If you are writing an essay and need a clear, formal way to signal that you are wrapping up your argument, ‘in conclusion’ is a direct and widely accepted phrase. It tells your reader that the final point is coming and that you are about to summarise your main ideas. However, using it correctly means understanding when it fits, when it sounds too stiff, and what alternatives can make your writing stronger. This guide explains exactly how to use ‘in conclusion’ in an essay, with practical examples, common mistakes, and better options for different contexts.
Quick Answer: When to Use ‘in conclusion’
Use ‘in conclusion’ at the start of your final paragraph in a formal essay, a research paper, or a structured report. It works best when you have presented a clear argument and need to restate your thesis and main points without introducing new information. Avoid using it in informal emails, creative writing, or short conversational pieces, where it can sound too heavy or repetitive.
What ‘in conclusion’ Actually Means
‘In conclusion’ is a linking phrase that signals the end of a discussion. It tells the reader that what follows is a summary or a final judgement based on the evidence you have already given. The phrase comes from formal writing traditions and is most common in academic essays, speeches, and official documents. Its tone is serious and authoritative, which makes it useful for situations where you need to show that your argument is complete.
In everyday conversation, people rarely say ‘in conclusion’ because it sounds too rehearsed. Instead, they might say ‘so’ or ‘anyway’ to wrap up. For email, the phrase can work in a formal business message but feels out of place in a quick note to a colleague. Understanding this nuance helps you choose the right phrase for the right situation.
How to Use ‘in conclusion’ in an Essay: Step by Step
1. Place it at the start of your conclusion paragraph
The most common position for ‘in conclusion’ is the first sentence of your final paragraph. It acts as a transition from your body paragraphs to your summary. Do not use it in the middle of a paragraph or after you have already started concluding.
Correct example:
In conclusion, the evidence shows that renewable energy is not only necessary but also economically viable for most countries.
Incorrect example:
The evidence shows that renewable energy is necessary. In conclusion, it is also economically viable. (Here, the phrase appears too late and breaks the flow.)
2. Follow it with a summary of your main points
After ‘in conclusion’, briefly restate the key arguments from your essay. Do not add new facts or examples. The conclusion is for wrapping up, not for introducing fresh material.
Example:
In conclusion, the study demonstrates three important findings: first, that exercise improves mental health; second, that consistent routines are more effective than occasional activity; and third, that social support plays a key role in long-term adherence.
3. End with a final thought or implication
After summarising, you can add a sentence that shows the broader importance of your argument. This gives your essay a strong finish.
Example:
In conclusion, the evidence clearly supports the need for stricter environmental regulations. Without such measures, future generations will face irreversible damage to natural ecosystems.
Formal vs. Informal Tone: Where ‘in conclusion’ Belongs
| Context | Appropriate? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Academic essay | Yes | Formal and expected in structured writing. |
| Business report | Yes | Works well in formal recommendations. |
| Speech or presentation | Yes | Clear signal to the audience that you are finishing. |
| Email to a boss | Sometimes | Use only if the email is very formal, like a proposal. |
| Email to a friend | No | Sounds unnatural and stiff. |
| Creative writing | No | Breaks the narrative flow. |
| Everyday conversation | No | Too formal; use ‘so’ or ‘anyway’ instead. |
Natural Examples of ‘in conclusion’ in Essays
Here are three examples that show how ‘in conclusion’ works naturally in different types of essays. Notice how each one summarises without introducing new ideas.
Example 1: Argumentative essay
In conclusion, the case for universal healthcare rests on both moral and economic grounds. Countries that have adopted such systems report better health outcomes and lower overall costs. Therefore, it is time for policymakers to consider this model seriously.
Example 2: Expository essay
In conclusion, the process of photosynthesis involves several key steps, including light absorption, energy conversion, and glucose production. Understanding these steps helps us appreciate how plants sustain life on Earth.
Example 3: Persuasive essay
In conclusion, adopting a four-day work week can improve employee well-being without reducing productivity. Companies that have tried this model report higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates. It is a change worth making.
Common Mistakes When Using ‘in conclusion’
Mistake 1: Using it in every essay
If you start every conclusion with ‘in conclusion’, your writing becomes predictable and boring. Use it occasionally, but vary your transitions. For more ideas, see our Linking Words by Purpose section.
Mistake 2: Adding new information after it
The conclusion is not the place for new arguments. If you write ‘In conclusion, we should also consider the cost of implementation’, you are introducing a new point, which confuses the reader.
Fix: Only summarise what you have already discussed.
Mistake 3: Using it in short or informal writing
In a short email or a quick note, ‘in conclusion’ feels exaggerated. Save it for longer, formal pieces.
Mistake 4: Repeating the same phrase multiple times
If your essay has several sections, do not use ‘in conclusion’ more than once. One final conclusion is enough.
Better Alternatives to ‘in conclusion’
Sometimes you want a different phrase to keep your writing fresh. Here are strong alternatives for formal essays, along with when to use each one.
- ‘To summarise’ – Use when you want to list your main points briefly. Example: To summarise, the experiment confirmed the hypothesis in three key areas.
- ‘In summary’ – Similar to ‘to summarise’, but slightly more formal. Example: In summary, the data supports the proposed changes.
- ‘Ultimately’ – Use to show the final result or most important point. Example: Ultimately, the success of the project depends on team collaboration.
- ‘All things considered’ – Use when you have weighed different sides of an argument. Example: All things considered, the benefits of the policy outweigh the drawbacks.
- ‘In the end’ – Slightly less formal, but still appropriate for essays. Example: In the end, the choice comes down to values rather than facts.
For a full list of options, visit our Transition Word Examples category.
When to Use ‘in conclusion’ (and When to Avoid It)
Use it when:
- You are writing a formal academic essay or research paper.
- You need a clear, strong signal that your argument is ending.
- Your essay is longer than 500 words and has multiple body paragraphs.
- You are giving a speech or presentation and want a clear closing.
Avoid it when:
- You are writing an email, even a formal one, unless it is a long proposal.
- You are writing a short paragraph or a blog post.
- You are writing creative fiction or a personal narrative.
- You have already used it in the same essay.
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Try these four questions to check if you can use ‘in conclusion’ correctly. Answers are below.
Question 1: Which sentence uses ‘in conclusion’ correctly?
a) In conclusion, the experiment showed that temperature affects reaction speed, and we also need to test pressure.
b) In conclusion, the experiment showed that temperature affects reaction speed, confirming our initial hypothesis.
Question 2: Should you use ‘in conclusion’ in an email to a colleague asking for a quick update?
a) Yes, it makes the email sound professional.
b) No, it is too formal for a short informal message.
Question 3: What is the best alternative to ‘in conclusion’ in a persuasive essay?
a) Anyway
b) Ultimately
c) So
Question 4: True or false: You can use ‘in conclusion’ at the start of any paragraph in your essay.
Answers:
1. b (Option a introduces a new point about pressure.)
2. b (It sounds too heavy for a quick update.)
3. b (‘Ultimately’ is formal and fits persuasive writing.)
4. False. Only use it at the start of your final conclusion paragraph.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ‘in conclusion’ in the middle of a paragraph?
No. ‘In conclusion’ should be the first phrase of your final paragraph. Using it in the middle confuses the reader about where the conclusion begins.
Is ‘in conclusion’ too old-fashioned?
It is formal, but not outdated. Many academic and professional writers still use it. However, using it too often can make your writing sound stiff. Mix in alternatives like ‘to summarise’ or ‘ultimately’.
Can I use ‘in conclusion’ in a speech?
Yes. It works well in speeches because it clearly signals to the audience that you are finishing. Just be sure to pause after saying it for effect.
What is the difference between ‘in conclusion’ and ‘to conclude’?
They are very similar and can often be used interchangeably. ‘To conclude’ is slightly more direct and active, while ‘in conclusion’ is a little more passive. Both are correct in formal writing.
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