How to Write a Conclusion of a Research Paper

Crafting a compelling conclusion for a research paper is a crucial skill that can elevate your academic writing. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to write a strong conclusion, ensuring your research leaves a lasting impact. We’ll explore key strategies, from restating your thesis to summarizing main points and discussing broader implications. 

Whether you’re a student, researcher, or professional, mastering the art of conclusion writing will enhance the overall quality of your work. By following these steps and examining real-world examples, you’ll learn to create conclusions that not only wrap up your research effectively but also inspire further thought and inquiry in your field of study. 

What is the conclusion of a research paper?

A conclusion in a research paper is the final section that synthesizes the study’s key findings and their significance. It serves as a concise recap of the research problem, main results, and their implications. 

A well-crafted conclusion goes beyond mere summary, offering insights into the broader impact of the study, acknowledging limitations, and suggesting future research directions. It provides closure to the paper while emphasizing the research’s contribution to the field. 

Essentially, the conclusion is the last opportunity for the author to reinforce the importance of their work and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Types of conclusions for research papers 

Research papers can employ different types of conclusions, each serving a specific purpose and leaving a distinct impression on the reader.

Three common types of conclusions are the summarized conclusion, editorial conclusion, and externalizing conclusion.

Summarized conclusion:

This type of conclusion provides a concise recap of the main points discussed in the paper. It restates the research question, summarizes key findings, and briefly touches on their significance. A summarized conclusion is straightforward and factual, focusing on reinforcing the paper’s core message. It’s particularly useful for scientific papers or studies with complex methodologies, as it helps readers grasp the essential outcomes without introducing new information.

Editorial conclusion:

An editorial conclusion allows the author to inject more personal insight and interpretation into the research findings. While still grounded in the study’s results, this approach permits the researcher to offer their own perspective on the implications of the work. The author might discuss potential applications of the findings, suggest policy changes, or highlight the broader impact on the field. This type of conclusion is common in social sciences and humanities, where subjective interpretation can add value to the research.

Externalizing conclusion:

The externalizing conclusion takes a broader view, connecting the research findings to larger issues or contexts beyond the immediate scope of the study. This approach might relate the results to current events, global trends, or overarching theories in the field. It aims to demonstrate the research’s relevance to a wider audience and can be particularly effective in interdisciplinary studies. An externalizing conclusion often poses thought-provoking questions or suggests areas for future research, encouraging readers to consider the broader implications of the work.

How to write a good conclusion of a research paper 

Writing a strong conclusion for a research paper is crucial to leave a lasting impression on your readers.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting an effective conclusion:

Step 1: Restate the problem

Begin your conclusion by revisiting the main research question or problem that your paper addressed. However, it’s important to avoid starting with cliché phrases like “in conclusion” or “to conclude.” These overused transitions can make your writing seem formulaic and unoriginal. Instead, dive directly into restating your research problem using fresh language. This reminds the reader of the purpose of your study and sets the stage for summarizing your findings. 

For example, rather than writing “In conclusion, this study examined the effects of social media on adolescent mental health,” you might say, “This research has shed light on the complex relationship between social media use and adolescent mental well-being.”

Step 2: Sum up your paper

After restating the problem, provide a concise summary of your paper’s main points and findings. This isn’t merely a repetition of your abstract or introduction, but rather a synthesis of the key results and arguments you’ve presented throughout your paper. Focus on the most significant outcomes and how they relate to your research question.

Be sure to highlight any unexpected results or particularly important discoveries. This summary should be brief but comprehensive, giving readers a clear understanding of what your research has accomplished without introducing new information.

Step 3: Discuss the implications

In this crucial step, explain the broader significance of your findings. Discuss how your research contributes to the existing body of knowledge in your field and what practical applications it might have. Consider addressing questions such as:

• How do your findings challenge or support existing theories?
• What real-world problems might your research help solve?
• How might your results influence policy, practice, or future research directions?

This is your opportunity to emphasize the value of your work and its potential impact. Be thoughtful and realistic in your claims, avoiding overstatement while still conveying the importance of your research.

Examples of a research paper conclusion

Examples of a good research paper conclusion are given:

1. Climate Change and Biodiversity (Summarized Conclusion):

This study examined the impact of climate change on biodiversity in tropical rainforests. Our findings reveal a significant decline in species richness correlated with rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns. We observed a 15% reduction in endemic species over the past decade, with amphibians and insects most affected. These results underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts tailored to climate-vulnerable species. While our research focused on a specific region, the methodologies developed here can be applied globally to assess and mitigate biodiversity loss in the face of climate change.

2. Social Media and Political Polarization (Editorial Conclusion):

Our research demonstrates a clear link between social media usage and increased political polarization. The echo chamber effect, amplified by algorithmic content curation, significantly contributes to the hardening of political views. However, the implications extend beyond mere partisan division. This polarization threatens the fabric of democratic discourse, potentially undermining societal cohesion. As researchers, we must advocate for increased digital literacy and push for transparency in social media algorithms. The future of healthy democratic engagement may well depend on our ability to navigate and reform our digital public squares.

3. Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare (Externalizing Conclusion):

This study’s findings on AI-assisted diagnostics in radiology point to a future where human expertise and machine learning synergize to improve patient outcomes. The 30% increase in early detection rates for certain cancers is promising, yet it raises important questions about the future of medical practice. As AI continues to advance, how will the role of healthcare professionals evolve? What ethical considerations must we address in the development and deployment of these technologies? Our research not only contributes to improved diagnostic techniques but also opens avenues for exploring the broader implications of AI in healthcare and beyond.

Frequently asked questions

How do you write a good conclusion?

Writing a good conclusion involves several key elements. First, it’s crucial to restate your main thesis or research question but do so using fresh language to avoid repetition. Then, summarize the main points of your paper, highlighting the most significant findings or arguments. It’s important to show how these points connect and support your overall thesis. A strong conclusion also discusses the broader implications of your research, explaining why your findings matter and how they contribute to the field. Finally, consider ending with a thought-provoking statement or question that encourages further reflection or research.

What is an example of a conclusion?

An example of a well-crafted conclusion: “This study has demonstrated the significant potential of regular meditation practice in reducing stress levels among college students. Our findings, showing a 30% decrease in cortisol levels and improved self-reported well-being scores, underscore the value of incorporating mindfulness techniques into campus health programs. While this research focused on a specific demographic, it opened up new avenues for exploring stress management strategies across various age groups and professions. As mental health continues to be a pressing concern in our fast-paced society, the integration of meditation practices could play a crucial role in fostering resilience and well-being.”