Introductions and conclusions (and when not to)

Key steps (method)

• Introduction (2–4 lines max):
  • Answer the question with a judgement (thesis)
  • Name the writer’s purpose/message
  • Hint at your 2–3 main points (optional)
• Conclusion (2–4 lines max):
  • Strengthen the judgement (don’t just repeat)
  • Zoom out to overall message/impact
  • If it fits, end on writer’s intention for the audience/reader

Common mistakes

• Writing a long intro that wastes time and repeats the whole essay.
• Starting with a “retell” of the plot.
• Conclusions that just re-list the paragraphs (“In conclusion, I talked about…”).
• Adding brand-new evidence in the conclusion.

Support videos

• GCSE English introductions conclusions search: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=gcse+english+how+to+write+an+introduction+and+conclusion

Notes