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Research & Writing Process

A walk-through on the entire research process. Includes tips and examples to help you decipher your assignment, make a research plan, choose a topic, find your sources, and write your papers.

What is a conclusion?

Your conclusion should draw together the main points of your paper without introducing any new ideas. Your conclusion should be closely related to your introduction and should include the following:

  • Restate the main argument of your paper—your thesis statement.
  • Summarize the key areas of your paper.
  • Conclude with a general statement about your topic—this is the last chance to make an impression on your reader, so think of this sentence as a final flourish.

What makes a good conclusion?

  • a short summary of the main idea
  • a call to action
  • a reiteration of the main points made
  • a question
  • a proposed solution to the question raised in the thesis statement
  • a statement of the significance of findings
  • a statement of the limitations of the study or research
  • a recommendation for further exploration of the subject

Things to avoid

  • repeating the thesis verbatim
  • repeating ideas from the introduction
  • introducing a new idea not discussed in the main body of the paper
  • apologizing for your views

Sample Conclusion

     In conclusion, this paper has explore the connection the Stoics and Aristotle made between an ethical life and happiness, during the Hellenistic period of the Ancient Greeks.  The paper has explored their significant theories, looking at their similarities, as well as highlighting some of their differences.  This paper has discussed the complexities of the pursuit of happiness and has argued that while an ethical life can contribute to happiness, it does not assure it, as there are external circumstances beyond the control of an individual that can adversely impact personal happiness.  Aristotle's fitting example of a carpenter building their skills over time illustrates that a happiness can be attained by anyone but only so long as they continuously work for it.

Key areas covered In conclusion, this paper has explore the connection the Stoics and Aristotle made between an ethical life and happiness, during the Hellenistic period of the Ancient Greeks.  The paper has explored their significant theories, looking at their similarities, as well as highlighting some of their differences.  This paper has discussed the complexities of the pursuit of happiness
Restating the thesis statement and has argued that while an ethical life can contribute to happiness, it does not assure it, as there are external circumstances beyond the control of an individual that can adversely impact personal happiness. 
Concluding general statement Aristotle's fitting example of a carpenter building their skills over time illustrates that a happiness can be attained by anyone but only so long as they continuously work for it.