Sentences with ‘in conclusion’ for Better Writing
The phrase “in conclusion” signals the end of an argument or discussion. It is a formal transition used to summarize main points before closing a piece of writing. While effective in essays, reports, and speeches, it can feel stiff in emails or casual conversation. This guide explains how to use “in conclusion” correctly, offers natural alternatives, and helps you avoid common mistakes.
Quick Answer: When to Use ‘in Conclusion’
Use “in conclusion” at the start of your final paragraph in formal writing. It tells the reader you are wrapping up. Avoid it in everyday emails, text messages, or spoken remarks unless you are giving a presentation. For most informal situations, choose shorter phrases like “finally,” “to sum up,” or “in short.”
What Does ‘in Conclusion’ Mean?
“In conclusion” is a transitional phrase that introduces the final point or summary of a text. It signals closure and helps the reader understand that the main argument is complete. It is most common in academic essays, research papers, business reports, and formal speeches.
Formal vs. Informal Tone
The tone of “in conclusion” is formal. In academic or professional writing, it adds structure. In casual conversation, it can sound overly dramatic or rehearsed. Compare these examples:
- Formal (appropriate): “In conclusion, the data supports the hypothesis that exercise improves cognitive function.”
- Informal (awkward): “In conclusion, I think we should get pizza for dinner.”
For informal settings, use “so,” “anyway,” or “to wrap up.”
Comparison Table: ‘in Conclusion’ vs. Alternatives
| Phrase | Tone | Best Used In | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| In conclusion | Formal | Essays, reports, speeches | “In conclusion, the policy reduces waste.” |
| To sum up | Neutral | Presentations, summaries | “To sum up, we need more funding.” |
| Finally | Neutral | Lists, steps, endings | “Finally, review your draft.” |
| In short | Neutral | Concise summaries | “In short, the project succeeded.” |
| All in all | Informal | Conversations, emails | “All in all, it was a good trip.” |
Natural Examples of ‘in Conclusion’ in Sentences
Here are realistic sentences using “in conclusion” in different formal contexts. Notice how each one summarizes a main idea.
- “In conclusion, the experiment confirms that temperature affects reaction speed.”
- “In conclusion, the company must invest in renewable energy to meet its goals.”
- “In conclusion, the study shows a clear link between sleep and memory.”
- “In conclusion, the evidence supports stricter safety regulations.”
- “In conclusion, the author argues that education is the key to social change.”
Email Context
In professional emails, “in conclusion” can work if the email is long and formal. For shorter emails, avoid it.
- Long email: “In conclusion, I recommend we proceed with the new software.”
- Short email: “To wrap up, please send the report by Friday.”
Conversation Context
In spoken English, “in conclusion” is rare. Use it only in formal presentations or debates.
- Presentation: “In conclusion, our strategy will increase sales by 20%.”
- Casual talk: “So, that’s my take on it.” (not “in conclusion”)
Common Mistakes with ‘in Conclusion’
Even advanced learners make errors with this phrase. Here are the most frequent mistakes and how to fix them.
Mistake 1: Using It in the Middle of a Paragraph
“In conclusion” should start the final paragraph, not appear in the middle of an argument.
Wrong: “The results were clear. In conclusion, we need more data.” (The paragraph is not ending.)
Right: “The results were clear. Therefore, we need more data.” (Use “therefore” for mid-paragraph conclusions.)
Mistake 2: Overusing It
Using “in conclusion” in every paragraph makes writing repetitive. Reserve it for the very end.
Wrong: “In conclusion, the first point is important. In conclusion, the second point is also key.”
Right: “The first point is important. The second point is also key. In conclusion, both points support the main argument.”
Mistake 3: Using It in Informal Writing
In emails to friends or social media posts, “in conclusion” sounds unnatural.
Wrong: “In conclusion, I had a great time at the party.”
Right: “Anyway, I had a great time at the party.”
Mistake 4: Adding New Information After It
“In conclusion” should only summarize, not introduce new facts.
Wrong: “In conclusion, the budget is approved, and we also need to hire a new manager.” (New information added.)
Right: “In conclusion, the budget is approved. We also need to hire a new manager.” (Separate the new point.)
Better Alternatives to ‘in Conclusion’
Depending on your context, these alternatives can sound more natural or precise.
- To conclude – Slightly less formal, good for speeches.
- In summary – Best for listing key points.
- Ultimately – Emphasizes the final outcome.
- Overall – Common in both formal and informal writing.
- As a final point – Useful in presentations.
When to Use Each Alternative
- Essay: “In conclusion, the theory is valid.”
- Business report: “In summary, the quarter was profitable.”
- Email to colleague: “Overall, the meeting went well.”
- Speech: “To conclude, I thank you all.”
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Choose the best option for each sentence. Answers are below.
- _____ the research supports the new treatment. (a. In conclusion / b. Anyway)
- _____ I think we should leave now. (a. In conclusion / b. So)
- _____ the presentation was clear and helpful. (a. In conclusion / b. Overall)
- _____ the data shows a significant improvement. (a. In conclusion / b. By the way)
Answers
- a. In conclusion (formal context)
- b. So (informal context)
- b. Overall (neutral summary)
- a. In conclusion (formal report)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ‘in conclusion’ in an email?
Yes, but only in formal or long emails, such as a proposal or report summary. For short emails, use “to wrap up” or “finally.”
2. Is ‘in conclusion’ the same as ‘in summary’?
No. “In conclusion” signals the end of an argument, while “in summary” lists key points without necessarily ending the discussion. Use “in summary” for mid-text summaries.
3. Can I start a sentence with ‘in conclusion’?
Yes. It is a transitional phrase and should be followed by a comma. Example: “In conclusion, the project was a success.”
4. What is a good replacement for ‘in conclusion’ in a speech?
“To conclude,” “finally,” or “in closing” work well. They are slightly less formal and sound more natural when spoken.
Final Tips for Better Writing
Using “in conclusion” correctly improves the clarity of your writing. Remember these key points:
- Use it only at the end of a formal piece.
- Do not add new information after it.
- Choose a simpler alternative for informal contexts.
- Practice with the examples above to build confidence.
For more help with writing transitions, explore our Writing Sentence Examples section. If you have questions about other phrases, check our FAQ or contact us.
