Writing Common Mistake: Weak Conclusions

A well-structured conclusion is an essential component of a high-scoring IELTS essay. Unfortunately, many candidates neglect this part of their writing, either by:

• Writing a conclusion that is too brief or vague.
• Repeating the introduction verbatim without adding any value.
• Omitting the conclusion altogether due to time constraints.

Weak conclusions can leave your essay feeling incomplete, which negatively impacts your score in Task Achievement/Task Response and Coherence and Cohesion. The conclusion should effectively summarise your main points and reinforce your stance on the question.

How to Avoid This Mistake

To write strong conclusions, follow these guidelines:

a. Summarise Your Main Points
Restate the key arguments or ideas from your essay in a concise manner. Avoid introducing new information or examples in the conclusion.

Example:
If your essay discusses the pros and cons of online learning, your conclusion might summarise both sides and reaffirm your opinion.

b. Provide a Clear Opinion (if required)
For opinion-based essays, reinforce your stance clearly in the conclusion. This helps the examiner understand your position without ambiguity.

Example:
Therefore, while online learning offers flexibility and accessibility, I believe that traditional classrooms provide a more comprehensive educational experience.

c. Use Linking Phrases to Signal the Conclusion
Start your conclusion with phrases like:

• In conclusion
• To summarise
• All in all
• Ultimately

These phrases help signal to the examiner that you are wrapping up your argument.

d. Keep It Concise
Your conclusion should be 2-3 sentences long. Avoid unnecessary repetition or over-explaining points already covered in the body paragraphs.

Examples of This Mistake and How to Fix It

Poor Example (No Conclusion)
Body Paragraph 2 ends the essay without a conclusion:
Online learning may have its limitations, but it is an essential tool in modern education.
Problem: The essay lacks a proper conclusion, leaving the argument incomplete.

Poor Example (Repetitive Conclusion)
In conclusion, online learning is important. Traditional classrooms are also important. Both have benefits and drawbacks.
Problem: This conclusion repeats the introduction and fails to provide a clear summary or opinion.

Improved Example
In conclusion, while online learning provides flexibility and convenience, it cannot fully replace the interactive and social aspects of traditional classrooms. Both methods have their strengths, and a blended approach may offer the best educational outcomes.

Why It Works: This conclusion summarises the main points, provides a balanced view, and leaves a lasting impression.

Poor Example (Introducing New Ideas)
In conclusion, online learning is effective. Additionally, governments should provide funding to improve digital infrastructure.

Problem: The mention of government funding introduces a new point that was not discussed in the body paragraphs.

Improved Example
In conclusion, online learning has revolutionised education by increasing accessibility, but it also presents challenges such as reduced face-to-face interaction. A balanced approach that combines both methods is likely to be the most effective way forward.

Why It Works: This version stays focused on summarising the key arguments without introducing new information.

See other common mistakes in IELTS writing

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