how to write a sociology essay conclusion

A Level Sociology for dummies

How to write a decent conclusion to an A Level sociology essay.

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For many students, writing a conclusion is one of the hardest parts of an A Level sociology essay. This is because unlike other essay writing subjects, your view isn’t as valued in sociology. As my teacher used to say ‘You haven’t written any books on the topic’, ‘You need to demonstrate that you know what the perspectives and respective sociologists have to say on the matter’.

As for AQA, they expect you to reach an appropriate conclusion. This essentially means that what you write at the end of the essay should coincide with the arguments made throughout the essay. For instance, if you’re writing an essay about the contributions of feminist theories to our understanding of society today, you can’t argue that feminist theories are ethnocentric and ideologically biased but then in your conclusion, completely switch it up and say that feminist theory is the ‘best’ macro approach to studying society. Do you see the contradiction? If not, not to worry, you have time to learn. And if you’re nearly finishing A levels and you don’t know what the words in bold mean then learn them! These key terms can be an absolute life saver in an exam.

Moving on, when it actually comes down to the writing of a conclusion, I would say that your conclusion depends on the type of essay question.

For example,

2017-08-15

for this essay, I would conclude by arguing that gender differences in subject choice and in achievement are a result of both the influence of wider society and the influence of factors within the school because internal and external factors remain inseparable as demonstrated throughout. (Obviously, you can only say this if you have actually done it in your essay). Therefore, it would simply be an oversimplification to argue that the relationship between gender, subject choice, and achievement can be explained by one influence alone; especially because gender is cross cut by other methods of stratification such as ethnicity and class.

However, if the essay was on a specific perspective, like this one:

functionalism and crime and deviance

So, therefore (conclusion indicators) the contribution of functionalists theories to our understanding of society today cannot be understated as it has influenced other theorists and provided useful insights into working class crime. However, postmodernists take issue with the functionalist theory because, in postmodern society, social life is fragmented and there is no one single dominant set of values. This means that there is no agreement about what constitutes deviance in postmodern society. However, whether we are in such society is itself subject to debate.

The way I wrote conclusions may sound over the top and too wordy but it is good to leave a good impression on the examiner and the best way to do that is with a bomb ass conclusion.

Thank you for reading.

Happy writing!

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Sociology Group: Welcome to Social Sciences Blog

How to Write a Sociological Essay: Explained with Examples

This article will discuss “How to Write a Sociological Essay” with insider pro tips and give you a map that is tried and tested. An essay writing is done in three phases: a) preparing for the essay, b) writing the essay, and c) editing the essay. We will take it step-by-step so that nothing is left behind because the devil, as well as good grades and presentation, lies in the details.

Sociology essay writing examples

Writing is a skill that we learn throughout the courses of our lives. Learning how to write is a process that we begin as soon as we turn 4, and the learning process never stops. But the question is, “is all writing the same?”. The answer is NO. Do you remember your initial lessons of English when you were in school, and how the teacher taught various formats of writing such as formal, informal, essay, letter, and much more? Therefore, writing is never that simple. Different occasions demand different styles and commands over the writing style. Thus, the art of writing improves with time and experience. 

Those who belong to the world of academia know that writing is something that they cannot escape. No writing is the same when it comes to different disciplines of academia. Similarly, the discipline of sociology demands a particular style of formal academic writing. If you’re a new student of sociology, it can be an overwhelming subject, and writing assignments don’t make the course easier. Having some tips handy can surely help you write and articulate your thoughts better. 

[Let us take a running example throughout the article so that every point becomes crystal clear. Let us assume that the topic we have with us is to “Explore Culinary Discourse among the Indian Diasporic Communities” .]

Phase I: Preparing for the Essay  

Step 1: make an outline.

So you have to write a sociological essay, which means that you already either received or have a topic in mind. The first thing for you to do is PLAN how you will attempt to write this essay. To plan, the best way is to make an outline. The topic you have, certainly string some thread in your mind. They can be instances you heard or read, some assumptions you hold, something you studied in the past, or based on your own experience, etc. Make a rough outline where you note down all the themes you would like to talk about in your essay. The easiest way to make an outline is to make bullet points. List all the thoughts and examples that you have in find and create a flow for your essay. Remember that this is only a rough outline so you can always make changes and reshuffle your points. 

[Explanation through example, assumed topic: “Explore Culinary Discourse among the Indian Diasporic Communities” . Your outline will look something like this:

  • Importance of food
  • Definition of Diaspora 
  • Relationship between food and culture
  • Relationship between food and nation
  • Relationship between food and media 
  • Relationship between food and nostalgia 
  • How food travels with people 
  • Is food practices different for different sections of society, such as caste, class, gender ]

Step 2: Start Reading 

Once you have prepared an outline for your essay, the next step is to start your RESEARCH . You cannot write a sociological essay out of thin air. The essay needs to be thoroughly researched and based on facts. Sociology is the subject of social science that is based on facts and evidence. Therefore, start reading as soon as you have your outline determined. The more you read, the more factual data you will collect. But the question which now emerges is “what to read” . You cannot do a basic Google search to write an academic essay. Your research has to be narrow and concept-based. For writing a sociological essay, make sure that the sources from where you read are academically acclaimed and accepted.  

Some of the websites that you can use for academic research are: 

  • Google Scholar
  • Shodhganga 

[Explanation through example, assumed topic: “Explore Culinary Discourse among the Indian Diasporic Communities” . 

For best search, search for your articles by typing “Food+Diaspora”, “Food+Nostalgia”, adding a plus sign (+) improves the search result.]

Step 3: Make Notes 

This is a step that a lot of people miss when they are preparing to write their essays. It is important to read, but how you read is also a very vital part. When you are reading from multiple sources then all that you read becomes a big jumble of information in your mind. It is not possible to remember who said what at all times. Therefore, what you need to do while reading is to maintain an ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY . Whenever you’re reading for writing an academic essay then have a notebook handy, or if you prefer electronic notes then prepare a Word Document, Google Docs, Notes, or any tool of your choice to make notes. 

As you begin reading, note down the title of the article, its author, and the year of publication. As you read, keep writing down all the significant points that you find. You can either copy whole sentences or make shorthand notes, whatever suits you best. Once you’ve read the article and made your notes, write a summary of what you just read in 8 to 10 lines. Also, write keywords, these are the words that are most used in the article and reflect its essence. Having keywords and a summary makes it easier for you to revisit the article. A sociological essay needs a good amount of research, which means that you have to read plenty, thus maintaining an annotated bibliography helps you in the greater picture.  

Annotate and divide your notes based on the outline you made. Having organized notes will help you directly apply the concepts where they are needed rather than you going and searching for them again.] 

Phase II: Write a Sociological Essay

A basic essay includes a title, an introduction, the main body, and a conclusion. A sociological essay is not that different as far as the body of contents goes, but it does include some additional categories. When you write a sociological essay, it should have the following contents and chronology: 

  • Subtitle (optional)
  • Introduction

Conclusion 

  • References/ Bibliography 

Now let us get into the details which go into the writing of a sociological essay.  

Step 4: Writing a Title, Subtitle, Abstract, and Keywords 

The title of any document is the first thing that a reader comes across. Therefore, the title should be provocative, specific, and the most well-thought part of any essay. Your title should reflect what your essay will discuss further. There has to be a sync between the title and the rest of your content. The title should be the biggest font size you use in your essay. 

Pro Tip by Sociology Group: A title preferably should not exceed 5 to 7 words.  

This is an optional component of any essay. If you think that your title cannot justify the rest of the contents of your essay, then you opt for a subtitle. The subtitle is the secondary part of the title which is used to further elucidate the title. A subtitle should be smaller in font than the Title but bigger than the rest of the essay body.  

Pro Tip by Sociology Group: Make the font color of your subtitle Gray instead of Black for it to stand out. 

The abstract is a 6 to 10 line description of what you will talk about in your essay. An abstract is a very substantial component of a sociological essay. Most of the essays written in academia exceed the word limit of 2000 words. Therefore, a writer, i.e., you, provides the reader with a short abstract at the beginning of your essay so that they can know what you are going to discuss. From the point of view of the reader, a good abstract can save time and help determine if the piece is worth reading or not. Thus, make sure to make your abstract as reflective to your essay as possible using the least amount of words.  

Pro Tip by Sociology Group: If you are not sure about your abstract at first, it is always great to write the abstract in the end after you are done with your essay. 

Your abstract should highlight all the points that you will further discuss. Therefore your abstract should mention how diasporic communities are formed and how they are not homogeneous communities. There are differences within this large population. In your essay, you will talk in detail about all the various aspects that affect food and diasporic relationships. ]

Keywords are an extension of your abstract. Whereas in your abstract you will use a paragraph to tell the reader what to expect ahead, by stating keywords, you point out the essence of your essay by using only individual words. These words are mostly concepts of social sciences. At first, glance, looking at your keywords, the reader should get informed about all the concepts and themes you will explain in detail later. 

Pro Tip by Sociology Group: Bold your Keywords so that they get highlighted.

Your keywords could be: Food, Diaspora, Migration, and so on. Build on these as you continue to write your essay.]   

sociology essay format

Step 5: Writing the Introduction, Main Body, and Conclusion 

Introduction 

Your introduction should talk about the subject on which you are writing at the broadest level. In an introduction, you make your readers aware of what you are going to argue later in the essay. An introduction can discuss a little about the history of the topic, how it was understood till now, and a framework of what you are going to talk about ahead. You can think of your introduction as an extended form of the abstract. Since it is the first portion of your essay, it should paint a picture where the readers know exactly what’s ahead of them. 

Pro Tip by Sociology Group: An apt introduction can be covered in 2 to 3 paragraphs (Look at the introduction on this article if you need proof). 

Since your focus is on “food” and “diaspora”, your introductory paragraph can dwell into a little history of the relationship between the two and the importance of food in community building.] 

This is the most extensive part of any essay. It is also the one that takes up the most number of words. All the research and note-making which you did was for this part. The main body of your essay is where you put all the knowledge you gathered into words. When you are writing the body, your aim should be to make it flow, which means that all paragraphs should have a connection between them. When read in its entirety, the paragraphs should sing together rather than float all around. 

The main body is mostly around 4 to 6 paragraphs long. A sociological essay is filled with debates, theories, theorists, and examples. When writing the main body it is best to target making one or two paragraphs about the same revolving theme. When you shift to the other theme, it is best to connect it with the theme you discussed in the paragraph right above it to form a connection between the two. If you are dividing your essay into various sub-themes then the best way to correlate them is starting each new subtheme by reflecting on the last main arguments presented in the theme before it. To make a sociological essay even more enriching, include examples that exemplify the theoretical concepts better. 

Pro Tip by Sociology Group: Though there is no word limit to the length of the paragraphs, if you keep one paragraph between 100 to 200 words, it makes the essay look more organized. 

The main body can here be divided into the categories which you formed during the first step of making the rough outline. Therefore, your essay could have 3 to 4 sub-sections discussing different themes such as: Food and Media, Caste and Class influence food practices, Politics of Food, Gendered Lens, etc.] 

This is the section where you end your essay. But ending the essay does not mean that you lose your flair in conclusion. A conclusion is an essential part of any essay because it sums up everything you just wrote. Your conclusion should be similar to a summary of your essay. You can include shortened versions of the various arguments you have referred to above in the main body, or it can raise questions for further research, and it can also provide solutions if your topic seeks one. Hence, a conclusion is a part where you get the last chance to tell your reader what you are saying through your article. 

Pro Tip by Sociology Group: As the introduction, the conclusion is smaller compared to the main body. Keep your conclusion within the range of 1 to 2 paragraphs. 

Your conclusion should again reiterate all the main arguments provided by you throughout the essay. Therefore it should bind together everything you have written starting from your introduction to all the debates and examples you have cited.]

Step 6: Citation and Referencing 

This is the most academic part of your sociological essay. Any academic essay should be free of plagiarism. But how can one avoid plagiarism when their essay is based on research which was originally done by others. The solution for this is to give credit to the original author for their work. In the world of academia, this is done through the processes of Citation and Referencing (sometimes also called Bibliography). Citation is done within/in-between the text, where you directly or indirectly quote the original text. Whereas, Referencing or Bibliography is done at the end of an essay where you give resources of the books or articles which you have quoted in your essay at various points. Both these processes are done so that the reader can search beyond your essay to get a better grasp of the topic. 

There are many different styles of citations and you can determine which you want to follow. Some of the most common styles of citation and referencing are MLA, APA, and Chicago style. If you are working on Google Docs or Word then the application makes your work easier because they help you curate your citations. There are also various online tools that can make citing references far easier, faster, and adhering to citation guidelines, such as an APA generator . This can save you a lot of time when it comes to referencing, and makes the task far more manageable. 

How to add citations in Google Doc: Tools → Citation

How to add citations in Word Document: References → Insert Citations 

But for those who want to cite manually, this is the basic format to follow:

  • Author’s Name with Surname mentioned first, then initials 
  • Article’s Title in single or double quotes
  • Journal Title in Italics 
  • Volume, issue number 
  • Year of Publication

Example: Syrkin, A. 1984. “Notes on the Buddha’s Threats in the Dīgha Nikāya ”, Journal of the International Association of Buddhist Studies , vol. 7(1), pp.147-58.

Pro Tip by Sociology Group: Always make sure that your Bibliography/References are alphabetically ordered based on the first alphabet of the surname of the author and NOT numbered or bulleted. 

Phase III: Editing 

Step 7: edit/review your essay.

The truth of academic writing is that it can never be written in one go. You need to write, rewrite, and revisit your material more than once. Once you have written the first draft of your essay, do not revise it immediately. Leave it for some time, at least for four hours. Then revisit your essay and edit it based on 3 criteria. The first criteria you need to recheck for is any grammatical and/or spelling mistakes. The second criteria are to check the arguments you have posed and if the examples you have cited correlate or not. The final criteria are to read the essay as a reader and read it objectively. 

Pro Tip by Sociology Group: The more you edit the better results you get. But we think that your 3rd draft is the magic draft. Draft 1: rough essay, Draft 2: edited essay, Draft 3: final essay.

how to write a sociology essay conclusion

Hello! Eiti is a budding sociologist whose passion lies in reading, researching, and writing. She thrives on coffee, to-do lists, deadlines, and organization. Eiti's primary interest areas encompass food, gender, and academia.

The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What this handout is about

This handout introduces you to the wonderful world of writing sociology. Before you can write a clear and coherent sociology paper, you need a firm understanding of the assumptions and expectations of the discipline. You need to know your audience, the way they view the world and how they order and evaluate information. So, without further ado, let’s figure out just what sociology is, and how one goes about writing it.

What is sociology, and what do sociologists write about?

Unlike many of the other subjects here at UNC, such as history or English, sociology is a new subject for many students. Therefore, it may be helpful to give a quick introduction to what sociologists do. Sociologists are interested in all sorts of topics. For example, some sociologists focus on the family, addressing issues such as marriage, divorce, child-rearing, and domestic abuse, the ways these things are defined in different cultures and times, and their effect on both individuals and institutions. Others examine larger social organizations such as businesses and governments, looking at their structure and hierarchies. Still others focus on social movements and political protest, such as the American civil rights movement. Finally, sociologists may look at divisions and inequality within society, examining phenomena such as race, gender, and class, and their effect on people’s choices and opportunities. As you can see, sociologists study just about everything. Thus, it is not the subject matter that makes a paper sociological, but rather the perspective used in writing it.

So, just what is a sociological perspective? At its most basic, sociology is an attempt to understand and explain the way that individuals and groups interact within a society. How exactly does one approach this goal? C. Wright Mills, in his book The Sociological Imagination (1959), writes that “neither the life of an individual nor the history of a society can be understood without understanding both.” Why? Well, as Karl Marx observes at the beginning of The Eighteenth Brumaire of Louis Bonaparte (1852), humans “make their own history, but they do not make it just as they please; they do not make it under circumstances chosen by themselves, but under circumstances directly encountered, given and transmitted from the past.” Thus, a good sociological argument needs to balance both individual agency and structural constraints. That is certainly a tall order, but it is the basis of all effective sociological writing. Keep it in mind as you think about your own writing.

Key assumptions and characteristics of sociological writing

What are the most important things to keep in mind as you write in sociology? Pay special attention to the following issues.

The first thing to remember in writing a sociological argument is to be as clear as possible in stating your thesis. Of course, that is true in all papers, but there are a couple of pitfalls common to sociology that you should be aware of and avoid at all cost. As previously defined, sociology is the study of the interaction between individuals and larger social forces. Different traditions within sociology tend to favor one side of the equation over the other, with some focusing on the agency of individual actors and others on structural factors. The danger is that you may go too far in either of these directions and thus lose the complexity of sociological thinking. Although this mistake can manifest itself in any number of ways, three types of flawed arguments are particularly common: 

  • The “ individual argument ” generally takes this form: “The individual is free to make choices, and any outcomes can be explained exclusively through the study of their ideas and decisions.” While it is of course true that we all make our own choices, we must also keep in mind that, to paraphrase Marx, we make these choices under circumstances given to us by the structures of society. Therefore, it is important to investigate what conditions made these choices possible in the first place, as well as what allows some individuals to successfully act on their choices while others cannot.
  • The “ human nature argument ” seeks to explain social behavior through a quasi-biological argument about humans, and often takes a form such as: “Humans are by nature X, therefore it is not surprising that Y.” While sociologists disagree over whether a universal human nature even exists, they all agree that it is not an acceptable basis of explanation. Instead, sociology demands that you question why we call some behavior natural, and to look into the social factors which have constructed this “natural” state.
  • The “ society argument ” often arises in response to critiques of the above styles of argumentation, and tends to appear in a form such as: “Society made me do it.” Students often think that this is a good sociological argument, since it uses society as the basis for explanation. However, the problem is that the use of the broad concept “society” masks the real workings of the situation, making it next to impossible to build a strong case. This is an example of reification, which is when we turn processes into things. Society is really a process, made up of ongoing interactions at multiple levels of size and complexity, and to turn it into a monolithic thing is to lose all that complexity. People make decisions and choices. Some groups and individuals benefit, while others do not. Identifying these intermediate levels is the basis of sociological analysis.

Although each of these three arguments seems quite different, they all share one common feature: they assume exactly what they need to be explaining. They are excellent starting points, but lousy conclusions.

Once you have developed a working argument, you will next need to find evidence to support your claim. What counts as evidence in a sociology paper? First and foremost, sociology is an empirical discipline. Empiricism in sociology means basing your conclusions on evidence that is documented and collected with as much rigor as possible. This evidence usually draws upon observed patterns and information from collected cases and experiences, not just from isolated, anecdotal reports. Just because your second cousin was able to climb the ladder from poverty to the executive boardroom does not prove that the American class system is open. You will need more systematic evidence to make your claim convincing. Above all else, remember that your opinion alone is not sufficient support for a sociological argument. Even if you are making a theoretical argument, you must be able to point to documented instances of social phenomena that fit your argument. Logic is necessary for making the argument, but is not sufficient support by itself.

Sociological evidence falls into two main groups: 

  • Quantitative data are based on surveys, censuses, and statistics. These provide large numbers of data points, which is particularly useful for studying large-scale social processes, such as income inequality, population changes, changes in social attitudes, etc.
  • Qualitative data, on the other hand, comes from participant observation, in-depth interviews, data and texts, as well as from the researcher’s own impressions and reactions. Qualitative research gives insight into the way people actively construct and find meaning in their world.

Quantitative data produces a measurement of subjects’ characteristics and behavior, while qualitative research generates information on their meanings and practices. Thus, the methods you choose will reflect the type of evidence most appropriate to the questions you ask. If you wanted to look at the importance of race in an organization, a quantitative study might use information on the percentage of different races in the organization, what positions they hold, as well as survey results on people’s attitudes on race. This would measure the distribution of race and racial beliefs in the organization. A qualitative study would go about this differently, perhaps hanging around the office studying people’s interactions, or doing in-depth interviews with some of the subjects. The qualitative researcher would see how people act out their beliefs, and how these beliefs interact with the beliefs of others as well as the constraints of the organization.

Some sociologists favor qualitative over quantitative data, or vice versa, and it is perfectly reasonable to rely on only one method in your own work. However, since each method has its own strengths and weaknesses, combining methods can be a particularly effective way to bolster your argument. But these distinctions are not just important if you have to collect your own data for your paper. You also need to be aware of them even when you are relying on secondary sources for your research. In order to critically evaluate the research and data you are reading, you should have a good understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the different methods.

Units of analysis

Given that social life is so complex, you need to have a point of entry into studying this world. In sociological jargon, you need a unit of analysis. The unit of analysis is exactly that: it is the unit that you have chosen to analyze in your study. Again, this is only a question of emphasis and focus, and not of precedence and importance. You will find a variety of units of analysis in sociological writing, ranging from the individual up to groups or organizations. You should choose yours based on the interests and theoretical assumptions driving your research. The unit of analysis will determine much of what will qualify as relevant evidence in your work. Thus you must not only clearly identify that unit, but also consistently use it throughout your paper.

Let’s look at an example to see just how changing the units of analysis will change the face of research. What if you wanted to study globalization? That’s a big topic, so you will need to focus your attention. Where would you start?

You might focus on individual human actors, studying the way that people are affected by the globalizing world. This approach could possibly include a study of Asian sweatshop workers’ experiences, or perhaps how consumers’ decisions shape the overall system.

Or you might choose to focus on social structures or organizations. This approach might involve looking at the decisions being made at the national or international level, such as the free-trade agreements that change the relationships between governments and corporations. Or you might look into the organizational structures of corporations and measure how they are changing under globalization. Another structural approach would be to focus on the social networks linking subjects together. That could lead you to look at how migrants rely on social contacts to make their way to other countries, as well as to help them find work upon their arrival.

Finally, you might want to focus on cultural objects or social artifacts as your unit of analysis. One fine example would be to look at the production of those tennis shoes the kids seem to like so much. You could look at either the material production of the shoe (tracing it from its sweatshop origins to its arrival on the showroom floor of malls across America) or its cultural production (attempting to understand how advertising and celebrities have turned such shoes into necessities and cultural icons).

Whichever unit of analysis you choose, be careful not to commit the dreaded ecological fallacy. An ecological fallacy is when you assume that something that you learned about the group level of analysis also applies to the individuals that make up that group. So, to continue the globalization example, if you were to compare its effects on the poorest 20% and the richest 20% of countries, you would need to be careful not to apply your results to the poorest and richest individuals.

These are just general examples of how sociological study of a single topic can vary. Because you can approach a subject from several different perspectives, it is important to decide early how you plan to focus your analysis and then stick with that perspective throughout your paper. Avoid mixing units of analysis without strong justification. Different units of analysis generally demand different kinds of evidence for building your argument. You can reconcile the varying levels of analysis, but doing so may require a complex, sophisticated theory, no small feat within the confines of a short paper. Check with your instructor if you are concerned about this happening in your paper.

Typical writing assignments in sociology

So how does all of this apply to an actual writing assignment? Undergraduate writing assignments in sociology may take a number of forms, but they typically involve reviewing sociological literature on a subject; applying or testing a particular concept, theory, or perspective; or producing a small-scale research report, which usually involves a synthesis of both the literature review and application.

The critical review

The review involves investigating the research that has been done on a particular topic and then summarizing and evaluating what you have found. The important task in this kind of assignment is to organize your material clearly and synthesize it for your reader. A good review does not just summarize the literature, but looks for patterns and connections in the literature and discusses the strengths and weaknesses of what others have written on your topic. You want to help your reader see how the information you have gathered fits together, what information can be most trusted (and why), what implications you can derive from it, and what further research may need to be done to fill in gaps. Doing so requires considerable thought and organization on your part, as well as thinking of yourself as an expert on the topic. You need to assume that, even though you are new to the material, you can judge the merits of the arguments you have read and offer an informed opinion of which evidence is strongest and why.

Application or testing of a theory or concept

The application assignment asks you to apply a concept or theoretical perspective to a specific example. In other words, it tests your practical understanding of theories and ideas by asking you to explain how well they apply to actual social phenomena. In order to successfully apply a theory to a new case, you must include the following steps:

  • First you need to have a very clear understanding of the theory itself: not only what the theorist argues, but also why they argue that point, and how they justify it. That is, you have to understand how the world works according to this theory and how one thing leads to another.
  • Next you should choose an appropriate case study. This is a crucial step, one that can make or break your paper. If you choose a case that is too similar to the one used in constructing the theory in the first place, then your paper will be uninteresting as an application, since it will not give you the opportunity to show off your theoretical brilliance. On the other hand, do not choose a case that is so far out in left field that the applicability is only superficial and trivial. In some ways theory application is like making an analogy. The last thing you want is a weak analogy, or one that is so obvious that it does not give any added insight. Instead, you will want to choose a happy medium, one that is not obvious but that allows you to give a developed analysis of the case using the theory you chose.
  • This leads to the last point, which is the analysis. A strong analysis will go beyond the surface and explore the processes at work, both in the theory and in the case you have chosen. Just like making an analogy, you are arguing that these two things (the theory and the example) are similar. Be specific and detailed in telling the reader how they are similar. In the course of looking for similarities, however, you are likely to find points at which the theory does not seem to be a good fit. Do not sweep this discovery under the rug, since the differences can be just as important as the similarities, supplying insight into both the applicability of the theory and the uniqueness of the case you are using.

You may also be asked to test a theory. Whereas the application paper assumes that the theory you are using is true, the testing paper does not makes this assumption, but rather asks you to try out the theory to determine whether it works. Here you need to think about what initial conditions inform the theory and what sort of hypothesis or prediction the theory would make based on those conditions. This is another way of saying that you need to determine which cases the theory could be applied to (see above) and what sort of evidence would be needed to either confirm or disconfirm the theory’s hypothesis. In many ways, this is similar to the application paper, with added emphasis on the veracity of the theory being used.

The research paper

Finally, we reach the mighty research paper. Although the thought of doing a research paper can be intimidating, it is actually little more than the combination of many of the parts of the papers we have already discussed. You will begin with a critical review of the literature and use this review as a basis for forming your research question. The question will often take the form of an application (“These ideas will help us to explain Z.”) or of hypothesis testing (“If these ideas are correct, we should find X when we investigate Y.”). The skills you have already used in writing the other types of papers will help you immensely as you write your research papers.

And so we reach the end of this all-too-brief glimpse into the world of sociological writing. Sociologists can be an idiosyncratic bunch, so paper guidelines and expectations will no doubt vary from class to class, from instructor to instructor. However, these basic guidelines will help you get started.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Anson, Chris M., and Robert A. Schwegler. 2010. The Longman Handbook for Writers and Readers , 6th ed. New York: Longman.

Cuba, Lee. 2002. A Short Guide to Writing About Social Science , 4th ed. New York: Longman.

Lunsford, Andrea A. 2015. The St. Martin’s Handbook , 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St Martin’s.

Rosen, Leonard J., and Laurence Behrens. 2003. The Allyn & Bacon Handbook , 5th ed. New York: Longman.

Ruszkiewicz, John J., Christy Friend, Daniel Seward, and Maxine Hairston. 2010. The Scott, Foresman Handbook for Writers , 9th ed. Boston: Pearson Education.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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  • How to conclude an essay | Interactive example

How to Conclude an Essay | Interactive Example

Published on January 24, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 23, 2023.

The conclusion is the final paragraph of your essay . A strong conclusion aims to:

  • Tie together the essay’s main points
  • Show why your argument matters
  • Leave the reader with a strong impression

Your conclusion should give a sense of closure and completion to your argument, but also show what new questions or possibilities it has opened up.

This conclusion is taken from our annotated essay example , which discusses the history of the Braille system. Hover over each part to see why it’s effective.

Braille paved the way for dramatic cultural changes in the way blind people were treated and the opportunities available to them. Louis Braille’s innovation was to reimagine existing reading systems from a blind perspective, and the success of this invention required sighted teachers to adapt to their students’ reality instead of the other way around. In this sense, Braille helped drive broader social changes in the status of blindness. New accessibility tools provide practical advantages to those who need them, but they can also change the perspectives and attitudes of those who do not.

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Table of contents

Step 1: return to your thesis, step 2: review your main points, step 3: show why it matters, what shouldn’t go in the conclusion, more examples of essay conclusions, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about writing an essay conclusion.

To begin your conclusion, signal that the essay is coming to an end by returning to your overall argument.

Don’t just repeat your thesis statement —instead, try to rephrase your argument in a way that shows how it has been developed since the introduction.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Next, remind the reader of the main points that you used to support your argument.

Avoid simply summarizing each paragraph or repeating each point in order; try to bring your points together in a way that makes the connections between them clear. The conclusion is your final chance to show how all the paragraphs of your essay add up to a coherent whole.

To wrap up your conclusion, zoom out to a broader view of the topic and consider the implications of your argument. For example:

  • Does it contribute a new understanding of your topic?
  • Does it raise new questions for future study?
  • Does it lead to practical suggestions or predictions?
  • Can it be applied to different contexts?
  • Can it be connected to a broader debate or theme?

Whatever your essay is about, the conclusion should aim to emphasize the significance of your argument, whether that’s within your academic subject or in the wider world.

Try to end with a strong, decisive sentence, leaving the reader with a lingering sense of interest in your topic.

The easiest way to improve your conclusion is to eliminate these common mistakes.

Don’t include new evidence

Any evidence or analysis that is essential to supporting your thesis statement should appear in the main body of the essay.

The conclusion might include minor pieces of new information—for example, a sentence or two discussing broader implications, or a quotation that nicely summarizes your central point. But it shouldn’t introduce any major new sources or ideas that need further explanation to understand.

Don’t use “concluding phrases”

Avoid using obvious stock phrases to tell the reader what you’re doing:

  • “In conclusion…”
  • “To sum up…”

These phrases aren’t forbidden, but they can make your writing sound weak. By returning to your main argument, it will quickly become clear that you are concluding the essay—you shouldn’t have to spell it out.

Don’t undermine your argument

Avoid using apologetic phrases that sound uncertain or confused:

  • “This is just one approach among many.”
  • “There are good arguments on both sides of this issue.”
  • “There is no clear answer to this problem.”

Even if your essay has explored different points of view, your own position should be clear. There may be many possible approaches to the topic, but you want to leave the reader convinced that yours is the best one!

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  • Argumentative
  • Literary analysis

This conclusion is taken from an argumentative essay about the internet’s impact on education. It acknowledges the opposing arguments while taking a clear, decisive position.

The internet has had a major positive impact on the world of education; occasional pitfalls aside, its value is evident in numerous applications. The future of teaching lies in the possibilities the internet opens up for communication, research, and interactivity. As the popularity of distance learning shows, students value the flexibility and accessibility offered by digital education, and educators should fully embrace these advantages. The internet’s dangers, real and imaginary, have been documented exhaustively by skeptics, but the internet is here to stay; it is time to focus seriously on its potential for good.

This conclusion is taken from a short expository essay that explains the invention of the printing press and its effects on European society. It focuses on giving a clear, concise overview of what was covered in the essay.

The invention of the printing press was important not only in terms of its immediate cultural and economic effects, but also in terms of its major impact on politics and religion across Europe. In the century following the invention of the printing press, the relatively stationary intellectual atmosphere of the Middle Ages gave way to the social upheavals of the Reformation and the Renaissance. A single technological innovation had contributed to the total reshaping of the continent.

This conclusion is taken from a literary analysis essay about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein . It summarizes what the essay’s analysis achieved and emphasizes its originality.

By tracing the depiction of Frankenstein through the novel’s three volumes, I have demonstrated how the narrative structure shifts our perception of the character. While the Frankenstein of the first volume is depicted as having innocent intentions, the second and third volumes—first in the creature’s accusatory voice, and then in his own voice—increasingly undermine him, causing him to appear alternately ridiculous and vindictive. Far from the one-dimensional villain he is often taken to be, the character of Frankenstein is compelling because of the dynamic narrative frame in which he is placed. In this frame, Frankenstein’s narrative self-presentation responds to the images of him we see from others’ perspectives. This conclusion sheds new light on the novel, foregrounding Shelley’s unique layering of narrative perspectives and its importance for the depiction of character.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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Your essay’s conclusion should contain:

  • A rephrased version of your overall thesis
  • A brief review of the key points you made in the main body
  • An indication of why your argument matters

The conclusion may also reflect on the broader implications of your argument, showing how your ideas could applied to other contexts or debates.

For a stronger conclusion paragraph, avoid including:

  • Important evidence or analysis that wasn’t mentioned in the main body
  • Generic concluding phrases (e.g. “In conclusion…”)
  • Weak statements that undermine your argument (e.g. “There are good points on both sides of this issue.”)

Your conclusion should leave the reader with a strong, decisive impression of your work.

The conclusion paragraph of an essay is usually shorter than the introduction . As a rule, it shouldn’t take up more than 10–15% of the text.

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ReviseSociology

A level sociology revision – education, families, research methods, crime and deviance and more!

A Level Sociology Essays – How to Write Them

Use the Point – Explain – Expand – Criticise method (PEEC), demonstrate knowledge, application and evaluation skills, and use the item to make your points!

Table of Contents

Last Updated on November 10, 2022 by

This post offers some advice on how you might plan and write essays in the A level sociology exams. 

Essays will either be 20 or 30 marks depending on the paper but the general advice for answering them remains the same:

  • Use the PEEC method for the main paragraphs: POINT – EXPLAIN – EXPAND – CRITICISE
  • Use the overall structure below – PEEC (3 to 5 times) framed by an introduction, then overall evaluations and conclusion towards the end.
  • Use the item provided – this must form the basis of your main points!

How to write an A-level sociology essay

  • Allow yourself enough time – 1.5 minutes per mark = 45 minutes for a 30 mark essay.
  • Read the Question and the item, what is it asking you to do?
  • Do a rough plan (5-10 mins) – initially this should be ‘arguments and evidence’ for and ‘against’ the views in the question, and a few thoughts on overall evaluations/ a conclusion. If you are being asked to look at two things, you’ll have to do this twice/ your conclusion should bring the two aspects of the essay together.
  • Write the essay (35 mins)– aim to make 3-5 points in total (depending on the essay, either 3 deep points, or 5 (or more) shallower points). Try to make one point at least stem from the item, ideally the first point.
  • Try to stick to the following structure in the picture above!
  • Overall evaluations – don’t repeat yourself, and don’t overdo this, but it’s useful t tag this in before a conclusion.
  • Conclusion (allow 2 mins minimum) – an easy way to do this is to refer to the item – do you agree with the view or not, or say which of the points you’ve made is the strongest/ weakest and on balance is the view in the question sensible or not?

Skills in the A Level Sociology Exam

The AQA wants you to demonstrate 3 sets of skills in the exam – below are a few suggestions about how you can do this in sociology essays.

AO1: Knowledge and Understanding

You can demonstrate these by:

  • Using sociological concepts
  • Using sociological perspectives
  • Using research studies
  • Showing knowledge of contemporary trends and news events
  • Knowledge can also be synoptic, or be taken from other topics.
  • NB – knowledge has to be relevant to the question to get marks!

AO2: Application 

You can demonstrate application by…

  • Using the item – refer to the item!!!
  • Clearly showing how the material you have selected is relevant to the question, by using the words in the question
  • Making sure knowledge selected is relevant to the question.

AO3: Analysis and Evaluation

NB ‘Assess’ is basically the same as Evaluation

You can demonstrate analysis by….

  • Considering an argument from a range of perspectives – showing how one perspective might interpret the same evidence in a different way, for example.
  • Developing points – by showing why perspectives argue what they do, for example.
  • Comparing and contrasting ideas to show their differences and similarities
  • You can show how points relate to other points in the essay.

You can demonstrate evaluation by…

  • Discussing the strengths and limitations of a theory/ perspective or research method.
  • You should evaluate each point, but you can also do overall evaluations from other perspectives before your conclusion.
  • NB – Most people focus on weaknesses, but you should also focus on strengths.
  • Weighing up which points are the most useful in a conclusion.

Use the item

Every 30 mark question will ask you to refer to an ‘item’. This will be a very short piece of writing, consisting of about 8 lines of text. The item will typically refer to one aspect of the knowledge side of the question and one evaluation point. For example, if the question is asking you to ‘assess the Functionalist view of education’, the item is likely to refer to one point Functionalists make about education – such as role allocation, and one criticism.

All you need to do to use the item effectively is to make sure at least one of your points stems from the knowledge in the item, and develop it. It’s a good idea to make this your first point. To use the evaluation point from the item (there is usually some evaluation in there), then simply flag it up when you use it during the essay.

Signposting

For more exams advice please see my exams and essay advice page

To return to the homepage – revisesociology.com

Seven examples of sociology essays, and more advice…

For more information on ‘how to write sociology essays for the A level exam’ why not refer to my handy ‘how to write sociology essays guide’. 

how to write a sociology essay conclusion

The contents are as follows:

Introductory Section

  • A quick look at the three sociology exam papers
  • A pared-down mark scheme for A Level sociology essays
  • Knowledge, application, analysis, evaluation, what are they, how to demonstrate them.
  • How to write sociology essays – the basics:

These appear first in template form, then with answers, with the skills employed shown in colour. Answers are ‘overkill’ versions designed to get full marks in the exam.

  • Assess the Functionalist View of the Role of Education in Society (30) – Quick plan
  • Assess the Marxist view of the role of education in society (30) – Detailed full essay
  • Assess the extent to which it is home background that is the main cause of differential education achievement by social class (30) – Detailed full essay
  • Assess the view that education policies since 1988 have improved equality of educational opportunity (30) – Quick plan
  • Assess the view that the main aim of education policies since 1988 has been to raise overall standards in education.’ (30) – Quick plan
  • Assess the claim that ‘ethnic difference in educational achievement are primarily the result of school factors’ (30) – Detailed full essay
  • Assess the view that in school processes, rather than external factors, are the most important in explaining differences in educational achievement (30) – detailed essay – Quick plan.

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How to Write an Essay on Sociology

Last Updated: June 4, 2023 Approved

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 11 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 80% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 112,880 times.

Sociology is a new topic for many students, and writing a paper for a sociology class can be daunting. It is important to remember that sociology is an empirical discipline, which means all sociological writings (including your paper) need a thorough grounding in research and rigorous documentation. You will be asked to interpret these facts that you gather during your research phase. You might be asked to write a paper on cultural topics such as gender stereotypes, marriage, or race. Sociology is different from other social sciences because it relies heavily on both statistics and more interpretive analysis than say, English Literature. It is also a subject that relies heavily on the written word. Chances are, if you are a student in a sociology course, you will need to write several papers. If you learn the proper way to write a sociology essay, the rest of your semester should go smoothly. There are several steps to take to make sure you do a great job and earn the grade you want.

Preparing to Write

Step 1 Review the assignment.

  • Remember that a good sociology paper starts with an important sociological question. Your first step in writing a good essay is to figure out which question you are going to answer.

Step 2 Ask questions.

  • If you are unable to attend office hours, you can ask your professor questions via e-mail. Write this e-mail as if it is business. Be professional, courteous, and clear.

Step 3 Research your topic.

  • One type of sociological data is quantitative. These statistics are based on sources such as surveys and censuses. These are generally numbers. An example of quantitative data could be: 9,326 people lived in Urbantown in 1972.
  • The other type of data you need is qualitative. This research is less concrete, and is based on sources such as interviews and the researcher's own impressions. An example of qualitative data is: "The number of people living in Urbantown in 1972 likely was much lower because the major industry in town had closed and there were also severe racial tensions".

Step 4 Read efficiently.

  • Highlight important information. Not only will this make it easier to find that specific information later, but the act of highlighting itself will help embed the information into your brain.
  • Don't be afraid to skim over parts of books or articles that either do not relate to your paper topic or are not helpful.

Step 5 Take good notes.

  • Remember that sociology is largely about concepts. For example, you might need to explain the relationship between class and power in contemporary society. Therefore, your notes will be different from your chemistry notes, since you are memorizing ideas, not formulas or methods. In your notes, make sure that you have been thorough enough that you will understand the concept when you review your notes.

Step 6 Organize your materials.

  • Experiment with the noise level in your writing space. Some people work well with music playing, while others work best in total silence. Figure out the right atmosphere for you.

Writing Your Essay

Step 1 Formulate your thesis.

  • You can use several methods to come up with a thesis statement. For example, you can start by asking a series of questions. Once you find a good one, turn it into a declarative statement.
  • Another method is to use "free association". Write down all of the terms that come to mind when you think of your topic. An idea for a thesis might jump out at you.
  • Your thesis must have two key parts: first, it must be debatable. This means that your argument is not a basic statement of facts, but that it is open for critical debate. Second, your thesis must be tightly focused enough that it can be clearly supported with evidence. [6] X Research source
  • For example, perhaps you have been assigned an essay about gender. Your thesis statement could be something like this: "Gender is essentially a social construct, particularly during the early to mid-twentieth century. There are actually much fewer biological differences between men and women than previously thought; the divide between the sexes has actually been created by society."

Step 2 Make an outline.

  • When writing your outline, make sure that all of the parts of your essay support your thesis. If the information is not directly related to your thesis, you don't need it.
  • For example, if you have been assigned an essay about racial segregation in Chicago, you do not need to spend time discussing sexism in the same city.
  • If you are writing a brief essay about race, your outline could indicate that you will discuss the historical precedents, the quantitative date, the scholarly interpretations, and trends for the future.
  • Don't worry if your outline takes a while. Once you have a sturdy outline, the rest of the writing progress will be much more efficient.

Step 3 Write your introduction and conclusion.

  • Try using a specific example in your introduction. In the example essay of racial segregation in Chicago, you might include a story about a young child who was not allowed to attend the school nearest her house.
  • It is useful to write the conclusion before you write the body of your essay. This will help you to stay on track and make sure that your essay clearly relates to the conclusion you are making.

Step 4 Work on your body paragraphs.

  • For example, if you are writing an essay about ageism in America, one of the topic sentences for a body paragraph might be, "Ageism is a prejudice that makes it difficult for older citizens to get hired for certain jobs, even if they are the most qualified."

Step 5 Cite your sources.

  • An ASA citation could look like this: "The results gathered by Davis (1982: 78) demonstrate that... [9] X Research source
  • Make sure to check with your professor to ensure that you are supposed to use ASA style. Then familiarize yourself with the rules of this documentation system.

Polishing Your Paper

Step 1 Use spell check.

  • Use spell check, but do not overly rely on it. Remember, you know what your paper is supposed to say--your computer is not familiar with the points you are making.

Step 2 Edit carefully.

Community Q&A

Tom De Backer

  • Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to work on this assignment. Researching and writing a paper is a process, and you will likely need to spend several days on the project. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • There is always room for improvement. Make sure to read your professor's comments and use that feedback in future essays. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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  • ↑ https://www.geneseo.edu/sociology/sociology_papers
  • ↑ http://las.depaul.edu/academics/sociology/student-resources/Documents/how-to-talk-to-professors.pdf
  • ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/handouts/sociology/
  • ↑ http://www.dartmouth.edu/~acskills/success/reading.html
  • ↑ http://writerswin.com/three-ways-to-organize-your-ultimate-home-writing-space-plus-infographic/
  • ↑ https://sociology.berkeley.edu/sites/default/files/documents/student_services/writing_guide/Writing%20for%20Sociology%20Guide%20Second%20Edition.pdf
  • ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/583/02/
  • ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/07/16/is-proper-spelling-still-important_n_1676408.html
  • ↑ http://www.dailywritingtips.com/how-to-revise-edit-and-proofread-your-writing/
  • ↑ http://www.gonzaga.edu/academics/colleges-and-Schools/College-of-Arts-and-Sciences/Majors-Programs/Political-Science/writing-guidelines.asp

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Oxford University Press

Oxford University Press's Academic Insights for the Thinking World

how to write a sociology essay conclusion

Three top tips for writing sociology essays

how to write a sociology essay conclusion

The Craft of Writing in Sociology

  • By Andrew Balmer and Anne Murcott
  • September 19 th 2017

As the academic semester gets underway, we talked to three senior colleagues in Sociology at the University of Manchester to come up with their ‘pet peeves’ when marking student’s essays. Here are some of their comments, and some of our top tips to help you to improve your work.

First, lecturers said they were frustrated with the way that students write their opening paragraphs:

“A main peeve of mine in student writing is poor introductions. Three common errors regularly stand out: throat clearing sentences (e.g. ‘globalisation is an important topic’, ‘Marx was an important writer’); dictionary definitions for core sociological concepts; and introductions that merely restate the question. What I really want to see from an introduction is a brief account of how the student is approaching the question at hand, what key questions the essay will address, and what answer the student will come to at the end of the essay.” – Senior Lecturer in Sociology

This was a point on which our three colleagues agreed: students often waste the introduction. Here is top tip number one to help you improve your essays:

1. Give the reader a guide to your argument. Much as you would give someone directions in how to get to where they’re going, tell your reader what steps you will take, what the key turning points will be, why it is important to take this route and, ultimately, where you will end up. In other words, tell your reader exactly what you will conclude and why, right at the beginning.

Another point on which our colleagues agreed was that sociological essays can be imprecise, and are sometimes written in a style which is meant to sound intellectual, but which is more confusing than it is enlightening. As one senior lecturer put it:

“A pet peeve of mine is imprecise language, for example peppering an essay with terms like ‘however’, ‘therefore’, and ‘consequently’, but without attending to the logical relationship between sentences that those words are supposed to signal. If the logical connector is wrong then the argument fails. This kind of error is often motivated, I think, by students wanting their essays to ‘sound academic’, when often they would have been more convincing by using simpler language more precisely.” – Senior Lecturer in Sociology

It is worth planning the time needed to rework your essays because a good argument can be let down by poor presentation. Here is top tip number two:

2. Your written work should prioritise clarity and concision over entertainment and erudition when making an argument. Students often write in a style which they think makes their points sound important, but get lost in the meaning of what they are saying by doing so. It might be that you have quite a command of English and want to show off your knowledge of polysyllabic or unusual words, or it might be that you wish to imitate the sociological writers whom you admire. Whatever additional reasons you have for writing, there is none more important in a sociological essay than making your argument clear. Words such as ‘however’ and ‘moreover’ should be used to indicate how your ideas are linked together, not to start a sentence with a good word. Be sure that when you edit your work, you edit for the argument, prioritising the word choices which best help to make your point. Such decisions will reflect maturity and consideration in your written work, and it is these which will truly impress a reader.

A final element which our three colleagues all listed in their top pet peeves was poor structure:

“I am often frustrated by the poor structuring of an essay. In other words, with the order in which ideas are presented, either at the level of the whole essay or at paragraph level. Essays that ping-pong from one idea to another, and then back to the original idea, indicate that the student has not really thought their argument through. A trickier thing to get right is the structuring of paragraphs, and some students seem keen to cram in as many (often unconnected) points into one paragraph as possible.” – Senior Lecturer in Sociology

The key point to learn when it comes to structuring your work is to make your writing serve your argument. You should present the main turns of your argument clearly, so as to reach a natural conclusion. Here is top tip number three for improving your essays:

3. Redraft your work for your argument, before you edit and proof-read it. Students often write to tight deadlines and do not plan enough time for a good second draft of their work. Instead, they write a first draft and then edit it as they proof-read it. When writing the first draft of an essay you will still be working out what the argument is. This is because writing helps you to think, so as you write your full first draft you will be meandering around a little, finding the best route as you go. Instead of merely editing this and checking the grammar, you should seriously re-draft the essay in light of the argument you now know you wish to make. This will help you to write a good introduction, since you can now say clearly from the outset what you will go on to argue, and a good conclusion, for you will now be able to say exactly what you have argued and why. Re-drafting for the argument means taking out material, adding in material and ensuring that each paragraph has a main point to contribute. It is an essential step in producing a good essay, which must be undertaken prior to editing for sense and proof-reading for typographical mistakes.

These tips point you towards the most important part of learning to write good sociological essays: bringing everything you do into the service of producing an argument which responds to the question and provides a satisfying answer.

Featured image credit: meeting by Eric Bailey. CC0 Public Domain via Pexels .

Andrew Balmer is Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the University of Manchester and member of the Morgan Centre for Research into Everyday Lives. He is co-author of a new book, The Craft of Writing in Sociology: Developing the Argument in Undergraduate Essays and Dissertations , published by Manchester University Press. Andrew can be found on Twitter @AndyBalmer .

Anne Murcott is Honorary Professor at the University of Nottingham and Honorary Professorial Research Associate at SOAS, University of London. She is author of numerous books and edited collections, including The Craft of Writing in Sociology .

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Recent Comments

The recommendations sound more like how to write an abstract than a full essay. If I condense my whole essay into the first paragraph, there is little incentive for a reader to go further. “Formula writing” might simplify paper-marking, but is unlikely to produce truly interesting results. My experience covers 40 years at three major research universities in the U.S.;, and publication in anthropology, linguistics, and education, as well as direction of many doctoral dissertations.

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Tips for Writing Analytical Sociology Papers

This document is intended as an additional resource for undergraduate students taking sociology courses at UW. It is not intended to replace instructions from your professors and TAs. In all cases follow course-specific assignment instructions, and consult your TA or professor if you have questions.

  • DO NOT PLAGIARIZE!  You must cite all sources you use—not only for direct quotations, but also for data, for facts that are not common knowledge, and very importantly for ideas that are not your own.  The UW policy on academic honest explains what plagiarism is, but also the consequences for students found to have committed it: http://www.washington.edu/uaa/advising/help/academichonesty.php
  • It is generally expected that you state your argument (usually called a "thesis statement") in the first couple paragraphs (preferably the first). For theory application papers, this would include mention of the theory or argument you are applying and the case or empirical phenomenon to which you are applying it.
  • Introductions and conclusions are important: they are the first and last impression given to your readers. A good introduction summarizes what the author does in the paper, and sets up ("motivates") the analytical problem or question. It is sometimes referred to as a "roadmap" for the paper.  Some writers find it effective to present an interesting or controversial statement or a quote in the introduction to gain the reader's attention. However, you should make certain that the quote or information is actually relevant to your thesis (your main argument)!
  • A good conclusion almost always restates the argument and the evidence brought to bear.  This is not a place to introduce new evidence or make new claims.  However, you might address unresolved issues, why we should care about the topic of the paper, directions for future research, etc.
  • Once you have completed the paper, you should revisit the introduction and conclusion to make sure that they "match" each other, and that they reflect the argument you make in the body of the paper.
  • Most analytical sociology assignments should not rely upon personal anecdotes, experiences, or opinions as "data" to make an argument.  This varies by assignment—for example, some ask you to incorporate personal experiences and opinions.  If you are unsure, check with your instructor or TA.
  • It is considered appropriate to use subject headers in longer analytical papers, as it helps guide the reader and organize your argument.
  • Unless you are instructed otherwise, it can be helpful to write analytical papers in first person (using "I statements"): this helps you avoid passive constructions, wordiness, and confusion about voice (who is arguing what).  If your instructor prefers that you avoid the first person in your papers, you can write "This paper argues…" in order to distinguish your voice from that of the authors/theories/articles you discuss.
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sociology essay

How to Write a Sociology Essay: A Simple Guide

how to write a sociology essay conclusion

The field of sociology originated in the 19th century as a response to the major changes caused by the Industrial Revolution. During this time, societies underwent significant transformations due to the shift from agriculture to industry. Cities grew, factories emerged, people moved in large numbers, and social classes became more defined. Sociology arose as a way to understand how societies work and how individuals interact within them. It focuses on studying social patterns, relationships, and the factors that influence them and continues to be an important discipline today, helping us comprehend the social aspects of our lives and the world we live in. So, if you're a sociology student looking to compose a compelling essay that delves into the complexities of human behavior and societal patterns, you've come to the right place.

How to Write a Sociology Essay: Short Description

In this comprehensive guide, we aim to equip you with the essential steps and invaluable insights on crafting an impressive sociology essay. Writing a sociology essay requires more than just presenting information; it entails capturing the essence of your research and engaging your readers from beginning to end. We will provide you with practical advice and strategies for presenting your findings in a clear and coherent manner while maintaining an engaging writing style. By the end of this guide, you will have a solid understanding of how to write a sociology essay that not only showcases your knowledge and analytical skills but also captivates your readers, leaving a lasting impact.

What Is Sociology Essay and Why Does It Matter

Sociology can be described as the scientific study of human society, social relationships, and the various forces that shape them. It helps us understand how individuals, groups, and institutions interact and how social structures influence our behaviors, beliefs, and values. Simply put, sociology shines a light on the intricate web of connections that shape our lives.

If you're seeking further exploration of sociological concepts or need assistance in writing essays on the subject, you may use our professional services that offer to write essays for money . Now let's delve deeper into the fascinating realm of sociology.

what is sociology essay

Why Sociology Matters:

  • Broadening Perspectives : Sociology provides a unique lens through which we can view the world. It encourages us to question assumptions, challenge stereotypes, and critically analyze social phenomena. By understanding society's dynamics, we can develop empathy, tolerance, and a deeper appreciation for diversity.
  • Explaining Social Issues : Sociological research allows us to uncover the underlying causes of social problems. It helps us grasp the complexities behind issues like inequality, discrimination, poverty, crime, and healthcare disparities. For instance, sociologists may examine how educational systems perpetuate social inequality or explore the impact of media on body image perception.
  • Informing Policy and Social Change : Sociology has practical implications. Its findings help policymakers design interventions to address societal challenges effectively. By studying the impact of policies, sociologists contribute to evidence-based decision-making, striving for a fairer and more just society. For instance, research on the gender wage gap can influence legislation to ensure equal pay for equal work.

Examples of Sociological Research:

  • The Stanford Prison Experiment: In this famous study, sociologist Philip Zimbardo simulated a prison environment to examine how social roles and power dynamics can influence behavior. It shed light on the potential for abuse within institutions and sparked debates on ethical considerations in research.
  • The Milgram Experiment: Psychologist Stanley Milgram's study on obedience to authority had significant sociological implications. It revealed how ordinary people could be influenced to engage in harmful actions under certain circumstances, raising ethical and moral questions regarding societal structures and individual responsibility.

As you can see, sociology provides a unique perspective on society, uncovering the underlying forces that shape our lives. It broadens our understanding of social issues, informs policy decisions, and empowers us to drive positive change. So, whether you're interested in analyzing gender roles, social class, or the impact of technology on society, sociology is the key to unraveling the intricacies of human interaction.

how to write a sociology essay conclusion

How to Write a Sociology Essay: A Quick Guide

Understanding the significance of a sociology essay opens up a world of possibilities for you to express your ideas and delve into the fascinating realm of human behavior. Now let's explore the step-by-step process from our sociology essay writing service experts!

Gather Relevant Information

When it comes to the writing process, immersing yourself in the topic is key. Conduct thorough research and gather relevant information from reputable sources such as academic journals, books, and scholarly articles. This will not only help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter but also provide a solid foundation for your essay.

For instance, if you're writing your sociology essay example on the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships, delve into studies conducted by renowned sociologists like Dr. Sarah Roberts. Her groundbreaking research on the psychological effects of social media usage offers valuable insights. Consider citing specific experiments, such as Dr. John Doe's study that revealed a correlation between excessive social media use and decreased empathy.

Evaluate Sources with a Critical Eye

While learning how to write sociology essay, it's important to critically evaluate the sources you come across. Look for peer-reviewed articles published in reputable journals. These articles have undergone rigorous review processes and are more likely to provide accurate and reliable information. Additionally, consider the credibility of the authors and the currency of the sources. In the dynamic field of sociology, it's crucial to use the most up-to-date research available.

As you gather information, take detailed notes and keep track of your sources. This will make it easier to reference your sources later and avoid plagiarism. Remember, in sociology papers, it is essential to properly cite your sources using a recognized citation style, such as APA or MLA.

Create an Outline

To ensure a logical and coherent flow of thoughts, create an outline that acts as a roadmap for your essay. Divide your work into sections and allocate specific ideas and arguments to each section. This will help maintain a clear sociology essay structure and prevent your paper from becoming disjointed.

When creating an outline, consider the main points you want to address in your essay. Think about how you can organize your ideas to present a well-structured argument. You may choose to use headings and subheadings to further organize your thoughts. This approach not only makes it easier for you to write your essay on sociology but also helps your readers follow your arguments effortlessly.

Remember, your outline is a flexible tool. As you start writing essays, you may find that you need to make adjustments to your outline. Don't be afraid to modify it as you go along to ensure that your essay remains focused and coherent.

Meanwhile, if you ever need assistance in exploring sociological concepts or writing essays on the subject, don't hesitate to reach out and say, ' Write my essays .' Expert help is available to support your academic journey.

outline

Introduction

The introduction of your sociology essay sets the stage for what's to come. It should provide an overview of the topic, establish the context, and present a clear thesis statement that encapsulates the main argument or focus of your essay.

To grab your reader's attention, consider starting with a compelling hook. For example, you could begin with an interesting fact about the widespread use of social media or a thought-provoking question about its impact on our relationships. Once you have their attention, provide background information on the topic to give your readers a broader understanding.

Finally, end your introduction with a strong and concise thesis statement. This statement should clearly articulate the main argument you will be making in your essay. It should be specific, arguable, and supported by the evidence you will present in the main body of your essay.

The main body of your essay is where you will present your arguments, analysis, and evidence. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea or argument while maintaining a logical flow from one paragraph to the next. Support your arguments with relevant examples and incorporate sociological theories or concepts to strengthen your analysis.

When writing the body paragraphs, start each one with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. This will help your reader understand the focus of each section and how it contributes to your overall argument. Then, provide evidence and examples to support your claims. For instance, you could present statistics on the average time spent on social media platforms or cite case studies that highlight the impact of social media on different types of relationships.

Additionally, consider incorporating sociological theories or concepts into your analysis. This will demonstrate your understanding of the subject matter and showcase your ability to apply sociological perspectives to real-world issues. Be sure to explain these theories or concepts in a clear and concise manner, providing relevant examples to illustrate their relevance.

As you transition between paragraphs, use transitional words and phrases to create a smooth and cohesive flow. This will help your sociological essays read more fluidly and make it easier for your readers to follow your line of reasoning.

Remember, each paragraph should build upon the previous one and contribute to the overall argument of your essay. Avoid introducing new ideas or arguments in the conclusion of your essay, as this section should primarily summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. And if you find yourself in need of assistance with your essay, you can always consider reaching out to professional services to order essay that meets your requirements.

Your conclusion should serve as a concise synthesis of the main points discussed in your essay and a restatement of your thesis. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion; instead, provide a summary of your arguments and leave the reader with a lasting impression.

Revise and Edit

Once you have completed your essay, take the time to revise and edit it. Ensure that your ideas are conveyed clearly, your arguments are well-supported, and your writing is free from grammatical and spelling errors. Consider seeking feedback from peers or professors to gain additional insights.

Sociology Essay Topics

Here are good sociology essay topics that cover a range of sociological perspectives and subjects from our professional essay writers :

Social Inequality

  • The Impact of Income Disparity on Social Mobility
  • Exploring the Intersectionality of Race, Class, and Gender in Contemporary Society
  • Analyzing the Effects of Wealth Inequality on Health Disparities
  • The Role of Education in Perpetuating or Alleviating Social Inequality
  • Social Stratification and Its Consequences for Social Cohesion

Culture and Identity

  • Examining the Influence of Media on Body Image and Self-Perception
  • The Role of Cultural Norms in Shaping Gender Roles and Expectations
  • Exploring the Effects of Globalization on Cultural Identity
  • Analyzing the Impact of Social Media on Interpersonal Relationships
  • Cultural Assimilation versus Cultural Preservation: Balancing Individual and Group Identities

Social Movements and Social Change

  • The Role of Social Movements in Advancing Civil Rights and Social Justice
  • Analyzing the Impact of Feminism on Gender Equality
  • The Relationship between Social Media and Activism: Amplifying Voices or Slacktivism?
  • Investigating the Dynamics of Protests and Collective Action
  • Examining the Impacts of Technological Advances on Social Change

Family and Relationships

  • The Changing Dynamics of Marriage and Divorce in Modern Society
  • Analyzing the Effects of Single-Parenting on Child Development
  • Exploring Non-Traditional Family Structures and Their Impact on Socialization
  • Examining the Role of Gender in Household Chores and Parenting Responsibilities
  • The Intersection of Family and Work-Life Balance: Challenges and Solutions

Health and Society

  • Analyzing the Social Determinants of Health and Health Disparities
  • Exploring the Impact of Social Support Networks on Mental Health
  • The Influence of Social Factors on Health Behaviors and Lifestyle Choices
  • Examining the Stigma and Social Perception of Mental Illness
  • The Role of Healthcare Systems in Addressing Health Inequalities

Extra Tips for Writing a Sociology Essay

In this section, we'll break away from generic steps and present you with five unconventional strategies to help you create a truly captivating sociology essay. Here are a few additional tips to help you excel in your writing:

Evoke Empathy with Personal Narratives

Move beyond mere analysis by incorporating personal narratives into your essay. Share stories that reflect the human experience and connect with your readers on an emotional level. For example, if you're exploring the impact of poverty on education, begin with a heartfelt story of a student's struggle to overcome socio economic barriers. By evoking empathy, you'll draw your readers into the sociological discussion right from the start.

Alternatively, if you find yourself short on time or need additional support, consider the option to buy essay online . We can provide expertly crafted essays that effectively incorporate personal narratives, helping you captivate your audience and excel in your sociological exploration.

Incorporate Visual Elements

Words are powerful, but visuals can enhance your essay's impact. Consider including relevant charts, graphs, or images that illustrate sociological concepts or data. For instance, if you're discussing income inequality, present a visual representation of the wealth distribution curve. Visual elements not only break the monotony of text but also provide a visually compelling way to convey complex information.

Use Creative Analogies and Metaphors

Sociology is a subject filled with abstract concepts, making it an ideal canvas for creative analogies and metaphors. Compare social phenomena to relatable situations or objects to aid understanding and engagement. For example, you could compare social stratification to a game of musical chairs, highlighting how some individuals secure positions while others are left standing. Creative language and comparisons add a layer of intrigue to your essay.

Challenge Assumptions and Offer Fresh Perspectives

Sociology thrives on questioning established norms and challenging assumptions. Break away from conventional wisdom by presenting alternative viewpoints and fresh perspectives. Engage in critical analysis of existing theories or challenge commonly held beliefs. For instance, if you're discussing gender roles, explore emerging perspectives that go beyond the traditional binary framework. By presenting original ideas, you'll stimulate thoughtful discussions among your readers.

Propose Actionable Solutions

Move beyond the realm of analysis by concluding your essay with actionable solutions to the social issues you've explored. Offer practical recommendations based on your research and sociological insights. For instance, if you're discussing environmental sustainability, suggest community-based initiatives that promote eco-conscious behaviors. By presenting tangible solutions, you inspire readers to take part in creating positive change.

With these friendly guidelines at your side and the infusion of your own unique perspectives, you'll be fully prepared to create a good sociology paper that shines with your individuality. Always remember that practice makes perfect, so keep honing your writing skills and embrace the thrilling journey of sociological analysis. If you ever need extra support or want to save time, you can consider the option to pay for essay at our services, which can provide expert assistance and ensure your brilliance is showcased in your sociology paper!

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How to Write a Sociology Essay

HOW TO WRITE A SOCIOLOGY ESSAY

Table of Contents

Introduction to Sociology Essay Writing

What is a sociology essay.

A sociology essay is an academic piece that explores various aspects of society and social behavior. It examines patterns, causes, and effects of social interactions among individuals and groups. The purpose of such an essay is to provide a detailed analysis and interpretation of social phenomena, guided by theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence.

Importance of Sociological Inquiry and Critical Thinking

Sociological inquiry is vital as it fosters an understanding of the complexities of society and the various factors that shape human behavior. Critical thinking, on the other hand, is essential in sociology essay writing as it enables the evaluation of arguments, identification of biases, and development of coherent, evidence-based conclusions.

Understanding the Essay Question

Interpreting essay prompts.

To effectively respond to a sociology essay prompt:

  • Read Carefully : Look for action words such as ‘discuss,’ ‘compare,’ or ‘analyze’ to understand what is expected.
  • Highlight Keywords : Identify key themes, concepts, and sociological terms that are central to the question.

Identifying Key Themes and Concepts

  • Break Down the Question : Dissect the question into smaller components to ensure all aspects are addressed.
  • Relate to Sociological Theories : Connect the themes with relevant sociological theories and concepts.

Research and Preparation

Conducting sociological research.

  • Start Broad : Gain a general understanding of the topic through reputable sources like academic journals and books.
  • Narrow Focus : Hone in on specific studies or data that directly relate to your essay’s thesis.

Sourcing and Evaluating Literature

  • Use Academic Databases : Access scholarly articles through databases such as JSTOR, Google Scholar, and Sociological Abstracts.
  • Evaluate Sources : Check for the credibility, relevance, and timeliness of the literature.

Relevant Sociological Theories

  • Theory Identification : Determine which sociological theories and theorists are pertinent to your essay topic.
  • Application : Understand how these theories can be applied to the social issue or phenomenon you are examining.

Planning the Essay

Importance of essay structure.

Structuring an essay is crucial because it helps organize thoughts, supports the logical flow of ideas, and guides the reader through the arguments presented. A well-structured essay enhances clarity and readability, ensuring that each point made builds upon the last and contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Basic Essay Structure

Introduction : This is where you introduce your topic, provide background information, and present your thesis statement. It sets the stage for your argument.

Thesis Statement : A concise summary of the main point or claim of the essay, usually located at the end of the introduction.

Body Paragraphs : Each paragraph should cover a single point that supports your thesis. Start with a topic sentence, followed by analysis, evidence, and then a concluding sentence that ties the point back to the thesis.

Conclusion : Summarize the key arguments made in the essay and restate the thesis in the context of the evidence presented. Finish with thoughts on the implications, limitations, or suggestions for future research.

Writing the Essay

Crafting a strong thesis statement.

  • Specificity : Your thesis should clearly state your position and the aspects of the topic you will explore.
  • Scope : Make sure it’s neither too broad nor too narrow to be adequately covered within the essay’s length.
  • Assertiveness : Present your thesis confidently and as a statement that you will back up with evidence.

Writing Effective Body Paragraphs

  • Topic Sentences : Begin with a clear statement of the paragraph’s main idea.
  • Coherence : Use transition words and phrases to maintain flow and show the relationship between paragraphs.
  • Evidence Integration : Include data, quotations, or theories from sources that support your argument, always linking them back to your thesis.

Integrating Evidence

  • Relevance : Ensure all evidence directly relates to and supports the paragraph’s topic sentence and the overall thesis.
  • Credibility : Choose evidence from reputable, scholarly sources.
  • Analysis : Don’t just present evidence; interpret it and explain its significance to your argument.

Maintaining Objectivity and Critical Perspective

  • Balanced Analysis : Consider multiple viewpoints and avoid biased language.
  • Critical Evaluation : Question the methodologies, findings, and biases in the literature you cite.
  • Reflective Conclusion : Assess the strengths and limitations of your argument.

Referencing and Citation Style

Importance of citations.

Citations are essential in academic writing as they give credit to the original authors of ideas and information, allow readers to verify sources, and prevent plagiarism.

Common Citation Styles in Sociology

  • APA (American Psychological Association) : Commonly used in the social sciences for both in-text citations and reference lists.
  • ASA (American Sociological Association) : Specifically designed for sociology papers, this style features a parenthetical author-date format within the text and a detailed reference list at the end.

Each citation style has specific rules for formatting titles, author names, publication dates, and page numbers, so it’s important to consult the relevant style guide to ensure accuracy in your references.

Editing and Proofreading

Strategies for reviewing and refining the essay.

  • Take a Break : After writing, step away from your essay before reviewing it. Fresh eyes can catch errors and inconsistencies more effectively.
  • Read Aloud : Hearing your words can help identify awkward phrasing, run-on sentences, and other issues that might be missed when reading silently.
  • Peer Review : Have a classmate or friend review your essay. They may catch errors you have overlooked and provide valuable feedback.
  • Multiple Rounds : Edit for different aspects in each round—for example, content in one, grammar and syntax in another, and citations in the last.

Checklist of Common Errors to Avoid

  • Spelling and Grammar : Misused words, typos, subject-verb agreement errors, and incorrect verb tenses.
  • Punctuation : Overuse or incorrect use of commas, semicolons, and apostrophes.
  • Structure : Lack of clear thesis, poorly structured paragraphs, or missing transitions.
  • Clarity : Vague statements, unnecessary jargon, or overly complex sentences.
  • Consistency : Fluctuations in tone, style, or tense.
  • Citations : Inaccurate references or inconsistent citation style.

Summarizing Arguments

  • Restate Thesis : Begin by restating your thesis in a new way, reflecting on the evidence presented.
  • Highlight Key Points : Briefly recap the main arguments made in your body paragraphs, synthesizing them to show how they support your thesis.
  • No New Information : Ensure that you do not introduce new ideas or evidence in the conclusion.

Presenting Final Thoughts

  • Implications : Discuss the broader implications of your findings or argument.
  • Limitations : Acknowledge any limitations in your research or analysis and suggest areas for future study.
  • Final Statement : End with a strong, closing statement that reinforces the significance of your topic and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

By carefully editing and proofreading your essay, you can enhance its clarity and coherence, ensuring that it effectively communicates your analysis and insights on the sociological topic. The conclusion serves as the final opportunity to underscore the importance of your findings and to reiterate how they contribute to our understanding of social phenomena.

Appendix A: Example Essay Outlines

An essay outline serves as a roadmap for the writer, indicating the structure of the essay and the sequence of arguments. An appendix containing example outlines could include:

Thematic Essay Outline :

  • Background Information
  • Thesis Statement
  • Summary of Themes
  • Restatement of Thesis
  • Final Thoughts

Comparative Essay Outline :

  • Overview of Subjects Being Compared
  • Aspect 1 Comparison
  • Evidence from Subject A
  • Evidence from Subject B
  • Comparative Analysis
  • Summary of Comparative Points

These outlines would be followed by brief explanations of each section and tips on what information to include.

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The Department recommends that students write a total of four to six essays per paper over the course of Michalemas and Lent terms.

This equates to two or three essays per paper, per term. Since students take four papers, and terms are eight weeks long, two essays per paper would work out at one essay per week (if distributed evenly). Regardless of how many essays students choose to write, they will still receive six supervisions per paper over the course of both terms. This means three supervisions per paper, per term.

For two of these supervisions, the Sociology Department has a policy that allows students to prepare in another way besides an essay for the supervision, such as with a blog post , or a presentation on a reading or related current event. This should be agreed ahead of time with the supervisor in question.

Essays are expected to be around 1,500 to 2,000 words, which may sound like a lot to new students, but it is crucial practice for honing the skill of making a detailed, coherent and concise argument. The upper word limit is also important, as writing to wordcount (and deadline) are key academic skills, and this takes into consideration the marking workload of your supervisors.

Essay writing is one of the main means of study as well as a form of preparation for the exams , in which students are expected to draw on lecture material, supervision work, and independent reading. Over the course of the HSPS programme, students will be increasingly encouraged to supplement supervisors’ suggested readings with the sources they have encountered using their growing research skills.

Essay Writing FAQs

The sections below provide some answers to help students approach their essays. Students are encouraged to reach out to their peers, supervisors and/or Directors of Studies if they are having trouble with essay writing.

When you write an essay, you’ll need to find the suggested reading list provided in the paper guide. A reading list will usually contain a mixture of online resources like journal articles and Ebooks, and physical books which can be requested from the libraries; in 2020-21, however, given the coronavirus pandemic, we have adjusted our reading lists so that all texts are available electronically. Most of the readings you need for sociology are available via the Seeley library (Sociology, Land Economy), and you can find out how to access them on our Study Resources [link] page.

There are multiple copies of most of the books in the Seeley library so you shouldn’t have too much trouble getting hold of a text. Often you can request a book even if it has been taken out, in which case the student who has the book on loan will be expected to return the book in three days. If they’re not available at the Seeley library, the iDiscover website can show you all the locations where a book can be found in other university libraries.

Many College libraries also have undergraduate reading list collections, and it’s always worth emailing either the SPS or your college library if you’re struggling to access a text. Finally, if you can’t access a book or find an Ebook version online, Google Books often has parts of books - such as selected chapters - available to read for free. Your lecturer may also give tips for finding certain texts.

You will find you get much faster at reading and condensing arguments as you progress through your degree. Rather than trying to read everything, focus on the readings that the lecturer has marked as particularly important, and then use the additional recommended readings to gain a broader understanding and add more nuance to your essays.

What matters is that you’ve got a grasp of the key concepts and theories as portrayed in the available literature on a topic. When you’re first starting out, it may be better to focus on a few readings and give yourself more time to think and write. Another way of tackling reading lists is to split the workload with other people doing the same topic. Sharing notes and ideas not only helps consolidate your learning, it also makes life much, much easier.

If you’re assigned an entire book without chapter or page number suggestions, don’t feel you’re expected to read them cover to cover. Start with the introductory and concluding chapters to get a feel for the arguments. You can also check the contents page for sections or chapters that are especially relevant. Sometimes useful summaries, reviews, or commentaries on books are available online; for example, you can search for book reviews via Google Scholar.

Key to writing a good Sociology essay is a clear argument based on a careful and critical reading of the material relevant to the question. In the first instance, this will be the books and articles the paper organiser has indicated you should read in the paper guide. Pay careful attention to the language a particular author uses and attempt to situate the work in the social and intellectual context of the period in which it was written.

A good essay will provide an introduction that explains your interpretation of the question and how you intend to answer it, namely your essay’s structure and argument. As part of the process of building the argument, the body of the essay will outline, and critically evaluate, the different positions you’ve considered on the topic of the question (e.g. a question on class may discuss Marx, Weber and Durkheim’s differing understanding of the structural organisation of class and/or the subjective experience of class). This critical evaluation may include how well arguments are supported with empirical examples of events (including contemporary events not yet analysed in the literature), studies or statistical data.  Specifically, you can use the theory to help us understand an empirical case of your choice, and then use that empirical case to shed light on the strengths and weaknesses of that theory.

Here you can show further knowledge by referring to material beyond the reading list, as long as you demonstrate its relevance. The essay should conclude by summarising your argument and the justifications you have offered for it, as well as indicating the relevance of your argument in the broader theoretical and/or empirical context. Always try to justify your arguments by reference to concrete examples, studies, research or new work. Reference all your sources consistently and systematically. Finally give yourself time to re-read, edit and re-edit your essay. Often the process of re-reading and editing will improve an essay immensely. This process will, of course, be aided through discussions in supervisions and the further reflections they inspire for you.

When supervisors mark your essays (and indeed, your exams), they will be guided by the marking criteria, so it is best to familiarise yourself with these criteria. You can ask your supervisor for advice on how to interpret these criteria, which can be downloaded via WHERE [link].

The university and the faculty libraries have lots of guidance on essay-writing, which you can ask them about or find on their websites. Some colleges run workshops or have academics who provide support for essay-writing; your Director of Studies (DoS) should be able to point you in the right direction. This is especially useful for students who want to develop their academic writing skills, and can help build confidence for those who might feel a little out-of-practice.

Finally, it’s always good to share essays with friends taking the course to get a sense of their approaches. You can learn from your fellow students just as you can learn from university academics. Chatting through an issue that you’re finding confusing with a friend can have great results, because just by talking through your difficulties or thought processes, the path to the answers you need can become clearer.

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Master the basics of academic writing with our powerful guides and essay topics, prepared by the best professionals in the field. We're here to get you inspired!

how to write a sociology essay conclusion

Easy Guide on How To Write a Great Sociology Essay For Students

The student works on the creation of the essay outline.

Sociology is a subject that explores the phenomena of society, social groups, and the place of the humans in those events. It’s worth mentioning that sociology is a complex subject, that might cause difficulties, especially for students who do not face it daily. 

One of such problems might be the notorious academic essays. Modern professors adore using this type of writing to check the level of knowledge of their students, and sociology is not an exception. 

The good news about the essay on sociology is that the writing process of this paper will not differ from essays on other topics. However, to succeed in this matter, you will have to either be good at sociology or find qualitative help. In any case, we believe that after reading our tips for writing a sociology essay , you will be more prepared for this challenging task.

What Is Sociology Essay ?

You will not be able to write an essay about sociology if the question is “ What is sociology essay ?” still pops up in your head. In simple words, a sociology essay is an academic piece of writing that discloses a certain topic that is related to the mentioned field. The topic of the essay may be anything, but it still has to be related to sociology. 

Such an essay should show a total understanding and awareness of the discussed topic, usually, it can be some sociological theory or concept. However, sociological essays can also be a field for certain academic experiments. 

Sociology Essay Questions

Understanding your sociology essay question is a great way to receive a positive mark for your paper. However, the difficulty lies in the fact that sometimes students may confuse the question of the essay with the topic of the paper. To make it easier for you, we have collected the sociology essay questions that might be answered in your paper: 

  • What is the role of the family in academic education?
  • Why are sociology studies important for global education?
  • What is the role of social institutions in personality formation?
  • Does religion affect personality formation, and why?
  • What are the challenges of population growth?
  • Culture in Sociology essay : myth or truth?
  • Does gender affect social socialization, and why?
  • What is the role of the individual in society? 
  • What is the role of education for different social groups?
  • Is bullying a social or psychological problem?
  • Difference between sociology and psychology essay : How does it characterize?
  • What I learned in sociology class essay ?

The Best Sociology Essay Topics in 2024 

Before starting the writing process you will have to go through hundreds of different topics before finding the one that will hook you. This process may last for a while. However, choosing a suitable sociology essay topic will lead to successful academic writing. That’s why, in this section, we have collected some of the most relevant sociology essay topics in the year 2024:

  • Modern marriage and abortion sociology essay ;
  • Difference between race and ethnicity sociology essay ;
  • Why study sociology essay , main reasons; 
  • What is a sociology interview essay ;
  • Who am I sociology essay? ; 
  • Sociology and art: sociology movie essay ;
  • Impact of poverty sociology essay ;
  • Society and interracial marriage sociology essay ;
  • Concepts and theories of sociology essay ;
  • Importance of life chances sociology essay ;
  • Origin of racism and race sociology essay ;
  • Social stratification essay sociology ;
  • Problems of population sociology essay ;
  • Essay on conflict theory sociology ;
  • Norm violation paper for sociology essay : the origin of the phenomenon;

This is only an approximate list of sociology topics for essay . Feel free to choose some of the sociology essay topics mentioned in this list or to create your own based on your requirements. 

How to Prepare a Sociology Essay Outline ?

If you want to understand how to write sociology essay you have to add the sociology essay outline to your writing process. The outline of your essay is an approximate draft that includes the necessary structural parts or ideas that will be present in your future essay. The creation of the proper outline will greatly help you to see the overall picture of your future essay, so you might not even resort to sociology essay help . In this section, we have collected approximate steps on how to start a sociology essay writing process. 

  • Study the literature . Any proper sociology essay outline example starts with a careful examination of the existing literature and sources. This will help you gain a basic understanding of the chosen topic and come up with an idea for the beginning of your paper. Researching the sources will also provide you with an understanding of how other writers designed their work;
  • Brainstorm the ideas. Brainstorming ideas is the next step in your outline creation. Just take the piece of paper and come up with ideas that come to mind regarding the mentioned topic. Brainstorming the ideas is a great way to gather your thoughts and present them on paper; 
  • Create an approximate draft. Preparing the draft is the final stage in the creation of your sociology essay outline. When preparing the draft, do not think of it as the final version of your structure. You should consider it as a test version of your future essay. That means that you can add countless edits and changes to your sociology essay outline. 

Whether you are creating an outline for your sociology essay on education or a sociology film analysis essay the creation of the outline will remain the same in both cases. That means that you will be able to use the scheme that was provided above without the necessity of adding any changes to the outline creation process.  

How to Comply a Sociology Essay Structure ?

creating sociology essay structure

The good news is that the sociology essay structure is pretty basic and like any essay will consist of three main parts. As you might already have guessed your paper will consist of an introduction, body, and conclusion. Of course, depending on the volume and topic of your essay, your final structure might be more or less branched . However, the general outline of your structure will remain the same. So, firstly, let’s find out how to write an introduction to a sociology essay .

How to Write an Introduction to a Sociology Essay ?

Introduction to sociology essay should start with the thesis of your paper. In simple words, you have to outline the general statement that you will be introducing to your readers. For example, if you decide to prepare a paper about the problem of social institutions in the educational system, you will have to briefly introduce the statement that you will be defending. 

Such an approach can be applied to absolutely all sociology argumentative essay topics , due to the high versatility of this technique. When you are presenting your statement remember the necessity to intrigue your readers with the discussed question. It’s a challenging task, however, the success of your paper will depend on it. 

Tips for Writing a Sociology Essay Body

The body of your sociology essay paper is a part where you will have to introduce the argumentative base of your paper. The main part of your body should include as many parts as is necessary for proving your point. For example, you can divide your body into several paragraphs, where you will separately introduce pieces of evidence for approval of your point. 

The approximate scheme of your body will have the following look. Each paragraph will start with a mini-statement that will describe your point of view. Then you will have to provide your readers with solid evidence that will prove your point. In the end, a paragraph should end with a transition that will lead your reader to the next body part. 

Conclusion of Sociology Essay

The conclusion of sociology essay is the culmination of your research. As in the previous parts of your essay, the conclusion has various crucial points that have to be included for a successful looping of your essay. Unlike the body and introduction, the conclusion does not have to contain any new information or new statements. Otherwise, it will be considered a glaring mistake that will lead to a significant decrease in your final mark. 

To summarize your essay correctly make sure to remind your readers about the main statement of your paper. After that, you can also provide discoveries that you managed to receive from your research paper.

Sociology Essay Format

Your sociology essay format should mostly depend on the type of assignment that you received from your college professor. The thing is that usually, your assignment will include the desired format of your paper, approximate sources, bibliography recommendations, and other requirements that are necessary for this type of academic writing. If you receive a task to write a sociology paper in free form, we recommend using the APA format that is suitable for social science research. 

Sociology Essay Example

As it says, it’s better to see it once, than hear it a hundred times. That’s why it’s so crucial to have a proper sociology essay example during the process of your paper creation. Such an approach will increase the speed of your writing, lead to avoiding common mistakes, and increase the overall quality of your writing. 

For example, let’s imagine that you have to write an essay about the importance of the family’s impact on the child’s academic performance. In this case, you will have to highlight the statement of your essay. Then you will have to provide your readers with evidence that will prove your point, e.g., valid research about the performance of children from prosperous families. In the end, you will have to loop in a summary of your research and highlight the results of the research.

How to Write a Sociology Critique Essay

Before answering the question of how to write a sociology critique essay , let’s uncover this term’s meaning. The term critique essay hides the piece of writing where the author can express his certain personal feelings regarding some topic or question. As you already have guessed this type of essay should display certain critical problems that are connected with human society. The possible topics may include problems of modern politics, personal relations, social connections, etc. Meanwhile, the writing process of this essay will be similar to other essay types that we have discussed in this article. 

Difference Between Sociology and Psychology Essay

The crucial difference between those two topics lies in the fact that the discovered question will be considered from different points of view. If we take the sociological essay, it will explore the question of the effect that the topic has on society, meanwhile when the psychology essay will focus on the problems of an individual, while ignoring the social side of the question. 

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Guest Essay

The Most Important Writing Exercise I’ve Ever Assigned

An illustration of several houses. One person walks away from a house with a second person isolated in a window.

By Rachel Kadish

Ms. Kadish is the author of the novel “The Weight of Ink.”

“Write down a phrase you find abhorrent — something you yourself would never say.”

My students looked startled, but they cooperated. They knew I wouldn’t collect this exercise; what they wrote would be private unless they chose to share it. All that was required of them was participation.

In silence they jotted down a few words. So far, so good. We hadn’t yet reached the hard request: Spend 10 minutes writing a monologue in the first person that’s spoken by a fictitious character who makes the upsetting statement. This portion typically elicits nervous glances. When that happens, I remind students that their statement doesn’t represent them and that speaking as if they’re someone else is a basic skill of fiction writers. The troubling statement, I explain, must appear in the monologue, and it shouldn’t be minimized, nor should students feel the need to forgive or account for it. What’s required is simply that somewhere in the monologue there be an instant — even a fleeting phrase — in which we can feel empathy for the speaker. Perhaps she’s sick with worry over an ill grandchild. Perhaps he’s haunted by a love he let slip away. Perhaps she’s sleepless over how to keep her business afloat and her employees paid. Done right, the exercise delivers a one-two punch: repugnance for a behavior or worldview coupled with recognition of shared humanity.

For more than two decades, I’ve taught versions of this fiction-writing exercise. I’ve used it in universities, middle schools and private workshops, with 7-year-olds and 70-year-olds. But in recent years openness to this exercise and to the imaginative leap it’s designed to teach has shrunk to a pinprick. As our country’s public conversation has gotten angrier, I’ve noticed that students’ approach to the exercise has become more brittle, regardless of whether students lean right or left.

Each semester, I wonder whether the aperture through which we allow empathy has so drastically narrowed as to foreclose a full view of our fellow human beings. Maybe there are times so contentious or so painful that people simply withdraw to their own silos. I’ve certainly felt that inward pull myself. There are times when a leap into someone else’s perspective feels impossible.

But leaping is the job of the writer, and there’s no point it doing it halfway. Good fiction pulls off a magic trick of absurd power: It makes us care. Responding to the travails of invented characters — Ahab or Amaranta, Sethe or Stevens, Zooey or Zorba — we might tear up or laugh, or our hearts might pound. As readers, we become invested in these people, which is very different from agreeing with or even liking them. In the best literature, characters are so vivid, complicated, contradictory and even maddening that we’ll follow them far from our preconceptions; sometimes we don’t return.

Unflinching empathy, which is the muscle the lesson is designed to exercise, is a prerequisite for literature strong enough to wrestle with the real world. On the page it allows us to spot signs of humanity; off the page it can teach us to start a conversation with the strangest of strangers, to thrive alongside difference. It can even affect those life-or-death choices we make instinctively in a crisis. This kind of empathy has nothing to do with being nice, and it’s not for the faint of heart.

Even within the safety of the page, it’s tempting to dodge empathy’s challenge, instead demonizing villains and idealizing heroes, but that’s when the needle on art’s moral compass goes inert. Then we’re navigating blind: confident that we know what the bad people look like and that they’re not us — and therefore we’re at no risk of error.

Our best writers, in contrast, portray humans in their full complexity. This is what Gish Jen is doing in the short story “Who’s Irish?” and Rohinton Mistry in the novel “A Fine Balance.” Line by line, these writers illuminate the inner worlds of characters who cause harm — which is not the same as forgiving them. No one would ever say that Toni Morrison forgives the character Cholly Breedlove, who rapes his daughter in “The Bluest Eye.” What Ms. Morrison accomplishes instead is the boldest act of moral and emotional understanding I’ve ever seen on the page.

In the classroom exercise, the upsetting phrases my students scribble might be personal (“You’ll never be a writer,” “You’re ugly”) or religious or political. Once a student wrote a phrase condemning abortion as another student across the table wrote a phrase defending it. Sometimes there are stereotypes, slurs — whatever the students choose to grapple with. Of course, it’s disturbing to step into the shoes of someone whose words or deeds repel us. Writing these monologues, my graduate students, who know what “first person” means, will dodge and write in third, with the distanced “he said” instead of “I said.”

But if they can withstand the challenges of first person, sometimes something happens. They emerge shaken and eager to expand on what they’ve written. I look up from tidying my notes to discover students lingering after dismissal with that alert expression that says the exercise made them feel something they needed to feel.

Over the years, as my students’ statements became more political and as jargon (“deplorables,” “snowflakes”) supplanted the language of personal experience, I adapted the exercise. Worrying that I’d been too sanguine about possible pitfalls, I made it entirely silent, so no student would have to hear another’s troubling statement or fear being judged for their own. Any students who wanted to share their monologues with me could stay after class rather than read to the group. Later, I added another caveat: If your troubling statement is so offensive, you can’t imagine the person who says it as a full human being, choose something less troubling. Next, I narrowed the parameters: No politics. The pandemic’s virtual classes made risk taking harder; I moved the exercise deeper into the semester so students would feel more at ease.

After one session, a student stayed behind in the virtual meeting room. She’d failed to include empathy in her monologue about a character whose politics she abhorred. Her omission bothered her. I was impressed by her honesty. She’d constructed a caricature and recognized it. Most of us don’t.

For years, I’ve quietly completed the exercise alongside my students. Some days nothing sparks. When it goes well, though, the experience is disquieting. The hard part, it turns out, isn’t the empathy itself but what follows: the annihilating notion that people whose fears or joys or humor I appreciate may themselves be indifferent to all my cherished conceptions of the world.

Then the 10-minute timer sounds, and I haul myself back to the business of the classroom — shaken by the vastness of the world but more curious about the people in it. I put my trust in that curiosity. What better choice does any of us have? And in the sanctuary of my classroom I keep trying, handing along what literature handed me: the small, sturdy magic trick any of us can work, as long as we’re willing to risk it.

Rachel Kadish is the author of the novel “The Weight of Ink.”

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

Follow the New York Times Opinion section on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , X and Threads .

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COMMENTS

  1. PDF Writing for Sociology Guide

    The academic environment is a writing-intensive environment, and during your college years you will be asked to write dozens of assignments|from brief response papers to essay exams to full-edged research papers. We ask you to write because we want you to learn a skill that you will need in the fu-

  2. How to write a decent conclusion to an A Level sociology essay

    How to write a decent conclusion to an A Level sociology essay. For many students, writing a conclusion is one of the hardest parts of an A Level sociology essay. This is because unlike other essay writing subjects, your view isn't as valued in sociology.

  3. How to Write a Sociological Essay: Explained with Examples

    Step 1: Make an Outline So you have to write a sociological essay, which means that you already either received or have a topic in mind. The first thing for you to do is PLAN how you will attempt to write this essay. To plan, the best way is to make an outline. The topic you have, certainly string some thread in your mind.

  4. Sociology

    Argument The first thing to remember in writing a sociological argument is to be as clear as possible in stating your thesis. Of course, that is true in all papers, but there are a couple of pitfalls common to sociology that you should be aware of and avoid at all cost.

  5. Ending the Essay: Conclusions

    Finally, some advice on how not to end an essay: Don't simply summarize your essay. A brief summary of your argument may be useful, especially if your essay is long--more than ten pages or so. But shorter essays tend not to require a restatement of your main ideas. Avoid phrases like "in conclusion," "to conclude," "in summary," and "to sum up ...

  6. How to Conclude an Essay

    Step 1: Return to your thesis To begin your conclusion, signal that the essay is coming to an end by returning to your overall argument. Don't just repeat your thesis statement —instead, try to rephrase your argument in a way that shows how it has been developed since the introduction. Example: Returning to the thesis

  7. A Level Sociology Essays

    Conclusion (allow 2 mins minimum) - an easy way to do this is to refer to the item - do you agree with the view or not, or say which of the points you've made is the strongest/ weakest and on balance is the view in the question sensible or not? Skills in the A Level Sociology Exam

  8. 3 Ways to Write an Essay on Sociology

    How to Write an Essay on Sociology methods 1 Preparing to Write 2 Writing Your Essay 3 Polishing Your Paper Other Sections Questions & Answers Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Author Info Last Updated: June 4, 2023 Approved Sociology is a new topic for many students, and writing a paper for a sociology class can be daunting.

  9. PDF Strategies for Essay Writing

    conclusions, consider whether you can write a stronger conclusion by creating a transition that shows the relationship between your ideas rather than by flagging the paragraph simply as a conclusion. Transitional words that signal a conclusion include in conclusion, as a result, ultimately, overall—but strong

  10. Three top tips for writing sociology essays

    1. Give the reader a guide to your argument. Much as you would give someone directions in how to get to where they're going, tell your reader what steps you will take, what the key turning points will be, why it is important to take this route and, ultimately, where you will end up.

  11. How to write a Sociology Essay

    Referencing Correctly referencing your work is crucial as poorly referenced work will not only lose marks but it also risks accusations of plagiarism, As such you must be sure that you have fully cited all sources and texts that you have used.

  12. How to Write a Sociology Essay: Full Guide

    Sociology Essay Conclusion How to End a Sociology Essay Sociology is a complex study that helps people to learn more about themselves. It is closely connected with such disciplines as psychology, political science, religious studies, anthropology, biology, history, etc.

  13. Tips for Writing Analytical Sociology Papers

    Unless you are instructed otherwise, it can be helpful to write analytical papers in first person (using "I statements"): this helps you avoid passive constructions, wordiness, and confusion about voice (who is arguing what). If your instructor prefers that you avoid the first person in your papers, you can write "This paper argues…".

  14. Writing a Sociology Essay: All You Need to Know

    Jul 17, 2023 How to Write a Sociology Essay: A Simple Guide Written by Phil Collins The field of sociology originated in the 19th century as a response to the major changes caused by the Industrial Revolution. During this time, societies underwent significant transformations due to the shift from agriculture to industry.

  15. How to Write a Sociology Essay: Ultimate Guide

    Writing guide Posted on January 3, 2019 Table of contents What Is a Sociology Essay? How to Tackle Different Types of Sociology Essays: Quick Tips from Our Experts How to Choose Powerful Sociology Essay Topics How to Make an Outline for Your Sociology Essay Work on the Essay Structure Write a Draft Start with an introduction

  16. How to Write a Sociology Essay Step by Step

    Conclusion Summarizing Arguments Presenting Final Thoughts Appendices Appendix A: Example Essay Outlines Introduction to Sociology Essay Writing What is a Sociology Essay? A sociology essay is an academic piece that explores various aspects of society and social behavior.

  17. A* Sociology: Introductions and conclusions matter

    This video outlines the importance of good introduction and conclusion in a student answer in gaining the top band.(Recorded with https://screencast-o-matic....

  18. Essays

    How do I write a good essay? Where can I get help with essay writing? The Department recommends that students write a total of four to six essays per paper over the course of Michalemas and Lent terms. This equates to two or three essays per paper, per term.

  19. Easy Guide on How To Write a Great Sociology Essay For Students

    Just take the piece of paper and come up with ideas that come to mind regarding the mentioned topic. Brainstorming the ideas is a great way to gather your thoughts and present them on paper; Create an approximate draft. Preparing the draft is the final stage in the creation of your sociology essay outline.

  20. 13. Conclusion

    13 Conclusion Sociology as a discipline is a product of modern society. Sociological theory, therefore, endeavours to account for modern society. This is true for all the classical statements about … - Selection from Sociological Theory [Book]

  21. How To Write Sociology Essays Part 1

    The first of two screencasts explaining how to write A/S and A Level Sociology essays

  22. How To Write Sociology Essays Part 2

    The second of two screencasts explaining how to write effective essays for A/S and A level Sociology.

  23. How to write a sociology essay

    Main Parts should: Outline and assess alternative theories/studies, making use of AO1, AO2 and AO3. Conclusions should: Offer your opinion on the question, with reference to the theories/studies outlined in the Main Part. Emphasising Assessment Objectives in your written work

  24. Sample Essays for SOC101

    The essays included in this document are NOT perfect. These essays did NOT all achieve high marks. These essays should, however, be very helpful to you because they will: (1) give you some ideas about how to write a sociological essay (2) give you some ideas about how to apply sociological concepts to a particular topic

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  26. Opinion

    Unflinching empathy, which is the muscle the lesson is designed to exercise, is a prerequisite for literature strong enough to wrestle with the real world. On the page it allows us to spot signs ...