Research Paper Tips: Intros and Conclusions

Introductions

What can you do to “frame” your thesis?
• Timeliness of topic (e.g., relate to current event in world, your own lives)
• Define an abstract term in your thesis (e.g., tragedy, honor)
• Expand/explore a term from your thesis (e.g., why, who, how)
• Relevant anecdote

You want to logically transition into a comprehensive but clearly stated thesis.

What should follow your thesis statement to conclude introduction paragraph?
• Statement which foreshadows your conclusions in conclusion paragraph

Conclusions

Summary statement
• 1-2 sentences—what have you just proven?

Original, powerful conclusions that transcend text, paper, class
• How does your argument apply to us as a culture, society, nation, humanity?
• What lessons are to be learned?
• What are the benefits of heeding such advice?
• What are the consequences of ignorance?