How to Use ‘in conclusion’ in an Essay
If you are writing an essay and need a clear, direct way to signal that you are wrapping up your argument, “in conclusion” is a standard and effective choice. This phrase tells your reader that you are about to summarise your main points and restate your thesis. It works best in formal academic essays, research papers, and structured reports. However, it is not always the best fit for every situation. This guide explains exactly when and how to use “in conclusion,” when to avoid it, and what stronger alternatives you can choose.
Quick Answer: When Should You Use ‘in Conclusion’?
Use “in conclusion” at the start of your final paragraph in a formal essay. It signals that you are summarising your argument and leaving the reader with a final thought. Avoid using it in short emails, casual conversations, or creative writing, where it can sound stiff or repetitive.
What ‘in Conclusion’ Means and How It Works
The phrase “in conclusion” is a transition phrase that marks the end of a discussion. It tells the reader that what follows is a summary or a final judgement. In essay writing, it usually appears at the beginning of the concluding paragraph. Its main job is to create a clear structure so the reader knows the essay is finishing.
For example:
- “In conclusion, the evidence supports the idea that regular exercise improves mental health.”
- “In conclusion, the study shows that early intervention leads to better outcomes.”
Notice that after “in conclusion,” the writer gives a concise summary of the main point. This is the most common and correct use.
Formal vs. Informal Tone: Where ‘in Conclusion’ Belongs
“In conclusion” is a formal phrase. It fits well in academic essays, research papers, business reports, and formal speeches. In these contexts, it adds a sense of closure and professionalism.
However, in informal writing or everyday conversation, it can sound unnatural. For example, if you are writing a friendly email to a colleague, saying “In conclusion, let’s meet next week” feels too formal. In casual speech, people rarely say “in conclusion” unless they are joking or giving a presentation.
| Context | Appropriate? | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Academic essay | Yes | “In conclusion, the data confirms the hypothesis.” |
| Business report | Yes | “In conclusion, the company should invest in renewable energy.” |
| Formal speech | Yes | “In conclusion, I thank you all for your support.” |
| Friendly email | No | “In conclusion, see you on Friday.” (Too stiff) |
| Text message | No | “In conclusion, I’ll bring the snacks.” (Unnatural) |
| Creative writing | Rarely | “In conclusion, the hero saved the day.” (Disrupts flow) |
Natural Examples of ‘in Conclusion’ in Use
Here are five natural examples that show how “in conclusion” works in real writing. Each example is followed by a short explanation.
-
Example 1: “In conclusion, the experiment demonstrated that temperature affects reaction speed.”
Why it works: The writer summarises the key finding of the experiment. This is a typical academic use. -
Example 2: “In conclusion, the three main factors are cost, time, and quality.”
Why it works: The writer lists the main points from the essay. This helps the reader remember the argument. -
Example 3: “In conclusion, while the policy has benefits, it also has significant drawbacks.”
Why it works: The writer presents a balanced final view. This shows critical thinking. -
Example 4: “In conclusion, the evidence strongly supports the need for stricter regulations.”
Why it works: The writer states a clear position based on the evidence presented earlier. -
Example 5: “In conclusion, this research highlights the importance of early education.”
Why it works: The writer emphasises the broader significance of the topic.
Common Mistakes When Using ‘in Conclusion’
Even experienced writers make mistakes with this phrase. Here are the most common errors and how to fix them.
Mistake 1: Using ‘in Conclusion’ in Every Paragraph
Some learners think “in conclusion” can be used anywhere. It should only appear once, at the very end of your essay. Using it earlier confuses the reader.
Wrong: “In conclusion, the first point is important. In conclusion, the second point is also important.”
Right: Use “firstly” or “secondly” for body paragraphs. Save “in conclusion” for the final paragraph.
Mistake 2: Adding New Information After ‘in Conclusion’
The conclusion is for summarising, not introducing new ideas. If you add a new point, the reader will feel the essay is incomplete.
Wrong: “In conclusion, the study was successful. Also, we should consider a new experiment next year.”
Right: “In conclusion, the study was successful. Future research could build on these findings.” (This is acceptable because it suggests a direction without introducing a new argument.)
Mistake 3: Overusing ‘in Conclusion’ in Short Writing
If your essay is only one or two paragraphs, you do not need “in conclusion.” It sounds unnecessary and forced.
Wrong: A one-paragraph email ending with “In conclusion, thank you for your time.”
Right: Simply say “Thank you for your time.”
Mistake 4: Using ‘in Conclusion’ in the Middle of a Paragraph
“In conclusion” should start a new paragraph. Placing it in the middle of a paragraph breaks the flow.
Wrong: “The results were clear. In conclusion, the hypothesis was correct. Therefore, we recommend further study.”
Right: Start a new paragraph with “In conclusion, the hypothesis was correct.”
Better Alternatives to ‘in Conclusion’
Sometimes “in conclusion” feels overused or too predictable. Here are stronger alternatives that can make your writing more varied and engaging. Each alternative has a slightly different nuance.
| Alternative Phrase | When to Use It | Example |
|---|---|---|
| To sum up | Formal or semi-formal writing; slightly less stiff than “in conclusion” | “To sum up, the project achieved its main goals.” |
| In summary | Very similar to “in conclusion”; good for reports and essays | “In summary, the data shows a clear trend.” |
| Ultimately | Emphasises the final result or most important point | “Ultimately, the decision rests with the board.” |
| All things considered | Shows you have weighed different factors | “All things considered, the plan is worth pursuing.” |
| On the whole | Gives a general final judgement | “On the whole, the event was a success.” |
| In the end | Slightly informal; good for narratives or personal essays | “In the end, the team learned a valuable lesson.” |
| To conclude | Direct and formal; a good synonym for “in conclusion” | “To conclude, the evidence is overwhelming.” |
Choosing the right alternative depends on your tone and purpose. For a formal academic essay, “to sum up” or “in summary” work well. For a more reflective piece, “ultimately” or “in the end” can feel more natural.
When to Use ‘in Conclusion’ (and When to Skip It)
Use “in conclusion” when:
- You are writing a formal essay or research paper.
- You need a clear signal that the essay is ending.
- Your essay has multiple paragraphs and a distinct conclusion section.
Skip “in conclusion” when:
- Your writing is short (one or two paragraphs).
- You are writing an email, text, or casual note.
- You are telling a story or writing creatively.
- You have already used it in a previous essay (to avoid repetition).
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Try these four questions to check if you can use “in conclusion” correctly. Answers are below.
-
Which sentence uses “in conclusion” correctly?
A) “In conclusion, the first reason is cost.”
B) “In conclusion, the essay has shown that cost is the main factor.” -
Should you use “in conclusion” in a text message to a friend?
A) Yes, it sounds polite.
B) No, it is too formal. -
What is wrong with this sentence? “In conclusion, the experiment worked. Also, we should try a new method.”
A) Nothing is wrong.
B) It introduces a new idea in the conclusion. -
Which alternative is best for a formal essay?
A) “Anyway”
B) “To sum up”
Answers:
- B – The conclusion should summarise the main point, not introduce a new reason.
- B – “In conclusion” is too formal for a casual text.
- B – The sentence adds a new idea (“try a new method”), which does not belong in a conclusion.
- B – “To sum up” is a formal alternative. “Anyway” is too casual.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ‘in conclusion’ in the middle of an essay?
No. “In conclusion” should only appear at the beginning of your final paragraph. Using it earlier will confuse your reader about where your argument ends.
2. Is ‘in conclusion’ the same as ‘in summary’?
They are very similar, but “in summary” often focuses on listing key points, while “in conclusion” can also include a final judgement or call to action. In most cases, you can use them interchangeably.
3. Can I use ‘in conclusion’ in a speech?
Yes, especially in formal speeches or presentations. It signals to the audience that you are finishing. For example, “In conclusion, I would like to thank everyone for their hard work.”
4. What should I write after ‘in conclusion’?
Write a concise summary of your main argument or findings. You can also restate your thesis in different words. Avoid introducing new evidence or examples.
Final Thoughts
“In conclusion” is a useful tool for formal essay writing, but it is not the only option. Knowing when to use it and when to choose an alternative will make your writing clearer and more natural. Practice by writing a short conclusion for a topic you know well, and try using different phrases to see which feels best. For more help with essay structure, explore our Essay Starters section. If you have questions about other linking words, visit our Linking Words by Purpose page. For common errors to avoid, check our Common Writing Mistakes guide. And if you need more examples of transition phrases, see our Transition Word Examples. For any other questions, feel free to contact us.
