How to Write an Essay for Dummies: Why Not Start Your Essay with the Conclusion?

Writing an essay can sometimes feel like climbing Mount Everest; it is intimidating and requires careful planning and execution. However, just as with any daunting task, breaking it down into manageable steps can make it less overwhelming. One of these steps that often gets overlooked is starting your essay with the conclusion. At first glance, this might seem counterintuitive or even nonsensical, but there are several reasons why beginning with the conclusion can actually be beneficial in the essay writing process.

Why Start with the Conclusion?

Starting your essay with the conclusion has several advantages. Firstly, it helps you to establish a clear thesis statement at the beginning. A strong thesis statement is the backbone of your essay, guiding the reader through your argument. By placing the thesis at the start, you immediately inform your audience what you intend to prove or discuss. This upfront declaration can help you maintain focus and ensure that all subsequent paragraphs contribute meaningfully to the overall argument.

Secondly, starting with the conclusion allows you to outline the main points of your essay before delving into them. It gives you a roadmap for structuring your paper. As you lay out your argument in the conclusion, you will naturally identify the key points that support your thesis. This pre-planning can prevent you from veering off topic or forgetting crucial aspects of your argument later on.

Additionally, beginning with the conclusion can also enhance your writing flow. When you know where you want to end up, it becomes easier to articulate your ideas along the way. The conclusion acts as a summary of your entire essay, allowing you to revisit and reinforce your main arguments without having to restate them. This repetition can help solidify your position and make your essay more persuasive.

Lastly, starting with the conclusion can improve your overall coherence. If you begin with the conclusion, your introduction will naturally lead into your body paragraphs, creating a seamless transition. This flow is essential for maintaining reader engagement throughout your essay. A well-structured conclusion also serves as a bridge between the introduction and the body, ensuring that your essay forms a cohesive whole.

How to Write an Essay with a Conclusion at the Beginning

Now that we understand the benefits of starting with the conclusion, let’s explore how to structure an essay effectively when this approach is taken. Here are some tips to guide you through the process:

1. Thesis Statement: Begin with a strong thesis statement that clearly outlines your main argument. Make sure it is concise and compelling, providing a clear direction for your essay.

2. Outline the Argument: Next, list the main points that support your thesis. These should form the body paragraphs of your essay. Ensure each point flows logically from the previous one, contributing to the overall strength of your argument.

3. Revisit the Conclusion: After outlining your argument, revisit the conclusion to summarize your main points. This step reinforces your thesis and ensures that all aspects of your argument are covered.

4. Introduction: Write an engaging introduction that sets the stage for your essay. Briefly introduce your topic and thesis statement, then transition smoothly into the body paragraphs.

5. Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a single point that supports your thesis. Use evidence and examples to strengthen your argument and provide depth to your discussion.

6. Conclusion: Finally, return to the conclusion to reiterate your main arguments. Summarize your findings and emphasize their significance. This repetition helps to drive home your point and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

By following these steps, you can create a well-organized and persuasive essay that begins with the conclusion. Remember, the goal is not to reinvent the wheel but to leverage the strengths of this unconventional approach to enhance your writing skills.

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Questions and Answers

Q: Can I still use the traditional introduction-body-conclusion format if I decide to start with the conclusion? A:** Yes, absolutely! Starting with the conclusion does not mean you cannot use the traditional format. Many writers find it effective to alternate between different structures depending on their personal preference and the specific needs of their essay. What matters most is that your essay remains coherent and well-structured.

Q: How do I ensure my essay stays focused when I start with the conclusion? A:** To keep your essay focused, make sure your thesis statement is clear and specific. Outline your main points beforehand and stick to them within each body paragraph. This pre-planning helps ensure that your arguments remain relevant and aligned with your thesis.

Q: Is it possible to change the conclusion to fit the traditional format if I realize it doesn’t work? A:** Absolutely. If you find that starting with the conclusion isn’t working for you, don’t hesitate to adjust your approach. The key is to maintain clarity and coherence in your writing. Experiment with different structures until you find what works best for your essay.

Q: How long should an essay be if I start with the conclusion? A:** The length of your essay depends on the assignment requirements. Typically, essays range from 500 to 1500 words, so you can aim for a similar length regardless of your chosen structure. Just make sure to include all necessary information and arguments to fully develop your thesis.