Writing a conclusion for a research paper can be a challenge for many authors. This is partly because they are often overtired during one of the final stages of the writing process, and partly because the variety of approaches to writing conclusions can be confusing and overwhelming. 

Writing a conclusion, while much more than a simple inversion of the introduction, is not overly complicated, and you can end your paper in style if you follow some general guidelines. 

Below are some tips based on a guide from the Harvard College Writing Center that can help you finish your paper on a strong note. 

• What to include in your conclusion
• Start with the “what”
• Focus on the “so what”
• Leave your readers asking, “Now what?”
• Things to avoid in your conclusion

What to include in your conclusion

What you write in your conclusion depends on the norms and expectations of your field. For example, in a science paper, your conclusion might include suggestions for future research, while in a literature paper, you might highlight a key quote from your text that takes on new meaning after your discussion. It is important that you check what is expected in your discipline.

Start with the “what” 

In your conclusion, you first remind your readers of your main idea or thesis. This brings them back to the core focus of your work and reinforces what you wanted to investigate or prove. It serves as a reminder of where you started and guides them through the journey you’ve taken in your argument or analysis.  

Example:

This study examined the relationship between increasing atmospheric CO₂ levels and ocean acidification. Our findings indicate that the rise in carbon emissions has led to a significant decline in seawater pH, which in turn affects marine ecosystems, particularly those that rely on calcium carbonate, such as coral reefs and shellfish.

Focus on the “so what” 

At the beginning of your paper, you explain to your readers why your argument is important—what’s at stake or why they should care about your findings. In your conclusion, you can revisit these points by reminding readers of the significance of your argument. You can also add a few sentences that expand on its relevance in a new or broader context. 

Example:

The ongoing acidification of the oceans threatens marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of millions who depend on coastal ecosystems for food and income. If left unchecked, this phenomenon could lead to the collapse of vital marine industries, such as fishing and tourism, while exacerbating the global food security crisis. Our findings highlight the urgency of addressing CO₂ emissions and mitigating their effects on marine life.

See also: Tips for writing an effective introduction in scientific papers

Leave your readers asking, “Now what?”

After you have addressed the “what” and the “so what,” you should offer your readers some final thoughts. If your introduction is effective, they have already understood what your argument is about and why it’s important. If you’ve made a convincing case for your thesis, your readers should be able to see things differently, ask new questions, or be prepared for ideas they hadn’t thought of before reading your paper. 

To identify the “Now what?” for your paper’s conclusion, ask yourself these questions:

✅ What new insights, perspectives, or challenges can my readers now discover that they would not have grasped in the same way before reading my article? Have we come closer to understanding a larger issue or have we realised the significance of what was at stake?

✅ What new questions can I raise that would not have made sense before reading the article? Are there areas for further research or alternative approaches to this topic?

✅ Can my research be applied in other ways? Could my questions be asked with different data in a different context? Could my methods be used for a different research question?

✅ What action should be taken based on this argument? What actions are likely to be taken or could lead to a solution? 

✅ How might my argument fit into a broader context?

Example: 

Future research should focus on exploring adaptive strategies for marine species that are particularly vulnerable to acidification. Additionally, understanding the long-term economic impacts of ocean acidification on global fisheries will be crucial. Policymakers must prioritise global agreements to reduce carbon emissions and invest in sustainable practices to protect marine ecosystems. Addressing this issue is not just a matter of environmental health—it is essential for safeguarding the global economy and food security for future generations.

Things to avoid in your conclusion

When you write your conclusion, you should avoid a few things. First, you shouldn’t simply repeat everything you’ve already said in your paper—your conclusion should provide closure and insight rather than repetition. 

Also, avoid making a major counterargument that you don’t have space to address, as counterarguments should be inserted earlier in your paper. You should also resist the urge to apologise for what you haven’t covered; if you need to clarify the scope of your research, do so earlier without framing it as an apology. 

Finally, stay away from empty transitions like “In conclusion” if they don’t lead to meaningful final thoughts. A weak transition followed by a general statement like “In conclusion, I have now demonstrated that my thesis is correct” does not enhance your closing remarks. Instead, focus on formulating a conclusion that leaves a lasting impression on your readers.  

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