Introduction
The “Summary of Key Points” section in the conclusion of an essay is a brief section. It highlights the main arguments or ideas presented in the body of the essay. It serves as a concise recap of the key points discussed throughout the essay, allowing the readers to quickly review the main arguments. This section aims to reinforce the main message of the essay and remind the readers of the primary supporting points. By summarizing the key points, the conclusion provides closure to the essay.
Strategies to Write a “Summary of Key Points” Section in the Conclusion of an Essay
Thesis Statement: “Through an exploration of Hamlet’s complex relationships with his mother, Gertrude, and his father figure, King Claudius, Shakespeare’s play Hamlet exemplifies the presence of the Oedipus Complex, revealing the protagonist’s internal struggles, desires, and conflicts with authority figures.”
| Dos | Don’ts |
| Be concise | Summarize Hamlet’s internal conflicts related to the Oedipus Complex in 2-3 sentences. |
| Prioritize main arguments | Highlight Hamlet’s subconscious desires for his mother and rivalry with his father figure, King Claudius. |
| Use parallel structure | Structure the summary with points, such as: |
| – Hamlet’s attraction to Gertrude, his mother. | |
| – Hamlet’s resentment and jealousy towards Claudius. | |
| Maintain coherence | Ensure the summary section flows logically, connecting the development and manifestation of the Oedipus Complex. |
| Reflect the essay’s structure | Summarize the key points discussed in each section or paragraph analyzing the Oedipus Complex in Hamlet. |
| Revisit the thesis statement | Reinforce the significance of the Oedipus Complex in Hamlet, supporting the central argument of the essay. |
Examples of “Summary of Key Points” Sections in Conclusion
| Topic | Summary of Key Points |
| Shakespeare’s play Macbeth: | Macbeth revolves around the destructive ambition that leads to the downfall and moral disintegration of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. The supernatural elements, such as the witches and prophecies, play a manipulative role in guiding Macbeth’s actions. Additionally, the theme of guilt prominently showcases the consequences of immoral choices throughout the play. |
| Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet: | Romeo and Juliet focuses on the intense theme of love portrayed through the impulsive actions of Romeo and Juliet. The feuding families, the Montagues and Capulets, act as a significant obstacle to the happiness of the young lovers. The use of dramatic irony enhances the emotional impact of the play and emphasizes the consequences of rash decisions driven by love and conflict. |
| Charles Dickens’ novel Great Expectations: | In Great Expectations, the thematic strand of social class serves as a lens to explore Victorian society’s impact on aspirations and relationships, particularly for the protagonist, Pip. The complex character development, with notable characters like Miss Havisham coupled with the narrative structure, characterized by twists and turns, adds depth to the themes of identity, morality, and redemption. |
These are just examples of writing a summary section. However, it must be kept in mind that the writing of the summary section entirely depends on the context and topic of each essay and it differs from student to student or writer to writer.
Suggested Readings
- Graff, Gerald, and Cathy Birkenstein. They Say / I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing. 4th ed., W.W. Norton & Company, 2018.
- Langan, John. College Writing Skills with Readings. 9th ed., McGraw-Hill Education, 2017.
- Ramage, John D. et al. The Allyn & Bacon Guide to Writing. 8th ed., Pearson, 2016.
- Strunk Jr., William, and E.B. White. The Elements of Style. 4th ed., Longman, 1999.
