Starting and Ending with Style: Introductions and Conclusions

Welcome! In this chapter, we are focusing on two of the most important parts of any argument: the beginning and the end. Think of an introduction as a first impression and a conclusion as the final word. On the AP English Language and Composition exam, you aren't just writing "a start" and "a finish"; you are strategically crafting these sections to fit the specific purpose and context of your writing situation.

Whether you are writing your own argument (Question 3) or a synthesis essay (Question 1), your ability to frame your ideas based on the environment around you (context) and what you want to achieve (purpose) is a key skill known as Skill 2.A.

Note: For a refresher on the specific definitions of purpose and context, check out our chapter on "Components of the rhetorical situation."


The Introduction: Setting the Stage

An introduction does more than just state your topic. It orients the reader to the rhetorical situation. It tells them why they are here and why they should care right now.

1. Connecting to Context

The context is the "world" surrounding the writing—the time, place, and current events. A strong introduction uses the context to show the argument is relevant.

Analogy: Imagine you are walking into a room where people are already having a heated debate. You wouldn't just shout "I like blue!" You would listen to what they are talking about first and then explain how your preference for blue fits into their current conversation. That "listening" and "fitting in" is what you do when you address context in your intro.

2. Establishing Purpose

Your purpose is what you want to happen as a result of your writing. Do you want to change someone's mind? Do you want to spark action? Your introduction should signal this intent early on. It sets the "trajectory" for the rest of the essay.

3. The Components of a Strong Intro

While there is no single "formula" for AP Lang, most successful introductions follow a logical flow:

  • The Hook/Lead-in: Draw the reader in by referencing the exigence (the spark that caused the writing) or the broader context.
  • The Bridge: Connect that broad context to your specific topic. This is where you might briefly mention the audience’s needs or beliefs.
  • The Thesis Statement: This is your "north star." It is a defensible claim that previews your argument's structure (see Skill 4.B).

Quick Tip: Avoid "dictionary definitions" (e.g., "Webster’s Dictionary defines courage as...") or "cliché history" (e.g., "Since the beginning of time..."). These are usually too broad and ignore the specific rhetorical situation provided in your prompt.


The Conclusion: Leaving a Lasting Impression

Many students think a conclusion is just a place to repeat the introduction. Don't do this! In AP Lang, the conclusion is your final opportunity to show the significance of your argument within its context and fulfill your purpose.

1. Moving Beyond Summary

While you should briefly reinforce your main points, a high-level conclusion goes further. It answers the question: "So what?" Now that the reader has heard your argument, what should they do, think, or feel?

Example: If your purpose was to convince a school board to change a policy, your conclusion shouldn't just say "That's why the policy is bad." It should remind the board of the context (the students' well-being) and call them to take specific action.

2. Synthesizing the Argument

Instead of just listing your reasons again, show how they work together to achieve your purpose. Think of it like finishing a puzzle; the conclusion is when you step back and show the whole picture to the audience.

3. Strategies for a Powerful Ending

To make your conclusion appropriate to the context, try one of these moves:

  • The Call to Action: If your purpose is persuasive, tell the audience exactly what step to take next.
  • The Broader Implication: Explain how your specific argument matters in a larger global or social context.
  • The "Return to Hook": Reference the story or idea you started with in the introduction, but view it now through the lens of the argument you just made.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Never introduce new evidence in the conclusion. If it’s a new fact or statistic, it belongs in a body paragraph. The conclusion is for commentary and connection.


Key Takeaways for the Exam

How this appears on the Multiple-Choice Section:
You might see "Writing" questions that ask you to choose the best introductory or concluding sentence for a draft. Ask yourself:
1. Does this choice align with the purpose mentioned in the passage?
2. Does it acknowledge the context or audience described?
3. Does it lead into or wrap up the line of reasoning logically?

How this appears on the Free-Response Section (Essays):
In the Sophistication row of the rubric (Row C), readers look for a "complex understanding of the rhetorical situation." A well-crafted introduction and conclusion that specifically address context and purpose are some of the best ways to earn this point!


Quick Review Box

Introduction: Context + Purpose + Thesis = A clear roadmap for the reader.
Conclusion: Synthesis + "So What?" + Final Connection = A lasting impression that fulfills your purpose.
Pro-Tip: Always keep the audience in mind. If you are writing to a group of scientists, your intro and outro will look very different than if you are writing to a group of teenagers!