What should a writer include in a concluding sentence to reinforce their argument or summary?

What should a writer include in a concluding sentence to reinforce their argument or summary?

• A. A restatement of the main idea with no takeaway.
• B. A new topic that shifts focus.
• C. A quotation that does not connect to the main idea.
• D. A restatement of the claim or central idea and a brief takeaway or next steps.

Answer: (D)

Concluding sentences are about closing strong by reinforcing the main point and leaving the reader with something to carry forward. The best choice restates the central idea and adds a brief takeaway or next steps. That combination reminds the reader what the argument was about and shows why it matters, giving a sense of closure and a cue for what to do or think next. Restating the main idea with no takeaway can feel flat and predictable, like you’re simply repeating yourself without guiding the reader further. Introducing a new topic in the conclusion breaks the focus and makes the piece feel disjointed. A quotation that doesn’t connect to the main idea can seem forced and won’t support the argument as well as a closing sentence that ties back to the writer’s claim and offers a final thought.

Concluding sentences are about closing strong by reinforcing the main point and leaving the reader with something to carry forward. The best choice restates the central idea and adds a brief takeaway or next steps. That combination reminds the reader what the argument was about and shows why it matters, giving a sense of closure and a cue for what to do or think next. Restating the main idea with no takeaway can feel flat and predictable, like you’re simply repeating yourself without guiding the reader further. Introducing a new topic in the conclusion breaks the focus and makes the piece feel disjointed. A quotation that doesn’t connect to the main idea can seem forced and won’t support the argument as well as a closing sentence that ties back to the writer’s claim and offers a final thought.