Your IB Extended Essay conclusion is your final opportunity to demonstrate your understanding, critical thinking, and ability to synthesize research. A strong conclusion ties your entire investigation together and provides a clear, confident response to your research question. Let’s break down the key elements of writing an effective EE conclusion.
Introduction: Why the EE Conclusion Matters
A well-written EE conclusion:
✅ Answers your research question definitively
✅ Synthesizes key arguments and findings
✅ Reflects on limitations and future research
✅ Highlights the significance of your work
Your conclusion leaves the final impression on the examiner — make it count!
Tip 1: Directly Answer Your Research Question
Restate the research question clearly
Start your conclusion by reminding the reader of your exact research question, as posed in your introduction.
Provide a concise, evidence-based answer
Deliver a clear, direct response based on the evidence and analysis presented in your essay. Avoid ambiguity — be confident in your conclusion.
Tip 2: Synthesize Key Findings
Integrate main points, not just summarize
Go beyond listing points. Weave your main arguments and data together to show how they collectively support your answer.
Show how arguments collectively support your conclusion
This synthesis demonstrates the coherence of your investigation and reinforces your critical thinking.
Tip 3: Avoid Introducing New Information
Keep new data and arguments out of the conclusion
The conclusion is not the place for fresh evidence or ideas. All analysis should appear in the body of your essay.
Ensure all analysis appears in earlier sections
If you find yourself introducing new points in your conclusion, revise your body paragraphs to integrate them where they belong.
Tip 4: Reflect on Limitations and Unresolved Questions
Acknowledge scope or method limitations
Show intellectual honesty by noting any constraints in your research, such as limited data, scope, or methodological challenges.
Suggest areas for further study
Highlight questions your essay couldn’t fully answer, opening avenues for future research.
Tip 5: Discuss the Significance and Implications of Your Findings
Explain the broader impact of your work
Briefly indicate how your findings contribute to your field of study or connect to real-world issues.
Link to field of study or real-world relevance
This shows that you understand the value of your research beyond your own investigation.
Tip 6: Keep Your Conclusion Clear and Concise
Ideal length: 300–600 words (5–10% of essay)
Be succinct. A focused conclusion is more powerful than one filled with unnecessary repetition.
Avoid unnecessary repetition
Reinforce key points without restating entire paragraphs or sections.
Tip 7: Maintain a Formal Academic Tone
Use objective, precise language
Keep your language formal, clear, and scholarly. Avoid emotional or informal phrases.
Leave a professional final impression
Your conclusion should reflect the intellectual rigor of your entire essay.
FAQs on Writing an Effective EE Conclusion
1️⃣ How long should my EE conclusion be?
Aim for about 300–600 words, depending on your total essay length.
2️⃣ Can I include new arguments in the conclusion?
No — all arguments and evidence should be presented in the body of your essay.
3️⃣ Should I mention limitations in my conclusion?
Yes — briefly acknowledge any limitations and suggest areas for further study.
4️⃣ Do I restate my research question in the conclusion?
Yes — remind the reader of the question and provide a clear, final answer.
5️⃣ What’s the most common mistake in EE conclusions?
Introducing new material or writing a vague, unfocused conclusion.
6️⃣ Should I suggest future research directions?
Yes — this shows critical thinking and awareness of your essay’s context.
Conclusion: Wrap Up Your EE With Strength and Clarity
Your EE conclusion is your final opportunity to showcase your critical thinking, synthesis of research, and mastery of your topic. By answering your research question clearly, reflecting on limitations, and highlighting the significance of your work, you’ll leave a lasting, positive impression on your examiner.
