The conclusion of your IELTS Writing Task 2 essay is your final opportunity to make an impression on the examiner. A well-crafted conclusion can consolidate your argument and reinforce the key points you've made throughout your essay. In this chapter, we will break down the essential components of an effective conclusion, identify strategies to enhance its impact, and explore common mistakes to avoid.

The Purpose of the Essay Conclusion

Before diving into techniques for writing a strong conclusion, it's essential to understand its purpose:

• Summarizing main points: Restate the main ideas or arguments from your essay succinctly without introducing new information.
• Reiterating the thesis: Remind the reader of your standpoint or the position you've argued for in the essay.
• Leaving a lasting impression: Encourage the reader to consider the ramifications of your argument, potentially inspiring further thought or action.

Structure of a Conclusion

A conclusion typically follows a three-part structure:

1. Signal that you are concluding
   Start with a phrase that clearly indicates you are wrapping up the essay. Use transitional phrases like "In conclusion," "To sum up," or "In summary."

2. Restate main points and thesis
   Briefly encapsulate the main arguments presented in the body paragraphs without repeating the exact wording. Follow this with a rephrased version of your thesis statement.

3. Closing statement
   End with a final thought, suggestion, or a broader implication of your argument.

Crafting a High-Impact Closing Statement

The closing statement of your conclusion is the take-home message of your essay. It should be powerful and resonant. Here’s how to achieve this:

Reflect the Scope of Your Essay

• For local issues: Suggest practical actions or outcomes relevant to the community or region discussed.
• For global issues: Address wider implications or calls to international cooperation.

Connect to Broader Issues

• Contextualization: Demonstrate how the topic relates to larger social, economic, or political issues.
• Projection: Offer predictions or future trends related to your argument if applicable.

Inspire the Reader

• Call to action: Encourage the reader to take specific steps or consider changes in perspective.
• Quotation: Sometimes, a pertinent quote from a reputable source can encapsulate your conclusion powerfully.

Use Rhetorical Devices

• Circular Narrative: Refer back to a scenario or anecdote used in the introduction to create a sense of completeness.
• Tricolon: A sequence of three parallel elements (words or phrases) can be a rhythmic and memorable way to underscore your main points.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

When concluding your essay, avoid these common mistakes:

• Introducing new arguments or evidence
• Repeating sentences verbatim from the introduction or body paragraphs
• Undermining your argument with phrases like "This is just my opinion" or "It might not be true, but"
• Making overgeneralized or sweeping statements that can't be substantiated
• Ending abruptly without a clear concluding sentence

Sample Conclusion

Let's look at an example closing statement for an essay about the role of education in societal development:

"In conclusion, education stands as a pillar upon which the progress of society rests. By empowering individuals with knowledge, fostering innovation, and bridging socio-economic divides, education paves the way for a more prosperous and equitable future. It is imperative that policymakers recognize this transformative power and endeavor to make quality education accessible to all. As Nelson Mandela wisely stated, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.' Therefore, let us all wield this weapon wisely to forge a brighter tomorrow for every member of our global family."

Conclusion

Remember, the conclusion is your final interaction with the reader. A strong closing statement leaves an impression that resonates beyond the essay itself. It encapsulates your arguments, appeals to the broader context of discussion, and underscores the enduring relevance of your thesis. Practicing your conclusions with these tactics in mind will go a long way in perfecting your writing skills for IELTS Task 2.