GIVING THE CONCLUSION What is conclusion?

The last part of something : As aresult ( from ; Merriam-webster )

Functions of a Conclusion
1. Summarize the main points.
a. Just as you gave a map in the introduction, give a summary in the conclusion. b. Remind the audience of the big ideas to help solidify their memory of the message. c. In a technical or argumentative speech it can be particularly useful to restate your thesis and main points exactly. For instance:
So, today I have tried to show you that conjugal visits should be allowed in prisons. I first explained the system of conjugal visits that has been adopted successfully in some penal institutions. Second, I made the point that conjugal visits contribute directly to the morale and rehabilitation of prisoners. Finally, I documented that the visitation system is beneficial to society as a whole.

d. In some speeches you may think this is too mechanical. You may then choose to paraphrase rather than restate exactly, summing up the content, but not in the identical words.
To summarize-meaning is in the head of the listener. You cannot stir up what is not already there. You communicate through all the senses. Often the where and the when may influence those that listen to you. if you cant put your message in the language of your listener, you are likely to fail. Waldo W. Braden, In the Heads of the Listeners, Vital Speeches of the Day 44, no. 2 (Nov. 1, 1977):44.

2. Restate the main idea

a. Emphasize once a again the main idea of the message with a clear, concise, single sentence. b. Make it memorable if appropriate.

3. Adapting to Complexity
a. A message that advances but one idea, fully developed through clear, relevant supporting materials, needs only a simple restatement of the central point to ensure audience understanding. b. A message that advances ten claims about the effects of a particular bill or governmental action needs a summary that synthesizes the different ideas into a condensed, unified form.

4. Answering the So What? Question

a. If your presentation is directed toward some type of overt response, your conclusion is the final chance to clarify what you want that response to be.

5. Creating the Appropriate Mood

a. Then plan to conclude your speech in a way that generates that mood or creates that frame of mind that supports the influence you wish to exert in your message.

6. Signaling the Ending

a. A successful message also conveys a sense of completeness and finality. b. You can signal the end with transition phrases:
i. In summary......

ii. As I conclude this address, let me reiterate . . . ; iii. The eminent poet, Robert Frost, best summarizes what I have been saying. . . .