order to do this effectively, it is important to first identify the main point of the essay.

For example, if the essay is arguing that global warming is a serious threat to the planet, the main point could be stated as: “Global warming is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed immediately.” Once the main point has been identified, it can then be summarized in a concise sentence that will serve as the opening of the conclusion.

Summarizing Key Points of the Essay

Another strategy for starting a conclusion sentence is to summarize the key points of the essay. This helps to provide a quick overview of the evidence that was presented in the essay and reinforces the main point of the argument. To do this, it is important to first identify the key points that were discussed in the body of the essay.

For example, if the essay discussed the causes of global warming and the potential solutions, the key points could be listed as: “Global warming is caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, and it can be addressed through measures such as reducing carbon emissions and protecting natural habitats.” These points can then be summarized in a single sentence that will open the conclusion.

Making a Final Observation or Call to Action

Starting a conclusion sentence with a final observation or call to action can be an effective way to draw attention to the importance of the issue and motivate readers to take action. When crafting this type of sentence, it is important to explain the purpose of the observation or call to action and provide specific suggestions for how readers can make a difference.

For example, if the essay is discussing global warming, the conclusion could begin with a sentence such as: “We must act now to address the threat of global warming by reducing our carbon footprints and supporting policies that protect the environment.” By emphasizing the need for immediate action, this sentence serves to draw attention to the urgency of the issue and motivate readers to take action.

Offering a Thought-Provoking Quote from an Expert

Including a thought-provoking quote from an expert in the introduction of a conclusion sentence can be an effective way to draw attention to the importance of the issue. When selecting a quote, it is important to find one that is appropriate to the topic and resonates with readers. For example, if the essay is discussing global warming, a relevant quote could be: “A change in our climate is certain; the only uncertainty is how severe it will be.” – Al Gore.

Once the quote has been chosen, it is important to explain the meaning of the quote and why it is relevant to the topic. This helps to give readers a deeper understanding of the issue and can help to drive home the importance of the essay’s message.

Asking a Rhetorical Question

Asking a rhetorical question can be an effective way to start a conclusion sentence. This type of question encourages readers to think deeply about the issue and consider the implications of the essay’s argument. When crafting a rhetorical question, it is important to explain the purpose of the question and come up with an appropriate question.

For example, if the essay is discussing global warming, a relevant question could be: “What kind of world do we want to leave behind for future generations?” This question encourages readers to consider the long-term consequences of their actions and can help to motivate them to take action.

Providing a Broad Perspective on the Topic

Starting a conclusion sentence by providing a broad perspective on the topic can be an effective way to draw attention to the wider implications of the essay’s argument. This helps to remind readers of the importance of the issue and encourages them to think beyond the scope of the essay. To do this, it is important to look at the bigger picture and consider different perspectives.

For example, if the essay is discussing global warming, the conclusion could begin with a sentence such as: “The effects of global warming extend far beyond our own lives, impacting generations to come and affecting the entire planet.” This sentence serves to remind readers of the global nature of the issue and encourages them to think beyond their own experiences.

Tying the Conclusion Back to the Introduction

It can also be effective to start a conclusion sentence by tying it back to the introduction. This helps to create a smooth transition between the body of the essay and the conclusion and emphasizes the main point of the argument. To do this, it is important to identify any common threads between the introduction and the conclusion and craft a sentence that bridges the two sections.

For example, if the essay began with a discussion of the impact of global warming on the planet, the conclusion could begin with a sentence such as: “It is clear that global warming is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.” This sentence serves to remind readers of the main point of the argument and provides a smooth transition into the conclusion.

Conclusion

Starting a conclusion sentence can be a tricky task, but there are several strategies that can be used to craft a compelling conclusion. These include restating the main point of the argument, summarizing key points of the essay, making a final observation or call to action, offering a thought-provoking quote from an expert, asking a rhetorical question, providing a broad perspective on the topic, and tying the conclusion back to the introduction. By using these strategies, writers can create a powerful conclusion that will leave readers with something to think about.