Dissertation Conclusion: All Dos and Don'ts

What Is a Conclusion for Dissertation?

Сonclusion of a dissertation is a thoughtful and logical final section of your work. Length is recommended to be at least 5% of the whole text. But the most important thing is to answer all questions asked in the dissertation introduction. In most cases, you should cover 10-15 points. First, include overall conclusions, then write what follows from general ones. Chapters’ results should be logical and consistent. Then, carefully prescribe theoretical research results and study problems. To get the final chord, write small conclusions for each work paragraph. You cannot simply copy them but prepare new material. 

If you have difficulties with any section of your PhD work, feel free to ask our experts for thesis help. 

Dissertation: Difference Between Discussion and Conclusion

Discussion and conclusion are two essential work parts. Many consider these sections interchangeable. However, a dissertation discussion is not the same as a conclusion. 

The specific differences between these two things include:

Dissertation Conclusion: Structure

The structure of your dissertation conclusion may overlap with your paper's composition. But this part is an independent piece of research, so it has its own system and writing rules.

While writing your work's summary, make sure that:

• General overview reflects a brief summary of key findings.
• Reasons for research's importance convince readers.
• Various chapters are summarized in main points.
• List of recommendations is included.
• Contribution sparks others' interest in future work. It indicates further prospects for research.
• Final paragraph wraps the whole outline and research.

It is essential to avoid any new discoveries or data. Include only analytical data and results you presented in previous sections. If you want to introduce a unique point of view, go back to the results and mention it there.

How to Write a Dissertation Conclusion?

How to write a conclusion for a dissertation? First, you should report all research chapters, only then proceed to sum them up. Therefore, you should highlight these critical components in your final section. Approach your outline with clear and logical questions' answers. Supplement arguments and recommendations, assessing contribution. 

In many cases, readers go directly from introduction chapter to conclusion. It helps quickly understand the purpose and main results of study. Therefore, write a summary section, assuming readers don't check chapters of your work.

1. Turn to a Thesis in Your Dissertation Conclusion

The easiest way of writing your dissertation conclusion is by reviewing your thesis. This does not mean simply copying it from introduction but expressing it in other words. You should always change its wording to get away from repetition. Avoid phrases such as "This article is trying to show ..." in your thesis or dissertation. Instead, tell readers that your research is complete and what your conclusions are.

For example:

2. Summarize Your Findings in Conclusion of Dissertation

The next step is to present dissertation findings of the study's question and purpose. Focus on how your conclusion of the dissertation can help achieve study's goals.

In fact, start by reminding your readers of study goals and issues. This way, study results can be well combined. Phrases such as "this study aims" and "results show ..." may come in handy. But avoid statements like "this study proves..." or "the study results disprove existing theories." Several studies cannot prove or disprove certain things. A study with its own limitations cannot achieve such results.

3. State Recommendations in Your Dissertation Conclusion Chapter

The dissertation recommendations contain suggestions for current problem's improvement. Add at least one paragraph since this part is precious to the committee and ordinary readers. Include prospects for implementing future research in conclusion of a dissertation. 

Refer to limitations you have discussed. For example, suppose weakness is related to a specific data method. In that case, you may suggest using more sophisticated ways to conduct such research. Make a list of points with some ideas or steps to follow.

Another potential source of advice for future research is surprising data results. Highlight your literature review analysis that you did not explore yet. In that case, mark it for further studies.

4. Highlight the Contribution in Conclusion of a Dissertation

Lastly, discuss how your dissertation contributes to your study area. Mention significant results of your research.  Emphasize why they are so essential and valuable and how to use or apply them. Provide readers with gaps in the scientific field while writing your conclusion for a dissertation. Then, discuss how your research helps close those gaps. For example, does this confirm existing theories or constructively challenge them? Explain how to apply research results in practice. For example, based on your findings, what specific actions can practitioners take?

It is unlikely that your studies will radically change paradigm or shaky discipline. So the contribution statement should be impartial. But at same time, confidently present your arguments, no matter how small they seem.

Dissertation Conclusion: Example

Here you can find different dissertation conclusion examples. Consider our templates while writing your own piece. But remember that this is just a sample, and your entire outline must be unique.

Common Mistakes When Writing a Conclusion for a Dissertation

Successful conclusion for dissertation correctly and briefly characterize work done. We are here to help you avoid common errors many students make! Instead, follow our pieces of advice on how to write this crucial research part correctly.

Often, candidates simply rewrite chapters. That is a fundamental mistake! Structure should look logical. Information in the final part should answer questions from the introduction. Cover each chapter, and end with a general conclusion regarding scientific inquiry.

Final Thoughts on Writing a Conclusion for a Dissertation

Writing a dissertation conclusion may seem scary. Obviously, it is the result of many working years of research. This information is always read by committee members. We recommend you write it with special care and attention. You should confirm the whole subject's knowledge and your own contribution to the chosen science field. So follow our advice to ease your research preparation!