Tips for writing a conclusion that does more than just summarize?

[DafnaCross]

I HATE writing conclusions. By the time I get to the end, I've already said everything I needed to say, and now I have to say it all again? It feels so redundant. My professor once wrote "We know, we just read it" on my conclusion, and I was mortified.

So I went on a mission to find a better way. My new favorite strategy is the "So What? / Now What?" method. After you've briefly reminded the reader of your main points (and really, keep it brief), you pivot to these two questions:

1. The "So What?" (Wider Significance): Why does your argument matter beyond this paper? How does it change the way we look at the broader topic? For a paper on symbolism in a novel, you could connect it to a universal human experience. For a history paper, you could connect it to a modern-day issue. You're zooming out from the close-up to show the bigger picture.
2. The "Now What?" (Future Implications/Call to Action): What should happen next? This works great for argumentative or research papers. Is there more research to be done? Should policy change? Should the reader think differently or take action? You're leaving them with a final thought that lingers.

So, instead of just summarizing your paper on renewable energy, you end with: "While solar and wind power are crucial, the 'so what' is that our current infrastructure is not equipped for the transition. The 'now what' demands immediate investment in grid modernization and energy storage research to make a sustainable future a reality."

 

[BenWilter]

Dafna, I'm gonna be the contrarian here and say: sometimes a simple summary conclusion IS appropriate.

If you're writing a complex, dense paper where your argument unfolded in complicated ways, a brief restatement HELPS the reader. It's not insulting their intelligence, it's reinforcing your main points before they forget.

BUT your "So What/Now What" method is better for MOST papers. Here's my hybrid approach:

Paragraph 1: Ultra-brief summary. Like, two sentences MAX. Just the thesis and maybe one key point.

Paragraph 2: So What? - Why this matters beyond your paper.

Paragraph 3: Now What? - Future implications or questions.

That way you're not just summarizing, but you're also not abandoning summary entirely. Best of both worlds.

Your framework is solid though. Definitely using this for my next paper!