Introductions and Conclusions
An introduction sets up the topic. A conclusion wraps up the main idea without bringing in a new one.
The rules
- For an introduction, choose the sentence that names the topic and makes the reader want to continue.
- For a conclusion, choose the sentence that ties back to the whole passage.
- Avoid choices that bring in a brand-new fact or repeat a tiny detail.
- Check the sentences around it. The right choice flows from the one before.
Watch out: Choosing a conclusion that sounds final but only covers one paragraph's detail.
Worked example
An essay explains how rooftop gardens cool cities. Which sentence best concludes it?
- A conclusion should cover the whole essay.
- It should return to the main idea about cooling the city.
- A single statistic or a new topic would not do that.
Answer: Rooftop gardens show that small changes can make a whole city cooler and healthier.
Try it yourself
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