How Many Sentences Should a Conclusion Be in an Essay?

In academic writing, the conclusion is a crucial part of any essay as it serves to reiterate the main points of the argument and leaves a lasting impression on the reader. While the length of a conclusion can vary depending on the complexity of the essay and the specific requirements of the assignment, it is generally agreed upon that a conclusion should be concise yet impactful. It is advisable not to exceed three to five sentences, as this ensures that the conclusion remains focused and does not ramble.

To illustrate why brevity is essential in a conclusion, let us consider a few reasons. First, the conclusion acts as a summary of the entire essay, and thus, it must be brief enough to cover all major points without overwhelming the reader. If the conclusion is too long, it can detract from the clarity and coherence of the essay, making it harder for the reader to grasp the main ideas.

Secondly, brevity allows the writer to avoid restating information already presented in the body paragraphs. This repetition could confuse the reader and make the essay seem less polished. Instead, the conclusion should offer a new perspective or synthesis of the arguments presented throughout the essay.

Thirdly, brevity helps maintain the reader’s interest. A lengthy conclusion might appear tedious and unengaging, leading the reader to lose focus. By keeping the conclusion short and to the point, the writer can keep the reader engaged until the very end.

In terms of structure, a good conclusion typically begins by summarizing the key points made in the essay. This summary can be achieved through a series of brief sentences that encapsulate the main arguments and evidence discussed. For instance, if the essay discusses the benefits of renewable energy sources, the conclusion might include sentences like:

• “Renewable energy sources have several advantages, including their environmental friendliness, reliability, and potential for cost savings.”
• “Moreover, these sources are sustainable and can help reduce our dependency on fossil fuels.”

Following the summary, the conclusion should provide a concluding thought or call to action. This final sentence can serve as a powerful closing statement that leaves a lasting impact on the reader. For example:

• “By embracing renewable energy, we can pave the way towards a more sustainable future.”
• “Let us commit to investing in renewable technologies to ensure a healthier planet for generations to come.”

It is also worth noting that the conclusion should not introduce new information or arguments. Any new ideas or evidence should be included in the body paragraphs. Moreover, avoiding the use of jargon and overly complex language in the conclusion is crucial. The goal is to write in a way that is accessible to the intended audience.

In conclusion, while the exact number of sentences in a conclusion may vary, it is generally recommended to keep it concise and focused. By following these guidelines, writers can craft effective conclusions that enhance the overall quality of their essays.

相关问答

1. Q: What is the purpose of a conclusion in an essay?

   • A: The conclusion serves to summarize the main points of the essay and reinforce the thesis statement, providing a final opportunity to engage the reader and leave a lasting impression.

2. Q: How long should a conclusion be?

   • A: A good rule of thumb is to keep the conclusion concise, ideally no longer than three to five sentences. This ensures that the conclusion remains focused and impactful.

3. Q: What should a conclusion include?

   • A: A conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay, provide a concluding thought or call to action, and avoid introducing new information or arguments.

4. Q: Why is brevity important in a conclusion?

   • A: Brevity is important because it maintains clarity and coherence, prevents confusion, keeps the reader engaged, and avoids the risk of overwhelming the reader with too much information.