`
The pressure is on. You’ve crafted a compelling argument, presented your evidence, and meticulously built your case. Now, you face the final hurdle: the conclusion. But a nagging question lingers: Is it okay for a conclusion to be short? The answer, while not a simple yes or no, leans heavily towards “it depends.” A short conclusion can be incredibly effective, but only when executed correctly.
The Art of the Concise Conclusion
So, when *is* it okay for a conclusion to be short? The key lies in whether you’ve adequately addressed the core functions of a conclusion. A conclusion, regardless of length, must effectively summarize your main points, reiterate your thesis (perhaps in a slightly different way), and leave the reader with a lasting impression. If you can accomplish these goals succinctly, then a shorter conclusion is perfectly acceptable. In fact, in some cases, a lengthy, rambling conclusion can detract from the overall impact of your work. A well-crafted, short conclusion demonstrates confidence and mastery of your subject matter.
Consider these scenarios where a short conclusion might be appropriate:
- The argument is straightforward and easily understood.
- The paper is relatively short (e.g., a brief essay or blog post).
- The audience is familiar with the topic.
Conversely, there are times when a more detailed conclusion is necessary. For instance, if your argument is complex, multifaceted, or challenges conventional wisdom, you may need a longer conclusion to fully explain its implications and address potential counterarguments. The context of your writing – the target audience, the subject, and the goals of the writing – always influence the best length of conclusion.
A helpful exercise is to ask yourself these questions before deciding on the length of your conclusion:
- Have I clearly restated my thesis?
- Have I summarized my main points effectively?
- Have I left the reader with something to think about?
If you can answer “yes” to all of these questions concisely, then a short conclusion will likely suffice. If any of these areas feel lacking, consider expanding your conclusion to provide further clarification and reinforcement.
To dive deeper into writing effective conclusions, you should take a look at Purdue OWL’s resources. They offer excellent guidance and examples that can help you master the art of concluding any piece of writing!