conclusion and recommendation thesis

Reference management. Clean and simple.

How to write an excellent thesis conclusion [with examples]

Restate the thesis

Review or reiterate key points of your work, explain why your work is relevant, a take-away for the reader, more resources on writing thesis conclusions, frequently asked questions about writing an excellent thesis conclusion, related articles.

At this point in your writing, you have most likely finished your introduction and the body of your thesis, dissertation, or research paper . While this is a reason to celebrate, you should not underestimate the importance of your conclusion. The conclusion is the last thing that your reader will see, so it should be memorable.

A good conclusion will review the key points of the thesis and explain to the reader why the information is relevant, applicable, or related to the world as a whole. Make sure to dedicate enough of your writing time to the conclusion and do not put it off until the very last minute.

This article provides an effective technique for writing a conclusion adapted from Erika Eby’s The College Student's Guide to Writing a Good Research Paper: 101 Easy Tips & Tricks to Make Your Work Stand Out .

While the thesis introduction starts out with broad statements about the topic, and then narrows it down to the thesis statement , a thesis conclusion does the same in the opposite order.

• Restate the thesis.
• Review or reiterate key points of your work.
• Explain why your work is relevant.
• Include a core take-away message for the reader.

Tip: Don’t just copy and paste your thesis into your conclusion. Restate it in different words.

The best way to start a conclusion is simply by restating the thesis statement. That does not mean just copying and pasting it from the introduction, but putting it into different words.

You will need to change the structure and wording of it to avoid sounding repetitive. Also, be firm in your conclusion just as you were in the introduction. Try to avoid sounding apologetic by using phrases like "This paper has tried to show..."

The conclusion should address all the same parts as the thesis while making it clear that the reader has reached the end. You are telling the reader that your research is finished and what your findings are.

I have argued throughout this work that the point of critical mass for biopolitical immunity occurred during the Romantic period because of that era's unique combination of post-revolutionary politics and innovations in smallpox prevention. In particular, I demonstrated that the French Revolution and the discovery of vaccination in the 1790s triggered a reconsideration of the relationship between bodies and the state.

Tip: Try to reiterate points from your introduction in your thesis conclusion.

The next step is to review the main points of the thesis as a whole. Look back at the body of of your project and make a note of the key ideas. You can reword these ideas the same way you reworded your thesis statement and then incorporate that into the conclusion.

You can also repeat striking quotations or statistics, but do not use more than two. As the conclusion represents your own closing thoughts on the topic , it should mainly consist of your own words.

In addition, conclusions can contain recommendations to the reader or relevant questions that further the thesis. You should ask yourself:

• What you would ideally like to see your readers do in reaction to your paper?
• Do you want them to take a certain action or investigate further?
• Is there a bigger issue that your paper wants to draw attention to?

Also, try to reference your introduction in your conclusion. You have already taken a first step by restating your thesis. Now, check whether there are other key words, phrases or ideas that are mentioned in your introduction that fit into your conclusion. Connecting the introduction to the conclusion in this way will help readers feel satisfied.

I explored how Mary Wollstonecraft, in both her fiction and political writings, envisions an ideal medico-political state, and how other writers like William Wordsworth and Mary Shelley increasingly imagined the body politic literally, as an incorporated political collective made up of bodies whose immunity to political and medical ills was essential to a healthy state.

Tip: Make sure to explain why your thesis is relevant to your field of research.

Although you can encourage readers to question their opinions and reflect on your topic, do not leave loose ends. You should provide a sense of resolution and make sure your conclusion wraps up your argument. Make sure you explain why your thesis is relevant to your field of research and how your research intervenes within, or substantially revises, existing scholarly debates.

This project challenged conventional ideas about the relationship among Romanticism, medicine, and politics by reading the unfolding of Romantic literature and biopolitical immunity as mutual, co-productive processes. In doing so, this thesis revises the ways in which biopolitics has been theorized by insisting on the inherent connections between Romantic literature and the forms of biopower that characterize early modernity.

Tip: If you began your thesis with an anecdote or historical example, you may want to return to that in your conclusion.

End your conclusion with something memorable, such as:

• a call to action
• a recommendation
• a gesture towards future research
• a brief explanation of how the problem or idea you covered remains relevant

Ultimately, you want readers to feel more informed, or ready to act, as they read your conclusion.

Yet, the Romantic period is only the beginning of modern thought on immunity and biopolitics. Victorian writers, doctors, and politicians upheld the Romantic idea that a "healthy state" was a literal condition that could be achieved by combining politics and medicine, but augmented that idea through legislation and widespread public health measures. While many nineteenth-century efforts to improve citizens' health were successful, the fight against disease ultimately changed course in the twentieth century as global immunological threats such as SARS occupied public consciousness. Indeed, as subsequent public health events make apparent, biopolitical immunity persists as a viable concept for thinking about the relationship between medicine and politics in modernity.

Need more advice? Read our 5 additional tips on how to write a good thesis conclusion.

The conclusion is the last thing that your reader will see, so it should be memorable. To write a great thesis conclusion you should:

The basic content of a conclusion is to review the main points from the paper. This part represents your own closing thoughts on the topic. It should mainly consist of the outcome of the research in your own words.

The length of the conclusion will depend on the length of the whole thesis. Usually, a conclusion should be around 5-7% of the overall word count.

End your conclusion with something memorable, such as a question, warning, or call to action. Depending on the topic, you can also end with a recommendation.

In Open Access: Theses and Dissertations you can find thousands of completed works. Take a look at any of the theses or dissertations for real-life examples of conclusions that were already approved.

Writing Effective Conclusions and Recommendations in a Thesis

Table of Contents

Have you ever experienced the triumphant moment of finishing a jigsaw puzzle , only to find that the final piece doesn’t quite fit? Such is the challenge when writing the conclusion and findings .">recommendations in your thesis . This final section isn’t just an endnote; it’s your opportunity to make your research resonate. Let’s explore how to craft a compelling conclusion that not only summarizes your findings but also sets the stage for future inquiry.

Understanding the weight of conclusions and recommendations

In the grand scheme of your thesis, the conclusion is your final act, your closing argument. It is here that you revisit your research objectives to demonstrate how your findings address them. But it’s not just a rehash of your research; it’s your chance to interpret the implications of your work and persuade your audience of its significance.

The art of summarizing findings

Begin by revisiting the questions you posed at the start of your journey. Summarize the answers you’ve uncovered, concisely distilling the essence of your research. This isn’t a place for exhaustive detail—that’s what the body of your thesis is for. Instead, think of it as the highlight reel, showcasing the most significant insights.

Drawing insightful conclusions

Conclusions are the thoughtful deductions you’ve drawn from your research. Linking back to your objectives, ask yourself: What have I learned? How have my findings contributed to the field? This is where you can shine a light on the larger implications of your work, the ‘so what?’ of your thesis.

Outlining clear and actionable recommendations

Your recommendations are your legacy, the path you lay for future research ers or practitioners. They should be clear, specific, and grounded in your findings. Think of them as a call to action—what should be done in light of your research? Whether it’s suggesting areas for further study or recommending changes to practice, your recommendations should inspire action.

Linking conclusions to research objectives

To ensure your conclusions are meaningful, they must be tethered to your research objectives. This alignment reinforces the relevance of your work and ensures you’re answering the questions you set out to explore.

Reflecting on research questions

Revisit your research questions or hypotheses . How have your findings addressed them? This reflection ensures your conclusions are directly tied to your initial inquiry, creating a cohesive narrative from start to finish.

Emphasizing the impact of your findings

Highlight the impact of your research. Have you filled a gap in knowledge? Challenged existing theories? Applied your findings to practice? Your conclusions should underscore the value of your work and its ripple effect in your field.

Formulating recommendations with purpose

Recommendations should never be an afterthought. They are your opportunity to influence the future, to suggest how the knowledge you’ve generated can be used to better understand or improve upon a particular issue.

Grounding recommendations in evidence

Ensure your recommendations are evidence\-based . They should flow naturally from the conclusions you’ve drawn, each one supported by the data you’ve collected.

Keeping recommendations achievable

Make your recommendations achievable. Pie-in-the-sky ideas might be inspirational, but they’re less helpful than practical, attainable suggestions that can be realistically implemented.

Setting the stage for future research

Use your recommendations to set the stage for future research. What questions have emerged from your study? Where are the knowledge gaps ? Propel the academic conversation forward by identifying the next steps.

Writing with clarity and conviction

The best conclusions and recommendations are those written with clarity and conviction. You’ve spent countless hours on your research—now’s the time to confidently present your findings and their implications.

Using precise language

Be precise in your language. Avoid ambiguity and make every word count. This precision not only makes your writing clearer but also reinforces the authority of your conclusions and recommendations.

Ensuring cohesiveness

Your conclusion should feel like a natural culmination of your thesis, not a separate entity. Ensure that it flows logically from the body of your work, with each part reinforcing the other.

Engaging the reader’s imagination

Engage your reader’s imagination by painting a picture of what could be. Use your recommendations to inspire visions of future possibilities, grounded in the solid foundation of your research.

In conclusion, remember that the final sections of your thesis are not mere formalities but the bridge between your research and its potential impact on the world. The conclusions and recommendations you write are your scholarly legacy , a testament to the hard work you’ve poured into your research. Approach them with the same rigor , creativity, and dedication as the rest of your thesis, and you’ll leave a lasting mark on your field.

What do you think? How do you approach writing conclusions and recommendations, and what strategies do you find most effective? Are there particular challenges you’ve faced in this part of the thesis-writing process?

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Research Methodology

1 Introduction to Research in General

• Research in General
• Research Circle
• Tools of Research
• Methods: Quantitative or Qualitative
• The Product: Research Report or Papers

2 Original Unity of Philosophy and Science

• Myth Philosophy and Science: Original Unity
• The Myth: A Spiritual Metaphor
• Myth Philosophy and Science
• The Greek Quest for Unity
• The Ionian School
• Towards a Grand Unification Theory or Theory of Everything
• Einstein’s Perennial Quest for Unity

3 Evolution of the Distinct Methods of Science

• Definition of Scientific Method
• The Evolution of Scientific Methods
• Theory-Dependence of Observation
• Scope of Science and Scientific Methods
• Prevalent Mistakes in Applying the Scientific Method

4 Relation of Scientific and Philosophical Methods

• Definitions of Scientific and Philosophical method
• Philosophical method
• Scientific method
• The relation
• The Importance of Philosophical and scientific methods

5 Dialectical Method

• Introduction and a Brief Survey of the Method
• Types of Dialectics
• Dialectics in Classical Philosophy
• Dialectics in Modern Philosophy
• Critique of Dialectical Method

6 Rational Method

• Understanding Rationalism
• Rational Method of Investigation
• Descartes’ Rational Method
• Leibniz’ Aim of Philosophy
• Spinoza’ Aim of Philosophy

7 Empirical Method

• Common Features of Philosophical Method
• Empirical Method
• Exposition of Empiricism
• Locke’s Empirical Method
• Berkeley’s Empirical Method
• David Hume’s Empirical Method

8 Critical Method

• Basic Features of Critical Theory
• On Instrumental Reason
• Conception of Society
• Human History as Dialectic of Enlightenment
• Substantive Reason
• Habermasian Critical Theory
• Habermas’ Theory of Society
• Habermas’ Critique of Scientism
• Theory of Communicative Action
• Discourse Ethics of Habermas

9 Phenomenological Method (Western and Indian)

• Phenomenology in Philosophy
• Phenomenology as a Method
• Phenomenological Analysis of Knowledge
• Phenomenological Reduction
• Husserl’s Triad: Ego Cogito Cogitata
• Intentionality
• Understanding ‘Consciousness’
• Phenomenological Method in Indian Tradition
• Phenomenological Method in Religion

10 Analytical Method (Western and Indian)

• Analysis in History of Philosophy
• Conceptual Analysis
• Analysis as a Method
• Analysis in Logical Atomism and Logical Positivism
• Analytic Method in Ethics
• Language Analysis
• Quine’s Analytical Method
• Analysis in Indian Traditions

11 Hermeneutical Method (Western and Indian)

• The Power (Sakti) to Convey Meaning
• Three Meanings
• Pre-understanding
• The Semantic Autonomy of the Text
• Towards a Fusion of Horizons
• The Hermeneutical Circle
• The True Scandal of the Text
• Literary Forms

12 Deconstructive Method

• The Seminal Idea of Deconstruction in Heidegger
• Deconstruction in Derrida
• Structuralism and Post-structuralism
• Sign Signifier and Signified
• Writing and Trace
• Deconstruction as a Strategic Reading
• The Logic of Supplement
• No Outside-text

13 Method of Bibliography

• Preparing to Write
• Writing a Paper
• The Main Divisions of a Paper
• Writing Bibliography in Turabian and APA
• Sample Bibliography

14 Method of Footnotes

• Citations and Notes
• General Hints for Footnotes
• Writing Footnotes
• Examples of Footnote or Endnote
• Example of a Research Article

15 Method of Notes Taking

• Methods of Note-taking
• Note Book Style
• Note taking in a Computer
• Types of Note-taking
• Notes from Field Research
• Errors to be Avoided

16 Method of Thesis Proposal and Presentation

• Preliminary Section
• Presenting the Problem of the Thesis
• Design of the Study
• Main Body of the Thesis
• Conclusion Summary and Recommendations
• Reference Material

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• Knowledge Base
• Research paper

Writing a Research Paper Conclusion | Step-by-Step Guide

Published on October 30, 2022 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on April 13, 2023.

• Restate the problem statement addressed in the paper
• Summarize your overall arguments or findings
• Suggest the key takeaways from your paper

The content of the conclusion varies depending on whether your paper presents the results of original empirical research or constructs an argument through engagement with sources .

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Table of contents

Step 1: restate the problem, step 2: sum up the paper, step 3: discuss the implications, research paper conclusion examples, frequently asked questions about research paper conclusions.

The first task of your conclusion is to remind the reader of your research problem . You will have discussed this problem in depth throughout the body, but now the point is to zoom back out from the details to the bigger picture.

While you are restating a problem you’ve already introduced, you should avoid phrasing it identically to how it appeared in the introduction . Ideally, you’ll find a novel way to circle back to the problem from the more detailed ideas discussed in the body.

For example, an argumentative paper advocating new measures to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture might restate its problem as follows:

Meanwhile, an empirical paper studying the relationship of Instagram use with body image issues might present its problem like this:

“In conclusion …”

Avoid starting your conclusion with phrases like “In conclusion” or “To conclude,” as this can come across as too obvious and make your writing seem unsophisticated. The content and placement of your conclusion should make its function clear without the need for additional signposting.

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Having zoomed back in on the problem, it’s time to summarize how the body of the paper went about addressing it, and what conclusions this approach led to.

Depending on the nature of your research paper, this might mean restating your thesis and arguments, or summarizing your overall findings.

Argumentative paper: Restate your thesis and arguments

In an argumentative paper, you will have presented a thesis statement in your introduction, expressing the overall claim your paper argues for. In the conclusion, you should restate the thesis and show how it has been developed through the body of the paper.

Briefly summarize the key arguments made in the body, showing how each of them contributes to proving your thesis. You may also mention any counterarguments you addressed, emphasizing why your thesis holds up against them, particularly if your argument is a controversial one.

Don’t go into the details of your evidence or present new ideas; focus on outlining in broad strokes the argument you have made.

Empirical paper: Summarize your findings

In an empirical paper, this is the time to summarize your key findings. Don’t go into great detail here (you will have presented your in-depth results and discussion already), but do clearly express the answers to the research questions you investigated.

Describe your main findings, even if they weren’t necessarily the ones you expected or hoped for, and explain the overall conclusion they led you to.

Having summed up your key arguments or findings, the conclusion ends by considering the broader implications of your research. This means expressing the key takeaways, practical or theoretical, from your paper—often in the form of a call for action or suggestions for future research.

Argumentative paper: Strong closing statement

An argumentative paper generally ends with a strong closing statement. In the case of a practical argument, make a call for action: What actions do you think should be taken by the people or organizations concerned in response to your argument?

If your topic is more theoretical and unsuitable for a call for action, your closing statement should express the significance of your argument—for example, in proposing a new understanding of a topic or laying the groundwork for future research.

Empirical paper: Future research directions

In a more empirical paper, you can close by either making recommendations for practice (for example, in clinical or policy papers), or suggesting directions for future research.

Whatever the scope of your own research, there will always be room for further investigation of related topics, and you’ll often discover new questions and problems during the research process .

Finish your paper on a forward-looking note by suggesting how you or other researchers might build on this topic in the future and address any limitations of the current paper.

Full examples of research paper conclusions are shown in the tabs below: one for an argumentative paper, the other for an empirical paper.

• Argumentative paper
• Empirical paper

While the role of cattle in climate change is by now common knowledge, countries like the Netherlands continually fail to confront this issue with the urgency it deserves. The evidence is clear: To create a truly futureproof agricultural sector, Dutch farmers must be incentivized to transition from livestock farming to sustainable vegetable farming. As well as dramatically lowering emissions, plant-based agriculture, if approached in the right way, can produce more food with less land, providing opportunities for nature regeneration areas that will themselves contribute to climate targets. Although this approach would have economic ramifications, from a long-term perspective, it would represent a significant step towards a more sustainable and resilient national economy. Transitioning to sustainable vegetable farming will make the Netherlands greener and healthier, setting an example for other European governments. Farmers, policymakers, and consumers must focus on the future, not just on their own short-term interests, and work to implement this transition now.

As social media becomes increasingly central to young people’s everyday lives, it is important to understand how different platforms affect their developing self-conception. By testing the effect of daily Instagram use among teenage girls, this study established that highly visual social media does indeed have a significant effect on body image concerns, with a strong correlation between the amount of time spent on the platform and participants’ self-reported dissatisfaction with their appearance. However, the strength of this effect was moderated by pre-test self-esteem ratings: Participants with higher self-esteem were less likely to experience an increase in body image concerns after using Instagram. This suggests that, while Instagram does impact body image, it is also important to consider the wider social and psychological context in which this usage occurs: Teenagers who are already predisposed to self-esteem issues may be at greater risk of experiencing negative effects. Future research into Instagram and other highly visual social media should focus on establishing a clearer picture of how self-esteem and related constructs influence young people’s experiences of these platforms. Furthermore, while this experiment measured Instagram usage in terms of time spent on the platform, observational studies are required to gain more insight into different patterns of usage—to investigate, for instance, whether active posting is associated with different effects than passive consumption of social media content.

If you’re unsure about the conclusion, it can be helpful to ask a friend or fellow student to read your conclusion and summarize the main takeaways.

• Do they understand from your conclusion what your research was about?
• Are they able to summarize the implications of your findings?
• Can they answer your research question based on your conclusion?

You can also get an expert to proofread and feedback your paper with a paper editing service .

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The AI-powered Citation Checker helps you avoid common mistakes such as:

• Missing commas and periods
• Incorrect usage of “et al.”
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The conclusion of a research paper has several key elements you should make sure to include:

• A restatement of the research problem
• A summary of your key arguments and/or findings
• A short discussion of the implications of your research

No, it’s not appropriate to present new arguments or evidence in the conclusion . While you might be tempted to save a striking argument for last, research papers follow a more formal structure than this.

All your findings and arguments should be presented in the body of the text (more specifically in the results and discussion sections if you are following a scientific structure). The conclusion is meant to summarize and reflect on the evidence and arguments you have already presented, not introduce new ones.

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How to Write a Conclusion for Research Papers (with Examples)

The conclusion of a research paper is a crucial section that plays a significant role in the overall impact and effectiveness of your research paper. However, this is also the section that typically receives less attention compared to the introduction and the body of the paper. The conclusion serves to provide a concise summary of the key findings, their significance, their implications, and a sense of closure to the study. Discussing how can the findings be applied in real-world scenarios or inform policy, practice, or decision-making is especially valuable to practitioners and policymakers. The research paper conclusion also provides researchers with clear insights and valuable information for their own work, which they can then build on and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

The research paper conclusion should explain the significance of your findings within the broader context of your field. It restates how your results contribute to the existing body of knowledge and whether they confirm or challenge existing theories or hypotheses. Also, by identifying unanswered questions or areas requiring further investigation, your awareness of the broader research landscape can be demonstrated.

Remember to tailor the research paper conclusion to the specific needs and interests of your intended audience, which may include researchers, practitioners, policymakers, or a combination of these.

Table of Contents

What is a conclusion in a research paper, summarizing conclusion, editorial conclusion, externalizing conclusion, importance of a good research paper conclusion, how to write a conclusion for your research paper, research paper conclusion examples.

• How to write a research paper conclusion with Paperpal? 

Frequently Asked Questions

A conclusion in a research paper is the final section where you summarize and wrap up your research, presenting the key findings and insights derived from your study. The research paper conclusion is not the place to introduce new information or data that was not discussed in the main body of the paper. When working on how to conclude a research paper, remember to stick to summarizing and interpreting existing content. The research paper conclusion serves the following purposes: 1

• Warn readers of the possible consequences of not attending to the problem.
• Recommend specific course(s) of action.
• Restate key ideas to drive home the ultimate point of your research paper.
• Provide a “take-home” message that you want the readers to remember about your study.

Types of conclusions for research papers

In research papers, the conclusion provides closure to the reader. The type of research paper conclusion you choose depends on the nature of your study, your goals, and your target audience. I provide you with three common types of conclusions:

A summarizing conclusion is the most common type of conclusion in research papers. It involves summarizing the main points, reiterating the research question, and restating the significance of the findings. This common type of research paper conclusion is used across different disciplines.

An editorial conclusion is less common but can be used in research papers that are focused on proposing or advocating for a particular viewpoint or policy. It involves presenting a strong editorial or opinion based on the research findings and offering recommendations or calls to action.

An externalizing conclusion is a type of conclusion that extends the research beyond the scope of the paper by suggesting potential future research directions or discussing the broader implications of the findings. This type of conclusion is often used in more theoretical or exploratory research papers.

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The conclusion in a research paper serves several important purposes:

• Offers Implications and Recommendations : Your research paper conclusion is an excellent place to discuss the broader implications of your research and suggest potential areas for further study. It’s also an opportunity to offer practical recommendations based on your findings.
• Provides Closure : A good research paper conclusion provides a sense of closure to your paper. It should leave the reader with a feeling that they have reached the end of a well-structured and thought-provoking research project.
• Leaves a Lasting Impression : Writing a well-crafted research paper conclusion leaves a lasting impression on your readers. It’s your final opportunity to leave them with a new idea, a call to action, or a memorable quote.

Writing a strong conclusion for your research paper is essential to leave a lasting impression on your readers. Here’s a step-by-step process to help you create and know what to put in the conclusion of a research paper: 2

• Research Statement : Begin your research paper conclusion by restating your research statement. This reminds the reader of the main point you’ve been trying to prove throughout your paper. Keep it concise and clear.
• Key Points : Summarize the main arguments and key points you’ve made in your paper. Avoid introducing new information in the research paper conclusion. Instead, provide a concise overview of what you’ve discussed in the body of your paper.
• Address the Research Questions : If your research paper is based on specific research questions or hypotheses, briefly address whether you’ve answered them or achieved your research goals. Discuss the significance of your findings in this context.
• Significance : Highlight the importance of your research and its relevance in the broader context. Explain why your findings matter and how they contribute to the existing knowledge in your field.
• Implications : Explore the practical or theoretical implications of your research. How might your findings impact future research, policy, or real-world applications? Consider the “so what?” question.
• Future Research : Offer suggestions for future research in your area. What questions or aspects remain unanswered or warrant further investigation? This shows that your work opens the door for future exploration.
• Closing Thought : Conclude your research paper conclusion with a thought-provoking or memorable statement. This can leave a lasting impression on your readers and wrap up your paper effectively. Avoid introducing new information or arguments here.
• Proofread and Revise : Carefully proofread your conclusion for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Ensure that your ideas flow smoothly and that your conclusion is coherent and well-structured.

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Remember that a well-crafted research paper conclusion is a reflection of the strength of your research and your ability to communicate its significance effectively. It should leave a lasting impression on your readers and tie together all the threads of your paper. Now you know how to start the conclusion of a research paper and what elements to include to make it impactful, let’s look at a research paper conclusion sample.

How to write a research paper conclusion with Paperpal?

A research paper conclusion is not just a summary of your study, but a synthesis of the key findings that ties the research together and places it in a broader context. A research paper conclusion should be concise, typically around one paragraph in length. However, some complex topics may require a longer conclusion to ensure the reader is left with a clear understanding of the study’s significance. Paperpal, an AI writing assistant trusted by over 800,000 academics globally, can help you write a well-structured conclusion for your research paper. 

• Sign Up or Log In: Create a new Paperpal account or login with your details.  
• Navigate to Features : Once logged in, head over to the features’ side navigation pane. Click on Templates and you’ll find a suite of generative AI features to help you write better, faster.  
• Generate an outline: Under Templates, select ‘Outlines’. Choose ‘Research article’ as your document type.  
• Select your section: Since you’re focusing on the conclusion, select this section when prompted.  
• Choose your field of study: Identifying your field of study allows Paperpal to provide more targeted suggestions, ensuring the relevance of your conclusion to your specific area of research. 
• Provide a brief description of your study: Enter details about your research topic and findings. This information helps Paperpal generate a tailored outline that aligns with your paper’s content. 
• Generate the conclusion outline: After entering all necessary details, click on ‘generate’. Paperpal will then create a structured outline for your conclusion, to help you start writing and build upon the outline.  
• Write your conclusion: Use the generated outline to build your conclusion. The outline serves as a guide, ensuring you cover all critical aspects of a strong conclusion, from summarizing key findings to highlighting the research’s implications. 
• Refine and enhance: Paperpal’s ‘Make Academic’ feature can be particularly useful in the final stages. Select any paragraph of your conclusion and use this feature to elevate the academic tone, ensuring your writing is aligned to the academic journal standards. 

By following these steps, Paperpal not only simplifies the process of writing a research paper conclusion but also ensures it is impactful, concise, and aligned with academic standards. Sign up with Paperpal today and write your research paper conclusion 2x faster .  

The research paper conclusion is a crucial part of your paper as it provides the final opportunity to leave a strong impression on your readers. In the research paper conclusion, summarize the main points of your research paper by restating your research statement, highlighting the most important findings, addressing the research questions or objectives, explaining the broader context of the study, discussing the significance of your findings, providing recommendations if applicable, and emphasizing the takeaway message. The main purpose of the conclusion is to remind the reader of the main point or argument of your paper and to provide a clear and concise summary of the key findings and their implications. All these elements should feature on your list of what to put in the conclusion of a research paper to create a strong final statement for your work.

A strong conclusion is a critical component of a research paper, as it provides an opportunity to wrap up your arguments, reiterate your main points, and leave a lasting impression on your readers. Here are the key elements of a strong research paper conclusion: 1. Conciseness : A research paper conclusion should be concise and to the point. It should not introduce new information or ideas that were not discussed in the body of the paper. 2. Summarization : The research paper conclusion should be comprehensive enough to give the reader a clear understanding of the research’s main contributions. 3 . Relevance : Ensure that the information included in the research paper conclusion is directly relevant to the research paper’s main topic and objectives; avoid unnecessary details. 4 . Connection to the Introduction : A well-structured research paper conclusion often revisits the key points made in the introduction and shows how the research has addressed the initial questions or objectives. 5. Emphasis : Highlight the significance and implications of your research. Why is your study important? What are the broader implications or applications of your findings? 6 . Call to Action : Include a call to action or a recommendation for future research or action based on your findings.

The length of a research paper conclusion can vary depending on several factors, including the overall length of the paper, the complexity of the research, and the specific journal requirements. While there is no strict rule for the length of a conclusion, but it’s generally advisable to keep it relatively short. A typical research paper conclusion might be around 5-10% of the paper’s total length. For example, if your paper is 10 pages long, the conclusion might be roughly half a page to one page in length.

In general, you do not need to include citations in the research paper conclusion. Citations are typically reserved for the body of the paper to support your arguments and provide evidence for your claims. However, there may be some exceptions to this rule: 1. If you are drawing a direct quote or paraphrasing a specific source in your research paper conclusion, you should include a citation to give proper credit to the original author. 2. If your conclusion refers to or discusses specific research, data, or sources that are crucial to the overall argument, citations can be included to reinforce your conclusion’s validity.

The conclusion of a research paper serves several important purposes: 1. Summarize the Key Points 2. Reinforce the Main Argument 3. Provide Closure 4. Offer Insights or Implications 5. Engage the Reader. 6. Reflect on Limitations

Remember that the primary purpose of the research paper conclusion is to leave a lasting impression on the reader, reinforcing the key points and providing closure to your research. It’s often the last part of the paper that the reader will see, so it should be strong and well-crafted.

• Makar, G., Foltz, C., Lendner, M., & Vaccaro, A. R. (2018). How to write effective discussion and conclusion sections. Clinical spine surgery, 31(8), 345-346.
• Bunton, D. (2005). The structure of PhD conclusion chapters.  Journal of English for academic purposes ,  4 (3), 207-224.

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How to Write a Dissertation Conclusion – Example & Tips

Published by Jamie Walker at August 13th, 2021 , Revised On August 22, 2023

It is imperative for students to understand how to  write a dissertation  conclusion in order to achieve the highest grade in their dissertation project.

The concluding chapter of the dissertation should be appealing to the readers and give an accurate but concise review of what your research revolves around with special emphasis on the outcomes  and recommendations that you have derived from your research study.

The illustration below provides an insight into  how a first-class dissertation is structured , and we will now look in complete detail over how to manage the conclusion chapter of your dissertation.

The conclusion of a dissertation or thesis generally connects the beginning of your research ( introduction ,  research problem ,  research questions ) to the findings and implications of your research.

You must relate to the major  findings of your research  and answer the research questions that your study raised. There is no need to hesitate to state the limitations of research because it is natural that your research will have some limitations rather than none.

Writing a dissertation conclusion is, perhaps, the most critical aspect of your research work which is why it is vitally important to not miss out on the key elements surrounding a great dissertation conclusion.

Dissertation Conclusion Guidelines

Dissertation conclusion is a core element of your dissertation or thesis paper which is why you will be required to follow a specific set of guidelines in order to showcase the findings of your study in a logical manner.

How to Start a Dissertation Conclusion

Always write your conclusion in clear and simple language.  Before starting to write the conclusion chapter, it is important that students become familiar with the assessment criteria and expected outcomes in order to avoid complexities at a later stage.

The aim of a dissertation conclusion is to provide a brief overview of the main research work so the readers can figure out how your research study will add value to the existing literature.

Moreover, recommendations for future research and practitioners should also be provided in this section.

Difference between Conclusion & Discussion

The contents of the  discussion  and conclusion chapters are similar, and they are typically grouped together in journal articles and scientific papers.

Depending on your academic institute and the subject of your degree program, you could be asked to put discussion and conclusion together under the same chapter in your dissertation or thesis paper.

However, typically in a  dissertation or thesis paper , it is common to have a separate chapter for the conclusion to briefly state answers for all research questions, and summarise and reflect on the research.

The conclusion chapter is considerably shorter in length than the discussion. Here you will be expected to provide general statements to give readers a final impression of your research.

On the other hand, in the discussion chapter of a dissertation , the author states the major findings, and their interpretations and implications.

Do not introduce any new information, arguments, meanings, and interpretations in the conclusion chapter.

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What to Write in a Conclusion

An important question that one must address before writing a dissertation conclusion is what to write in a conclusion?

In the best case scenario, you will summarise the findings of your entire research in a comprehensive manner, but at the same time ensure that you are not just restating the points covered in the main body.

The purpose here is to present a synthesis of the major points covered which is why it is advised not to include any new ideas relating to your research at this point.

Methodology in a dissertation  can be a taxing and time consuming matter because a large chunk of your research is based on the methods you have adopted.

Essentially, the methodology should relate to the literature you have reviewed and provide academic justification to your  choice of research methods  – be it quantitative, qualitative or a mix of both.

Students must make sure that they shed adequate light on the methodology part in their dissertation conclusion.

It is essential to keep the dissertation conclusion concise and to the point rather than going into unnecessary details which would rather be a part of the main body.

Writing a dissertation conclusion is not a strenuous task if you stick to the fact that your goal here is to provide insight, evaluations and implications of your research study.

Structuring a Dissertation Conclusion

While writing a dissertation conclusion, you must be particular about the fact that it gives reflection of a cohesive argument and supports the points you have covered in the main body.

Your conclusion should depict the importance of why you chose this  specific research topic  and the impact your study will have on the society.

Providing solutions to the problems you have identified and predicting what might happen in the near future leaves a very good impression on the readers, and some of them might well be inclined to consider your argument long after.

When pondering over how to write a dissertation conclusion, it is important to relate your ideas with academics who are closely followed by your supervisor.

Although the dissertation belongs to you and you have the full right to express your own views where appropriate, there is absolutely no harm in slightly aligning your views with other researchers in order to achieve a good score.

Dissertation Conclusion Limitations

Every dissertation is likely to suffer from limitations which is precisely the reason why students must acknowledge and appropriately address them.

Limitations is an integral part of your dissertation conclusion because it will also help your readers to  understand your research design and philosophical approach .

This brief segment reflects upon the importance of the inherent limitations been identified; the reasons behind your choice of methods; and possible ways to counter the limitations.

It is recommended never to hide the limitations associated with your research, because your tutor will probably have years of experience with  different methods of research  and they will figure out these limitations even if you have not specifically discussed them.

Simply highlighting the dissertation limitations is not a very good idea because every research limitation must accompany ways in which it can be combated. Dissertation limitations can be methodological or conceptual.

It is necessary to briefly touch upon both types of limitations so your supervisor can figure out what part of your research was stalled by lack of data, cultural biases, sampling etc.

This section of the dissertation conclusion chapter is generally based on a world count – 200-500 words so it is appropriate to discuss only the most significant limitations of your study.

Dissertation Conclusion Length

Another important question that you might want to address in the final phase of your research work is how long should dissertation conclusion be? The length of a dissertation conclusion is in direct correlation with the length of the full dissertation paper.

On a simple basis the longer or more detailed your research is, the longer the conclusion it will have, and vice versa. The length will often depend on the writer’s personal judgement and making a call on such a matter might well turn out to be the difference between an ordinary and  professional dissertation writer.

The length of a dissertation conclusion chapter is generally 5-7% of the total dissertation word count.

Addressing Research Questions in Dissertation Conclusion

Make sure that you start your conclusion chapter by directly addressing the  research questions  or the  research problem  that your dissertation or thesis intended to address.

Conclusion chapter gives you the final chance to demonstrate to your readers that your research achieved what was aimed at the beginning of the research.

Provide a clear, concise and to the point answer to your research questions. You are not expected to repeat what you have already said in the discussion part of the paper, rather turn readers’ attentions towards a final outcome.

Dissertation Conclusion Example

No matter how much you dig into the details of writing a conclusion for your dissertation, it is always nice to have a look at a full-fledged example for guidance purposes. The graphic below gives a summarised view of what is to be written in a dissertation conclusion.

Here is an example of how to write a dissertation conclusion to help you better understand.

How to Write Dissertation Conclusion Example

Here is a dissertation conclusion example of a dissertation that aimed to test a theoretical argument based on an analysis of a case study; Proposed anaerobic digestion plant in Tripoli.

Chapter 5 – Dissertation Conclusion 5.1 Background This chapter highlights the crux of the study by briefly describing objectives and literature survey. The feasibility of the proposed plant is then discussed, leading to the study’s limitations and difficulties. In the end, some recommendations for future work are provided in brief. Some suggestions to improve and highlight the renewable energy generation techniques are also part of the chapter. 5.2 Literature Review, Survey and Interviews A Valora process AD plant, with a capacity of 0.8 tones of food waste per day, is proposed to be established in the city of Tripoli. This plant can assist the national grid in meeting the rising demands of electricity in Tripoli and on the outskirts. Public opinion about establishing such a plant is taken by conducting a survey. The survey results suggest that the people of Tripoli understand the need for a WTE plant and ensure their cooperation for the separate household food waste if provided with the containers by the municipal authorities. The food waste to energy generation plant provides a solution for both household food waste management in Tripoli and generating an adequate amount of electricity to meet the rising demand. An informal session of interviews has been conducted with the experts from the Energy Agency of Libya. The opinion and observation-based data collection are done in order to opt for the interpretive approach of research adequately. All five respondents recommended the idea of establishing an AD plant in Tripoli-Libya. Their comments and suggestions have also validated the plant location selected in the research as an appropriate location for establishing a plant. The idea of energy generation using sustainable methods is the main point they’ve endorsed. The research provides the solution for both; waste management in Tripoli and the introduction of sustainable energy generation methods in Libya. 5.3 Feasibility of the Proposed System A detailed, feasibly study was conducted, including technical details such as the amount of biogas generation, plant type, equipment sizing, and proposed location for the plant. Initial finances, operation and management costs of the proposed AD plant are estimated in the financial analysis of the proposed plant. Life cycle assessment is compared with food waste management to evaluate the environmental effects of the plant. The analysis suggests that the proposed AD plant is economically, technically and ecologically feasible to establish on 3rd Ring Road in Tripoli. 5.4 Limitations and Difficulties Some of the limitations and difficulties involved in the process of digestion or establishing a digestion plant are listed as follows; 1. Since many WTE technologies are designed to handle mixed-type food waste such as solid waste and municipal waste etc. Running the plant with specifically food waste is difficult as food waste makes comparatively less amount than MSW as a whole. 2. Some other WTE challenges include high capital cost, waste-gas cleanup, regulatory hurdles, and conversion efficiency. 3. Since domestic utilization of generated electricity is a primary objective, and it adds a limitation where even distribution of electricity distribution in domestic buildings is not possible if the plant is located outside the residential area. This issue can be resolved by centralizing a substation for the proper transmission and distribution. 4. Since the accuracy of the estimated analysis depends entirely on the data, and missing fields affect the accuracy of the estimations. 5. Since the survey is conducted among non-technical people and represents their views, no primary data is available that accurately estimates the energy generation from the amount of food or biogas generation. The calculations of estimation of biogas yield and energy generation are based on the equations taken from secondary resources thus can be erroneous. 5.5 Future Work This study is conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of establishing a large-scale plant to provide an alternative and renewable energy solution. The whole idea is applicable and implementable in the proposed area. Instead, in the future, the idea can be evaluated for the individual high-rise buildings to make them self-sufficient in energy demand and supply and to reduce the load on the national electricity grid. A cross-national study involving cost-benefit analysis of family-sized digesters in Tripoli is yet to analyze in order to predict the future of biogas technology in Libya. Information about government subsidies on renewable energy generation plants in Tripoli is important but unknown yet. This study revolves around the utilization of food waste collected from residential buildings only. Although hotels, restaurants, and canteens can also provide a considerably high amount of food waste and it is relatively easy for them to collect it separately. Thus further work can be based on the food waste collection from the food consumption areas. It is important to remember that there is no need to restate the research objectives in conclusion. Your statements should incorporate answers to research questions without you having to repeat those questions. Here is another example of dissertation conclusion.

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Summarising and Reflecting on Research

As mentioned before, the conclusion chapter gives you that final opportunity to restate what your research study intended to achieve, what approach you took in the process, where  findings  you came up as a result of your study, and whether or not they were according to your expectations. In short, a conclusion section needs to provide an overview of the building blocks of your research.

It is common to use a reflective style of writing here, rather than simply restating what you have already written in the previous chapters. This approach will also help you to avoid repetition.

For example, if there were limitations of your chosen research methodology then you might want to briefly state whether or not that could have influenced the results of your research study. You can also highlight any new insights that you recorded during the process.

Focus more on the positives of your study although you will be expected to concisely state the limitations of your research as well.

The research approach employed for this research study provided new insight into B even though it limited the generalizability of findings.

Recommendations for Future in Conclusion Chapter

Although it is common to provide recommendations for future research work in the discussion chapter, it will be a good idea to provide an overview of those endorsements in the conclusion chapter with a focus on the practical and theoretical consequences of your results.

Practitioners should consider A and B based on these conclusions….Further research needs to be conducted for better understanding in regards to the implications of these findings….The effects of the relationship between A and B are still unclear, and so further research must be conducted…

Research pertaining to a dissertation or thesis is usually expected to discover, enlighten, and educate rather than frame the results as essentials for practitioners and policymakers.

Any recommendations related to business, application, and strategy should be presented as propositions to avoid overstating the appositeness of your work.

Never undermine your research work when making propositions for future research. Your work should be recognized as complete, thorough, and reliable without the need for further research to confirm your conclusions.

Stress the Importance of Your Research in Conclusion

You don’t want your readers to leave with the impression that your work did not make a valuable contribution to the existing knowledge in your area of study. Here are some ideas to demonstrate how this is done;

• Referring back to the problem statement to help readers understand how your work addresses the research problem originally identified.
• Elaborate how your results validated or tested an existing hypothesis or theory.
• Stating how your research was able to fill a certain gap in existing knowledge as pointed out in the literature review.

Again, it is recommended to avoid repetition. You do not want to reiterate what you have already discussed in the previous chapter.

Dissertation Conclusion Help from Experts

Writing a dissertation is no mean feat because it requires complete dedication and attention to detail in order to secure a good grade.

Even the very first part of your dissertation – topic selection can become a cumbersome task because of the  need to select a topic with a sufficient amount of literature available on it.

Despite putting in a lot of effort, you might still end up with a grade that is well below your own expectations which is why it is sometimes better off to approach professionals providing dissertation writing services so that the complexities surrounding a top-quality dissertation are handled by people with specialized skill set.

As we approach the conclusion of this piece, it should be clear by now as to what students are expected to do in the final phase of their dissertations. In short, they should have a clear idea about  how to write a dissertation conclusion .

Finally, it is important not to let yourself down by writing a mediocre conclusion and consequently lose crucial marks. The hard part of your dissertation is already completed so it is worthwhile to put in a concentrated effort to end on a high and impress your supervisor.

Struggling with any Chapter of your Dissertation?

Whether it is your dissertation introduction, literature review, methodology, conclusion or any other chapter, our expert dissertation writers can help you succeed. With our dissertation chapter writing service, you can be confident of having your individual chapters completed to your school’s exact guidelines. Click here to learn more about our dissertation chapter writing service. Find out how our dissertation services can help you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many pages is a dissertation conclusion.

The length of a dissertation conclusion varies but is typically around 1 to 2 pages. It succinctly summarizes key findings, discusses implications, and restates the significance of the study, providing a resolution to the research.

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• > How to Do Research
• > Draw conclusions and make recommendations

Book contents

• Frontmatter
• Acknowledgements
• Introduction: Types of research
• Part 1 The research process
• 1 Develop the research objectives
• 2 Design and plan the study
• 3 Write the proposal
• 4 Obtain financial support for the research
• 5 Manage the research
• 6 Draw conclusions and make recommendations
• 7 Write the report
• 8 Disseminate the results
• Part 2 Methods
• Appendix The market for information professionals: A proposal from the Policy Studies Institute

6 - Draw conclusions and make recommendations

from Part 1 - The research process

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  09 June 2018

This is the point everything has been leading up to. Having carried out the research and marshalled all the evidence, you are now faced with the problem of making sense of it all. Here you need to distinguish clearly between three different things: results, conclusions and recommendations.

Results are what you have found through the research. They are more than just the raw data that you have collected. They are the processed findings of the work – what you have been analysing and striving to understand. In total, the results form the picture that you have uncovered through your research. Results are neutral. They clearly depend on the nature of the questions asked but, given a particular set of questions, the results should not be contentious – there should be no debate about whether or not 63 per cent of respondents said ‘yes’ to question 16.

When you consider the results you can draw conclusions based on them. These are less neutral as you are putting your interpretation on the results and thus introducing a degree of subjectivity. Some research is simply descriptive – the final report merely presents the results. In most cases, though, you will want to interpret them, saying what they mean for you – drawing conclusions.

These conclusions might arise from a comparison between your results and the findings of other studies. They will, almost certainly, be developed with reference to the aim and objectives of the research. While there will be no debate over the results, the conclusions could well be contentious. Someone else might interpret the results differently, arriving at different conclusions. For this reason you need to support your conclusions with structured, logical reasoning.

Having drawn your conclusions you can then make recommendations. These should flow from your conclusions. They are suggestions about action that might be taken by people or organizations in the light of the conclusions that you have drawn from the results of the research. Like the conclusions, the recommendations may be open to debate. You may feel that, on the basis of your conclusions, the organization you have been studying should do this, that or the other.

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• Draw conclusions and make recommendations
• Book: How to Do Research
• Online publication: 09 June 2018
• Chapter DOI: https://doi.org/10.29085/9781856049825.007

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• Writing thesis sections - Part 1

Writing the conclusion

The conclusion of your thesis, whether embedded in or separated from your discussion chapter, should create a strong closure to your thesis as it leads out to future research and pathways.

Key conclusion moves

• Summarise the research by restating the research problem and aim, providing a succinct answer to these, and recapping the key findings and evidence
• Unpack the implications of your contribution for theory, practice, research and/or policy in the field
• Acknowledge the limitations and scope of your research
• Address the next frontier: ‘what’s next?’ - make specific recommendations for future work in the field: what could be done to apply or further your research?

Depending on your discipline, you could include a section reflecting on your professional learning as a researcher through the study, especially if you started the thesis with a personal anecdote. Keep your conclusion  concise – it could be just several pages long.

Compare the differences between discussions and conclusions in the table below:

Gather ideas for the conclusion

As you write or edit  your thesis, gather in one place ideas that don’t quite fit the tight purpose of an earlier chapter, or ideas that you would love to develop in another project. These can provide fresh material for the conclusion. For example, they can become statements about the social implications of your research or your recommendations for future investigations.

Align the conclusion with earlier parts of thesis

The introduction and conclusion, as well as the mini-introductions and mini-conclusions of the core chapters, form the bulk of a thesis narrative as they give readers a holistic perspective of the research.

To align the conclusion:

• Make sure it addresses the same problem you set out in the introduction
• If an anecdote or another kind of hook has been used to start the introduction, think about ending the thesis with a return to the hook
• Assess whether you need to adjust the introduction or earlier parts of the thesis to fit your conclusions, or whether the conclusions themselves need to be adjusted.

Explore example introductions and conclusions

In this activity, you’ll read short introduction and conclusion excerpts from two example theses. As you read, think about the ways the author has linked or connected their conclusions to their introductions. Then, turn each card to read a brief commentary.

Conclusions - practice getting to the point(s)

Boostering your introduction and conclusion

Use the side menu to go the next section: Using disciplinary conventions , where we discuss how to use the conventions of your discipline.

Writing the parts of scientific reports

22 Writing the conclusion & recommendations

There are probably some overlaps between the Conclusion and the Discussion section. Nevertheless, this section gives you the opportunity to highlight the most important points in your report, and is sometimes the only section read. Think about what your research/ study has achieved, and the most important findings and ideas you want the reader to know. As all studies have limitations also think about what you were not able to cover (this shows that you are able to evaluate your own work objectively).

Possible structure of this section:

Use present perfect to sum up/ evaluate:

This study has explored/ has attempted …

Use past tense to state what your aim was and to refer to actions you carried out:

• This study was intended to analyse …
• The aim of this study was to …

Use present tense to evaluate your study and to state the generalizations and implications that you draw from your findings.

• The results add to the knowledge of …
• These findings s uggest that …

You can either use present tense or past tense to summarize your results.

• The findings reveal …
• It was found that …

Achievements of this study (positive)

• This study provides evidence that …
• This work has contributed to a number of key issues in the field such as …

Limitations of the study (negative)

• Several limitations should be noted. First …

Combine positive and negative remarks to give a balanced assessment:

• Although this research is somewhat limited in scope, its findings can provide a basis for future studies.
• Despite the limitations, findings from the present study can help us understand …

Use more cautious language (modal verbs may, can, could)

• There are a number of possible extensions of this research …
• The findings suggest the possibility for future research on …
• These results may be important for future studies on …
• Examining a wider context could/ would lead …

Or indicate that future research is needed

• There is still a need for future research to determine …
• Further studies should be undertaken to discover…
• It would be worthwhile to investigate …

Academic Writing in a Swiss University Context Copyright © 2018 by Irene Dietrichs. All Rights Reserved.

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How To Write a Thesis Conclusion – Example & Tips

A thesis conclusion is the last and the most crucial section of your thesis or dissertation. It is the summary of the dissertation. Put it this way: the conclusion paragraph is your entire dissertation wrapped in a few paragraphs. But, concluding a thesis is never easy for many people. Therefore, what is the best way for concluding a thesis or dissertation?

In this post, we will take a closer look at the dissertation conclusion to help you understand how to write a winning conclusion for a research paper as well as a thesis. We will narrow it down further to outline the best structure of a conclusion.

What is the Importance of the Conclusion Paragraph?

Discussion vs conclusion, what is the best format for writing a conclusion, get a sigh of relief concluding thesis.

Before digging deeper into the mechanics of how to write a conclusion for a research paper or thesis, you need to ask yourself the question: “Why is it important?”

Your dissertation conclusion is the last part that you work on after completing the research and the write-up. No matter the area of study you are focusing on, the conclusion can help you to achieve the following goals:

• Answering the research questions that you posed in the first chapter of the dissertation.
• The conclusion paragraph is the part where you reflect on the dissertation.
• In the conclusion, you draw the recommendations for additional studies in areas where you found gaps.
• When writing a dissertation conclusion, you demonstrate what new knowledge you are contributing to the field.

Note that just like the rest of the dissertation, you should not shy from asking your supervisor for a great dissertation conclusion example, especially from past students. This is very important because your department might have a preferred format for writing dissertation conclusions. You can also get a perfect example of a conclusion in the thesis as you research your topic.

When designing a conclusion format, it is important to differentiate it from the results and discussion parts of the thesis. This will help you to strike the perfect flow and win the readers’ affection.

The dissertation results chapter outlines the findings you generated from the research. You should use tables and graphs to demonstrate the findings of the study. The results chapter comes before the discussion.

In the discussion section, you delve deeper into the results you have just presented. You are simply deciphering the findings in line with your research questions. It is the discussion that will set the stage for approving or disproving the thesis statement that you outlined in the first chapter.

NOTE: In some colleges, the results and discussions are put together into one chapter. Therefore, it is very important to follow your college’s recommendation.

While the results and discussions focus more on the results, the conclusion wraps up the entire dissertation. If your dissertation ends at the discussion part, the reader will be left hanging. But writing the conclusion makes the dissertation feel complete and authentic.

As you think about how to write a conclusion, there is one question you need to get right: “How long should a conclusion be?” If you are writing a conclusion for a standard research paper or short thesis, one to three paragraphs should suffice. To put it in percentage, the conclusion should be about 5% of the overall word count. Therefore, you should start by establishing “how long should a thesis be”.

In most cases, the conclusion for empirical scientific research is generally short while that of humanities dissertations is longer. Here is the best format for how to end a research paper or thesis.

• Start by answering the thesis question: Your conclusion should commence by restating the main thesis question that you anticipate answering. Finally, you have the opportunity to answer the question. Ensure the answer is clear and concise.
• Reflect on the research that you have just finished: After stating the study question, you need to remind the marker or readers why the study was important. Why did you set off on the journey, what was the anticipation, and did the results confirm the expectation? Give an overview of steps that were used during the research and construction of your argument.

At this point, you might be wondering – do I summarize every chapter? The answer is ‘no.’ Instead, you should write more reflectively and answer whether the methodology used was effective in answering the study questions. Make sure also to mention the limitations you experienced during the study.

• Outline recommendations: Although you might have noted the areas that need further research when discussing results, the conclusion is a perfect place to elaborate. Its recommendations interweave well with personal reflections. Try to make recommendations specific. Here are some examples of how to frame recommendations:

Further studies are needed to establish the implications of …. From the conclusion, sociology researchers should consider ….. To understand the effects of the findings, further research can help to ….

• What was your contribution? This part of the conclusion is used to answer the question: “So what?” It provides the right impression of how the thesis contributed to the researcher’s field of study. To achieve this, you can use the following strategies:

Revisit the study problem statement and explain how the thesis helped to solve it. Refer to the study’s literature review to demonstrate how the dissertation has helped to fill the existing gap. If your dissertation is in humanities, you can demonstrate how the findings challenged or confirmed the current viewpoints, assumptions, or theories.

Note that the conclusion should not appear as a stand-alone chapter in the dissertation. Rather, it should articulately interweave with the rest of the paper. To perfect your skills, make sure to also check top conclusion paragraph examples from other students.

From this post on how to write a conclusion paragraph, there is no doubt that you should find it an easy and enjoyable process. After working so hard to complete the dissertation, the conclusion paragraph is simply aimed at wrapping everything up. To get the best conclusions, you should also read top-rated conclusion paragraph examples to see how experts do it. But we must agree that even with this simplified demonstration, crafting the perfect conclusion paragraph is no easy task. It takes time and practice.

There are times when students, even after working on the biggest chunk of their dissertations, feel inadequate to write the conclusions. Often, the process can be complicated when you are required to follow specific models such as MLA or APA conclusions. Even if you have the best conclusion examples and working hard to hone your writing skills, a tight deadline or other engagements might make it hard to craft the best. If you feel inadequate about writing a Harvard or MLA format conclusion because of any reason, do not hesitate to seek writing help.

Writing help is offered by expert writers who understand the structure of Ph.D. conclusion chapters to guarantee you the best grades. No matter your area of study, the experts are cheap and will get you the best. In addition to helping you write the conclusion, they can also provide you with the best sample of a conclusion paragraph for practice. What a great way to sharpen your skills in dissertation writing?

Do not let writing a thesis conclusion stress you: Use this post to make it fun!

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What’s Included: Conclusion Template

This template covers all the core components required in the conclusion chapter of a typical dissertation, thesis or research project:

• The opening/overview section
• Summary of key findings
• Limitations
• Recommendations for future research
• Contribution
• Concluding summary

The purpose of each section is explained in plain language, followed by an overview of the key elements that you need to cover. The template also includes practical examples to help you understand exactly what’s required, along with links to additional free resources (articles, videos, etc.) to help you along your research journey.

The cleanly formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX.

PS – if you’d like a high-level template for the entire thesis, you can we’ve got that too .

Dissertation & Thesis Conclusion FAQ

What format is the template (doc, pdf, ppt, etc.).

The conclusion chapter template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

Is this template for an undergrad, Master or PhD-level thesis?

This template can be used for a dissertation, thesis or research project at any level of study. Doctoral-level projects typically require a lengthier, more comprehensive conclusion, but the structure will typically remain the same. Again, be sure to check your university’s requirements and norms in terms of document structure.

What types of dissertations/theses can this be used for?

The conclusion chapter template follows the standard format for academic research projects, which means it will be suitable for the majority of dissertations, theses and research projects (especially those within the sciences).

Keep in mind that the exact requirements for the conclusion chapter/section will vary between universities and degree programs. For example, your university may require that the discussion chapter and conclusion chapter are merged into one (this is common for shorter projects). So, be sure to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalize your structure.

How long should the conclusion chapter be?

This can vary a fair deal, depending on the level of study (undergrad, Master or Doctoral), the field of research, as well as your university’s specific requirements. Therefore, it’s best to check with your university or review past dissertations from your program to get an accurate estimate.

Can I share this template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template in its original format (no editing allowed). If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, please reference this page as your source.

Do you have templates for the other chapters?

Yes, we do. We are constantly developing our collection of free resources to help students complete their dissertations and theses. You can view all of our template resources here .

• Dissertation Blogs

How to Write a Thesis Conclusion and Recommendation Chapter?

Description:

A student is asked to write many papers during their time in college. However, a thesis is the ultimate and most important paper they are supposed to write. A lot depends on their thesis. It is accounted for as their final paper before getting their degrees. There are many professionals who stress the importance of writing a good thesis. They tend to focus a lot on the literature and the overall format. The thesis conclusion and recommendation chapter are the most underrated chapters. There’s hardly any discussion about them. However, they are equally important. The thesis conclusion and recommendation are of great importance. They are very important and leave a lasting impact on the minds of the readers. Which is why it is extremely important that the thesis conclusion and recommendation chapter are very well written.

Let us get a better understanding of how to write the thesis conclusion and recommendation chapter. But before we get to that, we should have better knowledge of thesis conclusion chapter.

What Is a Thesis Conclusion and Recommendation Chapter?

A thesis conclusion chapter is not like the conclusions of the rest of the academic papers you write. Unlike most conclusions, a thesis conclusion chapter consists of the overall summary of your literature . Whatever you write in your literature, it is written in a concise format in the conclusion. A good thesis conclusion is a blend of all the facts you have written in your main body. It gives you a brief summary of whatever you have written in your main body. A good conclusion is able to explain the entire gist of your thesis without omitting any major facts or figures.

On the other hand, the recommendations consist of all the recommendations you make. These recommendations can mainly be for future researches, government offices, or even corporate offices.

How to Write a Good Thesis Conclusion?

Here are a few points you should keep in mind while writing a thesis conclusion and recommendation chapters.

Stick to the Question

Keep in mind to provide answers to your research problems in your conclusion chapter. Explain all the problems you have highlighted in the course of your research. Make sure you provide the readers with answers to these questions with reference to your research. This will satisfy the readers and will leave them with a sense of completeness.

You must keep in mind to address your hypothesis in your thesis conclusion chapter. There is always a hypothesis a student begins with while writing the dissertation . Make sure you either confirm that hypothesis or reject it in your conclusion chapter. You must give out a verdict in your conclusion. That is the whole point behind writing it. If you don’t give out a verdict, then your entire research is pointless.

Information

You must keep in mind that your conclusion is the summary of your literature. You must not introduce any new information in your thesis conclusion. This will completely confuse all your readers since they will be expecting a verdict on your hypothesis, not a new theory. Not only that, it will also leave a bad impression on their mind.

Say No to Examples

Like we’ve mentioned in the last step, you should not introduce any new facts and information in your conclusion. Introducing new facts in your conclusion will only confuse your readers.

No First Person’s

Because your conclusions are all about summarizing all the previously mentioned facts; you must make sure not to use the first person while writing. You are simply drawing a conclusion and giving a verdict considering all the facts you have mentioned in your main body. There is no room whatsoever for personal opinions. Which is why you shouldn’t use the first person.

Know the Difference Between Conclusion and Result

It is important that you understand the difference between a conclusion and a result. There’s a lot of difference between the two. Do not copy your result into the conclusion. In the result section, you write about what you have found while conducting your research. On the other hand, in the conclusion, you discuss your result and deliver a verdict.

Validate Your Sources

While recommending, you must make sure that your sources are credible and valid. Only recommend genuine sources and literature. Otherwise, it might leave a bad impression on the readers.

Now that you have understood all the points, you are capable of writing a good conclusion and recommendation chapter. In case you still need professional help or guidance, you can always opt for Uniresearchers . We have a highly trained and equipped team which is ready to help you with all your academic writings.

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• Differences between a finding, a conclusion, and a recommendation: examples
• Learning Center

Table of Contents

• Defining the Terms: What Is a Finding, a Conclusion, and a Recommendation in M&E?
• Why It Matters: Understanding the Importance of Differentiating between Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations in M&E
• How to Identify and Distinguish between Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations in M&E
• How to Communicate Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations Effectively in M&E Reports
• The Benefits of Clear and Accurate Reporting of Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations in M&E

1. Defining the Terms: What Is a Finding, a Conclusion, and a Recommendation in M&E?

Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) is a critical process for assessing the effectiveness of development programs and policies. During the M&E process, evaluators collect and analyze data to draw conclusions and make recommendations for program improvement. In M&E, it is essential to differentiate between findings, conclusions, and recommendations to ensure that the evaluation report accurately reflects the program’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement.

In an evaluation report, a finding, a conclusion, and a recommendation serve different purposes and convey different information. Here are the differences between these three elements:

1.1 Finding

A finding is a factual statement that is based on evidence collected during the evaluation . It describes what was observed, heard, or experienced during the evaluation process. A finding should be objective, unbiased, and supported by data. Findings are typically presented in the form of a summary or a list of key points, and they provide the basis for the evaluation’s conclusions and recommendations.

Findings are an important part of the evaluation process, as they provide objective and unbiased information about what was observed, heard, or experienced during the evaluation. Findings are based on the evidence collected during the evaluation, and they should be supported by data and other relevant information. They are typically presented in a summary or list format, and they serve as the basis for the evaluation’s conclusions and recommendations. By presenting clear and accurate findings, evaluators can help stakeholders understand the strengths and weaknesses of the program or initiative being evaluated, and identify opportunities for improvement.

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1.2 Examples of Finding

Here are some examples of findings in M&E:

• “Program participants reported a high level of satisfaction with the quality of training provided, with 85% rating it as good or excellent.”
• “The program was successful in increasing the number of girls enrolled in secondary school, with a 25% increase observed in the target communities.”
• “Program beneficiaries reported improved access to healthcare services, with a 40% increase in the number of individuals accessing healthcare facilities in the program area.”
• “The program’s training curriculum was found to be outdated and ineffective, with only 30% of participants reporting that the training was useful.”
• “The program’s monitoring and evaluation system was found to be inadequate, with data quality issues and insufficient capacity among staff to carry out effective monitoring and evaluation activities.”

These findings represent objective, measurable results of the data collected during the M&E process, and can be used to inform program design and implementation, as well as to draw conclusions and make recommendations for improvement.

1.3 Conclusion

A conclusion is a judgment or interpretation of the findings based on the evidence collected during the evaluation. It is typically expressed in terms of what the findings mean or what can be inferred from them. Conclusions should be logical, evidence-based, and free from personal bias or opinion.

Conclusions often answer the evaluation questions or objectives, and they provide insights into the effectiveness or impact of the program, project, or intervention being evaluated. By synthesizing the findings into a cohesive narrative, evaluators can provide stakeholders with a clear and actionable understanding of the program or initiative being evaluated. Conclusions can also inform future planning and decision-making, by identifying areas for improvement and highlighting successful strategies or interventions. Overall, conclusions are a crucial component of the evaluation process, as they help stakeholders make informed decisions about the programs and initiatives they are involved in.

1.4 Examples of Conclusion

Here are some examples of conclusions in M&E:

• Based on the data collected, it can be concluded that the program was successful in achieving its objective of increasing access to clean water in the target communities.”
• “The data indicates that the program’s training curriculum is ineffective and in need of revision in order to better meet the needs of participants.”
• “It can be concluded that the program’s community mobilization efforts were successful in increasing community participation and ownership of the program.”
• “Based on the data collected, it is concluded that the program’s impact on improving maternal and child health outcomes is limited and further efforts are needed to address the underlying health system and infrastructure issues.”
• “The data collected indicates that the program’s impact on reducing poverty in the target area is modest, but still significant, and further investment in complementary programs may be needed to achieve more substantial reductions in poverty rates.”
• These conclusions are based on the evidence presented in the findings and represent the interpretation or explanation of the meaning of the findings. They help to provide insight into the impact and effectiveness of the program and can be used to make recommendations for improvement.

1.5 Recommendation

A recommendation is a specific action or set of actions proposed based on the findings and conclusions of the evaluation. Recommendations should be practical, feasible, and tailored to the needs of the stakeholders who will be implementing them. They should be supported by evidence and aligned with the goals of the program, project, or intervention being evaluated.

Recommendations often provide guidance on how to improve the effectiveness or efficiency of the program, project, or intervention, and they can help to inform decision-making and resource allocation. By presenting clear and actionable recommendations, evaluators can help stakeholders identify and prioritize areas for improvement, and develop strategies to address identified issues. Recommendations can also serve as a roadmap for future planning and implementation and can help to ensure that the program or initiative continues to achieve its intended outcomes over time.

Overall, recommendations are an essential component of the evaluation process, as they help to bridge the gap between evaluation findings and programmatic action. By proposing specific and evidence-based actions, evaluators can help to ensure that evaluation results are translated into meaningful improvements in program design, implementation, and outcomes.

1.6 Examples of Recommendation

Here are some examples of recommendations in M&E:

• “To improve the effectiveness of the program’s training, the curriculum should be revised to better meet the needs of participants, with a focus on practical, hands-on learning activities.”
• “To address the data quality issues identified in the monitoring and evaluation system, staff should receive additional training on data collection and management, and the system should be revised to incorporate additional quality control measures.”
• “To build on the success of the program’s community mobilization efforts, further investments should be made in strengthening community-based organizations and networks, and in promoting greater community participation in program planning and decision-making.”
• “To improve the program’s impact on maternal and child health outcomes, efforts should be made to address underlying health system and infrastructure issues, such as improving access to health facilities and training health workers.”
• “To achieve more substantial reductions in poverty rates in the target area, complementary programs should be implemented to address issues such as economic development, education, and social protection.”

These recommendations are specific actions that can be taken based on the findings and conclusions of the M&E process. They should be practical, feasible, and based on the evidence presented in the evaluation report. By implementing these recommendations, development practitioners can improve program effectiveness and impact, and better meet the needs of the target population.

2. Why It Matters: Understanding the Importance of Differentiating between Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations in M&E

Differentiating between findings, conclusions, and recommendations is crucial in M&E for several reasons. First, it ensures accuracy and clarity in the evaluation report. Findings, conclusions, and recommendations are distinct components of an evaluation report, and they serve different purposes. By clearly defining and differentiating these components, evaluators can ensure that the report accurately reflects the program’s strengths and weaknesses, potential areas for improvement, and the evidence supporting the evaluation’s conclusions.

Second, differentiating between findings, conclusions, and recommendations helps to facilitate evidence-based decision-making. By clearly presenting the evidence supporting the evaluation’s findings and conclusions, and making recommendations based on that evidence, evaluators can help program managers and policymakers make informed decisions about program design, implementation, and resource allocation.

Finally, differentiating between findings, conclusions, and recommendations can help to increase the credibility and trustworthiness of the evaluation report. Clear and accurate reporting of findings, conclusions, and recommendations helps to ensure that stakeholders understand the evaluation’s results and recommendations, and can have confidence in the evaluation’s rigor and objectivity.

In summary, differentiating between findings, conclusions, and recommendations is essential in M&E to ensure accuracy and clarity in the evaluation report, facilitate evidence-based decision-making, and increase the credibility and trustworthiness of the evaluation.

3. How to Identify and Distinguish between Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations in M&E

Identifying and distinguishing between findings, conclusions, and recommendations in M&E requires careful consideration of the evidence and the purpose of each component. Here are some tips for identifying and distinguishing between findings, conclusions, and recommendations in M&E:

• Findings: Findings are the results of the data analysis and should be objective and evidence-based. To identify findings, look for statements that summarize the data collected and analyzed during the evaluation. Findings should be specific, measurable, and clearly stated.
• Conclusions: Conclusions are interpretations of the findings and should be supported by the evidence. To distinguish conclusions from findings, look for statements that interpret or explain the meaning of the findings. Conclusions should be logical and clearly explained, and should take into account any limitations of the data or analysis.
• Recommendations: Recommendations are specific actions that can be taken based on the findings and conclusions. To distinguish recommendations from conclusions, look for statements that propose actions to address the issues identified in the evaluation. Recommendations should be practical, feasible, and clearly explained, and should be based on the evidence presented in the findings and conclusions.

It is also important to ensure that each component is clearly labeled and presented in a logical order in the evaluation report. Findings should be presented first, followed by conclusions and then recommendations.

In summary, identifying and distinguishing between findings, conclusions, and recommendations in M&E requires careful consideration of the evidence and the purpose of each component. By ensuring that each component is clearly labeled and presented in a logical order, evaluators can help to ensure that the evaluation report accurately reflects the program’s strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for improvement, and facilitates evidence-based decision-making.

4. How to Communicate Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations Effectively in M&E Reports

Communicating findings, conclusions, and recommendations effectively in M&E reports is critical to ensuring that stakeholders understand the evaluation’s results and recommendations and can use them to inform decision-making. Here are some tips for communicating findings, conclusions, and recommendations effectively in M&E reports:

• Use clear and concise language: Use clear, simple language to explain the findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Avoid technical jargon and use examples to illustrate key points.
• Present data visually: Use tables, graphs, and charts to present data visually, making it easier for stakeholders to understand and interpret the findings.
• Provide context: Provide context for the findings, conclusions, and recommendations by explaining the evaluation’s purpose, methodology, and limitations. This helps stakeholders understand the scope and significance of the evaluation’s results and recommendations.
• Highlight key points: Use headings, bullet points, and other formatting techniques to highlight key points, making it easier for stakeholders to identify and remember the most important findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Be objective: Present the findings, conclusions, and recommendations objectively and avoid bias. This helps to ensure that stakeholders have confidence in the evaluation’s rigor and objectivity.
• Tailor the report to the audience: Tailor the report to the audience by using language and examples that are relevant to their interests and needs. This helps to ensure that the report is accessible and useful to stakeholders.

In summary, communicating findings, conclusions, and recommendations effectively in M&E reports requires clear and concise language, visual presentation of data, contextualization, highlighting of key points, objectivity, and audience-tailoring. By following these tips, evaluators can help to ensure that stakeholders understand the evaluation’s results and recommendations and can use them to inform decision-making.

5. The Benefits of Clear and Accurate Reporting of Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations in M&E

Clear and accurate reporting of M&E findings, conclusions, and recommendations has many benefits for development programs and policies. One of the most significant benefits is improved program design and implementation. By clearly identifying areas for improvement, program designers and implementers can make adjustments that lead to more effective and efficient programs that better meet the needs of the target population.

Another important benefit is evidence-based decision-making. When M&E findings, conclusions, and recommendations are reported accurately and clearly, decision-makers have access to reliable information on which to base their decisions. This can lead to more informed decisions about program design, implementation, and resource allocation.

Clear and accurate reporting of M&E findings, conclusions, and recommendations also supports accountability. By reporting transparently on program performance, development practitioners can build trust and support among stakeholders, including program beneficiaries, donors, and the general public.

M&E findings, conclusions, and recommendations also support continuous learning and improvement. By identifying best practices, lessons learned, and areas for improvement, development practitioners can use this information to improve future programming.

Finally, clear and accurate reporting of M&E findings, conclusions, and recommendations can increase program impact. By identifying areas for improvement and supporting evidence-based decision-making, development programs can have a greater positive impact on the communities they serve.

In summary, clear and accurate reporting of M&E findings, conclusions, and recommendations is critical for improving program design and implementation, supporting evidence-based decision-making, ensuring accountability, supporting continuous learning and improvement, and increasing program impact. By prioritizing clear and accurate reporting, development practitioners can ensure that their programs are effective, efficient, and have a positive impact on the communities they serve.

Very interesting reading which clearly explain the M&E finding, recommendation and conclusion, which sometimes the terms can be confusing

This is indeed an insightful information on M & E.

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Reason: A thesis chapter in preparation to submission to academic journal

until file(s) become available

Constraining Explosion Physics and Progenitors of Transients via Statistical Inferencing of All Sky Survey Data Streams

Advancements in astronomical imaging all-sky surveys are revolutionising the field of time domain astronomy. However, the immense volume of alert data presents a critical bottleneck in maximizing scientific returns from these surveys. Effectively analyzing alert streams to discover transients in unexplored physical parameter spaces is crucial for enhancing scientific output. Building robust infrastructure to identify, prioritize, and execute efficient follow-up strategies on alert streams from all-sky surveys becomes critical. My thesis confronts this challenge through a multidisciplinary approach, by integrating statistical methods, machine learning algorithms, and hydrodynamical simulations to constrain transient explosion properties and motivate effective follow-up initiatives.

I analyze a sample of 45 Type II supernovae from the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) public survey using a grid of hydrodynamical models in order to assess whether theoretically driven forecasts can intelligently guide follow-up observations supporting all-sky survey alert streams. I estimate several progenitor properties and explosion physics parameters, including zero-age main-sequence (ZAMS) mass, mass-loss rate, kinetic energy, 56 Ni mass synthesized, host extinction, and the time of the explosion. This work involves simulations of real-time of evolving incomplete light curves of the sample (∆t < 25 days, ∆t < 50 days, all data) leading to the conclusion that certain physical parameters exhibit greater reliability as indicators of true values during early epochs. This study emphasises the vital role of real-time modeling of transients, supported by multi-band synthetic light curves tailored to survey passbands, for identifying interesting transients based on their progenitor and explosion properties and determining critical epochs for follow-up observations.

In my thesis, I report multi wavelength observations and characterization of the ultraluminous transient AT 2021lwx (ZTF20abrbeie; aka“Barbie”) identified in the ZTF alert stream, that was flagged as an anomaly by the Recommender Engine For Intelligent Transient Track-ing (REFITT). From a spectroscopically measured redshift of 0.9945, and slowly fading g and r light curves spanning over 1000 observer-frame days that peak with an absolute magnitude of Mr = −25.7 mag, AT 2021lwx has an extraordinary peak pseudo-bolometric luminosity of log (Lmax/[erg/s]) = 45.7. The total radiative energy is over 10 53 erg, and as of today, the transient continues to decline slowly following a t −5/3 power-law. Modeling available photometry with MOSFiT suggests that AT 2021lwx is a tidal disruption event (TDE) candidate involving a ≈ 14 or 15 solar mass star accreting onto a supermassive black hole (SMBH) with mass M BH ≈ 10 8 solar mass. But, intriguingly, no host galaxy associated with the theorized SMBH is detected yet. The Pan-STARRS non-detections do not definitively exclude the existence of a galaxy hosting AT 2021lwx. Utilizing EzGal, upper limits on the stellar mass for different stellar population models were determined. These upper limits suggest that a 10 10 solar mass host galaxy cannot be ruled out.

The enhanced sensitivity of upcoming large-scale all-sky surveys enables the early detection of transients, providing unique insights into their progenitor systems, an example being detection of shock cooling emission (SCE) in light curves of stripped-envelope supernovae(SESNe). Leveraging a statistically significant sample of these events with early detections from all-sky surveys presents an invaluable opportunity to constrain their environments, pro-genitors, and explosion properties. In my final study contributing to this thesis, I analyze a sample of 16 SESNe identified from the ZTF survey, characterised by prominent shock cooling emission features in their light curves. By modeling the SCE and the radioactive peak in these transients, I derive estimates of progenitor radius, mass of the extended envelope and explosion properties of SESNe. This analysis yields upper limits and ranges for the compactness and envelope structures of the SESN progenitors that exhibit SCE in their light curves. I conclude my thesis with a summary of the findings and their future applications.

Degree Type

• Doctor of Philosophy
• Physics and Astronomy

Campus location

• West Lafayette

Advisor/Supervisor/Committee Chair

Additional committee member 2, additional committee member 3, additional committee member 4, usage metrics.

• Stellar astronomy and planetary systems

Africa Oil Corporation Plans To Bump Its Yield Past 8%

• Africa Oil Corporation has a single producing asset in Prime Oil and Gas, which is being consolidated to enable strong shareholder returns.
• The company has revamped its strategy to focus on growth potential, including farm downs, equity investments, dividends, and share buybacks.
• Africa Oil Corporation's assets in Nigeria have strong production potential, with plans for substantial shareholder returns through dividends and buybacks.
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paulprescott72

Africa Oil Corporation (NYSEARCA: OTCPK:AOIFF ) has numerous exciting assets, however, at the end of the day, it has a single producing asset. That asset is a 50% shareholding in Prime Oil and Gas and it's associated offshore Nigerian production. That asset had substantial debt, with dividends paid to the parent companies. As we'll see throughout this article, the company's consolidation moves will enable strong shareholder returns.

Africa Oil Corporation New Strategy

Africa Oil Corporation revamped its strategy in mid-2023 and over the past year has worked to focus on its growth potential.

Africa Oil Corporation Investor Presentation

That includes two farm downs to de-risk the company's growth prospects, along with an equity investment placing for Impact. The company has also continued to pay a reasonable dividend of roughly 3% and has continued to buyback shares, buying back $40 million USD of shares or ~5% of its outstanding float. It can repurchase up to 10% of shares.

That, combined with the proposed consolidation we'll see below, will enable continued long-term growth and shareholder returns.

Africa Oil Corporation Proposed Consolidation

The company is consolidating with BTG, specifically BTG's 50% stake in Prime Oil and Gas.

That will result in Prime Oil and Gas becoming a subsidiary of AOC, with all earnings and reserves going straight to AOC. As a result, BTG will have a 35% growth through the issuance of new shares. The $800 million USD company will grow to a $1.2 billion USD company, valuing the company's Prime Oil and Gas assets at $800 million.

The deal provides immediate cash flow from strong Nigerian assets that have strong long-term growth potential. It doubles the reserves and production of the company and enables streamlined financial reporting and an increase in FCF to shareholders. The company is now committed to a $100 million USD base dividend, or a high single-digit yield of more than 8%, along with stronger overall returns.

That doesn't count the company's strong buyback program or its excess FCF that it can utilize for shareholder returns.

Africa Oil Corporation Asset Overview

The company has strong assets in Nigeria, assets that it will now have full ownership of, partaking in 3 of the top 5 fields in Nigeria by production.

The 3 fields have ~310 thousand barrels / day in aggregate gross field production with experienced operators. The vast majority of the company's reserves are proven, with continued development opportunities, and products such as Preowei to expand production. The company expects 2024 production to be a pro forma 36k barrels / day, with an 8-year reserve life.

The assets have generated $850 million in dividends in the last 4 years alone, and that dividend production is expected to remain strong. Pro forma year-end net debt will be $365 million, a comfortably affordable level from Prime, and one that can be managed. At current prices, Prime Oil and Gas earns more than $700 million in annual EBITDA.

Africa Oil Corporation Shareholder Returns

Africa Oil Corporation will have a strong pro-forma balance sheet committed to substantial shareholder returns.

The company expects to maintain at least $150 million in liquidity while maintaining LTM net debt / EBITDAX at <1.0x. The company plans to re-finance Prime debt / RBL, and we expect the combined structure will make that much easier for the company. The company is committed to hefty shareholder returns with $100 million in base dividends + 50% of excess FCF.

That's a dividend yield of more than 8%, plus continued shareholder returns, through buybacks. The company has exciting organic growth opportunities, with minimal risk due to its farm-down transaction. At the same time, the company is still looking for alternative long-term growth opportunities, something worth paying close attention to, given its historical success here.

Thesis Risk

The company's largest risk is weakness in oil prices as long-term demand tops out and low-cost competition exists from numerous sources such as American shale. That could hurt its ability to generate returns from its existing assets, while slowing down its ability to develop new assets. That's worth paying close attention to.

Africa has long been an unpopular jurisdiction for oil companies to invest in, with instability presenting a major risk. That's visible through the company's original project, Kenya, which was never built due to an inability to raise the necessary capital for a takeaway pipeline. That's combined with long-term growth concerns as oil demand remains weak and cheap production arises.

The company is issuing 35% more equity, to BTG, to enable it to take full ownership of Prime Oil and Gas. That will move the company to a net debt position, but enable it to grow substantially and have additional cash. The company is planning to move to a more than 8% debt load plus additional share buybacks. All of that makes the company a valuable investment.

Editor's Note: This article discusses one or more securities that do not trade on a major U.S. exchange. Please be aware of the risks associated with these stocks.

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The Value Portfolio specializes in building retirement portfolios and utilizes a fact-based research strategy to identify investments. This includes extensive readings of 10Ks, analyst commentary, market reports, and investor presentations. He invests real money in the stocks he recommends.

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of AOIFF either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

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