Mastering Conclusions: Why Summarizing Matters in College Composition

Have you ever wrapped up a paper and thought, "What should I say in my conclusion?" It’s a common predicament. You know that a strong conclusion is essential, but what does it really need to do? The primary purpose of a conclusion is to summarize the main points of your argument, bringing everything full circle for your reader.

That’s right—your conclusion isn’t the time for new arguments or ideas. So, what’s happening here? By summarizing your key points, you’re tying together the threads of your narrative and providing a satisfying end to your composition.

But let’s dig a little deeper. When we talk about conclusions, we often think about their role as a rapid-fire review of what we've discussed. Imagine you're summarizing the highlights of a fantastic movie to a friend; you wouldn't throw in all sorts of new plot twists at the end, right? You’d want to capture the essence of what made the film great—just as you should in your writing.

Now, let’s chat about the thesis statement. Sure, the conclusion can restate the thesis, but remember, this shouldn’t be its sole function. Rather, it's the cherry on top—a reminder of your central focus without overshadowing the summary itself. Think of the conclusion as a confident nod, saying, “Yes, I’ve made my point, and here’s why!”

On top of that, many writers include a call to action in their conclusions, pushing readers to engage further. But hold on—this isn't a requirement, and it's not even the main function of this section. For some essays, especially analytical ones, a call to action might feel out of place. Instead, let the summary of your main points shine.

A great conclusion ties together the entire thread of your argument like a well-woven tapestry. It reinforces the journey you've taken your readers on and ensures they leave with a clear understanding of your central argument. Plus, it gives them closure. Everybody appreciates a satisfying finale, right?

So how do we put this knowledge to use? Well, get familiar with your main points as you draft your essay. This way, when it’s time to conclude, you won’t be scrambling. You’ll know exactly what to highlight to cement your argument in the minds of your readers.

In summary, when you're gearing up to write your conclusion for the College Composition CLEP Exam, focus on summarizing the main points carefully and clearly. Restate that thesis, if you like—just don’t overdo it. And if a call to action feels natural, then go for it, but remember, it's not a necessity. The aim is clarity and impact. If you keep these guidelines in mind, you'll elevate your writing and impress your readers—and that, my friends, is the goal of any great conclusion!