ELA 30-1 Diploma Prep: How to Write an Excellent Conclusion (Step-by-Step)
- Heather Adam
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
If you’re preparing for the Alberta English Diploma, it's important that you learn how to master every part of writing an essay, including your conclusion paragraph. In fact, your final paragraph can help make the difference between a proficient and an excellent essay.
Most students either repeat their ideas word for word or end their essays too abruptly (leading to lower scores). In this guide, I’ll show you how to avoid these mistakes and write an excellent conclusion paragraph.
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What Does an Excellent Conclusion Look Like?
A great conclusion paragraph does more than just restate your thesis, it demonstrates depth, clarity, and insight.
Strong conclusions:
Revisit the main ideas that you explored in each body paragraph (without repeating word-for-word)
Restate the thesis in a more sophisticated way
Extend the discussion to a broader idea or real-world connection
Excellent Conclusion Example
Prompt: Discuss the ideas developed in Macbeth by William Shakespeare about the consequences of power in an individual’s life.
Through contrasting Macbeth’s character at the beginning of the play with the man he becomes by the end, it becomes evident that power comes at a great price. In his pursuit of the throne, Macbeth’s ambition drives him to betray those he once held dear—Duncan, Banquo, and ultimately himself—as he forsakes his ties with others, and his own moral compass, to cling to the throne. It is clear that loyalty and morality are paramount to a ruler’s success; yet, when one individual gains power over others, these essential characteristics are often lost, leading to unspeakable acts. Although this play was written centuries ago, its themes remain strikingly relevant today. Macbeth stands as a timeless warning of the horrors that arise from unchecked power, reminding modern readers of the importance of advocating for accountability among those in positions of power.
Why This Conclusion Works
Let’s break down what makes this strong:
1. It Reviews the Main Ideas
It revisits the main ideas of my three body paragraphs in a concise way. Here, I have outlined Macbeth's journey as a character, including:
Macbeth’s transformation
The cost of ambition
Loss of morality
In this way, I am showing the marker that I understand the big picture of the play.
2. It Restates the Thesis
The thesis is not copied—it’s reworked to reflect the ideas I have discussed in my body paragraphs.
Here's my original thesis:
Through analyzing Macbeth’s tragic trajectory from an honourable soldier to a corrupt king, it is clear that when one attains power it results in the loss of one’s morality and loyalty.
Here's my new one:
It is clear that loyalty and morality are paramount to a ruler’s success; yet, when one individual gains power over others, these essential characteristics are often lost, leading to unspeakable acts.
This signals higher-level thinking.
3. It “Reaches Out” to the Real World
The final sentences connect the play to modern society.
This is what pushes writing to an excellent standard.
Insight
Relevance
Maturity
How to Write Your Own Excellent Conclusion (Simple Formula)
Use this structure every time:
1. Review the main ideas of your body paragraphs→ important plot points/events
2. Restate your thesis in a deeper way→ Avoid copying—add insight
3. End with a broader connection→ Why does this idea still matter today?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Repeating your introduction word-for-word
Adding completely new ideas
Ending abruptly without a final insight
Being too vague (“This is important in life”)
Want More Support With Your Writing?
Having clear examples and structured guidance can make all the difference when you're trying to improve your essay writing.
My Essay Handbook breaks down exactly how to write strong thesis statements, body paragraphs, and conclusions—using simple strategies and real examples you can apply right away.
It’s designed specifically for students preparing for diploma-style writing, so you can feel confident every time you sit down to write.
Ready to Take Your Writing Further With Personalized Feedback?
If you’re working toward an excellent writing standard and want personalized feedback on your writing, I offer 1:1 tutoring sessions focused on:
Diploma-style essays
Thesis and analysis improvement
Real examples and practice feedback
Click below to book a session with me!
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