what should a thesis conclusion contain

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How to write an excellent thesis conclusion [with examples]

Restate the thesis

Review or reiterate key points of your work, explain why your work is relevant, a take-away for the reader, more resources on writing thesis conclusions, frequently asked questions about writing an excellent thesis conclusion, related articles.

At this point in your writing, you have most likely finished your introduction and the body of your thesis, dissertation, or research paper . While this is a reason to celebrate, you should not underestimate the importance of your conclusion. The conclusion is the last thing that your reader will see, so it should be memorable.

A good conclusion will review the key points of the thesis and explain to the reader why the information is relevant, applicable, or related to the world as a whole. Make sure to dedicate enough of your writing time to the conclusion and do not put it off until the very last minute.

This article provides an effective technique for writing a conclusion adapted from Erika Eby’s The College Student's Guide to Writing a Good Research Paper: 101 Easy Tips & Tricks to Make Your Work Stand Out .

While the thesis introduction starts out with broad statements about the topic, and then narrows it down to the thesis statement , a thesis conclusion does the same in the opposite order.

• Restate the thesis.
• Review or reiterate key points of your work.
• Explain why your work is relevant.
• Include a core take-away message for the reader.

Tip: Don’t just copy and paste your thesis into your conclusion. Restate it in different words.

The best way to start a conclusion is simply by restating the thesis statement. That does not mean just copying and pasting it from the introduction, but putting it into different words.

You will need to change the structure and wording of it to avoid sounding repetitive. Also, be firm in your conclusion just as you were in the introduction. Try to avoid sounding apologetic by using phrases like "This paper has tried to show..."

The conclusion should address all the same parts as the thesis while making it clear that the reader has reached the end. You are telling the reader that your research is finished and what your findings are.

I have argued throughout this work that the point of critical mass for biopolitical immunity occurred during the Romantic period because of that era's unique combination of post-revolutionary politics and innovations in smallpox prevention. In particular, I demonstrated that the French Revolution and the discovery of vaccination in the 1790s triggered a reconsideration of the relationship between bodies and the state.

Tip: Try to reiterate points from your introduction in your thesis conclusion.

The next step is to review the main points of the thesis as a whole. Look back at the body of of your project and make a note of the key ideas. You can reword these ideas the same way you reworded your thesis statement and then incorporate that into the conclusion.

You can also repeat striking quotations or statistics, but do not use more than two. As the conclusion represents your own closing thoughts on the topic , it should mainly consist of your own words.

In addition, conclusions can contain recommendations to the reader or relevant questions that further the thesis. You should ask yourself:

• What you would ideally like to see your readers do in reaction to your paper?
• Do you want them to take a certain action or investigate further?
• Is there a bigger issue that your paper wants to draw attention to?

Also, try to reference your introduction in your conclusion. You have already taken a first step by restating your thesis. Now, check whether there are other key words, phrases or ideas that are mentioned in your introduction that fit into your conclusion. Connecting the introduction to the conclusion in this way will help readers feel satisfied.

I explored how Mary Wollstonecraft, in both her fiction and political writings, envisions an ideal medico-political state, and how other writers like William Wordsworth and Mary Shelley increasingly imagined the body politic literally, as an incorporated political collective made up of bodies whose immunity to political and medical ills was essential to a healthy state.

Tip: Make sure to explain why your thesis is relevant to your field of research.

Although you can encourage readers to question their opinions and reflect on your topic, do not leave loose ends. You should provide a sense of resolution and make sure your conclusion wraps up your argument. Make sure you explain why your thesis is relevant to your field of research and how your research intervenes within, or substantially revises, existing scholarly debates.

This project challenged conventional ideas about the relationship among Romanticism, medicine, and politics by reading the unfolding of Romantic literature and biopolitical immunity as mutual, co-productive processes. In doing so, this thesis revises the ways in which biopolitics has been theorized by insisting on the inherent connections between Romantic literature and the forms of biopower that characterize early modernity.

Tip: If you began your thesis with an anecdote or historical example, you may want to return to that in your conclusion.

End your conclusion with something memorable, such as:

• a call to action
• a recommendation
• a gesture towards future research
• a brief explanation of how the problem or idea you covered remains relevant

Ultimately, you want readers to feel more informed, or ready to act, as they read your conclusion.

Yet, the Romantic period is only the beginning of modern thought on immunity and biopolitics. Victorian writers, doctors, and politicians upheld the Romantic idea that a "healthy state" was a literal condition that could be achieved by combining politics and medicine, but augmented that idea through legislation and widespread public health measures. While many nineteenth-century efforts to improve citizens' health were successful, the fight against disease ultimately changed course in the twentieth century as global immunological threats such as SARS occupied public consciousness. Indeed, as subsequent public health events make apparent, biopolitical immunity persists as a viable concept for thinking about the relationship between medicine and politics in modernity.

Need more advice? Read our 5 additional tips on how to write a good thesis conclusion.

The conclusion is the last thing that your reader will see, so it should be memorable. To write a great thesis conclusion you should:

The basic content of a conclusion is to review the main points from the paper. This part represents your own closing thoughts on the topic. It should mainly consist of the outcome of the research in your own words.

The length of the conclusion will depend on the length of the whole thesis. Usually, a conclusion should be around 5-7% of the overall word count.

End your conclusion with something memorable, such as a question, warning, or call to action. Depending on the topic, you can also end with a recommendation.

In Open Access: Theses and Dissertations you can find thousands of completed works. Take a look at any of the theses or dissertations for real-life examples of conclusions that were already approved.

In a short paper—even a research paper—you don’t need to provide an exhaustive summary as part of your conclusion. But you do need to make some kind of transition between your final body paragraph and your concluding paragraph. This may come in the form of a few sentences of summary. Or it may come in the form of a sentence that brings your readers back to your thesis or main idea and reminds your readers where you began and how far you have traveled.

So, for example, in a paper about the relationship between ADHD and rejection sensitivity, Vanessa Roser begins by introducing readers to the fact that researchers have studied the relationship between the two conditions and then provides her explanation of that relationship. Here’s her thesis: “While socialization may indeed be an important factor in RS, I argue that individuals with ADHD may also possess a neurological predisposition to RS that is exacerbated by the differing executive and emotional regulation characteristic of ADHD.”

In her final paragraph, Roser reminds us of where she started by echoing her thesis: “This literature demonstrates that, as with many other conditions, ADHD and RS share a delicately intertwined pattern of neurological similarities that is rooted in the innate biology of an individual’s mind, a connection that cannot be explained in full by the behavioral mediation hypothesis.”  

Highlight the “so what”  

At the beginning of your paper, you explain to your readers what’s at stake—why they should care about the argument you’re making. In your conclusion, you can bring readers back to those stakes by reminding them why your argument is important in the first place. You can also draft a few sentences that put those stakes into a new or broader context.

In the conclusion to her paper about ADHD and RS, Roser echoes the stakes she established in her introduction—that research into connections between ADHD and RS has led to contradictory results, raising questions about the “behavioral mediation hypothesis.”

She writes, “as with many other conditions, ADHD and RS share a delicately intertwined pattern of neurological similarities that is rooted in the innate biology of an individual’s mind, a connection that cannot be explained in full by the behavioral mediation hypothesis.”  

Leave your readers with the “now what”  

After the “what” and the “so what,” you should leave your reader with some final thoughts. If you have written a strong introduction, your readers will know why you have been arguing what you have been arguing—and why they should care. And if you’ve made a good case for your thesis, then your readers should be in a position to see things in a new way, understand new questions, or be ready for something that they weren’t ready for before they read your paper.

In her conclusion, Roser offers two “now what” statements. First, she explains that it is important to recognize that the flawed behavioral mediation hypothesis “seems to place a degree of fault on the individual. It implies that individuals with ADHD must have elicited such frequent or intense rejection by virtue of their inadequate social skills, erasing the possibility that they may simply possess a natural sensitivity to emotion.” She then highlights the broader implications for treatment of people with ADHD, noting that recognizing the actual connection between rejection sensitivity and ADHD “has profound implications for understanding how individuals with ADHD might best be treated in educational settings, by counselors, family, peers, or even society as a whole.”

To find your own “now what” for your essay’s conclusion, try asking yourself these questions:

• What can my readers now understand, see in a new light, or grapple with that they would not have understood in the same way before reading my paper? Are we a step closer to understanding a larger phenomenon or to understanding why what was at stake is so important?  
• What questions can I now raise that would not have made sense at the beginning of my paper? Questions for further research? Other ways that this topic could be approached?  
• Are there other applications for my research? Could my questions be asked about different data in a different context? Could I use my methods to answer a different question?  
• What action should be taken in light of this argument? What action do I predict will be taken or could lead to a solution?  
• What larger context might my argument be a part of?  

What to avoid in your conclusion  

• a complete restatement of all that you have said in your paper.  
• a substantial counterargument that you do not have space to refute; you should introduce counterarguments before your conclusion.  
• an apology for what you have not said. If you need to explain the scope of your paper, you should do this sooner—but don’t apologize for what you have not discussed in your paper.  
• fake transitions like “in conclusion” that are followed by sentences that aren’t actually conclusions. (“In conclusion, I have now demonstrated that my thesis is correct.”)
• picture_as_pdf Conclusions

Justin Wong

Nov 15, 2024

How to Write a Strong Thesis Conclusion with Effective and Practical Examples

Struggling to wrap up your thesis? Learn how to write a strong conclusion that leaves a lasting impression, complete with practical examples!

A thesis conclusion is more than just the final section of your paper, it’s your chance to leave a lasting impression on your readers. This critical section ties all your research elements together, reinforces your argument, and highlights the significance of your findings. In short, it’s where you drive your point home.

Writing a well-rounded conclusion can feel daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to bring clarity and closure to your work. This guide will walk you through crafting a strong thesis conclusion, offering clear steps and practical examples to help you master this essential skill.

By the end of this article, you’ll have the tools to write a conclusion that ties your thesis together seamlessly and resonates with your audience.

Importance of a Strong Conclusion

A strong thesis conclusion isn’t just the final part of your paper, it’s your opportunity to solidify the contribution of your research and leave a lasting impression on your readers. This section ties together all the threads of your argument, ensuring your work feels complete and cohesive.

An effective conclusion:

Highlights the significance of your findings, showing their relevance within your field.

Engages the reader , leaving them with a clear understanding of your thesis’s purpose and impact.

Meets academic standards , demonstrating your ability to synthesize and articulate key ideas.

By providing closure to your argument, a well-written conclusion strengthens your thesis and ensures it resonates with your audience long after they’ve finished reading.

Key Components of a Thesis Conclusion

A well-crafted thesis conclusion brings your research to a satisfying close by including key elements that tie together your argument, findings, and contributions. Each component serves a specific purpose in creating a comprehensive and impactful conclusion.

1. Restating the Research Question

Start your conclusion by rephrasing the main research question or thesis statement. Use concise language to remind the reader of the primary objective of your study and establish a clear connection between the question and your findings.

Example: “This thesis set out to explore the relationship between renewable energy adoption and economic development in emerging economies.”

2. Summarizing Key Findings

Briefly summarize the most impactful results of your research. Focus on findings that directly answer your research question or support your thesis statement. This reinforces the core argument while keeping the summary concise and engaging.

Example: “The findings revealed that renewable energy adoption significantly reduces energy costs and fosters job creation, supporting sustainable economic growth.”

3. Discussing Implications of Research

Explain the broader significance of your findings. How do they contribute to your field, address societal challenges, or advance theoretical understanding? Connecting your results to real-world applications or broader theoretical frameworks enhances their relevance.

Example: “These results highlight the potential for renewable energy policies to drive economic growth while mitigating climate change, offering a model for sustainable development worldwide.”

4. Acknowledging Limitations

Include a brief discussion of your research’s limitations to demonstrate honesty and a realistic understanding of the study’s scope. Addressing challenges or constraints shows academic integrity and sets the stage for future improvements.

Example: “While this study provides valuable insights, its scope was limited to renewable energy adoption in emerging economies, which may not fully capture global trends.”

5. Recommendations for Future Research

Conclude with suggestions for future research that could build on your study. Highlight areas that are relevant, feasible, and impactful, inspiring further academic exploration.

Example: “Future studies could examine the long-term effects of renewable energy adoption on economic resilience or explore its impact in developed economies for a broader perspective.”

Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Your Conclusion

Writing a strong thesis conclusion requires a structured approach. Follow these steps to create a balanced, well-organized conclusion that effectively ties together your research and leaves a lasting impression.

Step 1: Craft a Brief Introduction

Start by reintroducing the purpose of your research and providing context for your conclusion. This opening should remind readers of the core focus of your study and prepare them for the key takeaways.

How to do it: Use one or two sentences to restate your research purpose in a way that feels fresh and concise. Avoid repeating your thesis statement word for word.

Example: “This thesis investigated the relationship between renewable energy adoption and economic growth, aiming to provide actionable insights for sustainable development policies.”

Step 2: Summarize Your Findings

Next, briefly summarize the key findings of your research. Highlight the most critical results that address your research objectives without repeating details already discussed in the body.

How to do it: Focus on results that directly support your thesis or answer your research question. Avoid including minor or tangential findings.

Example: “The findings demonstrate that renewable energy adoption reduces energy costs, fosters job creation, and enhances economic stability in emerging economies.”

Tip: Use concise language to maintain the reader’s engagement.

Step 3: Connect to the Research Questions

Link your findings back to the original research question to show how your study successfully addressed it. This step reinforces the relevance of your thesis and ensures your conclusion feels cohesive.

How to do it: Explicitly restate the research question and explain how your findings provide a clear answer.

Example: “By reducing costs and fostering job creation, the study confirms that renewable energy adoption is a key driver of economic growth in emerging economies, directly addressing the research question.”

Step 4: Discuss Implications and Limitations

Explore the broader significance of your findings while acknowledging any limitations of your study. Discuss how your research contributes to the field and what its real-world applications might be.

How to do it: Start with the implications, what do your findings mean for the field, society, or future research? Then address limitations with a realistic tone.

Implications: “These results highlight the potential for renewable energy policies to drive economic growth while mitigating climate change, offering a model for sustainable development.”

Limitations: “However, this study focused exclusively on emerging economies, and further research is needed to generalize these findings to developed countries.”

Tip: Be honest about limitations, as this demonstrates academic integrity.

Step 5: Provide Recommendations

End your conclusion with actionable recommendations for future research or practical applications. This step shows that your work is forward-thinking and opens the door for continued exploration.

How to do it: Offer suggestions that are directly tied to your findings, ensuring they are realistic and relevant.

“Future research could explore the long-term economic effects of renewable energy adoption or assess its scalability in urban areas of developed countries.”

“Policymakers should consider implementing renewable energy incentives to maximize both economic and environmental benefits.”

Examples of Strong Thesis Conclusions

Crafting an effective conclusion is essential to leaving a lasting impression on your readers. Below are examples from diverse fields, illustrating best practices in summarizing findings, connecting to research questions, and offering recommendations. Each example highlights specific strategies and techniques to create impactful conclusions.

Example: Health Sciences Thesis Conclusion

This conclusion ties back to the research question while emphasizing practical applications and broader significance:

"This study explored the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on cardiovascular health in middle-aged adults. The findings demonstrate that HIIT significantly improves heart function, reduces cholesterol levels, and enhances overall fitness, particularly in individuals with sedentary lifestyles. These results validate the hypothesis that HIIT is an effective and time-efficient method for improving cardiovascular health."

"However, the study’s reliance on a relatively small sample size limits its generalizability. Future research should include larger, more diverse populations to confirm these results and explore the long-term benefits of HIIT on chronic disease prevention. Health practitioners and policymakers should consider integrating HIIT programs into public health initiatives to address the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases globally."

Example: Physics Thesis Conclusion

This example focuses on summarizing analytical results and proposing advancements in the field:

"This thesis investigated the thermal conductivity properties of graphene-based materials under varying temperature conditions. The results reveal that graphene exhibits exceptional thermal conductivity, making it an ideal candidate for advanced heat management applications in microelectronics. By correlating thermal performance with material thickness, this study provides new insights into optimizing graphene for practical use."

"Nevertheless, challenges remain in scaling graphene production for commercial applications. Future studies should prioritize the development of cost-effective manufacturing techniques and investigate the integration of graphene into existing technologies. These advancements will pave the way for revolutionary improvements in thermal management systems across industries."

Example: Social Sciences Thesis Conclusion

This conclusion emphasizes broader social implications, balancing findings, limitations, and future research suggestions:

"This research examined the impact of social media on political engagement among young voters. The findings indicate that social media platforms play a pivotal role in raising political awareness and mobilizing young voters, particularly during election campaigns. However, the study also highlights the risks of misinformation and polarization associated with social media use."

"While these results underscore the transformative potential of social media, the study’s focus on urban populations limits its applicability to rural or less digitally connected communities. Future research should explore the role of social media in diverse socio-economic settings to provide a more comprehensive understanding of its effects. Policymakers and educators should also collaborate to promote digital literacy programs, ensuring that young voters engage critically with online political content."

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Conclusions

A well-crafted conclusion leaves a lasting impression, but certain common pitfalls can undermine its effectiveness. Avoiding these mistakes ensures your conclusion is clear, cohesive, and impactful.

Introducing New Information

One of the most common errors is introducing new ideas or data in the conclusion. This can confuse readers and disrupt the cohesiveness of your paper. The conclusion is meant to summarize and reflect on your existing research, not to present fresh arguments or findings.

How to avoid it: Focus solely on restating your thesis, summarizing key findings, and discussing implications. If you find new points emerging, incorporate them earlier in the body of the paper.

Being Vague or General

Using broad, unspecific language weakens the conclusion’s impact. Generic statements like “This research is important” fail to convey the depth or significance of your work. Specificity ensures that your conclusion resonates with readers and reinforces your argument.

How to avoid it: Use concise, targeted language to highlight key takeaways. For instance, instead of saying “This study makes a contribution to renewable energy,” specify “This study demonstrates how renewable energy adoption can drive economic growth in emerging economies.”

Overly Lengthy Conclusions

A conclusion that drags on for too long risks diluting its purpose and losing the reader’s attention. Overloading the conclusion with unnecessary details can make it feel repetitive and unbalanced.

How to avoid it: Stick to the key components—restating your thesis, summarizing findings, discussing implications, and providing recommendations. Keep the conclusion concise and focused, ensuring it serves as a clear and effective closing statement.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can craft a thesis conclusion that is professional, focused, and impactful, leaving your readers with a strong and lasting impression.

Master the Art of a Compelling Thesis Conclusion

A strong thesis conclusion ties your research together, reinforces its significance, and leaves a lasting impression. By following the steps and examples outlined in this guide, you can craft a conclusion that is clear, concise, and impactful.

For additional support, consider using Jenni AI , a writing assistant designed to streamline academic tasks, helping you craft effective conclusions and elevate your academic writing.

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Writing a Thesis Conclusion: A Step-by-Step Guide

• X (Twitter)

Last updated on November 12th, 2024 at 05:40 am

A good thesis conclusion can make a significant impact on the credibility and quality of the research study. It is a critical section that demonstrates the researcher’s knowledge in the field and simplifies the evaluation of a thesis.

This step-by-step guide elaborates how to summarize your key findings, reiterate the significance of your work in your thesis conclusion, and provide a sense of closure and a glimpse into future possibilities.

Why Does a Powerful Thesis Conclusion Matter?

Think of your thesis as a journey of discovery. The introduction sets the stage, the body paragraphs explore the terrain, and the conclusion serves as the summit, offering a breathtaking view of your accomplishments and the vast landscape beyond.

Here’s why a good conclusion is essential:

Researchers are too busy to read your entire paper even if it is well-written. The general approach is to view if the title, looks appealing and then read the abstract , the thesis conclusion, and possibly the introduction to make a quick evaluation.

The other important factors include:

• Clinches Your Argument: A strong conclusion reminds readers of your thesis statement and how your research provides compelling evidence to support it. It leaves a lasting impression of a well-reasoned and substantiated argument.
• Highlights Significance: It emphasizes the contribution of your research to the field.  a) Does your work fill a gap in existing knowledge that you identified by conducting your literature review, and b) Does it offer new insights or challenge existing assumptions?
• A strong thesis conclusion showcases the potential impact of your research.
• Provides Closure: It offers a sense of completion by combining the key takeaways of your research.
• It reminds readers of the journey you’ve taken and leaves them with a sense of satisfaction and understanding.

Reader Expectations for a Thesis Conclusion

How to write a thesis conclusion.

Now that you understand the importance of a powerful conclusion, let’s explore the key elements you need to consider when crafting yours:

Step 1: Summarize Key Findings

• Briefly restate the main takeaways from your research without simply repeating the discussion section.
• Use clear and concise language to highlight the most critical points.

Step 2: Restate the Thesis

• Briefly remind readers of your research topic and how your findings address it.
• This reinforces the connection between your research objectives and the achieved results.

Step 3: Explain the Significance

• Explain why your findings matter. How does your research contribute to existing knowledge?
• Does it offer new perspectives, challenge established theories, or create new avenues for exploration?

Step 4: Address Limitations

• Acknowledge any limitations of your study and how they might affect the generalizability of your results.
• Being transparent about limitations demonstrates intellectual honesty and strengthens the credibility of your research.

Step 5: Propose Future Research

• Suggest avenues for further investigation based on your findings. What questions remain unanswered?
• This demonstrates your understanding of the broader field and the potential for future exploration.

Step 6:Engaging Your Readers

• Length:  There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but your conclusion should be long enough to adequately address all the elements mentioned above.
• Focus on Context: Ensure your conclusion provides context for your arguments so readers understand the bigger picture.

Avoid Jargon:   Maintain clarity by avoiding overly technical language.

• Structure: Your conclusion can be structured as a single paragraph or multiple paragraphs, depending on the complexity of your findings.
• Acknowledge the Importance: Briefly acknowledge the importance of introductions and conclusions

Useful Tips

Statistics: Reviewers prioritize the introduction and the thesis conclusion sections of a research study . This highlights the importance of crafting strong conclusions that capture their attention and leave a positive final impression.

Structure: Your thesis conclusion can be structured as a single paragraph or multiple paragraphs, depending on the complexity of your findings.

Remember: Don’t underestimate the power of a strong thesis conclusion. Invest time in crafting a well-written conclusion that summarizes your research effectively, emphasizes its significance, and paves the way for future exploration.

For further assistance, The University of Melbourne’s Writing Centre offers a guide on “Structuring Your Thesis” .

How long should a conclusion be?

It must be long enough to cover all the major findings of your research, no more and no less. Though most of these will have already been mentioned in the abstract and elaborated on in the introduction and the results and discussion sections, the conclusion is a researcher’s last opportunity to ensure that nothing is overlooked and the thesis counts.

What is the most important element of a conclusion?

The most important element is to provide relevant context for your arguments. Ensure that the reader understands the research question and the analysis you provided perfectly. It must provide a unique level of perception about your thesis to reaffirm the objective of the research study.

What are the most important characteristics of a thesis conclusion?

A thesis conclusion must coney as much as possible in a few sentences. It should be crisp and to the point and answer all the intended relevant questions that the research set out to achieve without using unnecessary jargon, as this can distort the readability, especially when new ideas and concepts are introduced that can affect its quality.

Should a conclusion be one paragraph?

When a single paragraph becomes excessively long in a conclusion, it can be expanded to encompass two or even three paragraphs, without being repetitive. In addition to summarizing the main points you made throughout the paper, it should also provide your concluding thoughts on the main theme

Conclusion: Leaving a Lasting Impression

Composing a powerful thesis conclusion is an investment that pays off. It ensures your research resonates with readers, leaving them with a clear understanding of your findings and their significance. By following the steps outlined above and prioritizing clarity, conciseness, and engagement, you can write a conclusion that elevates your thesis and positions your research for future exploration.

Remember, a strong conclusion doesn’t just end your work; it opens doors for further understanding and impactful contributions to your field!

My journey in academia began as a dedicated researcher, specializing in the fascinating world of biochemistry. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring Master’s and PhD students, collaborating on research papers that pushed the boundaries of knowledge. Now, post-retirement, I’ve embarked on a new chapter, sharing my academic expertise through freelance work on platforms like YouTube and Upwork. Here, I investigate the finer points of scholarly research, guiding aspiring writers through the intricacies of formatting, composing compelling narratives, and navigating the publication process.

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Writing Effective Conclusions and Recommendations in a Thesis

Have you ever experienced the triumphant moment of finishing a jigsaw puzzle , only to find that the final piece doesn’t quite fit? Such is the challenge when writing the conclusion and recommendations in your thesis . This final section isn’t just an endnote; it’s your opportunity to make your research resonate. Let’s explore how to craft a compelling conclusion that not only summarizes your findings but also sets the stage for future inquiry.

Table of Contents

• Understanding the weight of conclusions and recommendations
• The art of summarizing findings
• Drawing insightful conclusions
• Outlining clear and actionable recommendations
• Linking conclusions to research objectives
• Reflecting on research questions
• Emphasizing the impact of your findings
• Formulating recommendations with purpose
• Grounding recommendations in evidence
• Keeping recommendations achievable
• Setting the stage for future research
• Writing with clarity and conviction
• Using precise language
• Ensuring cohesiveness
• Engaging the reader’s imagination

Understanding the weight of conclusions and recommendations 🔗

In the grand scheme of your thesis, the conclusion is your final act, your closing argument. It is here that you revisit your research objectives to demonstrate how your findings address them. But it’s not just a rehash of your research; it’s your chance to interpret the implications of your work and persuade your audience of its significance.

The art of summarizing findings 🔗

Begin by revisiting the questions you posed at the start of your journey. Summarize the answers you’ve uncovered, concisely distilling the essence of your research. This isn’t a place for exhaustive detail—that’s what the body of your thesis is for. Instead, think of it as the highlight reel, showcasing the most significant insights.

Drawing insightful conclusions 🔗

Conclusions are the thoughtful deductions you’ve drawn from your research. Linking back to your objectives, ask yourself: What have I learned? How have my findings contributed to the field? This is where you can shine a light on the larger implications of your work, the ‘so what?’ of your thesis.

Outlining clear and actionable recommendations 🔗

Your recommendations are your legacy, the path you lay for future research ers or practitioners. They should be clear, specific, and grounded in your findings. Think of them as a call to action—what should be done in light of your research? Whether it’s suggesting areas for further study or recommending changes to practice, your recommendations should inspire action.

Linking conclusions to research objectives 🔗

To ensure your conclusions are meaningful, they must be tethered to your research objectives. This alignment reinforces the relevance of your work and ensures you’re answering the questions you set out to explore.

Reflecting on research questions 🔗

Revisit your research questions or hypotheses . How have your findings addressed them? This reflection ensures your conclusions are directly tied to your initial inquiry, creating a cohesive narrative from start to finish.

Emphasizing the impact of your findings 🔗

Highlight the impact of your research. Have you filled a gap in knowledge? Challenged existing theories? Applied your findings to practice? Your conclusions should underscore the value of your work and its ripple effect in your field.

Formulating recommendations with purpose 🔗

Recommendations should never be an afterthought. They are your opportunity to influence the future, to suggest how the knowledge you’ve generated can be used to better understand or improve upon a particular issue.

Grounding recommendations in evidence 🔗

Ensure your recommendations are evidence-based . They should flow naturally from the conclusions you’ve drawn, each one supported by the data you’ve collected.

Keeping recommendations achievable 🔗

Make your recommendations achievable. Pie-in-the-sky ideas might be inspirational, but they’re less helpful than practical, attainable suggestions that can be realistically implemented.

Setting the stage for future research 🔗

Use your recommendations to set the stage for future research. What questions have emerged from your study? Where are the knowledge gaps ? Propel the academic conversation forward by identifying the next steps.

Writing with clarity and conviction 🔗

The best conclusions and recommendations are those written with clarity and conviction. You’ve spent countless hours on your research—now’s the time to confidently present your findings and their implications.

Using precise language 🔗

Be precise in your language. Avoid ambiguity and make every word count. This precision not only makes your writing clearer but also reinforces the authority of your conclusions and recommendations.

Ensuring cohesiveness 🔗

Your conclusion should feel like a natural culmination of your thesis, not a separate entity. Ensure that it flows logically from the body of your work, with each part reinforcing the other.

Engaging the reader’s imagination 🔗

Engage your reader’s imagination by painting a picture of what could be. Use your recommendations to inspire visions of future possibilities, grounded in the solid foundation of your research.

Conclusion 🔗

In conclusion, remember that the final sections of your thesis are not mere formalities but the bridge between your research and its potential impact on the world. The conclusions and recommendations you write are your scholarly legacy , a testament to the hard work you’ve poured into your research. Approach them with the same rigor , creativity, and dedication as the rest of your thesis, and you’ll leave a lasting mark on your field.

What do you think? How do you approach writing conclusions and recommendations, and what strategies do you find most effective? Are there particular challenges you’ve faced in this part of the thesis-writing process?

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Research Methodology

1 Introduction to Research in General

• Research in General
• Research Circle
• Tools of Research
• Methods: Quantitative or Qualitative
• The Product: Research Report or Papers

2 Original Unity of Philosophy and Science

• Myth Philosophy and Science: Original Unity
• The Myth: A Spiritual Metaphor
• Myth Philosophy and Science
• The Greek Quest for Unity
• The Ionian School
• Towards a Grand Unification Theory or Theory of Everything
• Einstein’s Perennial Quest for Unity

3 Evolution of the Distinct Methods of Science

• Definition of Scientific Method
• The Evolution of Scientific Methods
• Theory-Dependence of Observation
• Scope of Science and Scientific Methods
• Prevalent Mistakes in Applying the Scientific Method

4 Relation of Scientific and Philosophical Methods

• Definitions of Scientific and Philosophical method
• Philosophical method
• Scientific method
• The relation
• The Importance of Philosophical and scientific methods

5 Dialectical Method

• Introduction and a Brief Survey of the Method
• Types of Dialectics
• Dialectics in Classical Philosophy
• Dialectics in Modern Philosophy
• Critique of Dialectical Method

6 Rational Method

• Understanding Rationalism
• Rational Method of Investigation
• Descartes’ Rational Method
• Leibniz’ Aim of Philosophy
• Spinoza’ Aim of Philosophy

7 Empirical Method

• Common Features of Philosophical Method
• Empirical Method
• Exposition of Empiricism
• Locke’s Empirical Method
• Berkeley’s Empirical Method
• David Hume’s Empirical Method

8 Critical Method

• Basic Features of Critical Theory
• On Instrumental Reason
• Conception of Society
• Human History as Dialectic of Enlightenment
• Substantive Reason
• Habermasian Critical Theory
• Habermas’ Theory of Society
• Habermas’ Critique of Scientism
• Theory of Communicative Action
• Discourse Ethics of Habermas

9 Phenomenological Method (Western and Indian)

• Phenomenology in Philosophy
• Phenomenology as a Method
• Phenomenological Analysis of Knowledge
• Phenomenological Reduction
• Husserl’s Triad: Ego Cogito Cogitata
• Intentionality
• Understanding ‘Consciousness’
• Phenomenological Method in Indian Tradition
• Phenomenological Method in Religion

10 Analytical Method (Western and Indian)

• Analysis in History of Philosophy
• Conceptual Analysis
• Analysis as a Method
• Analysis in Logical Atomism and Logical Positivism
• Analytic Method in Ethics
• Language Analysis
• Quine’s Analytical Method
• Analysis in Indian Traditions

11 Hermeneutical Method (Western and Indian)

• The Power (Sakti) to Convey Meaning
• Three Meanings
• Pre-understanding
• The Semantic Autonomy of the Text
• Towards a Fusion of Horizons
• The Hermeneutical Circle
• The True Scandal of the Text
• Literary Forms

12 Deconstructive Method

• The Seminal Idea of Deconstruction in Heidegger
• Deconstruction in Derrida
• Structuralism and Post-structuralism
• Sign Signifier and Signified
• Writing and Trace
• Deconstruction as a Strategic Reading
• The Logic of Supplement
• No Outside-text

13 Method of Bibliography

• Preparing to Write
• Writing a Paper
• The Main Divisions of a Paper
• Writing Bibliography in Turabian and APA
• Sample Bibliography

14 Method of Footnotes

• Citations and Notes
• General Hints for Footnotes
• Writing Footnotes
• Examples of Footnote or Endnote
• Example of a Research Article

15 Method of Notes Taking

• Methods of Note-taking
• Note Book Style
• Note taking in a Computer
• Types of Note-taking
• Notes from Field Research
• Errors to be Avoided

16 Method of Thesis Proposal and Presentation

• Preliminary Section
• Presenting the Problem of the Thesis
• Design of the Study
• Main Body of the Thesis
• Conclusion Summary and Recommendations
• Reference Material

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Writing the Dissertation - Guides for Success: Conclusion

• Writing the Dissertation Homepage
• Overview and Planning
• Research Question
• Literature Review
• Methodology
• Results and Discussion
• Getting Started
• Annotated Example
• What to Avoid

Overview of writing the dissertation conclusion

The conclusion is the final chapter of the dissertation. It serves to reinforce your main argument and findings, before considering the wider implications of your research. Along with the introduction, it’s often the shortest chapter in a dissertation, but it is a chapter in its own right and should be given due care and attention.

Even so, the conclusion of a dissertation is sometimes hastily thrown together, culminating in a perfunctory and uninspiring end to such a substantial piece of work. Just like how nobody likes a bad ending to a movie, you want your conclusion to be an accurate and positive reflection of your dissertation that leaves your reader with a clear and satisfying end to the work.

Disciplinary differences

Please note: this guide is not specific to any one discipline. The conclusion can vary depending on the nature of the research and the expectations of the school or department, so please adapt the following advice to meet the demands of your project and department. Consult your supervisor for further guidance.

Guide contents

As part of the Writing the Dissertation series, this guide covers the essentials of writing a strong conclusion, giving you the necessary knowledge, tips and guidance needed to leave a positive impression on your markers! Here’s what to expect:

• Getting Started  - Defines the overarching purpose of the conclusion.
• Structure  - Breaks down the conclusion's 'narrow to broad' structure in two main parts.
• Annotated Example - Provides a sample conclusion with notes to highlight the strategies the writer uses.
• What to Avoid  - Covers a few frequent mistakes you'll want to...avoid!
• FAQs  - Guidance on first- vs. third-person, use of secondary literature and more.
• Checklist  - Includes a summary of key points and a self-evaluation checklist.

Training and tools

• The Academic Skills team has recorded a Writing the Dissertation workshop series to help you with each section of a standard dissertation, including a video on writing the dissertation conclusion  (embedded below).
• The dissertation planner tool can help you think through the timeline for planning, research, drafting and editing.
• iSolutions offers training and a Word template to help you digitally format and structure your dissertation.

What is the conclusion?

The conclusion isn’t simply a brief recap of your previous chapters. Instead, the conclusion revisits your primary research purpose – your research question(s) and/or hypotheses – and summarises and synthesises the main research findings, or areas of discussion, to reinforce how your dissertation responds to that purpose: how does it answer question X or prove argument Y to be correct?

The conclusion then moves beyond the immediate confines of your research to engage with the wider impact and relevance of your work. That is to say, you feed the work you have completed back into the wider context to emphasise how your research has advanced our understanding of this area. This is your final opportunity to leave a positive and lasting impression on your reader, so it’s important that your conclusion captures the essential information in your dissertation and emphasises its value in the relevant profession or field of research.

Structuring a conclusion

Whilst the conclusion of a dissertation is a chapter in its own right, it’s important to consider the role that the conclusion plays in the entire structure of your dissertation. You might recognise the shape below – what is sometimes called an ‘hourglass’ structure. This represents a typical structure for an essay or dissertation. Below, we'll explore what this shape suggests about earlier sections of the dissertation as well as the conclusion.

Figure 1: The ‘hourglass’ shape that symbolises the broad-to-narrow, then narrow-to-broad structure of a dissertation, and academic writing in general.

Introduction and literature review

• Broad to narrow – eases the reader into the discussion by introducing them to the broad situation within which your research sits.
• Narrows the focus through the literature review whilst maintaining a direct interest in the wider research context.
• Arrives at a narrow focus towards the end by clearly stating what your focus is, what research problem you are going to address, how you are going to address that problem and what your argument and findings are.

Main body (methodology, results and discussion)

• Narrow focus – provides the finer details of your dissertation by isolating particular aspects to discuss and scrutinise, such as the details of how your study was designed.
• Driven by the results of your study, with secondary material used to contextualise the meaning and significance of your findings.
• Narrow to broad – reinforces your main argument and findings, then...
• Broadens out by considering the wider implications of your work for the relevant profession or field of research.

A structure in two main parts

We’re going to break the conclusion down into two main parts:

1) A summary and synthesis of your main findings or discussion points that directly respond to, and address, your research question(s) and/or hypotheses. For this reason, it’s often useful to start by briefly repeating the research problem you’ve addressed. This constitutes the narrow part of the conclusion.

2) Engagement with the impact and relevance of your research to the wider, relevant context . This constitutes the broader part of the conclusion.

Let’s look at both in more detail.

Summary and synthesis

To write an effective conclusion for your dissertation, you need to do more than simply repeat the main points and findings of your research. Instead, you need to summarise and synthesise (definition below) your main findings and points of discussion, forming a cohesive picture for your reader that brings the different elements of your research together. This helps your reader to understand how you have reached a certain answer, or why you think your argument is correct.

It’s often useful to start with a brief recap of the research problem before stating how your dissertation has responded, in some way, to this problem by synthesising the main findings and discussion points. For example:

Despite extensive research on the application of tool X, this dissertation has noted an absence of rigorous research on how this tool can be applied to demographic Y. Considerable research demonstrates the strengths and weaknesses of applying this tool when working with various demographics, particularly A and B, but the different demands associated with demographic Y restrict the suitability of these findings for this age group. In response, this dissertation has…

Following this, you need to outline how your dissertation has responded to this problem by summarising and synthesising your main findings and/or discussion points and reinforcing your main argument. Try summarising every one of your main findings or discussion points – keep it brief (one or two sentences) – and then, where possible, try and condense and connect this information to form a brief portrait of your dissertation. See ' Annotated example' for more on this.

Wider, relevant context

Once you have reinforced your research focus and your argument by summarising and synthesising your main findings, you need to relate your research to a wider, relevant context . This might include:

‘Returning’ to the introduction

As stated earlier, you conclusion shares a close relationship with your introduction with both acting as bookends that frame your entire dissertation – like the first scene and last scene of a film. For this reason, you need to return back to your introduction by revisiting the broad, but relative, themes that opened your dissertation as a way of contextualising your argument and results.

Ask yourself the question, ‘What do we now know that we didn’t at the start?’ The argument and findings won’t be a revelation to your reader, but framing them in this slightly broader context helps to reinforce the significance and contribution of your work. This brings your work ‘full circle’ and creates a neat symmetry to your work – a narrative thread for your reader to follow.

Recommendations for future research

Where necessary, it’s a good idea to include some suggestions for relevant future research that you think will help to further advance our knowledge of the research area. Don’t commit too many words to this. You simply need to state what contributions to the research field might be worth pursuing in the future and how this might further enrich our understanding of the topic. This serves to emphasise that your work is part of an evolving landscape of research, thus engaging with the wider context. This can often feature in the discussion chapter, rather than the conclusion (see our Writing the Results and Discussion guide for more).

Recommendations for practitioners

Depending on the nature of your research, it might be necessary to suggest some recommendations for relevant professionals and industry practitioners based on your findings. Remember these are only recommendations, and they must be consistent with your findings. Briefly mention how each recommendation would serve to address and, potentially, solve a problem faced by professionals. This helps your reader to understand the real-world implications and relevance of your work. Like recommendations for future research, this can often feature in the discussion. Consult your supervisor for discipline-specific guidance.

Annotated example

Take a look at this annotated example to see how the structural components discussed in the 'Structure' tab fit together to form a conclusion. This is only a short example, and your conclusion might be longer and slightly more detailed, but this gives you an idea of the flow and structure.

By focussing on the Arab Spring uprising, this dissertation has demonstrated the ways in which social media animates forms of civil empowerment through collective political action. Whilst other examples could have been used, this dissertation has highlighted how participants in the Arab Spring coordinated a strategic network of communication, drawing on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube in both distinct and interrelated ways. By adopting social media in such a way, the Arab Spring not only demonstrates that social media can have a profound impact on forms of civil empowerment, but can also become a powerful political tool when deployed in a strategic and coordinated manner.

As outlined in Chapter 3: Methodology and Chapter 4: Results, this study collected quantitative data, such as the number of likes, retweets and views, to measure the reach of social media interactions on the Arab Spring uprising during a three month period. Qualitative data was also collected through the language and rhetoric employed by citizens posting comments, and the content of videos posted on the social media sites in question. This mixed-methods approach, along with the focus on three social media platforms, provided a triangulation of data that strengthened the depth of the research and allowed for a more nuanced portrait of how social media, when deployed in a coordinated way for a particular event, forms an interconnected network of channels through which information can flow freely. As evidenced by the quantitative data, with posts and retweets reaching their millions, the use of social media had a cumulative power with the Arab Spring by spreading the civil unrest and galvanising support for the cause.

Whilst the Arab Spring only represents one case of the relationship between social media and civil empowerment, this case study shows how the Arab Spring played an influential role in the mobilisation of the hashtag movement and the digitisation of civil activism. This is most clearly exemplified by the Me Too movement, supporting the fight against sexual harassment and assault, and Black Lives Matter, fighting against the racial oppression of black people. In examining the role of social media on these and other such cases of civil activism, perhaps a systematic comparison between social media and traditional forms of media, such as newspapers, would provide further opportunities to assess the relationship between social media and social activism.

Future research should also further explore the tension between social media and political censorship. Indeed, despite social media’s obvious potential as a tool for civil empowerment, Chapter Five: Discussion also pointed to the dangers of how oppressive governments can respond to the apparent threat of civil activism through aggressive forms of censorship. Moving forward, social media platforms must defend the freedom of its users to engage in socially active ways, and understanding the intersection between social media and political censorship is crucial to defending this freedom. Only by preserving this freedom can social media, and the internet in general, continue to realise its primary function as an open sources of communication that evades the restrictive censorship of traditional gatekeepers.

What to avoid

This portion of the guide will cover some common missteps you should try to avoid in writing your conclusion.

Excessive detail

The conclusion isn’t the place to repeat detailed statistics or retrace the finer nuances of an argument. You simply need to reinforce the main findings and the essential information in your dissertation. Only you can determine what you think is a necessary level of detail in your conclusion, but look at the following two examples as a guide:

• Excessive:  The results showed a considerable increase from Sample A to Sample E. As expected, Sample A started low with only 6 per cent. Sample B then showed an increase of 20 per cent, with Sample C then reaching 36 per cent to show a further increase of 16 per cent. Sample D furthered this trend, reaching 59 per cent. Sample E then reached 82 per cent, showing a 23 per cent increase from the previous sample.
• Improved: The results showed a considerable increase of 76 per cent from Sample A (6 per cent) to Sample E (82 per cent) with samples C to D and samples D to E both showing the largest increase of the study with a 23 per cent rise.

New information

You should avoid presenting any new information, such as primary data or theories, when writing your conclusion. Any primary or secondary material you deem important enough to state in the conclusion (although avoid excessive detail as stated above) should be evident in your results and/or discussion chapters.

'In conclusion...'

Whilst it might seem logical to start your conclusion with ‘In conclusion’, it’s best to avoid this. It’s not strictly wrong to start with ‘In conclusion’, ‘To summarise’, or some other variation of such phrases, but it reflects a somewhat lazy and clichéd approach given its excessive use.

The start of your conclusion should be obvious for two main reasons. Firstly, the chapter heading ‘Conclusion’ serves as a clear indication to your reader! Secondly, your conclusion should signal a rhetorical shift in your writing to a more reflective register. For example:

This dissertation has considered the complex ways in which…

The use of the present perfect tense here signals this shift to a reflective register.

Don’t state your core argument and main observations for the first time in the conclusion chapter. This is sometimes mistakenly employed as a way of maintaining a sense of mystery before the grand reveal at the end – like the dramatic third act of a play or the final twist in a film. Academic writing is not driven by the same intrigue as narrative storytelling. Instead, the ‘end’ or conclusion in a dissertation or written assignment should be clearly signposted early on – the abstract and the introduction – as a way of focusing the reader’s attention.

Q: How long should the conclusion be?

A: Roughly 5-10% of the dissertation’s word count (usually nearer the 5% end). So, for a 10,000 word dissertation, you should aim for anything between 500 words to 1,000. You should, however, be flexible with this. As always, it depends on the nature of your dissertation and the expected conventions in your department or school. It’s always worth seeking advice from your supervisor, but it’s safe to say that – along with the introduction (again dependent on the nature of the dissertation) – it’s often the shortest chapter in the dissertation.

Q: Should the conclusion include references to secondary literature?

A: Yes, but only when necessary. As noted in ' What to avoid' , you shouldn’t be bringing in new data, theories or information, which means you will likely revisit previously discussed work in light of your own findings and argument. Although you have already mentioned and cited the original work, it’s good practice to cite them again. This is also imperative in cases where you have cited more than one piece of work from the same author or authors. So, for example:

These findings support the work of Jones (2010) in which X and Y were both seen to…

Q: Should the conclusion be in the first-person or third?

A: It depends what you’ve been using throughout your dissertation – it’s important to be consistent. Typically, third-person is used in academic writing, although first-person is accepted in some disciplines. For instance, certain genres, such as reflective writing, demand the first-person. Consult your supervisor for further guidance.

The conclusion is your final chance to leave a positive impression on your reader, so it’s important that you conclude in a clear and engaging manner. Rather than simply repeating the main content from your previous chapters, you should be summarising and synthesising your main findings and discussion points and bringing them together to reinforce your central argument and respond to any research questions or hypotheses you have. You should then engage with the wider, relevant context by returning back to where you started in your introductory chapter to answer and consider the question,  ‘What do we now know that we didn’t before?’

Here’s a final checklist for writing an effective conclusion. Remember that not all of these points will be relevant for your conclusion, so make sure you cover whatever’s appropriate for your dissertation. The asterisk (*) indicates any content that might not be relevant for your dissertation. To save your own copy of the checklist to edit, please use the Word document, below.

• Conclusion self-evaluation checklist

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Writing a Conclusion

Writing a conclusion is an important part of any piece of writing. It is often possible to get a good overview of an assignment by looking briefly at the conclusion. However, writing a conclusion can be quite difficult. This is because it can often be hard to find something interesting or useful to say in the conclusion. Conclusions should be attractive and interesting but often they are rather dull and "formula written".

Although formulae for writing conclusions are tempting to use, it is always best to avoid set phrases such as "Therefore, let us conclude that..." which are clichés, and do not help to end your work in the best light.

Helpful information, advice and materials for writing conclusions

1. What are the typical ingredients in a conclusion?  

2. What are the differences between writing conclusions to essays and to dissertations/theses?

3. See a sample conclusion

4. Try a practice activity

5. Check out further advice on writing conclusions

6. Download a checklist to help you edit your written work

What are the typical 'ingredients' of a conclusion?  

Trzeciak and Mackay (1994) ( Study skills for academic writing. New York: Prentice Hall ) observe a number of useful "ingredients" that form part of a conclusion. Again (as with introductions) it will not always be necessary or desirable to include all the elements they mention. However, you will probably want to use some of these in some combination, in order to conclude your work.

• A summary of the main part of the text
• A deduction made on the basis of the main body
• Your personal opinion on what has been discussed
• A statement about the limitations of the work
• A comment about the future based on what has been discussed
• The implications of the work for future research
• Important facts and figures not mentioned in the main body

Pallant (2009) sees five basic ingredients of a conclusion as follows, though these will not always be used in the same conclusion:

• A summary of the main points (being careful not to repeat exactly what you have written before)
• Concluding statements  
• Recommendations
• Predictions

These recommendations probably apply more to discussion essays than they do to other kinds of assessed writing at university. For example, if you are writing a business plan or discussing a law scenario, or answering an examination question, you may not need the above elements, unless the question specifically asks you for them or unless it is known that it is expected of you in the discipline you are working in.

However, you will generally need a final section to indicate that you are 'rounding off' the discusion. Always be very careful to check what the conventions are in the discipline you are working in, and ideally, it is best to look at examples of past students' work so that you can see what you are aiming for.

  back ^

What are the differences between writing conclusions to essays and to dissertations/theses?  

When writing longer pieces of work, it is still very important to observe some of the principles above. For instance, you will still want to ensure that your conclusion really does conclude , and does not just go off at a tangent to discuss something that is unrelated to the thesis. Some people believe (mistakenly) that a conclusion is the place for you to relax and 'say whatever you want'. This is incorrect. If you do this, you will be likely to be marked down.

There are also likely to be some key differences in your approach when writing conclusions. Certainly, conclusions will be even more important in a dissertation or thesis, purely because of the length of the piece. Among the differences you will notice are the following:

• As well as having an overall conclusion to your dissertation or thesis, each chapter should also have a conclusion (as well as an introduction). The reason for this is that in a longer piece of writing, it becomes more important to remind the reader of what you have done and why you have done it, before you move onto the next stage.
• The conclusion of a dissertation or thesis is not an opportunity to engage in a personal 'rant'. You must draw out key aspects of the literature you have studied, along with your recommendations , and say how they are justified or contradicted by your research.
• It is a good idea in a chapter conclusion to remind the reader what happened in the chapter (e.g. In this chapter, the literature relating to the teaching of vocabulary was considered.). After this, you need to build a bridge linking this chapter with the next one. (e.g. This will be further discussed in the next chapter.)
• In a dissertation or thesis, there is likely to be a longer section on the limitations of your research . Important though this is, however, you also need to be sure to sell your research in the conclusion - so it is best not to be too negative or over-modest about your achievements at this point. The key to many dissertations and theses is the need to emphasise the contribution that it makes to research.
• In a dissertation or thesis, it is more likely that you will have a section on the need for future research . In an MA or MSc dissertation you may like to suggest something that could be developed from your work as a PhD thesis. In a PhD thesis you may like to indicate some potential for post-doctoral work.

Further advice on writing conclusions

When writing an assignment, be careful of the following points:

• The topic you are writing about may not always require a full conclusion (this is particularly the case if your work is heavily analytical or mathematical, or not very discursive.) Remember not all assignments require discussion. Check what the expectations are in your own department. Ask your tutor if you are not sure.
• Even if you do not need a full conclusion, remember that any assignment nearly always needs to be rounded off in some way and brought to an end. Consider this: will the reader know that you have finished your work? (Or will they just think that you have run out of time - or energy)?
• Keep in mind the balance of your assignment. The conclusion should be clear and relatively brief.
• In discussion-type assignments, it is often a better idea to raise questions and problems in the conclusion than to provide over-simplified/ naive answers to the assignment title. Examiners will usually be very wary of essays, theses or dissertations that presume to solve all the world's problems in a simplistic and trivial way. Remember, life is never that simple. However, remember not to introduce any new material in the conclusion.
• There is no need to go over everything again that you have already mentioned; this would be unnecessarily boring and tedious.
• Make sure that the conclusion is based on what you have said before. It is often tempting to go off at a tangent and to say things that are completely unrelated to the topic. Be wary of this.
• It is permissible to give your opinion in the conclusion but try to do so subtly and try not to sound too pompous or authoritarian . Usually your viewpoint will be obvious from your discussion, so there is no need to conclude with statements such as: In conclusion, I think Hamlet is a great play. Allow your enthusiasm for the topic to show in how you discuss it. Make sure that you do not use the conclusion as an opportunity to engage in an over-generalised an unfocussed 'rant'.
• Be careful with tenses. In a conclusion, you will usually want to use the present perfect (e.g. The aim of this dissertation has been to....) followed by the simple past (Chapter 1 provided an overview of...).
• Be very careful about using the word "conclusion" anywhere other than the conclusion itself! This can mislead the reader. If you use the word conclusion several times in an essay, the reader will give up trying to work out where the conclusion really is.

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How to Write a Dissertation or Thesis Conclusion: Guide & Examples

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A dissertation conclusion serves as the final chapter and is often the last thing the reader will see. It should provide a concise summary of the research project, including the research questions or hypotheses, the methods used to conduct the research, and the key findings and conclusions. The conclusion section should also discuss the implications of the research, including its significance for the field and any practical applications of the findings.

Are you a PhD, doctorate, or bachelor student looking forward to writing your dissertation/thesis conclusion and don't know where to start? Stop worrying — help is here. Continue reading this blog post to gain an idea on how to write a conclusion for a thesis or dissertation. In this article, we will discuss what a dissertation conclusion is, its length, and what it should include. Our dissertation services  also provided examples, and explained some typical mistakes you have to avoid.

What Is a Dissertation Conclusion?

So, what is a thesis conclusion? It is a concluding chapter in a dissertation or thesis paper. It is the last section of an academic work, carefully written to summarize the information discussed in a document and offer readers insight into what the research has achieved. Your dissertation or thesis conclusion should be well-drafted as it is a reference point that people will remember most. The purpose of dissertation conclusion is to give those reading a sense of closure and reiterate any critical issues discussed. Each conclusion for dissertation should be concise, clear, and definitive. Also, its aim is to offer recommendations for further investigation as well as give readers an understanding of the dissertation discussion chapter .

Thesis or Dissertation Conclusion Length

The conclusion of a thesis or a dissertation is a long chapter — not one single sentence but a whole page or more. Generally, it should be 5–7% of the overall word count. The length of a thesis or dissertation conclusion chapter depends on several factors, such as your academic field, research topic , and stated number of pages. However, it can vary depending on other circumstances. Indeed, you should always refer to each set of your university guidelines for writing conclusions. It's important to note that this section ought not to introduce any new information and be a summary of the research findings. Also, every dissertation conclusion must not be too long as it can distract from other aspects of your thesis. Make sure that you provide a balanced summary and avoid repeating yourself. Lastly, it has to be long enough to discuss its implications for future studies.

What to Include in the Conclusion of a Dissertation or Thesis?

Writing a thesis conclusion can be challenging, but every student needs to understand how to create it, as this is one of the most critical parts of your Ph.D. work. Below is the list of things every dissertation conclusion structure should include:

• Summary of the major findings of your research Summarize the main points discussed in your work.
• Implications of your research Discuss your study's implications for future research and academic fields. Doing this here is essential to indicate an author's transparency and willingness to accept the flaws of their report.
• Recommendations for further study Provide suggestions for the next investigation if needed.
• Reviewing any limitations and weaknesses of the research process and findings It is an integral part of dissertation conclusions as it allows authors to reflect on the process.
• Evaluation or analysis of your findings Analyze your research findings and provide an assessment.
• Conclusion statement Provide a specific conclusion that summarizes your thesis or dissertation.

Hopefully, these tips on writing a conclusion chapter for your thesis or dissertation will help you finish your work confidently. All these components should be present when writing a conclusion for thesis or dissertation. Additionally, ensure that you do not repeat yourself. Lastly, keep your length appropriate and based on your university guidelines.

How to Write a Dissertation Conclusion Chapter?

When writing this chapter, you should ensure its content is clear and concise. Equipping yourself with some knowledge of how to write a conclusion for a dissertation or thesis is imperative, as it will help you keep your piece organized, logical, and interesting. This chapter is the last part of your work that your professors or readers will read, and it should make a lasting impression on them. Below is a step-by-step instruction on how to write a dissertation conclusion section.

1. Restate Your Research Question and Answer It

While writing a dissertation conclusion, your first step is to restate the research question offered in your dissertation introduction and reveal the answer. It is essential to do this in your conclusion in thesis or dissertation because it helps readers be aware of every primary point you were trying to achieve in writing. In addition, restating available research questions in your conclusion in a dissertation or thesis will also make people understand the significance of your inquiry. In other words, it should remind people of the original purpose of writing. Provide further insights into a topic when answering each research question. In addition, responses must be related to your dissertation results section and offer evidence for any conclusions you made in your study. When writing a dissertation conclusion chapter, you ought to be able to give a meaningful response to the study question that adds value to your work. Keeping replies short, concise, and clear will help you to avoid writing irrelevant content. Below is an example of how to start a dissertation conclusion:

In conclusion, this research has successfully answered the primary research question: how does gender discrimination impact job satisfaction in the workplace? The study determined that gender discrimination directly impacts job satisfaction and can make employees feel demoralized, undervalued, and frustrated. Furthermore, employers must create policies and initiatives promoting workplace inclusion and equality. It can help employees feel valued, respected, and satisfied.

2. Summarize Key Points

The next element in your conclusion section is summarizing the main points of your dissertation. In this section, students need to reflect on their study and mention critical findings and the methodology's effectiveness. Straightforwardly compose your summary and ensure you use your own words to write a conclusion in a dissertation. Avoid copying and pasting sentences from other parts of your work to evade plagiarism and repetition. In concluding a dissertation, each written summary should include findings, results, data, and additional relevant literature. The following is an example of how to summarize a dissertation:

The study aimed to research the effects of gender discrimination on job satisfaction in the workplace. A survey was conducted on 106 participants across different industries using qualitative and quantitative research methods, allowing data collection from employees. Findings revealed that gender discrimination has a direct impact and can lead to feeling demoralized, undervalued, and frustrated. On the other hand, the research found that inclusivity and equality initiatives can help employees feel better about their job roles. Therefore, it is essential that organizations take adequate steps to create a more inclusive and equitable workstation.

3. Explain Why Your Study Is Valuable

After summarizing your key points, the next step to writing a dissertation conclusion is to explain why your research was valuable. Here you should provide readers with an additional perspective of the study to better understand the importance of your study. When it's time to write a conclusion to a thesis paper or dissertation, you must explain what makes it worthwhile to any academic or scientific community. It can include topics such as answering a critical research question, using unique methods to explore an issue, or discovering something new about an existing topic. You should note that you have to provide further recommendations to help improve the research. Composing a dissertation conclusion shows how your work has impacted the field of study, either in progress or resolving an existing problem. It is essential to demonstrate how your study contributes to future studies and influences society or policymaking. Doing this is crucial in your dissertation conclusion chapter as it shows readers the importance of research in that field and validates what you have achieved throughout your investigation. Also, explaining some study implications to society will help people understand why this topic is valuable and relevant. Below you can find an example of how to write contributions in a dissertation conclusion:

The research discussed in this work demonstrates that gender discrimination directly impacts job satisfaction in the workplace. The results of this study have several implications for society, most notably for employers, to create policies and initiatives to promote workplace inclusion. In addition, it's valuable to organizations to help them make more equitable and inclusive offices, to academics to inform their research on diversity and inclusivity, and to policymakers to develop initiatives to reduce gender discrimination in places of work. The research provides valuable insight to inform future studies on this topic and serves to highlight the need to create policies to protect employees from gender discrimination better.

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4. Mention the Limitations of Your Study

When writing a thesis or dissertation conclusion, mentioning your study's limitations is imperative. It includes discussing any issues you encountered in collecting data, constraints that limited your research, and specific parameters. Citing these shortcomings can help provide insight into why certain elements may not be included in your work and explain any discrepancies your readers might have noticed and, hence, missing in your conclusion chapter. Additionally, writing about any drawbacks can deliver an opportunity to offer further suggestions for future studies and make recommendations on how best to address these uncovered issues. In concluding a dissertation, constraints should not be seen as unfavorable but rather as an additional chance to deliver more understanding of your investigation. Limitations in a thesis conclusion example can look as follows:

The study is subject to some limitations, such as small sample size and limited scope of data collection. Moreover, due to time constraints, this research did not address some potential implications of gender discrimination in other areas, such as pay, career development, and career advancement. Future studies could further explore these topics in more depth to gain a more comprehensive understanding of their effects on job satisfaction.

When writing about identified limitations of the research, you demonstrate to readers that you considered critical shortcomings and that you are aware of available potential issues. That will provide insight into addressing these limitations and help display your researching and writing credibility.

5. Offer Recommendations Based on Implications

Including recommendations is an integral part of writing every conclusion of a dissertation. In this section, you can provide insight into how to address any issues you have uncovered in your study and make suggestions for future research. When including recommendations, you should first give an overview of the implications of your research and then link it to how you may deal with them. A bachelor conclusion ought to consist of advice for students to guide their future writing. Offer insights for further investigation based on data results and analysis of literature review . Below is an example of how to write dissertation conclusion recommendations:

The research discussed in this study provides several implications for employers, academics, and policymakers. For employers, the results of this study suggest that they should create policies and initiatives to promote workplace inclusion and diversity. Academics can use these findings to inform their research on gender discrimination in the workplace, and policymakers can develop initiatives to reduce it. Furthermore, future studies should explore other potential implications of gender discrimination in the workplace, such as pay, career development, and career advancement. Doing so would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the issue and potential solutions.

6. Conclude Your Dissertation with a Summary

The end of conclusion final chapter will close with a summary of the study. Wrapping up your dissertation or thesis conclusions is an excellent way to leave long-lasting impressions on your readers and ensure they remember all critical points of your research. You should summarize key points from previous sections and how they contribute to your overall context. When writing the conclusion chapter of a dissertation, the summary should be brief but comprehensive. Moreover, these findings can offer an innovative perspective on how to conclude a thesis or a dissertation. It provides comprehensive insights into outcomes and their relevance in today's world. Here is how to wrap up a conclusion of a dissertation example:

Overall, the findings from this research suggest that gender discrimination in the workplace has adverse effects on job satisfaction. Such discrimination often takes the form of unequal pay, career development opportunities, and access to promotions. Employers should take action to create policies that promote workplace inclusion and diversity to address this problem. Additionally, academics and policymakers should further explore the implications of gender discrimination in the workplace and develop initiatives to reduce it. The research provides a valuable starting point for understanding this complex issue and offers insight into potential solutions.

Thesis & Dissertation Conclusion Examples

Before writing a thesis or dissertation conclusion, you are encouraged to check at least two examples. These instances can provide insights on effectively linking your key findings with possible implications for future studies. In addition, you may use these examples as guides to writing your dissertation conclusions. Attached below is a thesis conclusion example sample.

Thesis paper conclusion example

Dissertation conclusion example

Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Dissertation Conclusions

Mistakes are inevitable when writing conclusions in a dissertation, but you can avoid them through careful proofreading and editing. Including new information or data in your dissertation or thesis conclusion chapter is one such mistake. The chapter should only incorporate information or data already mentioned and discussed in other preceding body paragraphs. How not to write a dissertation conclusion can be seen in complex language, lengthy sentences, and confusing grammar. In addition, one should evade making unsubstantiated claims or generalizations not supported by research findings. Shun writing phrases or any argument considered jargon. Lastly, ensuring that the conclusion chapter in a dissertation answers the research question and that you have provided sufficient evidence to support your conclusions is essential. Therefore, we simply recommend that you review and proofread it before submission. Following these tips mentioned above and examples of dissertation or thesis conclusions should help you write effectively.

Dissertation/ Thesis Dissertation Conclusion Writing Checklist

Writing a conclusion to a thesis paper or dissertation can be daunting because there is a lot of pressure to ensure you wrap up all the key points and tie together any loose ends. Checklists are helpful guides. The reason is that they provide practical tips on how to write dissertation conclusions by breaking each writing process down into manageable steps. Below is a checklist of important things you should keep in mind and follow when writing any conclusion:

Final Thoughts on Dissertation Conclusion

The article discussed how to write the conclusion of a dissertation or thesis writing. It has outlined some critical steps and provided a checklist that you can use as a practical guide. Reasonable inferences require clear objectives, knowing the appropriate structure, addressing any limitations within your work, summarizing key points, providing recommendations for further research, and citing sources appropriately. Also, we offered some samples of how to write a thesis conclusion example. Following these steps will ensure that you conclude your dissertation or thesis writing successfully. Finally, proofread and edit your writing to provide high-quality outcome. All these tips will help you in writing a thesis or dissertation conclusion chapter that is effective and comprehensive.

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FAQ About How to Write a Conclusion to a Thesis or Dissertation

1. how to write a good thesis conclusion.

When writing every thesis conclusion, it's essential to focus on summarizing the key points, providing implications to that broader field, addressing any limitations, and making recommendations for further study. Additionally, it should be concise, clear, logical, and coherent. Finally, it's crucial to proofread and edit it to ensure its high quality.

2. How to start a dissertation conclusion?

Beginning each dissertation's concluding chapter is best done by restating the research question, as it provides the link between your introduction, research objectives, and conclusion. That allows an individual to transition smoothly into summarizing all main points from the discussion. For you to start a dissertation conclusion chapter effectively, it is essential to understand the purpose of writing it in the first place.

4. What is the difference between discussion and conclusion?

The difference between a discussion and a conclusion is in the depth of exploration. A discussion is a detailed assessment of the results, while a conclusion is shorter and more general. The discussion section will usually include a detailed analysis of the data collected, while the conclusion section will often provide an overview of the key points and implications. Additionally, this part will offer recommendations for further research.

3. Can I add new data in a conclusion of the dissertation?

No, including new data in the conclusion of a dissertation is not advisable. This section should summarize the research objectives, findings, and implications. Adding new data would not be appropriate as it may create confusion or inconsistency throughout your research. Conversely, it is prudent to summarize every content your work addresses.

5. How to end a thesis or a dissertation?

The end of a dissertation or a thesis should be memorable and end on a high note. One way to accomplish this is by including something unforgettable, such as a question, warning, or call to action. It will give every reader something to think about and engage in further discussion. 

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• checkbox There is a summary of the research objectives and findings.
• checkbox I have covered research implications for a broader field.
• checkbox I have offered study limitations and how to address them in future exploration.
• checkbox I have provided recommendations for further research and applications of the findings.
• checkbox I have made a summary of all main points from the discussion section.
• checkbox I have explained why I chose that particular field for examination.
• checkbox My main conclusions are stated.
• checkbox I have proofread and edited my work after completion.