Purpose of the Conclusion
The conclusion is your dissertation's final word — and it matters more than many students realize. It's where examiners assess whether you've achieved what you set out to do, whether you understand the significance of your work, and whether you can see beyond your own study.
Unlike the discussion chapter, which interprets findings in detail, the conclusion takes a step back to offer a big-picture assessment of your research journey and its outcomes.
Key Elements Examiners Expect
1. Summary of Key Findings
Briefly restate the main findings of your study — not in exhaustive detail, but in a way that shows the overall contribution. Each research question from your introduction should be addressed, even if briefly.
2. Research Contribution
What has your study added to the field? This might be new empirical evidence, a tested framework, a novel perspective, or practical insights. Be clear and confident about your contribution, even if it's modest.
3. Limitations
Acknowledge the boundaries of your study honestly. Common limitations include sample size, geographical scope, methodological constraints, and time limitations. Framing limitations constructively — as opportunities for future research — shows academic maturity.
4. Recommendations
Depending on your discipline, include recommendations for practice (what professionals or organizations should do differently) and/or recommendations for future research (what questions remain unanswered). See our detailed guide on writing strong recommendations.
5. Reflective Closing
Some dissertations end with a brief reflective statement about the research process or the researcher's development. While not always required, this can add a human touch that examiners appreciate.
What NOT to Include
- New data or findings: The conclusion is not the place to introduce information not covered in your results or discussion
- Detailed methodology discussion: Briefly mention methods if relevant to limitations, but don't repeat your methodology chapter
- Excessive literature citations: A few key references are fine, but the conclusion should primarily be your voice
- Overgeneralizations: Avoid making claims that go beyond what your data supports
Example Structure
- Opening paragraph restating the research purpose and aims
- Summary of key findings (organized by research question)
- Statement of contribution to knowledge
- Limitations of the study
- Recommendations for practice
- Recommendations for future research
- Closing reflective statement
Summary
A strong dissertation conclusion summarizes findings, states your contribution, acknowledges limitations, and offers actionable recommendations. Keep it focused, avoid introducing new material, and make sure every research question is addressed. If you need help crafting a conclusion that leaves a lasting impression, our academic writing team can help.