Conclusion

What a Conclusion Must Do

1. Directly answer the Research Question

This is the single most important element.

A high scoring conclusion does not:

• repeat the question

• hint at the answer

• summarise the essay

• It clearly states the answer in one or two precise sentences.

Example:

Overall, the evidence shows that…

The research demonstrates that…

2. Justify your answer using the strongest evidence

Briefly show why your answer is well supported.

This is not new analysis.

You simply bring together the key insights that make your answer convincing.

Examples:

This conclusion is supported by the consistency of…

The most compelling evidence is provided by…

3. Acknowledge limitations

Every investigation has limits.

You may consider:

• sample size

• case study narrowness

• lack of available data

• methodological constraints

• theoretical limits

This shows maturity and earns marks in Criterion D.

But do not apologise for your research.

You acknowledge limits without undermining your work.

Example:

Although the investigation is limited by…, the evidence is still sufficient to…

4. Explain the significance of your findings

This is a requirement in the 2027 guide.

Significance might include:

• contribution to understanding a text

• implications for a theory

• relevance to a real world issue

• insight into a cultural, political or scientific question

Example:

These findings contribute to a broader understanding of…

5. Avoid all new evidence

If it was not analysed earlier in the essay, it cannot appear in the conclusion.

No new quotations, no new data, no new examples.