How to Start an Argumentative Essay Conclusion

This is another big elephant in the room, how to start an argumentative essay conclusion when you have finally won your battle against the body of an argumentative essay. Starting an argumentative essay conclusion requires you to wrap up your argument effectively while reinforcing your key points. Here’s how to do it in a simple, step-by-step manner:

Also learn how to start an argumentative essay body paragraph in this detailed post by our academic writing experts.

1. Restate Your Thesis (in a New Way)

Begin by rephrasing your thesis statement to remind the reader of your main argument, but don’t just repeat it word for word. Reframe it slightly to show that your essay has come full circle and you’ve proven your point.

• Tip: Use slightly different wording to show progress in your argument.
• Example: If your thesis was, “School uniforms should be mandatory because they promote equality and reduce bullying,” you could restate it as:
  • “Mandatory school uniforms create a more equal environment by minimizing visible social differences and decreasing bullying incidents.”

2. Summarize Key Points

After restating the thesis, briefly summarize the main points from your body paragraphs. This reinforces your argument and reminds the reader how you’ve proven your case throughout the essay.

• Tip: Keep it concise and avoid introducing any new information.
• Example:
  • “By eliminating socioeconomic distinctions and fostering a sense of unity, school uniforms provide a level playing field for all students, while also contributing to a reduction in bullying and distractions.”

3. Address the Bigger Picture or Implications

To leave a lasting impression, discuss the broader significance of your argument. This could be the impact on society, future implications, or why the issue matters in a wider context.

• Tip: Think of this as the “so what?” part of your conclusion. What should the reader take away?
• Example:
  • “Ultimately, adopting uniform policies in schools can lead to not only a more respectful and focused learning environment but also help instill values of equality that students carry into adulthood.”

4. End with a Strong Closing Sentence

Finish your conclusion with a powerful, memorable statement. This could be a call to action, a rhetorical question, or a final thought that leaves the reader thinking.

• Tip: Make sure the final sentence clearly reinforces your argument or leaves a thought-provoking idea.
• Example:
  • “As schools aim to provide equal opportunities for all students, adopting uniforms is a crucial step toward a fairer, more inclusive future.”

Example of a Full Conclusion:

Restate Thesis: Mandatory school uniforms create a more equal environment by minimizing visible social differences and decreasing bullying incidents.
Summarize Key Points: By eliminating socioeconomic distinctions and fostering a sense of unity, school uniforms provide a level playing field for all students, while also contributing to a reduction in bullying and distractions.
Address the Bigger Picture: Ultimately, adopting uniform policies in schools can lead to not only a more respectful and focused learning environment but also help instill values of equality that students carry into adulthood.
Strong Closing Sentence: As schools aim to provide equal opportunities for all students, adopting uniforms is a crucial step toward a fairer, more inclusive future.

Key Takeaways:

• Restate your thesis in new words to remind the reader of your argument.
• Summarize your key points from the body paragraphs concisely.
• Address the bigger picture to show why your argument matters beyond the essay.
• End with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression.

By following these steps, your conclusion will be a strong, effective end to your argumentative essay, reinforcing your points while also giving your readers something to think about! Read more about our top argumentative essay topics to select your next great essay.