conclusion of an essay in mla format

conclusion of an essay in mla format

The conclusion of an essay in MLA format, whether it’s 1000 words or any other length, serves as the final opportunity to restate your thesis, summarize your main points, and leave your readers with a lasting impression. Here’s how to write a conclusion for an MLA-formatted essay:

1. Restate the Thesis:

• Begin your conclusion by restating your thesis statement. Do not simply copy it verbatim from the introduction; instead, rephrase it to emphasize the main argument of your essay.

2. Summarize Your Main Points:

• Summarize the key points you made throughout your essay. Briefly revisit the main arguments or themes you discussed in the body of your essay. However, do not introduce new ideas or information in the conclusion.

3. Connect Back to the Introduction:

• Link your conclusion back to the introduction. You can do this by referencing a quote, anecdote, or idea that you introduced in the introduction. This creates a sense of closure and coherence in your essay.

4. Reflect on the Significance:

• Reflect on the broader significance of your essay’s topic or argument. Explain why your analysis matters or what larger implications it may have. Consider the “So what?” factor: why should your readers care about what you’ve discussed?

5. Avoid Introducing New Information:

• Ensure that you do not introduce new information or arguments in the conclusion. The conclusion is a place for summarization and reflection, not for presenting new ideas.

6. End with a Memorable Closing Statement:

• Conclude your essay with a strong, memorable statement that leaves a lasting impression on your readers. This could be a thought-provoking idea, a call to action, or a thought that ties everything together. Avoid clichés and aim for originality.

7. Maintain MLA Formatting:

• Ensure that your conclusion follows the same MLA formatting guidelines as the rest of your essay. Use 12-point Times New Roman font, double spacing, and maintain proper margins.

8. No New Citations:

• Avoid introducing new citations or references in the conclusion. If you need to reference a source, do so within the body of your essay.

Here’s a general example of an MLA-formatted essay conclusion:

In conclusion, the impact of technology on education is undeniable. It has democratized access to knowledge, enhanced the learning experience, and facilitated global connectivity. However, challenges such as the digital divide and distractions must be addressed. Looking forward, technology will continue to shape the future of education, with AI and virtual reality playing pivotal roles. As educators, policymakers, and society as a whole, it is our responsibility to harness the full potential of technology to provide accessible, high-quality education for all. The journey of integrating technology into education has just begun, and its possibilities are boundless.

Remember that the specific content of your conclusion will depend on the topic and content of your essay. Tailor it to the unique argument and insights you’ve presented in your 1000-word essay.