The conclusion of a law essay serves as a crucial component, providing a final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your reader. It is your chance to succinctly summarise the key points, reinforce your thesis, and leave your audience with a sense of closure. Here is a guide on how to write a compelling conclusion for your law essay:
Summarise key arguments: Begin your conclusion by summarising the main arguments presented in your essay. Remind your reader of the key points that support your thesis statement. Be concise but ensure that you cover the critical aspects of your analysis.
Restate the thesis: Reinforce the main thesis of your essay. However, avoid mere repetition. Instead, consider rephrasing your thesis to emphasise its significance in light of the evidence and arguments you've presented throughout the essay. This demonstrates a nuanced understanding of your topic.
Address counterarguments (if applicable): If your essay delves into counterarguments, the conclusion is an apt place to address them. Briefly acknowledge opposing viewpoints and reassert why your position is more compelling or supported by stronger evidence.
Highlight legal implications: Emphasise the legal implications of your arguments. Discuss how your analysis contributes to the broader legal context or its potential impact on existing laws, policies, or future legal developments. This adds depth to your conclusion and showcases a broader understanding of the subject matter.
Provide a resolution (if applicable): Some law essays involve presenting a problem or a legal question. If this is the case, your conclusion can offer a resolution or propose potential avenues for further research and analysis. This demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to the legal issues discussed.
Connect with the introduction: Establish a connection with the introduction. This can be done by revisiting a theme, quote, or anecdote introduced at the beginning. Creating a sense of circularity reinforces the coherence of your essay and provides a satisfying conclusion for the reader.
Avoid introducing new information: The conclusion is not the place to introduce new arguments, evidence, or information. Keep your focus on summarising and synthesising the existing content. Introducing new elements can confuse your reader and dilute the impact of your concluding remarks.
End with a strong closing statement: Conclude your essay with a powerful and memorable closing statement. This might involve reiterating the broader significance of your findings, issuing a call to action, or leaving the reader with a thought-provoking question related to the legal topic.
Revise and edit: Once you have drafted your conclusion, take the time to revise and edit. Ensure clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Check that your conclusion aligns with the overall tone and argumentative style of your essay.
Remember, an effective conclusion not only summarises your essay but also leaves a lasting impression. It should leave your reader with a sense of resolution and a clear understanding of the importance of your legal analysis.
