Concluding sentence

Definition

A concluding sentence is the final sentence in a paragraph that summarizes the main idea and provides closure to the information presented. It often reinforces the main point and helps to link back to the topic sentence, creating a cohesive flow of ideas throughout the paragraph.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Concluding sentences can vary in style and length but should effectively encapsulate the paragraph's main point.
2. They often use transitional phrases to signal to the reader that the paragraph is coming to an end and to reinforce connections between ideas.
3. A strong concluding sentence not only summarizes but can also suggest implications or a broader significance of the discussion.
4. In academic writing, concluding sentences are essential for clarity and coherence, helping readers follow the writer's argument more easily.
5. Concluding sentences contribute to overall organization in writing, making it easier for readers to understand how each paragraph fits into the larger piece.

Review Questions

• How does a concluding sentence enhance the clarity and cohesion of a paragraph?
  • A concluding sentence enhances clarity by summarizing the main points discussed in a paragraph, ensuring that readers grasp the essential message. It also promotes cohesion by linking back to the topic sentence, which creates a sense of unity within the paragraph. This helps readers follow the writer's thought process more easily and prepares them for what comes next.
• Discuss how transitions can be integrated into concluding sentences to improve writing flow.
  • Transitions can be integrated into concluding sentences by using phrases like 'in conclusion,' 'to summarize,' or 'ultimately,' which signal to readers that a wrap-up is occurring. This not only emphasizes the closure of the current idea but also bridges to subsequent thoughts, making the overall writing flow smoother. Effective use of transitions helps maintain engagement and ensures that readers can easily navigate through complex arguments.
• Evaluate the role of a concluding sentence in academic writing and its impact on overall argument structure.
  • In academic writing, a concluding sentence plays a crucial role in reinforcing the argument structure by encapsulating key points and ensuring clarity for readers. By summarizing essential ideas, it helps to crystallize the writer's argument and emphasize its significance. Additionally, it provides a logical endpoint for each paragraph, contributing to a well-organized piece that guides readers through complex ideas and arguments while maintaining their interest and understanding.

Related terms

topic sentence:

The topic sentence introduces the main idea of a paragraph, setting the stage for the details and supporting information that follow.

transition: A transition is a word or phrase that connects ideas between sentences or paragraphs, helping to guide the reader through the text smoothly.

supporting detail: Supporting details are sentences that provide evidence, examples, or explanations to back up the main idea presented in the topic sentence.