How should I construct my conclusions?

Conclusions are an often neglected aspect of student responses despite their importance in indicating judgemental ability and their usefulness for students wishing to access the higher mark bands.

Due to their importance, students should approach conclusions in a specific way.

Firstly, no new information should be introduced in the conclusion. This is an inefficient use of time and will gain no marks.

Secondly, conclusions should be a discussion. All the factors included in your answer should be balanced and then a judgement on the most convincing side of the argument should be achieved. This should be concise and focussed due to time restrictions.

Finally, conclusions should correspond, especially in higher level answers, with the judgement you stated in your introduction. A mismatched introduction and conclusion is an indication of a rushed essay lacking sustained judgement.