IELTS Essay Conclusion: How to Write a Band 9 Conclusion

Quick Answer: A Band 9 IELTS essay conclusion summarizes your main argument in 2-3 sentences, restates your thesis in new words, and leaves a lasting impression. Avoid introducing new ideas or copying your introduction word-for-word. Use clear, concise language and a strong final sentence.

Table of Contents

Why the Conclusion Matters

The Band 9 Conclusion Formula

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Strong Conclusion

Band Score Comparison

Real Examples

Common Mistakes

Pro Tips from IELTS Active

How IELTS Active Helps

FAQ

Key Takeaways

Why the Conclusion Matters

The conclusion is your last chance to impress the IELTS examiner. It shows whether you can summarize your argument coherently, avoid repetition, and end with impact. Many test-takers rush this section, losing valuable marks. A well-crafted conclusion can push your Task Response score from 7 to 8 or 9. It also demonstrates your ability to use cohesive devices and varied vocabulary. In short, a Band 9 conclusion is not an afterthought—it’s a strategic component of your essay. Spend 2-3 minutes planning it during your exam.

The Band 9 Conclusion Formula

To write a Band 9 conclusion, follow this simple formula:

Restate your thesis – Paraphrase your main argument using different words.

Summarize key points – Briefly mention 1-2 main ideas from your body paragraphs.

End with a final thought – A prediction, recommendation, or rhetorical question.

Example: “In conclusion, while technology has revolutionized education, its overuse can hinder critical thinking. Therefore, a balanced approach that integrates digital tools with traditional methods is essential for holistic learning.”

This formula ensures clarity, conciseness, and impact—hallmarks of a Band 9 conclusion.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Strong Conclusion

Follow these steps to craft a Band 9 conclusion every time:

Read your introduction – Identify your thesis statement. Paraphrase it for the conclusion.

Review your body paragraphs – Pick the strongest 1-2 points to summarize.

Write your conclusion – Use transition phrases like “In conclusion” or “To sum up.”

Check for new ideas – Ensure you don’t introduce any new arguments.

Polish your language – Use synonyms and varied sentence structures.

Example prompt: “Some people believe that governments should invest more in public transport rather than building new roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

Thesis: I strongly agree that public transport deserves more funding.

Key points: Reduces traffic congestion, lowers pollution.

Conclusion: “In conclusion, prioritizing public transport over new road construction is a prudent strategy for sustainable urban development. Not only does it alleviate traffic jams, but it also curbs environmental degradation. Governments should allocate resources accordingly.”

Band Score Comparison

Band	Score	What Examiner Wants
6	6.0-6.5	Basic summary with some repetition of introduction. May include new ideas or be too short.
7	7.0-7.5	Clear summary with paraphrased thesis. No new ideas. Uses some cohesive devices.
8	8.0-8.5	Concise, impactful summary. Varied vocabulary and sentence structures. Ends with a thought-provoking statement.
9	9.0	Flawless conclusion: perfectly paraphrased thesis, succinct key points, and a memorable final sentence. No errors.

Real Examples

Band 7 Response: “In conclusion, I believe that governments should focus on public transport. It helps reduce traffic and pollution. This is important for cities.” Why it’s Band 7: Clear but simplistic. Repetitive vocabulary. No final thought. Band 8 Response: “In conclusion, investing in public transport is a more effective solution than building new roads. It not only eases congestion but also promotes cleaner air. Policymakers should prioritize such initiatives for long-term benefits.” Why it’s Band 8: Paraphrased thesis, two key points, and a recommendation. Good vocabulary. Band 9 Response: “To conclude, prioritizing public transport over road expansion is a forward-thinking approach to urban planning. By tackling congestion and pollution simultaneously, it fosters sustainable cities. Governments must act now to ensure a greener future.” Why it’s Band 9: Perfect paraphrasing, concise summary, and a powerful final sentence. No errors.

Common Mistakes

❌Mistake 1: Introducing new ideas – The conclusion is not for new arguments. It confuses the examiner and lowers Task Response score.

❌Mistake 2: Copying the introduction – Using the same words as your introduction shows limited vocabulary. Always paraphrase.

❌Mistake 3: Making it too long – A conclusion should be 2-3 sentences. Longer ones often ramble or repeat.

Pro Tips from IELTS Active

Tip 1: Use a “mirror” technique – Write your introduction first, then after finishing the essay, write your conclusion by mirroring its structure but with different words.

Tip 2: End with a strong verb or noun – Words like “foster,” “promote,” “safeguard,” or “ensure” add impact.

Tip 3: Practice with 5 different essay prompts – Write conclusions for each and compare them to Band 9 samples. This builds fluency.

How IELTS Active Helps

At ieltsactive.com, we offer free practice tests, sample essays, and detailed feedback to help you master every section of the IELTS. Our conclusion-writing module includes 10+ Band 9 examples, interactive exercises, and a checklist to avoid common mistakes. Join 500,000+ students and start improving today.

FAQ

Q: How long should an IELTS essay conclusion be? A: Aim for 2-3 sentences. This is enough to restate your thesis, summarize key points, and add a final thought without being wordy. Q: Can I use “In conclusion” every time? A: Yes, but vary it with phrases like “To sum up,” “Overall,” or “In summary.” Avoid overusing any single transition. Q: Should I include personal opinions in the conclusion? A: Only if the prompt asks for your opinion. In opinion essays, restate your stance clearly. For discussion essays, summarize both sides. Q: What if I run out of time and can’t write a conclusion? A: Write at least one sentence summarizing your main point. Even a short conclusion is better than none.

Key Takeaways

✅A Band 9 conclusion restates the thesis in new words.

✅Summarize only 1-2 key points from your body paragraphs.

✅End with a strong, memorable final sentence.

✅Avoid new ideas, repetition, and overly long conclusions.

About IELTS Active: Trusted by 500,000+ students. Get free practice tests at ieltsactive.com Related:

IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Topics 2026: Complete List with Model Answers

IELTS Essay Writing Tips: How to Write Band 7+ Essays

Agree or Disagree IELTS Essay: Complete Guide with Examples