Finish Strong — Without Repeating Yourself
Meta Description:
IELTS Writing Task 2 conclusions shouldn’t sound robotic. Learn how to write natural, Band 7+ conclusions that reframe your opinion and leave the examiner impressed — without using templates.
Key Insight
A Band 7+ conclusion doesn’t repeat — it completes the essay.
“In conclusion, I think this essay is good” = Band 6.
Clear, natural, reframed thinking = Band 7+.
Teaching Points
❌ Why Most Students Lose Marks in the Conclusion
- Memorised language: “Every coin has two sides…”
- Empty statements: “This is a very important topic in today’s world.”
- New ideas: Don’t introduce something you didn’t already discuss
- Direct repetition: Don’t copy your thesis word-for-word
✅ What a Band 7+ Conclusion Does
- Restates your opinion or summary using fresh language
- Adds a final insight, consequence, or reflection
- Closes the argument clearly, without sounding rehearsed
🎯 2-Part Conclusion Format (Use Every Time)
1. Reframe Your Opinion or Summary
Use new words to say the same core point again, more naturally.
“Overall, banning cars from city centres may be unpopular, but it offers long-term benefits to health and the environment.”
2. Add a Final Insight, Consequence, or Reflection
End with something that gives weight or context:
- Implication: “…this could lead to lasting changes in urban planning.”
- Recommendation: “…governments should introduce this gradually.”
- Prediction: “…this trend is likely to increase in coming years.”
- Call to reflection: “…we must consider what kind of future we want to build.”
✍️ Example Conclusion (Band 7+)
Essay Topic: Should university be free?
“In summary, while free university education may present financial challenges for governments, it offers long-term social and economic benefits. For this reason, investing in accessible higher education is a step toward a more equitable society.”
✔ Reframed opinion
✔ Final reflection
✔ No templates, no new ideas, no repetition
🧠 Exercise 1: Fix These Weak Conclusions
Instructions: Rewrite each poor conclusion using the 2-part format.
Weak 1:
“In conclusion, I agree with the essay and I think this is a good idea.”
Your Rewrite:
→
Weak 2:
“In conclusion, technology is good but sometimes bad, and we should use it carefully.”
Your Rewrite:
→
Weak 3:
“In conclusion, there are many advantages and disadvantages and people should decide for themselves.”
Your Rewrite:
→
✍️ Exercise 2: Write Fresh Conclusions for These Essays
Essay A:
Some people believe students should take a gap year before university. Others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Write a 2-part conclusion:
- Rephrase your position
- Add a final insight or consequence
→
Essay B:
Public transport should be free. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Write a 2-part conclusion:
- Restate your position in new words
- Add a final comment or reflection
→
✅ Final Checklist: Strong Conclusions
Before you submit your essay, check your conclusion:
| Question | Yes/No |
|---|---|
| Did I restate my main point without repeating? | ☐ |
| Did I avoid new ideas or vague generalities? | ☐ |
| Did I write a final sentence that adds insight? | ☐ |
| Does it complete the essay, not just end it? | ☐ |
🎁 Download: Conclusion Writing Toolkit
Includes:
- 10 model Band 7+ conclusions
- “Phrase swap” list to reword your thesis
- Reflection and insight sentence starters
- Practice prompts + answer key
TotallyFreeIELTS 