How to Start the Last Body Paragraph of an Essay: A Journey Through Unrelated Thoughts

When it comes to writing essays, the last body paragraph often serves as the bridge between the main arguments and the conclusion. It’s the final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your reader. But how do you start this crucial paragraph? Let’s dive into a myriad of perspectives, some logical, some not, to explore this question.
The Traditional Approach
Traditionally, the last body paragraph should begin with a transitional phrase that signals the culmination of your arguments. Phrases like “In conclusion,” “Ultimately,” or “Finally” are commonly used. These phrases help to guide the reader smoothly into the final thoughts of your essay.
The Creative Twist
For those who prefer a more creative approach, starting the last body paragraph with a rhetorical question can be effective. For example, “But what does all this mean for the future of our society?” This technique engages the reader and encourages them to think critically about the topic.
The Philosophical Angle
From a philosophical standpoint, the last body paragraph could begin with a profound statement or quote. For instance, “As Socrates once said, ‘The unexamined life is not worth living.’” This not only adds depth to your essay but also positions your argument within a broader intellectual context.
The Personal Touch
Adding a personal anecdote can make your essay more relatable. Starting with “In my own experience,” or “I remember a time when,” can create a connection with the reader and make your arguments more compelling.
The Unexpected Turn
Sometimes, starting the last body paragraph with an unexpected statement can grab the reader’s attention. For example, “Contrary to popular belief, the sky is not the limit.” This approach can be particularly effective if your essay challenges conventional wisdom.
The Humorous Note
If your essay’s tone allows for it, starting with a bit of humor can lighten the mood. “And now, for the grand finale,” can be a playful way to introduce your final points.
The Call to Action
In persuasive essays, starting the last body paragraph with a call to action can be powerful. “It’s time we take a stand,” or “We must act now,” can inspire the reader to consider the implications of your arguments.
The Reflective Pause
Starting with a reflective statement can give your essay a thoughtful tone. “Looking back, it’s clear that,” or “In retrospect,” can help to summarize your points while adding a layer of introspection.
The Bold Assertion
Sometimes, a bold assertion can be the best way to start your last body paragraph. “There is no doubt that,” or “It is undeniable that,” can reinforce the strength of your arguments.
The Question of Relevance
Finally, you might start by questioning the relevance of your topic. “Why does this matter?” or “What is the significance of this discussion?” can help to underscore the importance of your essay’s subject.
Related Q&A
Q: How do I know which approach is best for my essay? A: Consider the tone and purpose of your essay. A formal essay might benefit from a traditional or philosophical approach, while a personal or persuasive essay might be better suited to a creative or call-to-action start.
Q: Can I combine different approaches in my last body paragraph? A: Absolutely! Combining a transitional phrase with a personal anecdote or a bold assertion can create a dynamic and engaging paragraph.
Q: Should I always start the last body paragraph with a specific phrase? A: Not necessarily. While transitional phrases are helpful, the most important thing is to ensure that your paragraph flows logically from the previous one and sets up your conclusion effectively.
Q: How long should the last body paragraph be? A: The length can vary, but it should be long enough to fully develop your final points without overwhelming the reader. Typically, it should be similar in length to your other body paragraphs.
Q: Can I use humor in a serious essay? A: It depends on the context. If used sparingly and appropriately, humor can be effective even in serious essays. However, it’s important to ensure that it doesn’t undermine the overall tone or message of your essay.