Final answer:
An effective essay conclusion restates the thesis, summarizes main points, and leaves something to ponder, avoiding new facts or ideas. It reinforces the argument's significance and encourages further reflection.
Step-by-step explanation:
An effective conclusion for an essay should include a few key elements to provide a sense of closure and emphasis on the significance of the argument. Firstly, it should begin by restating the thesis statement in a way that reminds the reader of the main argument without simply repeating it verbatim. Secondly, the conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay, highlighting how they supported the thesis statement. Lastly, an excellent conclusion will provide the reader with something to ponder, which can be achieved by suggesting the broader implications or consequences of the argument, presenting a bold statement, or invoking a vivid image that underscores the essay's themes.
It's important to avoid introducing completely new facts or ideas that weren't discussed in the body of the essay. The conclusion is not the place for new evidence but rather for reflecting on what has already been presented. Phrases like "In conclusion" or "In summary" can signal the end of the essay, but it's the content that follows these phrases that carry the weight of a strong conclusion.
To ensure that the essay remains cohesive, it's crucial that these elements are interwoven with the rest of the argument presented throughout the essay. The significance of the argument should shine through, providing the reader with a compelling reason to reflect on the essay's content even after finishing the read.