Mastering Concluding Sentences: Examples & Usage Guide

Concluding sentences are the unsung heroes of effective writing. They provide closure, reinforce your main points, and leave a lasting impression on your reader.

Understanding how to craft compelling concluding sentences is crucial for clear and persuasive communication, whether you’re writing an academic essay, a professional report, or a creative piece. This comprehensive guide will delve into the art of writing effective concluding sentences, providing you with numerous examples and practical exercises to master this essential skill.

This article is designed for students, writers, and anyone looking to improve their writing skills and create well-rounded, impactful pieces.

What is a Concluding Sentence?
The Function of a Concluding Sentence
Structural Breakdown of a Concluding Sentence
Types of Concluding Sentences
Concluding Sentence Examples
Usage Rules for Concluding Sentences
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Practice Exercises
Advanced Topics in Concluding Sentences
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion

What is a Concluding Sentence?

A concluding sentence is the final sentence of a paragraph or an essay. Its primary purpose is to provide a sense of closure and signal to the reader that the discussion on a particular point or topic is coming to an end.

It serves as a bridge, connecting the ideas presented in the paragraph back to the main argument or thesis statement. A well-crafted concluding sentence leaves the reader with a clear understanding of the paragraph’s key takeaway and its relevance to the overall piece.

Think of it as the period at the end of a thought. Without it, the thought feels incomplete and unresolved.

In a paragraph, the concluding sentence provides that sense of resolution, ensuring that the reader understands the point you were trying to make and how it fits into the bigger picture.

The Function of a Concluding Sentence

The concluding sentence performs several important functions within a paragraph or essay:

Summarizing the main point: It concisely restates the central idea of the paragraph in a new way.
Providing closure: It signals the end of the discussion on that particular point.
Reinforcing the argument: It connects the paragraph’s idea back to the overall thesis statement.
Transitioning to the next paragraph: It can subtly hint at the topic of the following paragraph.
Leaving a lasting impression: It provides a final thought or reflection for the reader to consider.

Effective concluding sentences are not merely repetitive; they offer a fresh perspective on the information presented, solidifying the reader’s understanding and making the overall piece more impactful. They act as a bookend, providing a satisfying sense of completion to each section.

Structural Breakdown of a Concluding Sentence

While there isn’t a rigid formula for writing a concluding sentence, several key elements contribute to its effectiveness:

Signal word (optional): Words like “therefore,” “in conclusion,” “thus,” or “finally” can signal that the sentence is a conclusion. However, overuse can make your writing sound formulaic, so use them sparingly.
Restatement of the main idea: Rephrase the topic sentence or key argument of the paragraph in different words.
Summarizing keywords or phrases: Incorporate key terms or concepts discussed in the paragraph to reinforce the main point.
Concluding thought: Offer a final thought, reflection, or implication related to the paragraph’s content.

The structure of a concluding sentence often mirrors that of a topic sentence but with a concluding tone. It should be concise and to the point, avoiding the introduction of new information or arguments.

The goal is to wrap up the discussion, not to open new avenues of exploration.

Types of Concluding Sentences

Concluding sentences can take various forms depending on the purpose and context of the paragraph or essay. Here are some common types:

Summary Concluding Sentences

These sentences provide a brief recap of the main points discussed in the paragraph, offering a concise overview of the key takeaways.

Inference Concluding Sentences

These sentences draw a logical conclusion based on the information presented in the paragraph, suggesting a possible outcome or implication.

Call to Action Concluding Sentences

These sentences encourage the reader to take a specific action or consider a particular viewpoint, often used in persuasive writing.

Prediction Concluding Sentences

These sentences offer a prediction or forecast based on the evidence presented in the paragraph, suggesting what might happen in the future.

Reflective Concluding Sentences

These sentences offer a personal reflection or insight related to the paragraph’s content, adding a layer of depth and meaning.

Concluding Sentence Examples

To illustrate the different types of concluding sentences, here are several examples categorized by type. Each example is designed to showcase the specific function and structure of that particular type of concluding sentence.

Summary Concluding Sentences

Summary concluding sentences effectively encapsulate the main points of a paragraph, providing a concise recap for the reader. They ensure that the core message is clearly understood and reinforced.

Paragraph Topic	Concluding Sentence Example
The benefits of regular exercise	In summary, regular exercise offers a multitude of benefits for both physical and mental well-being, making it an essential component of a healthy lifestyle.
The impact of social media on communication	Ultimately, while social media offers new avenues for connection, it also presents challenges to traditional forms of communication, requiring a balanced approach.
The importance of sleep	Thus, prioritizing sleep is crucial for optimal cognitive function, physical health, and overall quality of life.
The effects of pollution on the environment	Consequently, the pervasive effects of pollution underscore the urgent need for sustainable practices to protect our planet.
The role of education in society	In essence, education plays a vital role in shaping individuals and fostering a more informed and engaged society.
The advantages of learning a new language	Therefore, learning a new language provides numerous cognitive and cultural benefits, enriching one’s life in countless ways.
The impact of technology on the workplace	In conclusion, technology has fundamentally transformed the workplace, creating both opportunities and challenges for workers and employers alike.
The importance of a healthy diet	To summarize, a healthy diet is essential for maintaining optimal health, preventing chronic diseases, and promoting overall well-being.
The benefits of reading	Ultimately, reading offers a wealth of benefits, from expanding knowledge and improving vocabulary to enhancing empathy and reducing stress.
The effects of climate change	In summary, the escalating effects of climate change demand immediate and concerted action to mitigate its devastating consequences.
The importance of critical thinking	Therefore, cultivating critical thinking skills is essential for navigating the complexities of the modern world and making informed decisions.
The advantages of teamwork	In conclusion, teamwork fosters collaboration, enhances productivity, and promotes innovation, leading to greater success in various endeavors.
The impact of globalization on culture	Thus, while globalization promotes cultural exchange, it also poses challenges to the preservation of unique cultural identities.
The importance of empathy	Ultimately, empathy is a crucial skill for building strong relationships, fostering understanding, and creating a more compassionate society.
The effects of stress on the body	In summary, stress can have detrimental effects on the body, highlighting the importance of stress management techniques for overall health.
The benefits of mindfulness	Therefore, practicing mindfulness can enhance self-awareness, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
The impact of artificial intelligence	In conclusion, artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize various industries, but it also raises ethical concerns that must be addressed.
The importance of lifelong learning	Thus, lifelong learning is essential for staying relevant in a rapidly changing world and achieving personal and professional growth.
The advantages of volunteering	Ultimately, volunteering offers a sense of purpose, fosters community engagement, and provides valuable opportunities for personal development.
The effects of poverty on society	In summary, poverty has far-reaching effects on society, underscoring the need for comprehensive solutions to address its root causes.
The benefits of travel	Therefore, travel broadens perspectives, fosters cultural understanding, and creates lasting memories, enriching one’s life in profound ways.
The impact of technology on education	In conclusion, technology has transformed education, creating new opportunities for learning and collaboration, but also presenting challenges for educators and students alike.
The importance of ethical leadership	Thus, ethical leadership is essential for building trust, fostering a positive work environment, and achieving sustainable success.
The advantages of a diverse workforce	Ultimately, a diverse workforce promotes innovation, enhances creativity, and fosters a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
The effects of overpopulation on the planet	In summary, overpopulation exacerbates environmental problems, straining resources and threatening the sustainability of our planet.
The benefits of spending time in nature	Therefore, spending time in nature reduces stress, improves mood, and enhances overall well-being, making it an essential component of a healthy lifestyle.
The impact of social inequality	In conclusion, social inequality perpetuates cycles of disadvantage, hindering social mobility and undermining the fabric of society.
The importance of financial literacy	Thus, financial literacy empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their money, leading to greater financial security and overall well-being.
The advantages of entrepreneurship	Ultimately, entrepreneurship fosters innovation, creates jobs, and drives economic growth, making it a vital engine of progress.

Inference Concluding Sentences

Inference concluding sentences draw a logical conclusion based on the information presented in the paragraph. They suggest possible outcomes, implications, or further lines of inquiry.

Paragraph Topic	Concluding Sentence Example
Declining bee populations	Therefore, without significant intervention, the decline in bee populations could have devastating consequences for global agriculture and food security.
Rising sea levels	Thus, if current trends continue, coastal communities around the world will face increasing threats from flooding and erosion.
Increased screen time among children	Consequently, excessive screen time may contribute to developmental delays and behavioral problems in young children.
The growing popularity of online learning	Ultimately, the increasing accessibility and flexibility of online learning suggest that it will continue to play a significant role in education.
The development of new artificial intelligence technologies	In conclusion, as AI technology continues to advance, it will likely transform various aspects of our lives, from healthcare to transportation.
The increasing demand for renewable energy	Therefore, the growing demand for renewable energy indicates a shift towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
The impact of automation on jobs	Thus, as automation becomes more prevalent, it is likely to displace workers in certain industries, necessitating retraining and adaptation.
The effects of deforestation	Consequently, if deforestation continues at its current rate, it will exacerbate climate change and lead to the loss of biodiversity.
The growing awareness of mental health issues	Ultimately, the increasing awareness of mental health issues suggests a positive shift towards destigmatization and improved access to care.
The rise of social activism	In conclusion, the rise of social activism indicates a growing desire for change and a willingness to challenge the status quo.
The impact of misinformation on society	Therefore, without effective strategies to combat misinformation, it could undermine public trust and erode democratic institutions.
The increasing use of data analytics	Thus, as data analytics becomes more sophisticated, it will likely provide valuable insights for businesses and organizations across various sectors.
The effects of urbanization on communities	Consequently, if urbanization is not managed effectively, it could lead to overcrowding, pollution, and social inequality.
The growing popularity of remote work	Ultimately, the increasing adoption of remote work suggests a shift towards a more flexible and decentralized workforce.
The development of new medical treatments	In conclusion, as medical technology advances, it will likely lead to new treatments and cures for previously incurable diseases.
The increasing focus on sustainability	Therefore, the growing focus on sustainability indicates a shift towards a more environmentally responsible and resource-efficient society.
The impact of social media on politics	Thus, as social media becomes more influential, it could shape political discourse and influence election outcomes.
The effects of income inequality	Consequently, if income inequality continues to widen, it could lead to social unrest and economic instability.
The growing interest in space exploration	Ultimately, the increasing interest in space exploration suggests a renewed sense of curiosity and a desire to push the boundaries of human knowledge.
The development of new energy sources	In conclusion, as new energy sources are developed, they will likely play a crucial role in addressing climate change and meeting the world’s energy needs.
The increasing use of virtual reality	Therefore, the growing use of virtual reality suggests that it will transform various aspects of our lives, from entertainment to education.
The impact of globalization on economies	Thus, as globalization continues to reshape economies, it could lead to both opportunities and challenges for businesses and workers around the world.
The effects of pollution on human health	Consequently, if pollution levels are not reduced, they could lead to a range of health problems and reduce life expectancy.
The growing demand for personalized medicine	Ultimately, the increasing demand for personalized medicine suggests a shift towards more targeted and effective treatments based on individual genetic profiles.
The development of new transportation technologies	In conclusion, as transportation technologies advance, they will likely transform the way we travel and commute, making it faster, safer, and more efficient.
The increasing focus on data privacy	Therefore, the growing focus on data privacy indicates a shift towards greater protection of personal information and increased accountability for data handling practices.
The impact of social media on relationships	Thus, as social media becomes more integrated into our lives, it could both strengthen and strain relationships, depending on how it is used.
The effects of climate change on ecosystems	Consequently, if climate change is not addressed, it could lead to the disruption and collapse of ecosystems and the extinction of species.
The growing interest in sustainable living	Ultimately, the increasing interest in sustainable living suggests a shift towards a more environmentally conscious and responsible lifestyle.

Call to Action Concluding Sentences

Call to action concluding sentences prompt the reader to take a specific action or consider a particular viewpoint. They are often used in persuasive writing to encourage engagement and inspire change.

Paragraph Topic	Concluding Sentence Example
The importance of voting	Therefore, it is crucial that every eligible citizen exercise their right to vote and participate in shaping the future of our society.
The need for environmental conservation	Thus, we must all take responsibility for protecting our planet and adopt sustainable practices in our daily lives.
The benefits of volunteering	Consequently, consider volunteering your time and skills to make a positive impact in your community.
The importance of supporting local businesses	Ultimately, let us support local businesses and help them thrive in our communities.
The need for education reform	In conclusion, it is imperative that we advocate for education reform to ensure that all students have access to quality education.
The importance of donating blood	Therefore, consider donating blood to save lives and support those in need.
The need for stricter gun control laws	Thus, we must demand stricter gun control laws to prevent gun violence and protect our communities.
The benefits of adopting a pet	Consequently, consider adopting a pet and providing a loving home for an animal in need.
The importance of reducing waste	Ultimately, let us reduce waste and recycle to protect our environment and conserve resources.
The need for affordable healthcare	In conclusion, it is imperative that we advocate for affordable healthcare for all to ensure that everyone has access to quality medical care.
The importance of supporting the arts	Therefore, consider supporting the arts and fostering creativity in our communities.
The need for criminal justice reform	Thus, we must advocate for criminal justice reform to address systemic inequalities and ensure fair treatment for all.
The benefits of mentoring	Consequently, consider becoming a mentor and helping young people reach their full potential.
The importance of investing in renewable energy	Ultimately, let us invest in renewable energy to create a sustainable future and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
The need for promoting diversity and inclusion	In conclusion, it is imperative that we promote diversity and inclusion to create a more equitable and just society.
The importance of supporting mental health initiatives	Therefore, consider supporting mental health initiatives to raise awareness and provide resources for those in need.
The need for addressing climate change	Thus, we must take immediate action to address climate change and protect our planet for future generations.
The benefits of lifelong learning	Consequently, consider pursuing lifelong learning to expand your knowledge and skills and stay relevant in a rapidly changing world.
The importance of advocating for human rights	Ultimately, let us advocate for human rights to ensure that everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
The need for investing in education	In conclusion, it is imperative that we invest in education to empower individuals and create a more informed and engaged society.
The importance of protecting endangered species	Therefore, consider supporting conservation efforts to protect endangered species and preserve biodiversity.
The need for reducing food waste	Thus, we must take steps to reduce food waste and conserve resources to feed a growing population.
The benefits of practicing gratitude	Consequently, consider practicing gratitude to improve your mental well-being and foster a more positive outlook on life.
The importance of supporting small farmers	Ultimately, let us support small farmers and promote sustainable agriculture to ensure a healthy and resilient food system.
The need for promoting gender equality	In conclusion, it is imperative that we promote gender equality to create a more just and equitable society for all.
The importance of supporting scientific research	Therefore, consider supporting scientific research to advance knowledge and improve our understanding of the world.
The need for addressing poverty	Thus, we must take comprehensive action to address poverty and create opportunities for all to thrive.
The benefits of practicing empathy	Consequently, consider practicing empathy to build stronger relationships and foster a more compassionate society.
The importance of supporting public libraries	Ultimately, let us support public libraries and ensure access to knowledge and resources for all members of our communities.

Prediction Concluding Sentences

Prediction concluding sentences offer a forecast or prediction based on the evidence presented in the paragraph. They suggest what might happen in the future based on current trends or developments.

Paragraph Topic	Concluding Sentence Example
The increasing use of electric vehicles	Therefore, as technology improves and infrastructure expands, electric vehicles are likely to become the dominant mode of transportation in the coming decades.
The growing popularity of artificial intelligence	Thus, AI will likely revolutionize industries from healthcare to finance, creating new opportunities and challenges for businesses and workers alike.
The effects of climate change on coastal regions	Consequently, if global warming continues unabated, many coastal cities could face devastating flooding and displacement of populations within the next century.
The rise of personalized medicine	Ultimately, personalized medicine will likely transform healthcare by tailoring treatments to individual genetic profiles, leading to more effective and targeted therapies.
The increasing reliance on renewable energy sources	In conclusion, renewable energy sources will likely play an increasingly important role in meeting global energy demand, helping to mitigate climate change and promote sustainability.
The growing importance of cybersecurity	Therefore, as our reliance on technology increases, cybersecurity will likely become an even more critical concern for individuals, businesses, and governments.
The impact of social media on political discourse	Thus, social media will likely continue to shape political discourse, influencing public opinion and potentially exacerbating polarization.
The effects of automation on the job market	Consequently, automation will likely lead to significant changes in the job market, requiring workers to adapt and acquire new skills to remain competitive.
The growing interest in space exploration	Ultimately, space exploration will likely continue to captivate the public imagination, driving technological innovation and expanding our understanding of the universe.
The increasing adoption of remote work	In conclusion, remote work will likely become a more permanent feature of the modern workplace, offering greater flexibility and autonomy for workers.
The rise of virtual reality and augmented reality	Therefore, as VR and AR technologies become more advanced and accessible, they will likely transform entertainment, education, and various other industries.
The increasing demand for sustainable products	Thus, the demand for sustainable products will likely continue to grow, driving businesses to adopt more environmentally friendly practices and innovate in sustainable materials.
The effects of overpopulation on resource scarcity	Consequently, if population growth continues unchecked, it will likely exacerbate resource scarcity, leading to increased competition and potential conflicts.
The growing importance of data privacy and protection	Ultimately, data privacy and protection will likely become even more critical as individuals become more aware of the risks associated with sharing personal information online.
The increasing adoption of blockchain technology	In conclusion, blockchain technology will likely disrupt various industries by providing secure and transparent solutions for data management and financial transactions.
The rise of e-commerce and online retail	Therefore, e-commerce and online retail will likely continue to dominate the retail landscape, offering consumers greater convenience and choice.
The impact of artificial intelligence on healthcare	Thus, AI will likely revolutionize healthcare by improving diagnostics, personalizing treatments, and accelerating drug discovery.
The effects of climate change on agriculture	Consequently, climate change will likely have significant impacts on agriculture, leading to reduced crop yields and increased food insecurity.
The growing importance of STEM education	Ultimately, STEM education will likely become even more crucial as the demand for skilled workers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics continues to grow.
The increasing use of autonomous vehicles	In conclusion, autonomous vehicles will likely transform transportation by improving safety, reducing congestion, and increasing accessibility for those with mobility limitations.
The rise of social media influencers	Therefore, social media influencers will likely continue to shape consumer behavior and marketing strategies, wielding significant influence over their followers.
The increasing focus on mental health and well-being	Thus, the focus on mental health and well-being will likely continue to grow, leading to greater awareness, destigmatization, and access to mental healthcare services.
The effects of deforestation on biodiversity	Consequently, if deforestation continues at its current rate, it will likely lead to the extinction of countless plant and animal species, disrupting ecosystems and diminishing biodiversity.
The growing popularity of plant-based diets	Ultimately, plant-based diets will likely become more mainstream as people become more aware of the health and environmental benefits of reducing meat consumption.
The increasing use of wearable technology	In conclusion, wearable technology will likely continue to evolve, providing users with real-time data and insights into their health, fitness, and daily activities.
The rise of the sharing economy	Therefore, the sharing economy will likely continue to transform industries such as transportation, hospitality, and real estate, offering consumers more flexible and affordable options.
The impact of artificial intelligence on education	Thus, AI will likely revolutionize education by personalizing learning experiences, providing intelligent tutoring, and automating administrative tasks.
The effects of pollution on public health	Consequently, if pollution levels are not reduced, they will likely continue to contribute to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and other health problems.
The growing importance of lifelong learning and skill development	Ultimately, lifelong learning and skill development will likely become even more crucial as the job market becomes more competitive and technology continues to evolve.

Reflective Concluding Sentences

Reflective concluding sentences offer a personal reflection or insight related to the paragraph’s content. They add a layer of depth and meaning, inviting the reader to contemplate the broader implications of the discussion.

Paragraph Topic	Concluding Sentence Example
The importance of kindness	Therefore, practicing kindness, even in small ways, can create a ripple effect of positivity and make the world a better place.
The value of perseverance	Thus, perseverance, even in the face of adversity, can lead to unexpected breakthroughs and personal growth.
The beauty of nature	Consequently, taking the time to appreciate the beauty of nature can provide a sense of peace and connection to something larger than ourselves.
The power of forgiveness	Ultimately, forgiveness, both of ourselves and others, can be a liberating force that allows us to move forward with greater compassion and understanding.
The importance of gratitude	In conclusion, cultivating gratitude can shift our perspective, enhance our well-being, and remind us of the blessings in our lives.
The value of lifelong learning	Therefore, embracing lifelong learning can keep our minds sharp, expand our horizons, and enrich our lives in countless ways.
The importance of empathy	Thus, practicing empathy can help us to bridge divides, foster understanding, and create a more compassionate and connected world.
The beauty of human connection	Consequently, nurturing human connections can provide us with a sense of belonging, support, and shared purpose.
The power of resilience	Ultimately, developing resilience can help us to navigate challenges, overcome setbacks, and emerge stronger and more resourceful.
The importance of self-care	In conclusion, prioritizing self-care can help us to maintain our well-being, prevent burnout, and show up as our best selves in all areas of our lives.
The value of creativity	Therefore, embracing creativity can help us to express ourselves, solve problems, and find joy in the process of creation.
The importance of mindfulness	Thus, practicing mindfulness can help us to be more present, reduce stress, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the present moment.
The beauty of simplicity	Consequently, embracing simplicity can help us to declutter our lives, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters.
The power of positive thinking	Ultimately, cultivating positive thinking can help us to overcome challenges, attract opportunities, and create a more fulfilling life.
The importance of self-compassion	In conclusion, practicing self-compassion can help us to be kinder to ourselves, accept our imperfections, and build greater resilience.
The value of community	Therefore, nurturing community connections can provide us with a sense of belonging, support, and shared purpose.
The importance of authenticity	Thus, embracing authenticity can help us to live more fulfilling lives, build stronger relationships, and make a more meaningful contribution to the world.
The beauty of diversity	Consequently, celebrating diversity can broaden our perspectives, foster understanding, and create a more inclusive and harmonious society.
The power of hope	Ultimately, cultivating hope can help us to persevere through difficult times, believe in a better future, and create positive change.
The importance of leaving a legacy	In conclusion, considering our legacy can inspire us to live more purposeful lives, contribute to the well-being of others, and leave the world a better place.
The value of taking risks	Therefore, taking calculated risks can lead to personal growth, new opportunities, and a more fulfilling life.
The importance of listening	Thus, truly listening to others can foster understanding, build stronger relationships, and create a more connected world.
The beauty of learning from mistakes	Consequently, learning from our mistakes can lead to personal growth, improved decision-making, and a more resilient spirit.
The power of perseverance	Ultimately, never underestimating the power of perseverance, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, can pave the way for remarkable achievements.
The importance of ethical living	In conclusion, striving for ethical living, in both personal and professional spheres, contributes to a more just, equitable, and sustainable world for all.
The value of embracing change	Therefore, embracing change with an open mind and a willingness to adapt can lead to new opportunities, personal growth, and a more fulfilling life journey.
The importance of civic engagement	Thus, actively engaging in civic duties and contributing to the well-being of our communities strengthens the fabric of society and promotes positive change.
The beauty of finding joy in simple things	Consequently, learning to find joy in the simple things in life cultivates gratitude, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being.
The power of forgiveness to heal	Ultimately, recognizing the power of forgiveness, both for ourselves and others, can unlock deep healing, enabling us to move forward with greater peace and compassion.

Usage Rules for Concluding Sentences

To ensure your concluding sentences are effective, keep the following rules in mind:

Avoid introducing new information: The concluding sentence should summarize or reflect on existing information, not introduce new ideas.
Don’t simply repeat the topic sentence: Rephrase the main idea in a new and insightful way.
Keep it concise: A concluding sentence should be clear, brief, and to the point.
Match the tone: The tone of the concluding sentence should align with the overall tone of the paragraph or essay.
Ensure logical flow: The concluding sentence should logically follow from the preceding sentences and provide a sense of closure.

By adhering to these rules, you can craft concluding sentences that effectively summarize, reinforce, and conclude your paragraphs, leaving a lasting impression on your reader.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Several common mistakes can weaken the impact of concluding sentences. Being aware of these

Several common mistakes can weaken the impact of concluding sentences. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid them and write more effective conclusions:

Introducing new information: This is perhaps the most common mistake. A concluding sentence should wrap up the existing discussion, not open a new one.
Repeating the topic sentence verbatim: Simply restating the topic sentence without adding any new insight or perspective makes the conclusion feel repetitive and unnecessary.
Abruptly ending the paragraph: Failing to provide a concluding sentence leaves the reader with a sense of incompleteness.
Overusing signal words: While signal words like “in conclusion” can be helpful, overuse can make your writing sound formulaic and uninspired.
Changing the tone: The concluding sentence should maintain the same tone as the rest of the paragraph or essay. A sudden shift in tone can be jarring and confusing.
Making overly broad generalizations: Avoid making sweeping statements that are not supported by the evidence presented in the paragraph.
Adding irrelevant information: The concluding sentence should be directly related to the main point of the paragraph and should not include any extraneous or irrelevant details.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your concluding sentences are strong, effective, and contribute to the overall clarity and impact of your writing.

Practice Exercises

To help you master the art of writing concluding sentences, here are some practice exercises. For each exercise, read the paragraph and then write a concluding sentence that effectively summarizes, reinforces, or reflects on the main point.

Exercise 1

Paragraph: “The internet has revolutionized the way we access information. With just a few clicks, we can find answers to almost any question, research any topic, and connect with people from all over the world.

This has made learning more accessible and convenient than ever before.”