how to write a good conclusion in psychology essay

How to Write a Psychology Essay

Saul Mcleod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul Mcleod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

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BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

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Before you write your essay, it’s important to analyse the task and understand exactly what the essay question is asking. Your lecturer may give you some advice – pay attention to this as it will help you plan your answer.

Next conduct preliminary reading based on your lecture notes. At this stage, it’s not crucial to have a robust understanding of key theories or studies, but you should at least have a general “gist” of the literature.

After reading, plan a response to the task. This plan could be in the form of a mind map, a summary table, or by writing a core statement (which encompasses the entire argument of your essay in just a few sentences).

After writing your plan, conduct supplementary reading, refine your plan, and make it more detailed.

It is tempting to skip these preliminary steps and write the first draft while reading at the same time. However, reading and planning will make the essay writing process easier, quicker, and ensure a higher quality essay is produced.

Components of a Good Essay

Now, let us look at what constitutes a good essay in psychology. There are a number of important features.

• Global Structure – structure the material to allow for a logical sequence of ideas. Each paragraph / statement should follow sensibly from its predecessor. The essay should “flow”. The introduction, main body and conclusion should all be linked.
• Each paragraph should comprise a main theme, which is illustrated and developed through a number of points (supported by evidence).
• Knowledge and Understanding – recognize, recall, and show understanding of a range of scientific material that accurately reflects the main theoretical perspectives.
• Critical Evaluation – arguments should be supported by appropriate evidence and/or theory from the literature. Evidence of independent thinking, insight, and evaluation of the evidence.
• Quality of Written Communication – writing clearly and succinctly with appropriate use of paragraphs, spelling, and grammar. All sources are referenced accurately and in line with APA guidelines.

In the main body of the essay, every paragraph should demonstrate both knowledge and critical evaluation.

There should also be an appropriate balance between these two essay components. Try to aim for about a 60/40 split if possible.

Most students make the mistake of writing too much knowledge and not enough evaluation (which is the difficult bit).

It is best to structure your essay according to key themes. Themes are illustrated and developed through a number of points (supported by evidence).

Choose relevant points only, ones that most reveal the theme or help to make a convincing and interesting argument.

Knowledge and Understanding

Remember that an essay is simply a discussion / argument on paper. Don’t make the mistake of writing all the information you know regarding a particular topic.

You need to be concise, and clearly articulate your argument. A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, a paragraph no unnecessary sentences.

Each paragraph should have a purpose / theme, and make a number of points – which need to be support by high quality evidence. Be clear why each point is is relevant to the argument. It would be useful at the beginning of each paragraph if you explicitly outlined the theme being discussed (.e.g. cognitive development, social development etc.).

Try not to overuse quotations in your essays. It is more appropriate to use original content to demonstrate your understanding.

Psychology is a science so you must support your ideas with evidence (not your own personal opinion). If you are discussing a theory or research study make sure you cite the source of the information.

Note this is not the author of a textbook you have read – but the original source / author(s) of the theory or research study.

For example:

Bowlby (1951) claimed that mothering is almost useless if delayed until after two and a half to three years and, for most children, if delayed till after 12 months, i.e. there is a critical period.

Maslow (1943) stated that people are motivated to achieve certain needs. When one need is fulfilled a person seeks to fullfil the next one, and so on.

As a general rule, make sure there is at least one citation (i.e. name of psychologist and date of publication) in each paragraph.

Remember to answer the essay question. Underline the keywords in the essay title. Don’t make the mistake of simply writing everything you know of a particular topic, be selective. Each paragraph in your essay should contribute to answering the essay question.

Critical Evaluation

In simple terms, this means outlining the strengths and limitations of a theory or research study.

There are many ways you can critically evaluate:

Methodological evaluation of research

Is the study valid / reliable ? Is the sample biased, or can we generalize the findings to other populations? What are the strengths and limitations of the method used and data obtained?

Be careful to ensure that any methodological criticisms are justified and not trite.

Rather than hunting for weaknesses in every study; only highlight limitations that make you doubt the conclusions that the authors have drawn – e.g., where an alternative explanation might be equally likely because something hasn’t been adequately controlled.

Compare or contrast different theories

Outline how the theories are similar and how they differ. This could be two (or more) theories of personality / memory / child development etc. Also try to communicate the value of the theory / study.

Debates or perspectives

Refer to debates such as nature or nurture, reductionism vs. holism, or the perspectives in psychology . For example, would they agree or disagree with a theory or the findings of the study?

What are the ethical issues of the research?

Does a study involve ethical issues such as deception, privacy, psychological or physical harm?

Gender bias

If research is biased towards men or women it does not provide a clear view of the behavior that has been studied. A dominantly male perspective is known as an androcentric bias.

Cultural bias

Is the theory / study ethnocentric? Psychology is predominantly a white, Euro-American enterprise. In some texts, over 90% of studies have US participants, who are predominantly white and middle class.

Does the theory or study being discussed judge other cultures by Western standards?

Animal Research

This raises the issue of whether it’s morally and/or scientifically right to use animals. The main criterion is that benefits must outweigh costs. But benefits are almost always to humans and costs to animals.

Animal research also raises the issue of extrapolation. Can we generalize from studies on animals to humans as their anatomy & physiology is different from humans?

The PEC System

It is very important to elaborate on your evaluation. Don’t just write a shopping list of brief (one or two sentence) evaluation points.

Instead, make sure you expand on your points, remember, quality of evaluation is most important than quantity.

When you are writing an evaluation paragraph, use the PEC system.

• Make your P oint.
• E xplain how and why the point is relevant.
• Discuss the C onsequences / implications of the theory or study. Are they positive or negative?

For Example

• Point: It is argued that psychoanalytic therapy is only of benefit to an articulate, intelligent, affluent minority.
• Explain: Because psychoanalytic therapy involves talking and gaining insight, and is costly and time-consuming, it is argued that it is only of benefit to an articulate, intelligent, affluent minority. Evidence suggests psychoanalytic therapy works best if the client is motivated and has a positive attitude.
• Consequences: A depressed client’s apathy, flat emotional state, and lack of motivation limit the appropriateness of psychoanalytic therapy for depression.

Furthermore, the levels of dependency of depressed clients mean that transference is more likely to develop.

Using Research Studies in your Essays

Research studies can either be knowledge or evaluation.

• If you refer to the procedures and findings of a study, this shows knowledge and understanding.
• If you comment on what the studies shows, and what it supports and challenges about the theory in question, this shows evaluation.

Writing an Introduction

It is often best to write your introduction when you have finished the main body of the essay, so that you have a good understanding of the topic area.

If there is a word count for your essay try to devote 10% of this to your introduction.

Ideally, the introduction should;

Identify the subject of the essay and define the key terms. Highlight the major issues which “lie behind” the question. Let the reader know how you will focus your essay by identifying the main themes to be discussed. “Signpost” the essay’s key argument, (and, if possible, how this argument is structured).

Introductions are very important as first impressions count and they can create a h alo effect in the mind of the lecturer grading your essay. If you start off well then you are more likely to be forgiven for the odd mistake later one.

Writing a Conclusion

So many students either forget to write a conclusion or fail to give it the attention it deserves.

If there is a word count for your essay try to devote 10% of this to your conclusion.

Ideally the conclusion should summarize the key themes / arguments of your essay. State the take home message – don’t sit on the fence, instead weigh up the evidence presented in the essay and make a decision which side of the argument has more support.

Also, you might like to suggest what future research may need to be conducted and why (read the discussion section of journal articles for this).

Don”t include new information / arguments (only information discussed in the main body of the essay).

If you are unsure of what to write read the essay question and answer it in one paragraph.

Points that unite or embrace several themes can be used to great effect as part of your conclusion.

The Importance of Flow

Obviously, what you write is important, but how you communicate your ideas / arguments has a significant influence on your overall grade. Most students may have similar information / content in their essays, but the better students communicate this information concisely and articulately.

When you have finished the first draft of your essay you must check if it “flows”. This is an important feature of quality of communication (along with spelling and grammar).

This means that the paragraphs follow a logical order (like the chapters in a novel). Have a global structure with themes arranged in a way that allows for a logical sequence of ideas. You might want to rearrange (cut and paste) paragraphs to a different position in your essay if they don”t appear to fit in with the essay structure.

To improve the flow of your essay make sure the last sentence of one paragraph links to first sentence of the next paragraph. This will help the essay flow and make it easier to read.

Finally, only repeat citations when it is unclear which study / theory you are discussing. Repeating citations unnecessarily disrupts the flow of an essay.

Referencing

The reference section is the list of all the sources cited in the essay (in alphabetical order). It is not a bibliography (a list of the books you used).

In simple terms every time you cite/refer to a name (and date) of a psychologist you need to reference the original source of the information.

If you have been using textbooks this is easy as the references are usually at the back of the book and you can just copy them down. If you have been using websites, then you may have a problem as they might not provide a reference section for you to copy.

References need to be set out APA style :

Author, A. A. (year). Title of work . Location: Publisher.

Journal Articles

Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (year). Article title. Journal Title, volume number (issue number), page numbers

A simple way to write your reference section is use Google scholar . Just type the name and date of the psychologist in the search box and click on the “cite” link.

Next, copy and paste the APA reference into the reference section of your essay.

Once again, remember that references need to be in alphabetical order according to surname.

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How to Write a Good Conclusion in a Psychology Essay

Psychology essays or Psychology academic writing are often used to explore and explain human behavior. To effectively do this, a good conclusion should be included in the essay. A good conclusion is one that is logical, concise, and provides a sense of closure. It should also be able to connect the argument to a larger context and leave the reader with a lasting impression. In this article, we will discuss the steps and tips for writing a good conclusion in a psychology essay.

Definition of a Good Conclusion  

A good conclusion is the last part of an essay that ties all the ideas and evidence together and provides closure for the reader. It should be concise, logical, and provide a sense of finality. The conclusion should also be able to connect the argument to a larger context, either in the field of psychology or in the real world.

Purpose of a Good Conclusion  

The purpose of a good conclusion is to tie all of the ideas and evidence together in a concise and logical way. It should be able to explain the implications of the argument and provide a sense of closure for the reader. Additionally, it should be able to connect the argument to a larger context and provide a lasting impression on the reader.

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Steps for Writing a Good Conclusion  

• Restate the Main Argument: The first step in writing a good conclusion is to restate the main argument of the essay. This will help to remind the reader of the main points of the essay and will provide a sense of closure.
• Summarize the Supporting Evidence: The next step is to summarize the supporting evidence for the argument. This will help to reinforce the main points of the essay and will provide a sense of finality for the reader.
• Connect the Argument to a Broader Context: The next step is to connect the argument to a larger context. This could be in the field of psychology or in the real world. This will help to provide a sense of relevance for the reader and will leave the reader with a lasting impression.
• Leave the Reader with a Final Thought: The final step is to leave the reader with a final thought. This could be a call to action, a warning, or a thought-provoking question. This will help to leave the reader with a lasting impression and will provide a sense of closure.  

Tips for Writing a Good Conclusion  

• Avoid Introducing New Ideas: It is important to avoid introducing new ideas in the conclusion. This could confuse the reader and could lead to an unclear conclusion.
• Don’t Repeat Yourself: It is important to avoid repeating yourself in the conclusion. This could lead to a repetitive conclusion and could be confusing for the reader.
• Use Appropriate Language: It is important to use appropriate language in the conclusion. This could be formal or informal language, depending on the context.
• Be Concise: Finally, it is important to be concise in the conclusion. This will help to keep the conclusion clear and will provide a sense of closure for the reader.

Summary of Steps and Tips for Writing a Good Conclusion

  In summary, the steps and tips for writing a good conclusion in a psychology essay are to restate the main argument, summarize the supporting evidence, connect the argument to a larger context, leave the reader with a final thought, avoid introducing new ideas, don’t repeat yourself, use appropriate language, and be concise. Following these steps and tips will help to ensure that the conclusion of the essay is clear and concise and will provide a sense of closure for the reader.

Final Thoughts on Writing a Good Conclusion  

Writing a good conclusion in a psychology essay is an important part of the essay writing process. It should be concise, logical, and provide a sense of closure for the reader. Additionally, it should be able to connect the argument to a larger context and provide a lasting impression on the reader. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that you write a good conclusion in your psychology essay. If you want to be sure your conclusion will be clear and concise, better order a custom essay written by EasyEssay.us . Furthermore, by understanding the implications of narcissism and how to manipulate it, you can ensure that your conclusion will be effective.

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• How to Write a Strong Psychology Essay Conclusion with an Example

A conclusion is an essential component of a psychology essay. It restates the main argument of your essay and helps to a lasting impression your reader. Let us dive in and learn how to create impactful conclusions within a short period without having to use a language model.

Table of Contents

How to Write a Strong Psychology Essay Conclusion

Introduction.

In the structure of a psychology essay, a conclusion is an essential component. Firstly, it serves to restate the main points that were covered in the essay using the shortest number of words possible.   Secondly, it presents an opportunity to develop recommendations and reflections on the implications of your argument for psychology practice. A conclusion should not have in-text citations, as no new information is presented. Here, as a student, you are supposed to synthesize the main points, showing your comprehensive understanding of the topic. In this short post, I am going to show you how to write a conclusion of a psychology essay. I will discuss the recommended length, the steps you should follow and provide an example.

What is the length of a psychology essay conclusion?

The conclusion length of a psychology essay depends on the length of your whole paper. Whilst answering this question, Robin Turner, who was a former English lecturer at Bilkent University, states, “You don’t want your conclusion to be more than a fifth of your essay,” which translates to 20% of your essay.  However, in my undergraduate and master’s psychology university education, the rule of thumb was that your conclusion should be 10% of the total word count limit.  That is the case for most universities globally.  We normally advise that you keep it at 10% of your essay’s total word count.

What are the steps for writing a conclusion for a psychology essay?

Restate your specific thesis statement. This involves linking back to the question that your essay was seeking to answer. There is an ongoing debate if you should use the phrase “in conclusion.” While answering this question, Ali Mullin, who is an instructor at Louisiana State University terms ending your conclusion with the phrase as being reductionist. She suggested the use of such styles as “[idea 1], [idea 2], and [idea 3] all illustrate [concept/argument]. Considering these [ideas] synthesizes/realizes/proves my point that [argument]. In the future, I hope to see [idea]”.

Summarize and synthesize the main points that were discussed in the essay, showing great mastery of the topic that you discussed.

Present your conclusion from the point of view of the conclusion that you provided, linking it to the main argument of your essay.

Finally, provide a broad statement that suggests how your conclusion impacts, is related, or is essential in practice.

For more information on h0w to write other parts of a psychology essay, check out our comprehensive guide .

Concisely, human beings use both the exemplar and prototype theories as framework for categorizing concepts. Even though both theories are essential, they are varied in their manner of application since the prototypes are appropriate for simple and hierarchical categories. On other hand, exemplars are suitable for flat and nuanced domains. Cultural differences in relation to various concepts such as classification of fruits and leadership shape categorization affecting prototypes and how conclusions are made in relation to specific examples. By harnessing both prototype and exemplar perspectives, people can optimize learning and creativity, drawing upon existing knowledge to navigate new terrain.

The first sentence restates the thesis statement.

The second and third sentences synthesizes the main points that were developed in the paper.

The last sentence is a broad statement regarding the argument that the essay makes.

It is worth noting that we discourage the use of language models in your psychology essay. However, you can use AI specifically Gemini to develop your conclusion.

We highly recommend seeking help from our psychology assignment experts .

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Writing a Research Paper Conclusion | Step-by-Step Guide

Published on October 30, 2022 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on April 13, 2023.

• Restate the problem statement addressed in the paper
• Summarize your overall arguments or findings
• Suggest the key takeaways from your paper

The content of the conclusion varies depending on whether your paper presents the results of original empirical research or constructs an argument through engagement with sources .

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Table of contents

Step 1: restate the problem, step 2: sum up the paper, step 3: discuss the implications, research paper conclusion examples, frequently asked questions about research paper conclusions.

The first task of your conclusion is to remind the reader of your research problem . You will have discussed this problem in depth throughout the body, but now the point is to zoom back out from the details to the bigger picture.

While you are restating a problem you’ve already introduced, you should avoid phrasing it identically to how it appeared in the introduction . Ideally, you’ll find a novel way to circle back to the problem from the more detailed ideas discussed in the body.

For example, an argumentative paper advocating new measures to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture might restate its problem as follows:

Meanwhile, an empirical paper studying the relationship of Instagram use with body image issues might present its problem like this:

“In conclusion …”

Avoid starting your conclusion with phrases like “In conclusion” or “To conclude,” as this can come across as too obvious and make your writing seem unsophisticated. The content and placement of your conclusion should make its function clear without the need for additional signposting.

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Having zoomed back in on the problem, it’s time to summarize how the body of the paper went about addressing it, and what conclusions this approach led to.

Depending on the nature of your research paper, this might mean restating your thesis and arguments, or summarizing your overall findings.

Argumentative paper: Restate your thesis and arguments

In an argumentative paper, you will have presented a thesis statement in your introduction, expressing the overall claim your paper argues for. In the conclusion, you should restate the thesis and show how it has been developed through the body of the paper.

Briefly summarize the key arguments made in the body, showing how each of them contributes to proving your thesis. You may also mention any counterarguments you addressed, emphasizing why your thesis holds up against them, particularly if your argument is a controversial one.

Don’t go into the details of your evidence or present new ideas; focus on outlining in broad strokes the argument you have made.

Empirical paper: Summarize your findings

In an empirical paper, this is the time to summarize your key findings. Don’t go into great detail here (you will have presented your in-depth results and discussion already), but do clearly express the answers to the research questions you investigated.

Describe your main findings, even if they weren’t necessarily the ones you expected or hoped for, and explain the overall conclusion they led you to.

Having summed up your key arguments or findings, the conclusion ends by considering the broader implications of your research. This means expressing the key takeaways, practical or theoretical, from your paper—often in the form of a call for action or suggestions for future research.

Argumentative paper: Strong closing statement

An argumentative paper generally ends with a strong closing statement. In the case of a practical argument, make a call for action: What actions do you think should be taken by the people or organizations concerned in response to your argument?

If your topic is more theoretical and unsuitable for a call for action, your closing statement should express the significance of your argument—for example, in proposing a new understanding of a topic or laying the groundwork for future research.

Empirical paper: Future research directions

In a more empirical paper, you can close by either making recommendations for practice (for example, in clinical or policy papers), or suggesting directions for future research.

Whatever the scope of your own research, there will always be room for further investigation of related topics, and you’ll often discover new questions and problems during the research process .

Finish your paper on a forward-looking note by suggesting how you or other researchers might build on this topic in the future and address any limitations of the current paper.

Full examples of research paper conclusions are shown in the tabs below: one for an argumentative paper, the other for an empirical paper.

• Argumentative paper
• Empirical paper

While the role of cattle in climate change is by now common knowledge, countries like the Netherlands continually fail to confront this issue with the urgency it deserves. The evidence is clear: To create a truly futureproof agricultural sector, Dutch farmers must be incentivized to transition from livestock farming to sustainable vegetable farming. As well as dramatically lowering emissions, plant-based agriculture, if approached in the right way, can produce more food with less land, providing opportunities for nature regeneration areas that will themselves contribute to climate targets. Although this approach would have economic ramifications, from a long-term perspective, it would represent a significant step towards a more sustainable and resilient national economy. Transitioning to sustainable vegetable farming will make the Netherlands greener and healthier, setting an example for other European governments. Farmers, policymakers, and consumers must focus on the future, not just on their own short-term interests, and work to implement this transition now.

As social media becomes increasingly central to young people’s everyday lives, it is important to understand how different platforms affect their developing self-conception. By testing the effect of daily Instagram use among teenage girls, this study established that highly visual social media does indeed have a significant effect on body image concerns, with a strong correlation between the amount of time spent on the platform and participants’ self-reported dissatisfaction with their appearance. However, the strength of this effect was moderated by pre-test self-esteem ratings: Participants with higher self-esteem were less likely to experience an increase in body image concerns after using Instagram. This suggests that, while Instagram does impact body image, it is also important to consider the wider social and psychological context in which this usage occurs: Teenagers who are already predisposed to self-esteem issues may be at greater risk of experiencing negative effects. Future research into Instagram and other highly visual social media should focus on establishing a clearer picture of how self-esteem and related constructs influence young people’s experiences of these platforms. Furthermore, while this experiment measured Instagram usage in terms of time spent on the platform, observational studies are required to gain more insight into different patterns of usage—to investigate, for instance, whether active posting is associated with different effects than passive consumption of social media content.

If you’re unsure about the conclusion, it can be helpful to ask a friend or fellow student to read your conclusion and summarize the main takeaways.

• Do they understand from your conclusion what your research was about?
• Are they able to summarize the implications of your findings?
• Can they answer your research question based on your conclusion?

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The conclusion of a research paper has several key elements you should make sure to include:

• A restatement of the research problem
• A summary of your key arguments and/or findings
• A short discussion of the implications of your research

No, it’s not appropriate to present new arguments or evidence in the conclusion . While you might be tempted to save a striking argument for last, research papers follow a more formal structure than this.

All your findings and arguments should be presented in the body of the text (more specifically in the results and discussion sections if you are following a scientific structure). The conclusion is meant to summarize and reflect on the evidence and arguments you have already presented, not introduce new ones.

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WRITING ESSAYS

Writing psychology essays for examination boards requires a structured approach and a clear understanding of the assessment objectives (AOs). Here's a beginner's guide with general advice:

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A THEORY (EXPLANATION) AND A RESEARCH STUDY?

Psychological Theory:

What it is: A big idea that explains why things happen in psychology.

IN PSYCHOLOGICAL JARGON: A theory in psychology is a broad, abstract, and comprehensive framework or set of principles that seeks to explain and organise phenomena within a specific area of psychology.

IN LAYMAN’S TERMS: U Helps us understand and make sense of psychological stuff..

The primary purpose of a psychological theory is to provide a conceptual understanding of why certain psychological processes or behaviors occur. It helps researchers and psychologists make sense of observed phenomena by proposing explanations.

Research Study in Psychology:

What it is: A specific project where psychologists gather data and conduct to test if a theory is right or wrong.

Nature: A research study in psychology is a specific, systematic, and empirical investigation or experiment conducted to gather data and test hypotheses related to a particular psychological phenomenon or theory.

Purpose: To see if a theory actually works in real life :

The primary purpose of a research study is to collect real-world, empirical evidence that either supports or challenges existing psychological theories or hypotheses. It aims to provide concrete data and draw conclusions based on observations and measurements.

In summary, a theory is a broad conceptual framework that explains psychological phenomena, while a research study is a specific, practical endeavour to gather empirical evidence that either supports or refutes the claims made by a theory. Theories guide research studies by providing a foundation for understanding and generating hypotheses that can be tested through empirical research.

THEORY AND RESEARCH STUDY APPLIED TO ASCH

Psychological Theory (Asch's Theory on Conformity):

A psychological theory is a broad, general framework or explanation that aims to describe and predict behaviour or phenomena within a specific area of psychology.

Asch's theory on conformity, for instance, proposes that individuals tend to conform to group norms and opinions, even when they know those opinions are incorrect. It provides a conceptual understanding of why people conform in social situations.

Research Study (Asch's Lines Experiment):

A research study is a specific, systematic investigation conducted to gather empirical evidence and test hypotheses related to a particular psychological phenomenon or theory.

Asch's research study on lines involved a controlled experiment where participants were asked to judge the length of lines. This study aimed to empirically test and validate his theory on conformity by observing how participants conformed to incorrect judgments made by others in a group setting.

In summary, a psychological theory is a broad explanation, while a research study is a specific experiment or investigation designed to test and support that theory with empirical evidence. Asch's theory on conformity served as the conceptual framework, and his lines experiment was the empirical study used to validate this theory.

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES

In AQA Psychology, the assessment objectives (AOs) are categorised as follows:

AO1 - Knowledge and Understanding (The Reporter):

AO1 is like a reporter who provides detailed descriptions and explanations of psychological theories, concepts, or research studies.

This objective involves demonstrating your knowledge and understanding of psychological ideas by accurately describing theories, concepts, or the aims, procedures, findings, and conclusions of research studies.

Think of AO1 as the "who, what, when, where, and why" of psychology. It's about presenting the facts and information clearly and concisely.

AO2 - Application and Analysis (The Analyst):

AO2 is akin to an analyst who goes beyond mere description and applies psychological theories or research findings to real-world situations or novel scenarios.

This objective involves taking the knowledge acquired in AO1 and using it to analyze, evaluate, and make connections between different psychological ideas or concepts.

While you didn't mention an analogy for AO2, you can think of it as the "how" of psychology. It's about applying your understanding to answer questions or solve problems.

AO3 - Evaluation (The Scientist):

AO3 is analogous to a scientist who critically evaluates and assesses psychological theories, research studies, or findings.

In AO3, you focus on evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of theories or research, considering the validity, reliability, and ethical issues, and drawing reasoned conclusions.

Just like a scientist conducts experiments to test hypotheses, in AO3, you use your knowledge to evaluate the validity and reliability of psychological theories and research.

All AO3 responses should follow the PEEL structure (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link, Evaluation, and Synthesis) to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.

So, in summary, AO1 is about reporting factual information, AO2 involves applying and analyzing that information, and AO3 requires evaluating and critiquing psychological theories, research, or findings, following the PEEL structure.

In psychology, the acronym APFC stands for Aims, Procedures, Findings, and Conclusions.

When students are asked to describe or outline a research study for A01, they must include these elements (APFC) in their responses.

For example, when discussing Asch's study on conformity for A01, students would include the Aims, Procedures, Findings, and Conclusions of the study.

However, when it comes to A03, which involves evaluation, students should focus on the Findings and Conclusions (FC) of the research study.

During evaluation (A03), students should not provide a detailed study description but instead use the Findings and Conclusions to support their arguments and evaluations.

This approach ensures that students provide a clear distinction between A01 and A03, with A01 including a comprehensive description of the study (APFC) and A03 emphasizing evaluation based on the Findings and Conclusions (FC) of the research.

PEEL PARAGRAHS

Point (P): The behavioural approach in psychology emphasizes the significance of observable behaviours as a means to understand and explain human actions.

Explanation (E): This approach contends that behaviours can be studied objectively, and through the process of conditioning, associations between stimuli and responses can be identified. Behavioural psychologists believe that external factors and environmental influences play a crucial role in shaping an individual's behaviour.

Evidence (E): Classic experiments like Pavlov's dog, where dogs were conditioned to salivate at the sound of a bell, and Skinner's operant conditioning studies, demonstrate the principles of the behavioural approach in action. These experiments provide empirical evidence of how behaviours can be modified through learning and environmental factors.

Link (L): In summary, the behavioural approach offers valuable insights into understanding and modifying behaviours, making it a fundamental perspective within psychology. By focusing on observable actions and their causes, it provides practical applications in various fields, such as education and therapy.

This PEEL point highlights the key aspects of the behavioural approach, including its focus on observable behaviours, the role of conditioning, and the empirical evidence supporting its principles.

Here are two evaluative points for Asch's study on conformity using FC (Findings and Conclusions):

Support from McCarthy and Nicholsons' Research (FC): Asch's findings on conformity have received support from subsequent research conducted by McCarthy and Nicholson. Their study replicated Asch's experiment in a more naturalistic setting, where participants had to make judgments in a real-world context. The researchers found that individuals were still susceptible to conformity, even in situations outside the lab. This support enhances the validity of Asch's findings, suggesting that they apply to real-life scenarios and are not limited to the controlled conditions of a laboratory. Therefore, Asch's conclusions about the influence of group pressure on conformity are further substantiated by the consistent findings of McCarthy and Nicholson.

Limited Generalisability (Conclusions): One limitation of Asch's study lies in the generalizability of its conclusions. Asch primarily used male college students as participants in his experiments, which raises concerns about the extent to which the findings can be applied to a broader population. The study's sample may not represent the entire population, particularly regarding age, gender, and cultural diversity. Consequently, it is uncertain whether Asch's conclusions about conformity would hold for individuals from different demographic backgrounds or age groups. This limitation suggests that the scope of Asch's conclusions might be narrower than initially proposed and should be considered with caution when applied to diverse populations.

APFC to Asch's study on conformity:

Aims (A): Solomon Asch conducted this study to investigate the extent to which people would conform to the opinions of a group, even when they knew the group's answer was incorrect. He aimed to understand the factors that influence conformity.

Procedures (P): In Asch's experiment, participants were shown a line and then asked to choose the matching line from a set of comparison lines. They did this in a group of confederates, who were instructed to give incorrect answers on some trials. The real participant was seated in a position where they had to respond after the confederates.

Findings (F): Asch found that participants conformed to the incorrect answers given by the group on a significant number of trials. About 75% of participants conformed at least once, even when they knew the group was wrong. This demonstrated the powerful influence of group pressure on individual behaviour.

Conclusions (C): From his study, Asch concluded that social pressure and the desire to fit in with a group could lead individuals to conform and give incorrect answers. He highlighted the importance of social factors in shaping human behaviour.

So, in applying APFC to Asch's study, we have outlined the Aims, Procedures, Findings, and Conclusions of his research on conformity. This approach provides a comprehensive understanding of the study's key components

let's label the Findings and Conclusions and structure the evaluation using the PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link) framework with signposting:

ASCH EVALUATION

Point (P): Asch's study on conformity provides valuable insights into human behaviour.

Evidence (E): The study's findings revealed that many participants conformed to incorrect group judgments on simple perceptual tasks, even when they knew the group was wrong. This demonstrated the powerful impact of group pressure on individual decision-making.

Explanation (E): These findings suggest that individuals are often willing to compromise their judgment to fit in with a majority, highlighting the strength of normative social influence and the need for social approval. This phenomenon is crucial in understanding how social norms and group dynamics influence behaviour.

Link (L): Now, let's evaluate these findings and conclusions regarding their significance and limitations.

Point (P): One significant aspect of Asch's study is its experimental rigour and controlled conditions.

Evidence (E): Asch carefully manipulated variables such as group size and unanimity, ensuring that the influence of group pressure could be systematically studied.

Explanation (E): This controlled approach allowed for the establishment of causal relationships between group pressure and conformity, increasing the internal validity of the findings.

Link (L): However, it's essential to consider the external validity of these findings and their applicability to real-world situations beyond the laboratory.

Point (P): Conclusions drawn from Asch's study have been influential in the field of social psychology.

Evidence (E): Asch's conclusions suggest that individuals are highly susceptible to social influence, even when it conflicts with their judgments.

E xplanation (E): This insight has been foundational in understanding phenomena like groupthink, herd behaviour, and the role of conformity in decision-making.

Link (L): Nevertheless, it's vital to acknowledge the study's limitations, such as its sample composition and potential cultural biases.

Point (P): Asch's study has been both praised and criticized for its ecological validity.

Evidence (E): Critics argue that the artificial nature of the tasks and the laboratory setting may not accurately reflect real-life situations where conformity occurs.

Explanation (E): This limitation raises questions about the ecological validity of Asch's findings and whether they can be applied to everyday scenarios.

Link (L): In conclusion, while Asch's study provides valuable insights into the power of conformity, researchers and psychologists should consider its limitations and the need for research in more naturalistic settings to fully understand the complexities of human behaviour in social contexts.

GENERAL ADVICE ON MARKS AND COMMAND WORDS

In AQA psychology essays, the maximum score is 16 marks.

A 16-mark essay combining A01 and A03 comprises six marks for A01 and ten marks for A03.

If A02 (application) is included in a 16-mark essay, the breakdown is six marks for A01, four marks for A02, and six marks for A03.

A01 is limited to a maximum of 6 marks and often involves command words like "outline" and "describe."

A03 focuses on evaluation and commonly uses command words like "evaluate."

When the essay question includes "outline and evaluate" or “ discuss” this means it is an essay with A01 and A03.

In essays where A01 and A03 are combined The outline part) typically allocates 1/3 of the marks to A01 and 2/3 to A03 (evaluation).

For instance, in a 10-mark question, this translates to approximately 3-4 marks for A01 and 6-7 marks for A03.

Examiners closely review essays to ensure students maintain a balanced approach with around 1/3 for A01 and 2/3 for A03 in “outline and evaluate or “discuss” essays.

In essays where A01, A02 and A03 are combined, the breakdown is A01 = 3/8, A02 = 1/4, A03 = 3/8

ESSAY TIMINGS

I f you aim to spend 1 minute per mark when writing a 16-mark essay for AQA psychology, you can allocate your time as follows:

A01 (6 marks): Spend approximately 6 minutes on this section. In A01, you typically outline or describe relevant theories, concepts, or research studies related to the question.

A02 (10 marks): Dedicate around 10 minutes to this section. A02 involves applying your knowledge by discussing, analyzing, and providing examples or evidence to support your arguments. You may also need to consider counterarguments or alternative viewpoints.

By following this time allocation, you should be able to complete your 16-mark essay within 16 minutes. Remember that these time recommendations are approximate and can vary based on your writing speed and familiarity with the topic. It's essential to practice under timed conditions to improve your efficiency and ensure that you can effectively convey your knowledge and analysis within the given time frame.

HOW MUCH DO YOU WRITE FOR A 16-MARK ESSAY?

T he number of pages a 16-mark essay in AQA psychology would translate to depends on several factors, including your handwriting size, line spacing, and the size of the paper you're using. Generally, if you're writing neatly and using regular lined paper, a 16-mark essay could span approximately 1.5 to 2 pages. However, this is just a rough estimate, and the actual length can vary from person to person.

It's more important to focus on the content and structure of your essay rather than its length. Ensure you address the question, provide a clear argument, support your points with evidence, and use a well-structured essay format, including an introduction, main body, and conclusion. The quality of your essay matters more than its length.

PUTTING IT ALTOGETHER

Understand the Assessment Objectives (AOs):

AO1 (A01): Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts, theories, research studies, and research methods.

AO2 (A02): Apply psychological knowledge and understanding to analyze, evaluate, and generate hypotheses.

AO3 (A03): Evaluate psychological theories, research studies, methodologies, and practical applications.

Read and Analyse the Question:

Carefully read and underline key terms and command words in the question, such as "outline," "evaluate," "discuss," or "apply."

Ensure you know what is being asked of you for each AO.

Plan Your Essay:

Create a clear essay plan or outline before you start writing. Allocate time for each section based on the marks available.

Your essay should have an introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Introduction (AO1):

Begin with a clear introduction that provides context and outlines the key points you will discuss.

State the main arguments or theories you will address.

Main Body (AO2/AO3):

Address the main points or theories one by one.

Use the PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link) structure for each point:

Point: Make a clear point or argument.

Evidence: Provide evidence such as research findings, studies, or theories.

Explanation: Explain the significance of the evidence and how it supports your point.

Link: Connect your point to the essay question and the next point you will discuss.

Use clear and concise language. Avoid overly complex sentences.

Application (AO2):

When required, apply psychological knowledge to real-life examples or scenarios.

Show how the theories or concepts you discuss can be applied to practical situations.

Evaluation (AO3):

For evaluation questions, consider both the strengths and weaknesses of theories, research studies, or methodologies.

Use critical thinking to weigh the evidence and come to a reasoned conclusion.

Avoid making unsupported claims; use empirical evidence to support your arguments.

Use Proper Citations:

When referencing studies or theories, cite them properly using the author's name, publication year, and other relevant details.

Conclusion (AO1/AO2/AO3):

Summarize the main points you've discussed in the essay.

If the question requires evaluation, provide a balanced final assessment of the topic.

Proofread and Edit:

Review your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

Ensure that your writing is clear and concise.

Practice and Get Feedback:

Practice writing essays under timed conditions to improve your time management skills.

Seek feedback from teachers, peers, or online resources to identify areas for improvement.

Time Management:

Allocate time wisely. If the essay is worth 16 marks, consider spending about 1 minute per mark.

Stay Calm and Stay Focused:

Manage exam stress by staying calm and focused during the exam. Stick to your plan and avoid rushing.

Remember that practice is key to improving your essay-writing skills. Over time, you'll become more proficient at structuring and writing psychology essays for AQA exams.

FULL ESSAY EXAMPLE: ASCH

Title: Solomon Asch's Conformity Experiment (16 marks) Time 20 minutes max ; GRADE C/B

Description of Asch's Conformity Theory (6 Marks - AO1):

Introduction: Solomon Asch's Conformity Experiment, conducted in the 1950s, remains a classic and influential study in the field of social psychology. This essay will first provide a brief description of Asch's theory of conformity, followed by an evaluation of its strengths and weaknesses, applying the PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explanation, and Link) structure.

Point: Solomon Asch's conformity theory focuses on the idea that individuals often conform to group norms and opinions, even if they disagree with those views.

Evidence: Asch conducted a series of experiments where participants were asked to judge the length of lines. They were placed in a group of confederates who intentionally provided incorrect answers to see if the real participants would conform to the group's incorrect judgments.

Explanation: The results of Asch's experiments revealed that a significant proportion of participants conformed to the group's incorrect judgments, even when they knew the group was wrong. This demonstrates the power of social influence and the tendency of individuals to conform to avoid social discomfort or being seen as deviating from the group.

Link: In summary, Asch's theory of conformity highlights how social pressure can lead individuals to abandon their judgments and conform to group norms, a phenomenon observed in his line-judgment experiments.

Evaluation of Asch's Conformity Theory (10 Marks - AO3):

Point 1 - Strengths of Asch's Conformity Experiment (PEEL): Point: One strength of Asch's research is its experimental rigour, making it highly controlled and replicable.

Evidence: Asch carefully designed his experiments, ensuring that the Confederates' responses were scripted and consistent across trials. This control enhances the reliability of the study.

Explanation: This methodological strength means that other researchers can replicate the study with a high degree of accuracy, strengthening the credibility of Asch's findings.

Link: The methodological rigour of Asch's experiments bolsters the validity and trustworthiness of his conformity theory.

Point 2 - Weaknesses of Asch's Conformity Experiment (PEEL): Point: One significant weakness of Asch's research is the limited ecological validity.

Evidence: Participants in Asch's experiments were presented with a contrived task of line judgment, which does not represent real-world conformity situations accurately.

Explanation: In everyday life, conformity occurs in more complex and emotionally charged situations, such as peer pressure in adolescence or conformity to societal norms. Asch's controlled experiments do not capture these nuances.

Link: The lack of ecological validity in Asch's research raises questions about the generalizability of his findings to real-life situations.

Conclusion: In conclusion, Solomon Asch's conformity theory has substantially contributed to our understanding of social influence. His controlled experiments, while methodologically robust, lack ecological validity, which limits their applicability to real-world conformity scenarios. Despite this limitation, Asch's work remains a cornerstone in the field of psychology, highlighting the powerful impact of social pressure on individual behaviour.

GLOSSARY OF THE BRAIN

Frequently asked questions about studying psychology.

What this handout is about

This handout discusses some of the common writing assignments in psychology courses, and it presents strategies for completing them. The handout also provides general tips for writing psychology papers and for reducing bias in your writing.

What is psychology?

Psychology, one of the behavioral sciences, is the scientific study of observable behaviors, like sleeping, and abstract mental processes, such as dreaming. Psychologists study, explain, and predict behaviors. Because of the complexity of human behaviors, researchers use a variety of methods and approaches.  They ask questions about behaviors and answer them using systematic methods. For example, to understand why female students tend to perform better in school than their male classmates, psychologists have examined whether parents, teachers, schools, and society behave in ways that support the educational outcomes of female students to a greater extent than those of males.

Writing in psychology

Writing in psychology is similar to other forms of scientific writing in that organization, clarity, and concision are important.  The Psychology Department at UNC has a strong research emphasis, so many of your assignments will focus on synthesizing and critically evaluating research, connecting your course material with current research literature, and designing and carrying out your own studies.

Common assignments

Reaction papers.

These assignments ask you to react to a scholarly journal article.  Instructors use reaction papers to teach students to critically evaluate research and to synthesize current research with course material.  Reaction papers typically include a brief summary of the article, including prior research, hypotheses, research method, main results, and conclusions. The next step is your critical reaction. You might critique the study, identify unresolved issues, suggest future research, or reflect on the study’s implications.  Some instructors may want you to connect the material you are learning in class with the article’s theories, methodology, and findings. Remember, reaction papers require more than a simple summary of what you have read.

To successfully complete this assignment, you should carefully read the article. Go beyond highlighting important facts and interesting findings. Ask yourself questions as you read: What are the researchers’ assumptions? How does the article contribute to the field? Are the findings generalizable, and to whom?  Are the conclusions valid and based on the results?  It is important to pay attention to the graphs and tables because they can help you better assess the researchers’ claims.

Your instructor may give you a list of articles to choose from, or you may need to find your own.  The American Psychological Association (APA) PsycINFO database is the most comprehensive collection of psychology research; it is an excellent resource for finding journal articles.  You can access PsycINFO from the E-research tab on the Library’s webpage.   Here are the most common types of articles you will find:

• Empirical studies test hypotheses by gathering and analyzing data. Empirical articles are organized into distinct sections based on stages in the research process: introduction, method, results, and discussion.
• Literature reviews synthesize previously published material on a topic.  The authors define or clarify the problem, summarize research findings, identify gaps/inconsistencies in the research, and make suggestions for future work. Meta-analyses, in which the authors use quantitative procedures to combine the results of multiple studies, fall into this category.
• Theoretical articles trace the development of a specific theory to expand or refine it, or they present a new theory.  Theoretical articles and literature reviews are organized similarly, but empirical information is included in theoretical articles only when it is used to support the theoretical issue.

You may also find methodological articles, case studies, brief reports, and commentary on previously published material. Check with your instructor to determine which articles are appropriate.

Research papers

This assignment involves using published research to provide an overview of and argument about a topic.  Simply summarizing the information you read is not enough. Instead, carefully synthesize the information to support your argument. Only discuss the parts of the studies that are relevant to your argument or topic.  Headings and subheadings can help guide readers through a long research paper. Our handout on literature reviews may help you organize your research literature.

Choose a topic that is appropriate to the length of the assignment and for which you can find adequate sources. For example, “self-esteem” might be too broad for a 10- page paper, but it may be difficult to find enough articles on “the effects of private school education on female African American children’s self-esteem.” A paper in which you focus on the more general topic of “the effects of school transitions on adolescents’ self-esteem,” however, might work well for the assignment.

Designing your own study/research proposal

You may have the opportunity to design and conduct your own research study or write about the design for one in the form of a research proposal. A good approach is to model your paper on articles you’ve read for class. Here is a general overview of the information that should be included in each section of a research study or proposal:

• Introduction: The introduction conveys a clear understanding of what will be done and why. Present the problem, address its significance, and describe your research strategy. Also discuss the theories that guide the research, previous research that has been conducted, and how your study builds on this literature. Set forth the hypotheses and objectives of the study.
• Methods:   This section describes the procedures used to answer your research questions and provides an overview of the analyses that you conducted. For a research proposal, address the procedures that will be used to collect and analyze your data. Do not use the passive voice in this section. For example, it is better to say, “We randomly assigned patients to a treatment group and monitored their progress,” instead of “Patients were randomly assigned to a treatment group and their progress was monitored.” It is acceptable to use “I” or “we,” instead of the third person, when describing your procedures. See the section on reducing bias in language for more tips on writing this section and for discussing the study’s participants.
• Results: This section presents the findings that answer your research questions. Include all data, even if they do not support your hypotheses.  If you are presenting statistical results, your instructor will probably expect you to follow the style recommendations of the American Psychological Association. You can also consult our handout on figures and charts . Note that research proposals will not include a results section, but your instructor might expect you to hypothesize about expected results.
• Discussion: Use this section to address the limitations of your study as well as the practical and/or theoretical implications of the results. You should contextualize and support your conclusions by noting how your results compare to the work of others. You can also discuss questions that emerged and call for future research. A research proposal will not include a discussion section.  But you can include a short section that addresses the proposed study’s contribution to the literature on the topic.

Other writing assignments

For some assignments, you may be asked to engage personally with the course material. For example, you might provide personal examples to evaluate a theory in a reflection paper.  It is appropriate to share personal experiences for this assignment, but be mindful of your audience and provide only relevant and appropriate details.

Writing tips for psychology papers

Psychology is a behavioral science, and writing in psychology is similar to writing in the hard sciences.  See our handout on writing in the sciences .  The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association provides an extensive discussion on how to write for the discipline.  The Manual also gives the rules for psychology’s citation style, called APA. The Library’s citation tutorial will also introduce you to the APA style.

Suggestions for achieving precision and clarity in your writing

• Jargon: Technical vocabulary that is not essential to understanding your ideas can confuse readers. Similarly, refrain from using euphemistic phrases instead of clearer terms.  Use “handicapped” instead of “handi-capable,” and “poverty” instead of “monetarily felt scarcity,” for example.
• Anthropomorphism: Anthropomorphism occurs when human characteristics are attributed to animals or inanimate entities.  Anthropomorphism can make your writing awkward.  Some examples include: “The experiment attempted to demonstrate…,” and “The tables compare…”  Reword such sentences so that a person performs the action: “The experimenter attempted to demonstrate…”  The verbs “show” or “indicate” can also be used: “The tables show…”
• Verb tenses: Select verb tenses carefully. Use the past tense when expressing actions or conditions that occurred at a specific time in the past, when discussing other people’s work, and when reporting results.  Use the present perfect tense to express past actions or conditions that did not occur at a specific time, or to describe an action beginning in the past and continuing in the present.
• Pronoun agreement: Be consistent within and across sentences with pronouns that refer to a noun introduced earlier (antecedent). A common error is a construction such as “Each child responded to questions about their favorite toys.” The sentence should have either a plural subject (children) or a singular pronoun (his or her). Vague pronouns, such as “this” or “that,” without a clear antecedent can confuse readers: “This shows that girls are more likely than boys …” could be rewritten as “These results show that girls are more likely than boys…”
• Avoid figurative language and superlatives: Scientific writing should be as concise and specific as possible.  Emotional language and superlatives, such as “very,” “highly,” “astonishingly,” “extremely,” “quite,” and even “exactly,” are imprecise or unnecessary. A line that is “exactly 100 centimeters” is, simply, 100 centimeters.
• Avoid colloquial expressions and informal language: Use “children” rather than “kids;” “many” rather than “a lot;” “acquire” rather than “get;” “prepare for” rather than “get ready;” etc.

Reducing bias in language

Your writing should show respect for research participants and readers, so it is important to choose language that is clear, accurate, and unbiased.  The APA sets forth guidelines for reducing bias in language: acknowledge participation, describe individuals at the appropriate level of specificity, and be sensitive to labels. Here are some specific examples of how to reduce bias in your language:

• Acknowledge participation: Use the active voice to acknowledge the subjects’ participation. It is preferable to say, “The students completed the surveys,” instead of “The experimenters administered surveys to the students.”  This is especially important when writing about participants in the methods section of a research study.
• Gender: It is inaccurate to use the term “men” when referring to groups composed of multiple genders. See our handout on gender-inclusive language for tips on writing appropriately about gender.
• Race/ethnicity: Be specific, consistent, and sensitive with terms for racial and ethnic groups. If the study participants are Chinese Americans, for instance, don’t refer to them as Asian Americans. Some ethnic designations are outdated or have negative connotations. Use terms that the individuals or groups prefer.
• Clinical terms: Broad clinical terms can be unclear. For example, if you mention “at risk” in your paper, be sure to specify the risk—“at risk for school failure.”  The same principle applies to psychological disorders. For instance, “borderline personality disorder” is more precise than “borderline.”
• Labels: Do not equate people with their physical or mental conditions or categorize people broadly as objects. For example, adjectival forms like “older adults” are preferable to labels such as “the elderly” or “the schizophrenics.” Another option is to mention the person first, followed by a descriptive phrase— “people diagnosed with schizophrenia.”  Be careful using the label “normal,” as it may imply that others are abnormal.
• Other ways to reduce bias: Consistently presenting information about the socially dominant group first can promote bias. Make sure that you don’t always begin with men followed by other genders when writing about gender, or whites followed by minorities when discussing race and ethnicity. Mention differences only when they are relevant and necessary to understanding the study. For example, it may not be important to indicate the sexual orientation of participants in a study about a drug treatment program’s effectiveness. Sexual orientation may be important to mention, however, when studying bullying among high school students.

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.

American Psychological Association. n.d. “Frequently Asked Questions About APA Style®.” APA Style. Accessed June 24, 2019. https://apastyle.apa.org/learn/faqs/index .

American Psychological Association. 2010. Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association . 6th ed. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Landrum, Eric. 2008. Undergraduate Writing in Psychology: Learning to Tell the Scientific Story . Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

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 Write a Psychological Essay: 6 Tips for Students

Students who study the field of Psychology often write various written works: reports, term papers, and essays. In the article, we tell you how to write an essay on psychology, what its structure is, and what the rules of writing are.

1. What is a psychological essay?

An essay in psychology is a short paper in which the author describes their thoughts and reflections on a given or free topic. This type of essay is written by college and university students, as well as psychologists, for their professional activities. Sometimes, these people think, "Can I find someone to write my essay for me ?" The reason is that they don't know how such papers should be written. But don't worry, as we are going to tell you how to do it right.

An essay on psychology gives students many useful skills:

• Essay helps develop creative skills in students.
• It helps organize the independent work of students.
• An essay on psychology consolidates and expands students' knowledge.
• This type of work teaches students to express their thoughts.
• The psychology essay teaches students to work with additional sources of information.

2. Psychological essay structure

A psychological essay does not have strict writing requirements; however, it is better to adhere to a certain composition:

• Introduction
• Argumentation
• Conclusion.

In the introduction, you need to tell what the paper will be about. You can start from afar or jump straight to the topic of the essay:

"A person, being a part of society, every day becomes a participant in some kind of relationship. For example, in the morning, they have breakfast with their family; at lunch, they are already among their work colleagues; in the evening – in the company of friends, and in the interval, they manage to meet an acquaintance and exchange a few words with them, then ride on the bus and give up their seat to the old lady, etc.

Moreover, with everyone with whom they had any contact, they had a certain "distance." What does distance in a relationship even mean? This is a certain level of communication, namely the closeness of people between each other, while everyone sets this distance themselves, and it depends on how close a person is ready to let another into their life, how much they are ready to open up to them and trust.

Therefore, the people with whom we communicate should not cause any discomfort or inconvenience; if, after all, there are such individuals in our environment, relations with them are regulated by distance. Namely, it goes to the maximum limit." (Essay on the topic: "Distance in relationships between people," introduction).

In the introduction, you need to write down a thesis - what you will prove throughout the paper:

"Therefore, the people with whom we communicate should not cause any discomfort or inconvenience; if, after all, there are such individuals in our environment, relations with them are regulated by distance, namely, it goes to the maximum limit." (Essay on the topic: "Distance in relationships between people," thesis).

Next comes the argument, which consists of evidence of the thesis. These could be examples from life or literary works, quotes from philosophers, or research works by psychologists:

"Well, what should be the distance between people so that people do not feel pain so that suffering does not take over? Because personal inner life can be empty and monotonous, society brings people together, but their flaws can drive them apart. The average measure of distance that they finally find as the only possible way to stay together is politeness and good morals.

In England, they say to someone who does not observe proper measures when approaching, "Keep your distance!" Although under such conditions, the need for mutual warm participation is satisfied only very imperfectly, the pricks of needles are also felt. Those who have a lot of their own inner warmth should better stay away from society so as not to burden themselves or others." (Essay on the topic: "Distance in relationships between people," argumentation).

At the end, there is a conclusion. Here, you need to summarize what was said above, draw conclusions, and show that the thesis has been proven:

"Of course, distance is needed. I think the most important thing is to be able to understand people. After all, from the first words, you can understand whether this is your person or not, and even if it seems that they are yours, you don't need to immediately let them into your life until you are completely convinced whether this person will be worth your suffering later.

There cannot be many loved ones; each person has their own. They are unique in their own way and perhaps even similar to each other. The main thing is to take care of them and show that you value them, and they will respond in kind. I think it's sad to be alone when there are so many people around who can share all the good and bad with you.

And no formal relationship can fill that inner emptiness that pushes us to communicate with people because you can get rid of it only by filling it with the warmth of people and feelings that formal relationships can never give, only if the formality disappears." (Essay on the topic: "Distance in relationships between people," conclusion).

3. Tips on how to write an essay on psychology

When you write an essay on psychology, use our tips:

• 1. Try to keep within the recommended amount. Typically, this is 2-4 pages of printed text.
• Do not jump to other topics; strictly adhere to the topic of the paper.
• Psychology is a science, so support all your opinions and thoughts with examples and quotes.
• 4. Do not overuse unclear scientific terms and abbreviations.
• Do not use other people's thoughts; an essay is an author's work; it should reflect the students' thoughts.
• At the end of your paper, check the text for errors and consistency of presentation.

4. Essay on psychology: example for students

If you don't know how to write an essay on psychology, look at the ready-made example:

4.1 Essay on the topic "E. Fromm "The Art of Loving"

Only after reading Erich Fromm's book "The Art of Loving" did I fully understand its title. At first, it seemed that the author used this phrase more as a pun. But no. The author examined the phenomenon of love so deeply and multifacetedly that it cannot be called anything other than "art."

Perhaps I would think more about the term "science." The science of love... But no. Yet behind this feeling, there is much more emotion and creation. It cannot be calculated, proven, or described according to laws and axioms.

After reading Erich Fromm's book "The Art of Love," I gained a better understanding of what love really is. Fromm's idea views love in its true light. He begins with a few facts about the meaning in which people usually view love.

Two strangers meet, they break personal boundaries between each other, and they feel so close, like one whole. And here, many can say, "Yes, this is true love, genuine, without conditions!" But Fromm writes that this is not true love; this is an infatuation.

The author of the book describes this feeling as "one of the most exciting events in life." Fromm argues that this is an initial craze, and it has a natural tendency to gradually fade away as people get to know each other better and better and understand that not everything is so simple and magical.

Fromm discusses what has disappeared from love in our time. One of the most common and familiar reasons for the distortion of love is the distortion of its perception. For the average person, love is about creating the perfect union, where you find yourself together against the rest of the world. But we must understand that the surrounding reality is not created for us personally, and it is not a computer program.

The art of love requires courage, maturity, self-discovery, and, inevitably, hard work. This book is an excellent starting point for those who want to find genuine answers to how the concept of the Art of Love coincides with the concept of the Art of Living.

At the end of the book, Fromm comes to the conclusion that love is not an emotion or even a feeling; it is a decision, and it is a judgment, a promise. To love means to trust another without expecting any guarantees in return. Love is an act of boundless extreme faith. After reading this book, I feel like I have a better understanding of what true love is.

It seems to me that if more people read this book, they would come to understand that true love is not about being loved but about loving yourself and being in this feeling. Then, it seems to me this world would be much better and more honest.

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How to Write a Psychology Essay

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In most psychology and related courses, learners are expected to write short essays or extended exam-style answers about research studies or theories. I want to share some tips about how to structure this type of essay.

It will be especially useful if you are a student in your final years of school (e.g. A-Level, AP, Higher), as well as for college and university students.

THE STRUCTURE

The most common way of structuring an essay is to base it around three parts — an introduction, main body, and conclusion. I suggest that you stick that structure! It works well, and is also what a marker will be expecting to see.

At the same time, you should remember that this structure is only a foundation. Each of the sections will need to be tweaked to fit the needs of each particular essay.

Overall, the introduction sets the scene, and tells the reader (or marker) all of the background that they need to know before you really get started with the topic. The main section is where you really delve into the particular topic, including arguments for or against an idea, while the conclusion is where you sum up this argument and identify issues that rise. I’ll now explain each of these in turn.

INTRODUCTION SECTIONS

There are several things that should be included in a good introduction. It should state the aim of the essay, and provide enough background information to put the main issue into context.

For example, in an essay analysing the Asch (1951) study of conformity , you might begin by explaining the key context around conformity and social psychology at the time, defining some terms (especially what is meant by ‘conformity’) and giving relevant quotes and references. For example, you could point out that social processes at the time were viewed mainly in terms of individuals’ thoughts and feelings, but that Asch and others argued that social behaviour is more than the sum of its (individual) parts.

Your introduction could also give a very brief synopsis of the study itself, without going into lots of methodological details. Finally, your introduction should usually state the goal of the essay, along the lines of: “in this essay, I will argue that the Asch study is flawed.”

MAIN BODY OF THE ESSAY

The main body of your essay will be the majority of the piece in terms of word count. It is often divided into a further three subsections — for the issue, against the issue, and ‘on balance’ — but this does depend on the essay topic. In a short essay, three paragraphs might work well, but in longer essays, each of these parts will need to be expanded further.

Let’s imagine a short essay evaluating the classic Milgram (1963) study of obedience , for example. Here, your introduction will already have briefly summarised the study. A good structure for the main body might be:

• A paragraph supporting the study. This will give details, but will not be purely descriptive. Instead, you should use facts about the study to support an argument for its strengths. For example, you might point out that this study was the first of its kind, that it has been hugely influential, and that notwithstanding its ethical issues, it appears that the participants took the task seriously and believed in what they were doing, increasing the validity of the findings.

• A paragraph criticising the study. Here, you will present the other side of the argument (weaknesses). Again, you should use facts to build an argument. So don’t say things like, “this was a lab study, and therefore artificial”. That would simply be stating a fact. Instead, explain what this means in terms of the findings. A better comment would be: “Milgram’s study was a lab experiment. This meant that it was artificial, and we have to question how realistic the situation is when compared to everyday life. Granted, there are historical examples of people committing atrocities because they were ordered to do so by an authority figure. But in everyday life, it is very uncommon for a civilian to be ordered to give a deadly shock to a complete stranger. Outside of an experimental situation, it is entirely possible that most people would refuse such an order.”

• A paragraph weighing up the strengths and weaknesses. Taking into account further facts about the study as well as broader research ideas, this section allows you to present counterpoints to some of the arguments raised so far, and try to balance the discussion. It therefore sets up the final conclusion of your essay.

THE ESSAY CONCLUSION

Your essay’s conclusion should re-emphasise the main points you have made so far, and will also reflect back on the original aim of the essay. This allows you to show that what you have been talking about does indeed meet your aims, and that you have successfully answered the question (or fulfilled the task).

For example, an essay discussing the methodology of the research by Pozzulo et al (2011) into eyewitness memory might state something like: “In this essay, I have explained how the experimental methodology of the essay distinguished it from previous research…”

Of course, no essay will completely resolve an ongoing scientific debate. You therefore might choose to raise further issues that are unresolved here, or highlight alternative views, using terms like ‘however’, and ‘on the other hand’, or ‘it shouldn’t be forgotten that…’.

A strong ending will reinforce the main point, linking in to the original stated aim of the essay, e.g. “On the whole, though, the Pozzulo et al (2011) study demonstrates why experimental methodology is so important if we are to understand the processes at work when eyewitnesses try to remember faces that they have seen.”

OTHER POINTS TO CONSIDER

Overall, the 3-part essay structure is a coherent basis for writing essays, suitable for students at all levels. Even a lengthier essay (for example the 3000-word essays that my Masters students write about theories of learning) is completed in more or less the same way, with each of the three parts proportionally longer, and subdivided where necessary.

In fact, this blog post is following a similar structure, too. The first four paragraphs formed an introduction to what I was talking about. I then had a main body with three subsections (the three sections of the essay), and you have now reached my conclusion section!

The reason that this structure works so well is that the introduction and conclusion serve to put the main information into context and to comment on what it means. They also mirror each other — the end reflects back on what was said at the beginning. A similar format is used in storytelling, and people respond well to writing where everything seems to fit together and make sense.

At the same time, remember that every essay is different. Make sure that you check the guidelines for your own essay carefully. Refer to the marking criteria (if available), and if anything is unclear, discuss the requirements with your teacher/lecturer.

Good luck with your essay writing :)

Originally published on my Medium page here.

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How to write a Psychology essay

Info: 1310 words (5 pages) Study Guide Published: 13th May 2020

Reference this

The organisation and process of writing the psychology essay is essentially the same as any other requiring careful planning, comprehensive research, research analysis, and secondary research and analysis before you begin your writing. Once your topic is well researched you can begin outlining and then writing the actual essay. After you write, follow-up steps include review and editing .  

How the psychology essay is different than others

Psychology essays are more likely to query your understanding of a specific reaction or situation your instructor is emphasising; for example the role genetics play when combined with environmental issues related to the two hit theory of schizophrenia by assigning an essay on the neurological antecedents associated with schizophrenia. Psychological essays are also more likely to ask for your interpretation and opinion in addition to citing literature and relating its applicability to the topic than mathematics or physics essays.  

The first paragraph of your essay is an important one. You need to get your reader’s attention and drawn them into the topic you’re writing about. Use of statistics related to a problem, such as the number of people with learning disabilities, the number of people diagnosed with schizophrenia, etc. can help focus the reader and add a sense of urgency.  

1. Plan your strategy

Pre-planning begins with carefully reading your assignment. Don’t make the mistake of quickly glancing at the topic, picking out key words and going from there. For example, if your assignment is to write an essay on the neurological antecedents associated with schizophrenia don’t just focus on schizophrenia and antecedents or you may end up writing an essay that is not focused and targeted to your assignment. This is also the time to plan your method of attacking the essay; how much time will you need for research, how much time to write the paper, etc.

2. Research and analysis

University library based academic databases are a great start for researching your topic. Most universities have access to such academic psychology databases as PSYCHNET or PSYCInfo. Following your library based research, accessing the internet can provide you with a great wealth of information through such academically based websites as http://scholar.google.com or http://www.allpsych.com . Both of these provide access to professionally written articles and/or abstracts published in peer reviewed psychology or related professional journals. The internet is also a great source for researching through access to professional association websites that have special sections on their website for publications and/or links to other respective websites of interest with information to offer.

Highlighting pertinent sections or phrases in the actual journal articles you retrieve will make referencing easier during the writing phase. You are more likely to recall information you’ve keyed into with your highlighted when it comes to organising your essay. Additionally, you will have the information readily available with the appropriate reference.

3. Outlining – is it necessary?

If you are a prolific writer, you may decide to skip this phase. However, for the college essay, preparing an outline serves as a method of organising your work and creating a roadmap. It also assures you stay focused on your topic. Careful preparation of the outline will assure all areas related to the topic are covered properly, keeping like information together. The outline also makes it easier to fill in the rest of the essay as your idea generation essentially takes place for each paragraph as you prepare your outline. As a result, all you have to do in the next step is access your references and fill in more detail on the points you’ve outlined.

4. Writing the paper

As stated above, an outline helps speed the actual writing of the essay. However, for those that have not prepared an outline, the essay flow is important. Typically, the following sections are used with or without appropriate subheadings.

• Introduction This section will contain attention-grabbing facts, figures and will present the background to the problem including what the focus of the essay is, why the approach is unique, etc. You need to stress your rationale for writing the essay. For example, studying depression in adoptive parents – the symptoms are the same as presented for post-partum depression in birth mothers but little is known or written about the phenomenon.
• Research question Once you state your topic area, your research questions should follow. In a literature review type essay or one based on qualitative research, only research questions are asked. For quantitative studies, a research hypothesis is stated.
• Literature review The reviewed literature should provide insight into the topic or research question(s) asked through evidencing what is stated in current academic literature. A recap of the literature cited in the form of a critical analysis should follow your presentation.
• Conclusion The conclusion should recap what you’ve presented and leave the reader without any additional follow-up questions. If there is still a question in the reader’s mind, or you’ve left them seeking something more from your essay, you’ve not properly concluded the work. Adding words such as “In conclusion….” is an effective way to draw the reader into your concluding remarks.

Most psychology essays are requested in APA format developed by the American Psychological Association. Other common formats are Harvard. Make sure you pay proper attention to the formatting requested by your instructor as many educators will deduct points if the format requested is not followed. An ‘A’ essay will suddenly become a B or C depending on the number of formatting infractions.

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5. Proofread and Edit

Even the best writer must proofread their essay. If you are using a computer, it is recommended that you use an up-to-date spell check set for your language, such as UK English rather than US English which will also checks for grammatical errors. Re-read your essay again after your spell check to assure that you’ve said what it is you really want to say. Don’t write just to fill word count requirements. Make each word meaningful.

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How to Write a Good Conclusion for an Essay

The conclusion is the final paragraph or section of an essay that summarizes its central thesis , supporting arguments , and evidence. This article helps students understand why a good conclusion is important for a successful essay. It also delineates the structure of a conclusion and offers useful tips for writing an effective one.

Importance of a Good Conclusion

A conclusion (usually consisting of one or two paragraphs ) is an integral part of an essay for the following reasons:

• It provides a sense of closure.
• It reminds the reader of the important points made in the essay.
• It demonstrates that the author has accomplished what they set out to do.
• It distances itself from the specific points made in the essay and takes a look at the bigger picture.
• It succinctly restates the main ideas and arguments, bringing them together to present a coherent thesis.

Structure of a Good Conclusion

The conclusion of an essay is the opposite of the introduction. While the introduction begins with the general and moves on to the specific, the conclusion begins with the specific and moves on to the general. The number of sentences in a conclusion depends on the number of paragraphs in the essay.

A well-written conclusion has three main components:

1. The Starter

This sentence begins the conclusion by restating or rephrasing the thesis of the essay, albeit with a deeper understanding.

2. The Summary

The starter is followed by 2 or 3 sentences that wrap up the main arguments of the essay and show how they connect to support the central thesis.

3. The Concluding Sentence

The final sentence of the conclusion (and the essay) connects back to the introduction, providing a sense of closure to the reader. It demonstrates the importance of the ideas presented in the body paragraphs, propels the reader to a fresh view of the topic, and most importantly, ends on a positive note

Now that the structure of the conclusion is clear, here are some tips to make it more effective.

Tips for Writing a Good Conclusion

An effective conclusion should:

• Answer the implicit “so what” question and reiterate why the reader should care about the author’s views on the topic
• Return to the themes in the introduction and refer to them using keywords, images, or parallel concepts
• Include an interesting quotation or insight from the author’s research or reading
• Evoke a vivid image of the ideas put forth in the thesis by suggesting results or consequences
• Include a concluding sentence that leaves the reader with feelings of satisfaction or curiosity
• Avoid introducing new ideas and must instead sum up the essay and suggest avenues for future research on the topic
• Avoid using stock phrases such as “in conclusion,” “to sum up,” or “in summary” since readers are bound to know once they reach the end of the essay

Examples of Good Conclusions

Euthanasia should be legalized in the United States. Making a sick person suffer is one of the worst crimes I can imagine. My paper proves that not only is euthanasia moral and ethical, but also that healthcare professionals are doing a service to humanity by helping patients and putting an end to their suffering.

College education should be free of charge. The main reason why education should be freely accessible at all levels is that adolescents without a college education are more likely to remain unemployed and engage in criminal activities than their more successful, college-educated peers.

According to the Department of Justice, human sex trafficking and cybercrime are connected as they are both the results of modern technology. Adolescents today spend hours with their laptops, PCs, tablets, and smartphones. Thus, they are more likely to become prey to several kinds of crimes including sexual abuse, identity theft, and property theft, among others.

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Condensing a 1,000-plus-word essay into a neat little bundle may seem like a Herculean task. You must summarize all your findings and justify their importance within a single paragraph. 

But, when you discover the formula for writing a conclusion paragraph, things get much simpler! 

But, how to write a conclusion paragraph for an essay, and more importantly, how to make it impactful enough? Through this article, we will walk you through the process of constructing a powerful conclusion that leaves a lingering impression on readers’ minds. We will also acquaint you with essay conclusion examples for different types of essays. 

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Let’s start from the beginning: How can you write a conclusion for an essay?

How to write a conclusion for an essay

In order to write an effective conclusion, you must first understand what is a conclusion in an essay. It is not just the summary of the main points of your essay. A well-written conclusion effectively ties together the main ideas of your essay and also pays heed to their broader implications. The objectives of your concluding paragraph are as follows:

• Highlight the significance of your essay topic
• Tie together the key points of your essay
• Leave the reader with something to ponder about

A good essay conclusion begins with a modified thesis statement that is altered on the basis of the information stated throughout the essay. It then ties together all the main points of the essay and ends with a clincher that highlights the broader implications of your thesis statement. 

Now that we’ve understood the basics of how to conclude an essay, let’s understand the key aspects of a good conclusion paragraph. 

1. Restating your thesis statement

If you want to understand how to start a conclusion, you must realize that involves more than just restating the thesis statement word for word. Your thesis statement needs to be updated and expanded upon as per the information provided in your essay. 

There are many ways to start a conclusion. One such method could be to start with the revised version of your thesis statement that hints to the significance of your argument. After this, your conclusion paragraph can organically move on to your arguments in the essay. 

Let’s take a look at an effective way of writing a conclusion for an essay:

If the following claim is your thesis statement:

Virtual reality (VR) is undeniably altering the perception of reality by revolutionizing various industries, reshaping human experiences, and challenging traditional notions of what is real.

The restated thesis statement will be as follows: 

Our analysis has substantiated the claim that virtual reality (VR) is significantly transforming the way we perceive reality. It has revolutionized industries, reshaped human experiences, and challenged traditional notions of reality.

2. Tying together the main points

Tying together all the main points of your essay does not mean simply summarizing them in an arbitrary manner. The key is to link each of your main essay points in a coherent structure. One point should follow the other in a logical format.

The goal is to establish how each of these points connects to the message of your essay as a whole. You can also take the help of powerful quotes or impactful reviews to shed a unique light on your essay. 

Let’s take a look at an example:

VR presents a new paradigm where the distinction between the real and the virtual becomes increasingly blurred. As users dive into immersive virtual worlds, they are confronted with questions about the nature of reality, perception, and the boundaries of human consciousness. 

3. Constructing an impactful conclusion

Most of us are confused about how to end an essay with a bang. The answer is quite simple! The final line of your essay should be impactful enough to create a lasting impression on the reader. More importantly, it should also highlight the significance of your essay topic. This could mean the broader implications of your topic, either in your field of study or in general.

Optionally, you could also try to end your essay on an optimistic note that motivates or encourages the reader. If your essay is about eradicating a problem in society, highlight the positive effects achieved by the eradication of that problem. 

Here’s an example of how to end an essay:

In a world where virtual boundaries dissolve, VR is the catalyst that reshapes our perception of reality, forever altering the landscape of the human experience.

Here’s a combined version of all three aspects:

Our analysis has substantiated the claim that Virtual Reality (VR) is significantly transforming how we perceive reality. It has revolutionized industries, reshaped human experiences, and challenged traditional notions of reality. It presents a new paradigm where the distinction between the real and the virtual becomes increasingly blurred. As users dive into immersive virtual worlds, they are confronted with questions about the nature of reality, perception, and the boundaries of human consciousness. In a world where virtual boundaries dissolve, it is the catalyst that reshapes our perception of reality, forever altering the landscape of the human experience.

Now that we’ve understood the structure of a concluding paragraph, let’s look at what to avoid while writing a conclusion. 

What to avoid in your conclusion paragraph

When learning how to write a conclusion for an essay, you must also know what to avoid. You want to strengthen your argument with the help of a compelling conclusion paragraph, and not undermine it by confusing the reader. 

Let’s take a look at a few strategies to avoid in your essay conclusion:

1. Avoid including new evidence

The conclusion should not introduce new information but rather strengthen the arguments that are already made. If you come across any unique piece of information regarding your essay topic, accommodate it into your body paragraphs rather than stuffing it into your conclusion.

Including new, contradictory information in the concluding paragraph not only confuses the reader but also weakens your argument. You may include a powerful quote that strengthens the message of your essay, or an example that sheds light on the importance of your argument. However, this does not include introducing a completely new argument or making a unique point.

2. Avoid the use of concluding phrases

Your conclusion should hint towards your essay coming to an end, instead of blatantly stating the obvious. Blatant concluding statements undermine the quality of your essay, making it clumsy and amateurish. They also significantly diminish the quality of your arguments. 

It is a good idea to avoid the following statements while concluding your essay:

• In conclusion,
• In summary,

While using these statements may not be incorrect per se, hinting towards a conclusion creates a better impression on the reader rather than blatantly stating it. 

Here are more effective statements you could use:

• Let this essay serve as a catalyst for…
• As we navigate the intricacies of this multifaceted topic, remember…
• As I bid farewell to this subject…

3. Don’t undermine your argument

Although there might be several points of view regarding your essay topic, it is crucial that you stick to your own. You may have stated and refuted other points of view in your body paragraphs. 

However, your conclusion is simply meant to strengthen your main argument. Mentioning other points of view in your essay conclusion, not only weakens your argument but also creates a poor impression of your essay.

Here are a few phrases you should avoid in your essay conclusion:

• There are several methods to approach this topic.
• There are plenty of good points for both sides of the argument.
• There is no clear solution to this problem.

Examples of essay conclusions

Different types of essays make use of different forms of conclusions. The critical question of “how to start a conclusion paragraph” has many different answers. To help you further, we’ve provided a few good conclusions for essays that are based on the four main essay types.

1. Narrative essay conclusion

The following essay conclusion example elaborates on the narrator’s unique experience with homeschooling.

• Restated thesis statement
• Body paragraph summary
• Closing statement

My experience with homeschooling has been a journey that has shaped me in profound ways. Through the challenges and triumphs, I have come to appreciate the unique advantages and personal growth that homeschooling can offer. As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the transformative power of this alternative education approach. It has empowered me to take ownership of my education, nurture my passions, and develop skills that extend far beyond the confines of academic achievement. Whether in traditional classrooms or homeschooling environments, it is through embracing and nurturing the unique potential within each of us that we can truly thrive and make a lasting impact on the world.

2. Descriptive essay conclusion

The following essay conclusion example elaborates on the narrator’s bond with their cat.

The enchanting presence that my cat has cannot be ignored, captivating my heart with her grace, charm, and unconditional love. Through the moments of playfulness, companionship, and affection, she has become an irreplaceable member of my family. As I continue to cherish the memories and lessons learned from her, I am reminded of the extraordinary power of the human-animal bond. In their company, we find solace, companionship, and a love that transcends words. In a world that can be challenging and tumultuous, never underestimate the profound impact that animals can have on our lives. In their presence, not only do we find love but also a profound sense of connection.

3. Argumentative essay conclusion

Here’s an essay conclusion example that elaborates on the marginalization of, and acute intolerance towards, LGBTQ+ individuals. 

The journey toward equality for LGBTQ+ individuals is an ongoing battle that demands our unwavering commitment to justice and inclusion. It is evident that while progress has been made, the journey toward equality for these individuals is far from complete. It demands our continued advocacy, activism, and support for legislative change, societal acceptance, and the creation of inclusive environments. The struggle for LGBTQ+ equality is a fight for the very essence of human dignity and the recognition of our shared humanity. It is a battle that requires our collective efforts, determination, and an unyielding belief in the fundamental principles of equality and justice.

4. Expository essay conclusion

This example of an essay conclusion revolves around a psychological phenomenon named the bandwagon effect and examines its potential ill effects on society:

The bandwagon effect in psychology is a fascinating phenomenon that sheds light on the powerful influence of social conformity on individual behavior and decision-making processes. This effect serves as a reminder of the inherently social nature of human beings and the power of social influence in shaping our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. It underscores the importance of critical thinking, individual autonomy, and the ability to resist the pressure of conformity. By understanding its mechanisms and implications, we can guard against its potential pitfalls and actively foster independent thought and decision-making, also contributing to a more enlightened and progressive society.

Now that you’ve taken a closer look at different conclusions for essays, it’s time to put this knowledge to good use. If you need to take your essay up a notch and score high, professional essay editing services are your best bet.

Happy writing!

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Psychology Extended Essay Guide: Definition, Rubric, And Topics

by  Antony W

June 9, 2024

This is the complete guide on Psychology Extended Essay for the IB students. Whether you’re currently determining what subjects to work on or you’ve already made up your mind that you want to focus on psychology, you’ll find this guide quite helpful.

The guide covers everything you need to know about the topic. In particular, you’ll learn:

• What psychology extended essay is
• How to choose psychology essay topics
• The best psychology EE topic examples
• How to write the extended essay and
• Psychology extended essay assessment criteria

Let’s get started.

What’s Psychology Extended Essay?

The IB EE Guide defines the subject as the examination of interaction of sociocultural, biological, and cognitive influences on human behavior and experiences.

As an IB student, you should have a solid understanding of what falls within this subject when developing a topic to investigate.

The aims of writing an Extended Essay in IB Psychology is to demonstrate that you can conduct independent research on a given topic and develop the skills necessary for creative and critical thinking.

When your examiners look at the EE, they should instantly see a systematic process of research relevant to the subject and your expression of intellectual discoveries.

What’s the Role of Psychology Extended Essay?

An extended essay in psychology is a project that gives you the chance to research a topic of personal interest within the discipline of psychology, which may extend beyond the Diploma Program.

Students who choose Psychology actively investigate a research issue that will enhance their analytical and communication abilities, as well as their comprehension of behavior.

An extended essay in this filed should introduce you to the pleasure of intellectual discovery as you study the “systematic of behavior and experience."  

When developing your topic, you should have a comprehensive comprehension of what fits under the realm of psychology.

To be clear, psychology covers the study of both human and nonhuman animal behavior. It has its own terminology, techniques, and literature.

For you to complete an extended essay in psychology, you must have a solid grasp of the subject and its techniques. Psychology is not a "residual" category for extended essay topics that do not fit into any other area.

You must therefore select themes that lend themselves to psychological inquiry and analysis, and you must carefully evaluate the assessment criteria while selecting a topic.

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Feeling stuck with you IB Psychology Extended Essay and don’t know where to start?

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How You Should Treat the Psychology Extended Essay Topics

A psychology extended essay requires you to examine a subject of personal interest in a systematic manner. You have to structure the assignment around a focused research topic, which you should strives to address throughout document.

You need to view the essay as an investigative and analytical argument than as a research hypothesis to be discovered through a formal psychological investigation employing research methodologies.

Data collection and research techniques, such as experiments, surveys, observations, and case studies, are unsuitable for an extended essay in psychology. So you shouldn’t include them in the essay.  

You should examine your own personal interests as a starting point for the essay writing process. That’s because experiences demonstrate that personal interest plays a significant influence in the success of an essay.

After picking a topic of interest, you can reduce the scope of their essay and research question by considering subfields within that field.  

Psychology Extended Essay Topic Examples

The following are examples of the best Psychology Extended Essay topics. These are just ideas, so use them as guidance to develop or come up with your own topic to investigate.

• What do you believe is the most prevalent cause of eating disorders and food indifference among adolescents?
• How do you see borderline personality disorder and how is it treated?
• Schizophrenia is an illness that requires considerable care. How do you describe it?
• Dreams are the most discussed topic in the world. What do you think about it?
• Attention-seeking disorder should be treated with a great deal of care and sensitivity from the beginning. What do you think about it?
• The dilemma of mankind has always been gender norms or gender prejudice.
• Child abuse and child labor are on the rise as global concerns. How can we alter it?
• How do you feel about prenatal development and its management?
• The parenting style has a significant impact on the behavior of children. What are your opinions on the subject?
• Aging is one of the most widely acknowledged facts of life How do you characterize this phenomena from a psychological standpoint?
• Divorce between parents has a significant impact on children's mental health. How should this be prevented?
• What are your opinions on the rising video game addiction among children?

Remember that a good extended essay topic in Psychology is the one that’s clear, concise, and can fit within the scope of the extended essay requirements.

IB Psychology Extended Essay Outline

Now that you have completed your research, it’s time to take the information you have gathered and put it together into a comprehensive Extended Essay for the IB Psychology.

Your EE should have three parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. Here’s how to develop each section.

The Introduction

The opening statement of an Extended Essay is huge, so you should give it your best. Your goal with this section of your EE is to establish and explain your argument. It helps to include relevant background information as this goes a long way to make your argument sensible. Define complex words for clarity. And make sure this section isn’t more than two paragraphs long.

Once you have ensured that your introduction has established a strong argument and can easily grab the attention of your reader, start working on the body section. The body should be at least 6 paragraphs. As it is with argumentative essays , each paragraph of your IB Psychology Extended Essay should:

Present a unique idea or argument.

Start with a topic sentence, which is a summary of the main idea that you will be discussing in that paragraph.

Include an example with an explanation on how relevant the example is to your argument.

End with a closing link (or sentence) that introduces the reader to the next consecutive paragraph.

The purpose of a topic sentence in IB Psychology Extended Essay is to introduce and explain the point you intend to make in a paragraph.

A good topic sentence should be clear, concise, and have a strong link to the argument you presented in the introduction. In addition to building on the points you made in a previous paragraph, the topic sentence should also give a clear summary of your argument.

The conclusion of your IB Psychology Extended Essay is as important as other sections of the essay. So you should equally spend enough time writing it. The conclusion to your IB Psychology EE should naturally link to the introduction and summarize the significant points that you’ve made throughout the essay.

As with the conclusion on any given argumentative essay topic, the conclusion of your IB Psychology EE should not merely reflect a re-write if your main ideas. Instead, you should restate the ideas using different terms and phrases to retain the meaning without sounding too repetitive. Furthermore, the conclusion must never introduce a new idea to the article as this could easily distract your readers.

How to Write a Psychology Extended Essay

To write a comprehensive extended essay in psychology:

Read and understand the IB’s EE handbook and, if your teacher issues additional instructions, make sure you follow them.

Choose a preliminary topic and a tentative research question for your extended essay in Psychology. Some questions to ask yourself when choosing the topic to work on include:

• Why is my topic and research issue significant to me personally?
• Is there a particular discussion, book, or other source that can assist me in narrowing my focus or choosing my topic and the research question?
• What do I perceive to be the greatest obstacle as I begin this process? How do I handle this difficulty?

We recommend that you consult your supervisor, so they can provide input about the suitability of your ideas for project.

Start your research early. Begin your research with Google Scholar, JYKDOK library, and EBSCO Academic Search Elite.

As you write you write your essay, your focus should be on developing your case by citing pertinent concepts, theories, and studies from academic psychology research publications and scholarly literature.

• Do NOT make any claims that you can’ back by evidence from psychological theories or investigations.
• Provide a well-balanced argument in answer to your research topic.
• In addition to describing your sources, analyze them in light of your research topic.
• It is OK to modify your essay's topic and research question as you write. Your sources may yield novel insights.
• Always pay attention to the EE evaluation criteria as you work on your subject

Consult with your EE supervisor for first reflection. Your supervisor will provide prompt comments on your progress. In addition, the instructor will advise you on your initial reflection.

Psychology Extended Essay Assessment Criteria

The following is the assessment criteria used by IB to evaluate psychology extended essays:

Criterion A: Focus and Method

The key to writing an essay with concentration is a targeted research subject. Although there are several extremely good questions, inferior essays in the psychology subject tend to have difficult questions.

Keep in mind that each component of the essay must directly address the research topic. Be careful to make sure that you don’t spend an excessive amount of time explaining concepts and theories before answering the topic directly with relevant research.

Criterion: Knowledge and Understanding

Stronger essays define essential concepts and present research pertinent to the study. On the other hand, weaker essays often employ language without explaining its relevance to the study or subject.

For instance, claiming that a research showed minimal instrument bias without providing a detailed explanation for why this is the case can cost you valuable marks.

You need to make sure your essay doesn’t have inaccuracies in the usage of words such as external and internal validity and the identification of research techniques.

Criterion C: Critical Reasoning

When writing a psychology extended essay, you must discuss, analyze, and evaluate the significant studies that you cite. Your work can’t be merely descriptive. In other words, you can’t just offer a list of various studies, frequently without a connection to the study issue.

Instead, your essay should include evidence against or for the thesis and then demonstrate why your main argument is stronger.

Criterion D: Presentation

Despite the fact that citation is something that teacher directly examine, you need to make sure your Psychology extended essay has clear citation.

Do not use footnotes for anything other than citations, since it frequently interferes with the reading of the essay.

The key to effective presentation is understandable text. Spacing is an issue in several writings. You must either indent your paragraphs or leave a blank line between them. The last mistake you want to make as far as presentation is concerned is hindering the readability of your extended essay.

Criterion E: Engagement (Or the EE Reflection)

Strong remarks illustrate your research journey and development as a researcher. These reflections elucidate your capacity to identify problems, adopt necessary modifications, and demonstrate their reflexivity throughout the research and writing process.

Weak extended essay reflections detail meetings with the supervisor, reiterated the essay's results, or described the students' passion for their topic.  

Choosing a single area of your research journey to describe and analyze in each reflection is preferable than attempting to cover all aspects of their investigation.

Revising Your IB Psychology Extended Essay

Ending with a strong conclusion doesn’t make your essay complete. You have to edit the assignment thoroughly to make sure it meets the assessment standards of IB EE .

Start by looking at the obvious grammatical errors that could make your IB Psychology EE to mean something other than what you intended. Sometimes your eyes may not notice minor spelling and grammatical errors. That’s why it’s important to use a tool such as Grammarly or Hemmingway App for assistance.

The next in your revision is to ask yourself the “so what?” question. This is where you ask yourself whether your essay communicates the intended message very well so that when your audience asks questions, the essay provides the answers that they need – and in an instant.

The most important questions to ask when trying to answer the “so what” factor are as follows:

Does this essay provide the information that my audience should care about in the first place?

Do the ideas addressed in my IB Psychology Extended Essay add to what others already know about the essay?

As yourself these two questions and you can be sure to make your essay greater than what it currently is.

Advice for IB Students Taking Psychology Extended Essay

Some of the most intriguing, engaging, and successful psychology extended essays don’t always focuses on the course material.

Typically, essays constrained by the guidance provide detailed, emotionless descriptions of classic psychological research. Supervisors do not require in-depth understanding of the student's topic; this is a less relevant component in topic selection than resource availability, student engagement, and essay length.

Generally, "pop psychology" or "self-help"-related topics are inappropriate for the extended essay. Psychology, as stated in the definition, is a systematic study.

In an effort to comprehend behavior and experience, psychologists undertake research studies and construct theories.

Extended essays in psychology must feature support by meticulous and appropriate citation of relevant psychological theories and/or studies. This suggests that academic and psychological research publications and books are the finest resources.

The IB Psychology Extended Essay focuses on an in-depth investigation of an area within the field of psychology. While it’s on a subject presented in the IB EE prompt, your teacher may also allow you to explore a topic of your interest.

This subject gives you the opportunity to explore research questions that can not only promote your understanding of behavior but also develop your research, writing, creative, and intellectual discovery skills.

In this lesson, you will learn everything about the IB Physics EE, from what it is to writing a comprehensive Extended Essay on the subject. Let’s get started.

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

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How to Write Brilliant Psychology Essays

• Paul Dickerson - University of Roehampton, UK
• Description

“This book is one I wish I had bought at the start of my Psychology degree.” – Five-star review Essay writing is a key part of the Psychology degree and knowing how to write effective and compelling academic essays is key to success.  Whether it's understanding how to implement feedback you receive on essays, how to stop procrastinating or what makes an effective introduction, this book covers it all. Drawing on insights derived from teaching thousands of students over a 25-year period How to Write Brilliant Psychology Essays provides the keys that will unlock your writing potential.

Ace your Assignment  provide practical tips to help succeed

Exercises  help try the theory out in practice

Take away  points highlight the key learnings from each chapter

Online resources  provide even more help and guidance.

Supplements

Paul Dickerson, Emma McDonald and Christian van Nieuwerburgh discuss  study skills, wellbeing and employability  and explore   how university lecturers and student welfare teams can better  support Psychology students  through their university journey.

Students enjoyed this text - they found it easy to read and the author's dry sense of humour appealed to many. Not just for psychologists!

A really useful guide for students, breaking down the components of what constitutes a good essay and written from a subject-specific view - highly recommend

I have recommended this to my first year tutorial groups as it provides them with everything they need to know about producing an excellent psychology essay.

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How to Write an Introduction for a Psychology Paper

• Writing Tips

If you are writing a psychology paper, it is essential to kick things off with a strong introduction. The introduction to a psychology research paper helps your readers understand why the topic is important and what they need to know before they delve deeper.

Your goal in this section is to introduce the topic to the reader, provide an overview of previous research on the topic, and identify your own hypothesis .

At a Glance

Writing a great introduction can be a great foundation for the rest of your psychology paper. To create a strong intro:

• Research your topic
• Outline your paper
• Introduce your topic
• Summarize the previous research
• Present your hypothesis or main argument

Before You Write an Introduction

There are some important steps you need to take before you even begin writing your introduction. To know what to write, you need to collect important background information and create a detailed plan.

Research Your Topic

Search a journal database, PsychInfo or ERIC, to find articles on your subject. Once you have located an article, look at the reference section to locate other studies cited in the article. As you take notes from these articles, be sure to write down where you found the information.

A simple note detailing the author's name, journal, and date of publication can help you keep track of sources and avoid plagiarism.

Create a Detailed Outline

This is often one of the most boring and onerous steps, so students tend to skip outlining and go straight to writing. Creating an outline might seem tedious, but it can be an enormous time-saver down the road and will make the writing process much easier.

Start by looking over the notes you made during the research process and consider how you want to present all of your ideas and research.

Introduce the Topic

Once you are ready to write your introduction, your first task is to provide a brief description of the research question. What is the experiment or study attempting to demonstrate? What phenomena are you studying? Provide a brief history of your topic and explain how it relates to your current research.

As you are introducing your topic, consider what makes it important. Why should it matter to your reader? The goal of your introduction is not only to let your reader know what your paper is about, but also to justify why it is important for them to learn more.

If your paper tackles a controversial subject and is focused on resolving the issue, it is important to summarize both sides of the controversy in a fair and impartial way. Consider how your paper fits in with the relevant research on the topic.

The introduction of a research paper is designed to grab interest. It should present a compelling look at the research that already exists and explain to readers what questions your own paper will address.

Summarize Previous Research

The second task of your introduction is to provide a well-rounded summary of previous research that is relevant to your topic. So, before you begin to write this summary, it is important to research your topic thoroughly.

Finding appropriate sources amid thousands of journal articles can be a daunting task, but there are several steps you can take to simplify your research. If you have completed the initial steps of researching and keeping detailed notes, writing your introduction will be much easier.

It is essential to give the reader a good overview of the historical context of the issue you are writing about, but do not feel like you must provide an exhaustive review of the subject. Focus on hitting the main points, and try to include the most relevant studies.

You might describe previous research findings and then explain how the current study differs or expands upon earlier research.

Provide Your Hypothesis

Once you have summarized the previous research, explain areas where the research is lacking or potentially flawed. What is missing from previous studies on your topic? What research questions have yet to be answered? Your hypothesis should lead to these questions.

At the end of your introduction, offer your hypothesis and describe what you expected to find in your experiment or study.

The introduction should be relatively brief. You want to give your readers an overview of a topic, explain why you are addressing it, and provide your arguments.

Tips for Writing Your Psychology Paper Intro

• Use 3x5 inch note cards to write down notes and sources.
• Look in professional psychology journals for examples of introductions.
• Remember to cite your sources.
• Maintain a working bibliography with all of the sources you might use in your final paper. This will make it much easier to prepare your reference section later on.
• Use a copy of the APA style manual to ensure that your introduction and references are in proper APA format .

What This Means For You

Before you delve into the main body of your paper, you need to give your readers some background and present your main argument in the introduction of you paper. You can do this by first explaining what your topic is about, summarizing past research, and then providing your thesis.

Armağan A. How to write an introduction section of a scientific article ?  Turk J Urol . 2013;39(Suppl 1):8-9. doi:10.5152/tud.2013.046

Fried T, Foltz C, Lendner M, Vaccaro AR. How to write an effective introduction .  Clin Spine Surg . 2019;32(3):111-112. doi:10.1097/BSD.0000000000000714

Jawaid SA, Jawaid M. How to write introduction and discussion .  Saudi J Anaesth . 2019;13(Suppl 1):S18-S19. doi:10.4103/sja.SJA_584_18

American Psychological Association. Information Recommended for Inclusion in Manuscripts That Report New Data Collections Regardless of Research Design . Published 2020.

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

How to Write a Good Conclusion Paragraph (+30 Examples)

A good conclusion paragraph is the lasting impression you want to leave with your reader.

Here is a quick summary of how to write a good conclusion paragraph:

Write a good conclusion paragraph by summarizing key points, restating your thesis, and providing a final thought or call to action. Ensure it wraps up your main ideas, reinforces your argument, and leaves the reader with something to ponder.

This ultimate guide will walk you through the steps to craft an effective conclusion, along with 30 examples to inspire you.

5 Steps for Writing a Good Conclusion Paragraph

Table of Contents

There are five main steps to writing a good conclusion.

Let’s go through each step

1. Understand the Purpose

The conclusion is your final opportunity to leave an impact.

It should tie together your main ideas, reinforce your message, and give the reader a sense of closure.

Wrap Up Your Main Ideas

The conclusion should succinctly wrap up the main points of your writing. Think of it as a summary that captures the essence of your arguments without going into detailed explanations.

This helps reinforce what you have discussed and ensures that the reader remembers the core message.

Reinforce Your Thesis

Your thesis statement is the foundation of your writing.

In the conclusion, restate it in a new way to reinforce your central argument. This reminds the reader of the purpose of your writing and underscores its significance.

Give a Sense of Closure

A good conclusion gives a sense of closure to the reader. It signals that the discussion has come to an end and that all points have been addressed. This helps the reader feel that the piece is complete and that their time was well-spent.

Leave the Reader with Something to Think About

The best conclusions go beyond merely summarizing the content.

They leave the reader with a final thought or reflection that stays with them. This could be a call to action, a prediction about the future, or a thought-provoking question that encourages further reflection on the topic.

2. Summarize Key Points

Briefly summarize the key points discussed in the body of your text.

Avoid introducing new information. This helps the reader recall the main ideas.

Brief Summary

The summary should be concise and to the point. Highlight the main ideas discussed in your writing without going into detailed explanations. This helps refresh the reader’s memory of your key points.

Avoid New Information

Introducing new information in the conclusion can confuse the reader. The conclusion is not the place to present new arguments or data. Stick to summarizing what has already been discussed.

Recall Main Ideas

Summarizing the key points helps the reader recall the main ideas of your writing. This reinforces the message and ensures that the reader takes away the most important information from your piece.

“In conclusion, adopting sustainable practices, reducing waste, and promoting renewable energy are essential steps towards a greener future.”

3. Restate the Thesis

Restate your thesis in a new way. This reinforces your argument without sounding repetitive.

Restate, Don’t Repeat

Restating the thesis means expressing it in a new way.

Avoid repeating it verbatim.

Instead, rephrase it to reinforce your argument and show that you have successfully argued your point throughout the piece.

Reinforce the Argument

Restating the thesis helps reinforce your central argument. It reminds the reader of the purpose of your writing and underscores its significance.

Provide Closure Restating the thesis in the conclusion gives a sense of closure.

It signals that the discussion has come full circle and that you have addressed your initial argument.

“By implementing these strategies, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and protect our planet for future generations.”

4. Provide a Final Thought

Offer a final thought or reflection to leave a lasting impression. This could be a call to action, a prediction, or a thought-provoking question.

Final Thought or Reflection

A final thought or reflection can leave a lasting impression on the reader.

It shows that you are not just summarizing your points but also offering a deeper insight or perspective.

Call to Action

A call to action encourages the reader to take the next step.

It motivates them to act based on the information or arguments presented in your writing.

Prediction or Question

A prediction about the future or a thought-provoking question can engage the reader and encourage further reflection. This leaves the reader with something to think about even after they have finished reading.

“As we move forward, it’s crucial to remember that every small effort counts. Together, we can make a difference.”

5. Use a Call to Action (if applicable)

If your piece is meant to persuade or encourage action, include a call to action. This motivates the reader to take the next step.

Motivate the Reader

A call to action motivates the reader to take the next step.

It encourages them to act based on the information or arguments presented in your writing.

Encourage Action

Including a call to action is especially important in persuasive writing. It encourages the reader to act on the information provided and make a change or take a specific action.

Provide Clear Steps

A good call to action provides clear steps for the reader to follow.

It should be specific and actionable, guiding the reader on what to do next.

“Join us in making a positive change. Start today by reducing your plastic use and spreading awareness about environmental conservation.”

Check out this video about how to write a good conclusion:

How to Write a Good Conclusion for an Essay

Writing a good conclusion for an essay involves summarizing your main points, restating your thesis, and providing a final thought or reflection.

Here’s how:

• Summarize Main Points : Briefly recap the key points discussed in the body of your essay.
• Restate Thesis : Paraphrase your thesis statement to reinforce your argument.
• Final Thought : Offer a final insight, question, or call to action to leave a lasting impression.

This approach ensures your essay feels complete and leaves the reader with a clear understanding of your argument.

How to Write a Good Conclusion for an Argumentative Essay

A strong conclusion for an argumentative essay should not only summarize the main points and restate the thesis but also emphasize the importance of your argument.

Follow these steps:

• Summarize Arguments : Briefly outline the main arguments presented.
• Restate Thesis : Rephrase your thesis to highlight its significance.
• Address Counterarguments : Acknowledge opposing viewpoints and reinforce why your argument is stronger.
• Call to Action : Encourage the reader to take action or reconsider their position.

How to Write a Good Conclusion for a Research Paper

Crafting a good conclusion for a research paper involves summarizing your findings, discussing their implications, and suggesting future research.

Here’s a guide:

• Summarize Findings : Recap the key results of your research.
• Discuss Implications : Explain the significance of your findings and how they contribute to the field.
• Restate Research Question : Reiterate the research question and how your findings address it.
• Suggest Future Research : Propose areas for further investigation.

This format provides a comprehensive and thoughtful conclusion that underscores the importance of your research and its potential impact.

30 Examples of Good Conclusion Paragraphs

Let’s explore some good examples of good conclusions.

Example 1: Environmental Essay

“In conclusion, the preservation of our natural resources is not just a necessity but a responsibility we owe to future generations. By taking small steps today, we can ensure a healthier planet tomorrow.”

Example 2: Technology Article

“As we embrace the advancements in technology, it is vital to remain vigilant about privacy and security. Staying informed and proactive can help us navigate the digital landscape safely.”

Example 3: Health and Wellness Blog

“Ultimately, achieving a balanced lifestyle requires dedication and mindfulness. By prioritizing our well-being, we can lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.”

Example 4: Business Report

“In summary, the market analysis indicates a positive trend for our product. With strategic planning and execution, we can capitalize on these opportunities and drive growth.”

Example 5: Education Essay

“In the end, fostering a love for learning in students is the key to their success. By creating engaging and supportive educational environments, we can inspire the next generation of leaders.”

Example 6: Travel Blog

“To conclude, exploring new destinations enriches our lives and broadens our perspectives. Embrace the adventure and discover the beauty of our world.”

Example 7: Personal Development Article

“In the final analysis, personal growth is a lifelong journey. Embrace challenges, learn from experiences, and continue striving to become the best version of yourself.”

Example 8: Marketing Case Study

“In closing, the data clearly shows that targeted marketing strategies significantly improve customer engagement and sales. By refining our approach, we can achieve even greater success.”

Example 9: Historical Analysis

“In conclusion, the events of the past continue to shape our present and future. Understanding history is essential to making informed decisions and avoiding past mistakes.”

Example 10: Scientific Research Paper

“Ultimately, the findings of this study contribute to our understanding of the subject and open the door for further research. Continued exploration in this field is vital for advancing knowledge.”

Example 11: Political Commentary

“In the end, civic engagement is crucial for a functioning democracy. Stay informed, participate in discussions, and exercise your right to vote.”

Example 12: Fashion Blog

“To wrap up, fashion is a powerful form of self-expression. Embrace your unique style and let your wardrobe reflect your personality.”

Example 13: Food Blog

“In conclusion, cooking at home not only saves money but also allows you to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Start your culinary journey today and discover the joys of homemade meals.”

Example 14: Sports Article

“Ultimately, teamwork and perseverance are the foundations of success in sports. Keep pushing your limits and strive for excellence on and off the field.”

Example 15: Literature Analysis

“In summary, the themes explored in this novel resonate with readers and offer valuable insights into the human condition. Its timeless message continues to inspire and provoke thought.”

Example 16: Parenting Blog

“In the end, raising children requires patience, love, and commitment. Cherish the moments, and remember that every effort you make shapes their future.”

Example 17: Finance Article

“To conclude, financial planning is essential for securing your future. Start today by setting clear goals and creating a budget that aligns with your aspirations.”

Example 18: Career Advice Blog

“In conclusion, building a successful career takes time and dedication. Stay focused, seek opportunities for growth, and never stop learning.”

Example 19: Fitness Blog

“Ultimately, regular exercise and a balanced diet are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Stay motivated, and remember that every step counts towards your fitness goals.”

Example 20: DIY Blog

“In summary, DIY projects are a rewarding way to personalize your space and learn new skills. Get creative and start your next project today.”

Example 21: Relationship Advice

“In the end, strong relationships are built on communication, trust, and mutual respect. Nurture your connections and strive for harmony in your interactions.”

Example 22: Pet Care Blog

“To wrap up, responsible pet ownership involves understanding your pet’s needs and providing them with a loving home. Invest in their well-being, and they’ll reward you with unconditional love.”

Example 23: Environmental Science Paper

“In conclusion, addressing climate change requires global cooperation and immediate action. Every effort counts, and together we can create a sustainable future.”

Example 24: Technology Review

“Ultimately, this gadget offers impressive features that enhance convenience and efficiency. Consider it for your next tech upgrade.”

Example 25: Psychology Article

“In summary, understanding human behavior is crucial for improving mental health and well-being. Continue exploring this fascinating field for more insights.”

Example 26: Gardening Blog

“In the end, gardening is a therapeutic and rewarding hobby that connects us with nature. Start your garden today and enjoy the benefits of fresh produce and beautiful blooms.”

Example 27: Home Improvement Article

“To conclude, home improvement projects can significantly enhance your living space and increase property value. Plan carefully and enjoy the transformation.”

Example 28: Social Media Marketing

“In conclusion, effective social media marketing requires consistency, creativity, and engagement. Develop a strategy that resonates with your audience and watch your brand grow.”

Example 29: Automotive Review

“Ultimately, this vehicle combines performance, style, and safety. Take it for a test drive and experience its capabilities firsthand.”

Example 30: Music Blog

“In summary, music has the power to evoke emotions and bring people together. Explore different genres and find the soundtrack to your life.”

Tips for Writing a Strong Conclusion

Here are some simple but good tips for writing a powerful conclusion:

• Keep it Concise – A good conclusion should be short and to the point. Avoid unnecessary details and focus on wrapping up your main ideas.
• Use Clear Language – Ensure your language is clear and easy to understand. Avoid jargon and complex sentences.
• Be Consistent – Maintain the same tone and style as the rest of your text. Consistency helps create a seamless reading experience.
• End on a Positive Note – Whenever possible, end with a positive or uplifting message. This leaves the reader with a good impression.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are some common mistakes that many writers make when crafting their conclusions.

• Introducing New Information – Don’t introduce new ideas or arguments in the conclusion. This can confuse the reader and dilute your main points.
• Being Vague – Avoid vague statements that don’t add value. Be specific and clear in your summary.
• Repetitiveness – Don’t repeat the same points over and over. Restate your thesis and key points in a new way.
• Ignoring the Thesis – Make sure to tie your conclusion back to your thesis. This reinforces your argument and gives a sense of closure.

Final Thoughts: How to Write a Good Conclusion Paragraph

Writing a good conclusion paragraph is essential for creating a cohesive and impactful piece of writing.

By summarizing key points, restating the thesis, providing a final thought, and using a call to action, you can craft a strong conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

Use the 30 examples provided to inspire your own writing and ensure your conclusions are always effective and engaging.

Read This Next:

• How to Write an Introduction Paragraph [50+ Examples]
• How to Write a Paragraph [Ultimate Guide + Examples]
• Types of Evidence in Writing [Ultimate Guide + Examples]
• Narrative Writing Graphic Organizer [Guide + Free Templates]
• How to Write a Hook (40 Good Examples)

Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

7 Good Hooks for Essays – with College Essay Examples

July 17, 2024

Good Hooks for Essays with College Essay Examples — we begin with an example…

I felt a bead of sweat drip down my cheek as I stared at the blank document, ready to begin my first college essay. I wanted to type something, but my fingers sat still as though I’d forgotten how to use a keyboard. How do start?

Perhaps you can relate to this image. As it turns out, imagery itself could solve the problem for this writer.

As you write your college essays you should aim to engage your readers from the very first sentence. Why is this important? While college admissions officers may have already peered at your grades and activity lists, your essay is their first opportunity to get a sense of your unique personality. While you should avoid overloading your essay with complex metaphors and statistics (this could make you seem disorganized, insincere, or snobbish), a slightly unconventional or surprising start to the essay can work wonders.

We advise applicants to strengthen their college essays by beginning with hooks , or statements that pull in the attention of readers. Great hooks often come in the form of images, questions, strong declarations, and more. Continue reading for 7 types of great hooks for college essays, as well as college essay hook examples for each.

Good Hooks for Essays with College Essay Examples

1) tell a story.

This one is a personal favorite. A story hook involves beginning with a short anecdote related to your essay topic. Connecting your topic to a story is a great way to make your essay more exciting and memorable overall. With this hook type, it’s important that your story connects to your essay topic. It’s also important that it doesn’t become too long or unwieldy (a strong story can often be told in 1-3 sentences). Regardless, a story hook will likely be a bit longer than the other hooks you might use.

Example 1: I would spend my Sundays strolling through the aisles of the fabric store, touching various laces and chiffons. I was fascinated by the colors and textures, inspired to create something, though I had no clue how to do so without some kind of unattainable expertise. One Sunday in early autumn, I met the woman who would teach me how to sew, leading me on the path to becoming a costume designer for our school plays.

(Through this story, the applicant appeals to the reader’s senses and successfully prepares for a discussion about their sewing and costume design experience).

Example 2: As we picked up trash along the trail, reaching for sharp bottle caps and sticky candy wrappers glimmering in the sunlight, I thought about how each one of these remnants could end up in the world’s oceans. My summer of volunteering at the state park confirmed my interest in pursuing environmental science.

(This story hook perfectly sets up a college essay about one’s community service experience and passion for environmental science).

Good Hooks for Essays with College Essay Examples (Continued)

2) describe something interesting.

Similar to the story hook, the description hook draws in readers by recounting a vivid scene, which may or may not feed into a longer story. Used frequently in many types of writing, the point of the description is to develop intrigue, making readers curious to know more.

Example 1: Rain poured down as I sat in the car, hearing only loud thumps against the windshield. The sky was darkening and my phone had almost completely lost signal. With nowhere to go and no one to call, I came to a realization.

(Playing off of the “ it was a dark and stormy night ” trope, this application writer develops intrigue by describing a lonely, rainy, and possibly frightening atmosphere).

Example 2: My grandmother’s homemade blintzes were always warm and cloud-like, with soft and sweet cheese oozing from their edges. Nobody in the family could make blintzes like she could. With each bite, I imagined her grandmother making them for her, and more generally, her life in Poland before she immigrated to the United States.

(Describing a familiar recipe or family tradition is a great way to lead into a discussion of one’s culture and identity).

3) Ask a thought-provoking question

You might also begin by asking a question related to your essay topic. Asking an interesting question, especially one that the reader may not have thought of, commonly leads to a desire to continue reading for the answer. This can be a rhetorical question (one that lends itself to an obvious answer, often used to make a point) or a genuine question (one you are sincerely asking yourself or someone else).

Example 1: Who wouldn’t want to be a Broadway star?

(This rhetorical question could begin an essay about an applicant who yearns to be onstage and pursue theater in college, or who once desired to act on stage but now wants to apply their theater background to a psychology major. Though of course not everyone wants to be a Broadway star, the rhetorical framing reveals the author’s perspective).

Example 2: When is it okay to eat animals?

(This genuine question could begin an essay about an applicant who grapples with the food industry, perhaps one who works or grew up on a farm or in the food service industry).

4) Make a declaration

If you’re writing about a topic that you feel strongly about, you may start with a declarative statement. Perhaps this statement is widely agreed upon, or maybe it’s more of a “hot take” (a controversial opinion that your reader could disagree with). Either way, you should support this statement as the essay unfolds. This hook is strongest when short and concise.

Example 1: In most situations, it’s far better to listen than to speak.

(This declaration sets the stage for discussing the skill of listening, perhaps a situation in which listening skills came in handy for the college applicant).

Example 2:   Reality TV offers crucial life lessons.

(This is an example of a more surprising “hot take,” since readers may not expect to hear that important life lessons can be learned from seemingly-frivolous reality TV. If supported thoughtfully, this hook can demonstrate the applicant’s confidence and humor).

5) Quote someone

Similar to declarations, quotes are often used because they are powerful, succinct, and eye-catching. Additionally, their familiarity or trustworthiness can add credibility to a college essay. Strong quotes can come from a variety of sources, from famous scientists, to politicians, to favorite high school teachers, to a book or film characters. Quotes can be moving, inspirational, thought-provoking, or funny, so long as they connect clearly to your essay topic.

Example 1: Author, poet, and Civil Rights Movement activist Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

(This famous quote by an important literary figure is perfect for setting up a discussion on the importance of doing good deeds or treating others with kindness).

Example 2: “The road to success is always under construction,” stated actress and comedian Lily Tomlin .

(If you’d like to give your essay a humorous edge, why not quote a comedian? This quote hook might introduce an essay that describes some bumps in the road along the way to success).

6) Give a surprising fact or statistic

Especially if your essay discusses scientific issues, social phenomena, or current events, it can be interesting to begin with a fact that the reader may not already know. Whether or not your fact contains statistics, it’s important to make sure the information comes from a credible source (which you should cite). You might visit The Pew Research Center , or a reputable newspaper or magazine such as The New York Times , The Guardian , or National Geographic . As with other types of hooks, make sure your fact connects to the rest of your essay and your life (your college essay should primarily be about your own identity and interests, as much as you might find it interesting to discuss a current event or political issue).

Example 1: Though women outnumber men in the U.S. college-educated workforce, they only make up about a third of workers in the country’s 10 highest-paying jobs ( Pew Research Center ).

(An applicant using this hook might continue on to discuss how they have dedicated themselves to feminist issues and plan to continue doing so in college).

Example 2: More than 40% of plastic is only used once, before being tossed ( National Geographic ).

(An applicant might be introducing an essay about starting an initiative at school to reduce plastic waste).

7) Name a common misconception

The common misconception hook challenges readers to rethink an assumption, or something commonly taken for granted. This can be an intriguing start to a college essay, while also demonstrating the writer’s capacity to reflect and think critically.

Example 1: Many believe that meditation is about emptying the mind, getting rid of all thoughts in order to find an ultimate state of calm. However, I’ve come to understand that it’s actually about focusing on the present.

(This would be a great way to begin an essay about how and why someone began meditating, and what the practice has taught them over the years).

Example 2: While people commonly associate “being intelligent” with having a wealth of facts memorized, being able to quickly complete math problems or memorize SAT words, a theory demonstrates that humans actually have 8 types of intelligence, including spatial intelligence and bodily-kinesthetic intelligence ( CNBC ).

(This applicant might go on to discuss spatial and bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, and what they have learned from practicing volleyball and modern dance).

Further reading

If you are in fact sitting in front of the computer, having difficulty with the start of your college essays, hopefully these 7 types of essay hooks have offered some inspiration. While they are great ways to begin your Common App essay, tools such as quotes, facts, and stories can be useful in your body paragraphs and conclusions. They can also apply to your supplemental essays, including those on diversity and community .

For more advice to ease your college essay writing process, check out the following articles:

• Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid—2024-25
• 25 Inspiring College Essay Ideas
• How to Brainstorm a College Essay
• Common App Essay Prompts—2024-25
• 10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples—2024
• “Why This College?” Essay Examples
• College Essay

Sarah Mininsohn

With a BA from Wesleyan University and an MFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Sarah is a writer, educator, and artist. She served as a graduate instructor at the University of Illinois, a tutor at St Peter’s School in Philadelphia, and an academic writing tutor and thesis mentor at Wesleyan’s Writing Workshop.

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Psychology research topics: the best topics for your paper

Lindi Chattree is a standout writer specializing in health sciences. Her extensive knowledge, backed by a Master's in Public Health, enables her to produce deeply researched and engaging papers. As an English paper writer, Sophia's work aids modern students in coping with complex health topics

Psychology research topics are vital for understanding human behavior. They allow both the readers and the ones conducting the research to understand better the mental processes that are going on in the human brain while simultaneously promoting physical health and personal development. 

Profound psychology research can also help people navigate the challenges and transitions in life with better guidance, whether it is a career promotion, the process of adolescence, or a turbulent childhood. Psychology research topics may also help writers and their readers build better relationships and improve their mental health by observing patterns in behavior, cognitive processes, and decision-making.

The purpose of the article is to explore psychology subjects and the way you can use your knowledge of these subjects in individual research. You will also receive a full guide on how to handle the major psychology research topics with ease, which is good for students who are planning to use their research for better diagnostics and treatment.

Research topics in psychology: full guide

There is a vast array of psychology research topics available for exploration, encompassing everything from studies that illuminate various cognitive processes to those that investigate the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. These topics provide valuable insights into how individuals think, behave, and interact. While some areas have been thoroughly researched and documented, offering a wealth of data and findings, others remain relatively underexplored and ripe for investigation. This variability in research depth presents a unique opportunity for students and researchers alike to contribute to the field. As such, it is advisable for those entering the field of psychology to familiarize themselves with the most prevalent research topics. This preliminary exploration can help identify both well-trodden paths and lesser-studied areas, guiding new researchers toward making meaningful contributions to the discipline.

Social psychology research topics

Social psychology research topics explore how our thoughts and feelings can be changed and influenced by the presence of others. Good psychology research topics in sociology usually include the ones that thoroughly examine social perception and cognition. 

Themes like social conformity, social bias, attitude dissonance, cognitive formation, and change are all considered a part of the vast social psychology field. The most exciting aspects of social psychology reports may also explore the complexities of interpersonal dynamics, relationships, attachment styles, and social support theories, making sociology research topics for psychology a fascinating study of human character and its most common traits.

• Social Media and Its Influence in Large Groups.
• How Group Dynamics Can Manifest in School.
• The Study of Psychology of Attraction.
• Why Intellect and Peer Pressure Are Connected.
• How Social Standards Impact the Psyche.
• Norms of Cultural Behavior.
• Language Barrier in Interpersonal Communication.
• How Social Factors Can Influence Stress Experience.
• Health Behavior Change in Social Groups.
• Individual Perception and Self-Concept Ideals.
• Evaluation and Identity Development in Children.
• How Our Senses Perceive the Social Environment.
• Norm Foundations in Cultural Societies.
• Identity Formation under Social Pressure.
• Cultural Differences and Psychological Processes.
• How Empathy Influences Our Senses.
• The Ethics of Leadership in Social Circles.
• The Rules of Social Manipulation.
• How the Society Reinforces Gender Roles.
• Selfless Behavior and Altruism.
• Exploring the Theory of Social Exchange.
• Communication and Interpersonal Relations.
• Reasons Why We Trust Others.
• Types of Attachment Styles in a Person.
• Development of Personal Authority and Effective Management.

Forensic psychology research topics

Among various research topics for psychology, forensic psychology stands out as one of the most underrated and enticing fields of study. You can think of forensic psychology as a complicated blend of the legal and judicial systems and psychological studies. The research topics centered on forensic psychology often take various aspects of criminal behavior and analyze them with the help of psychoanalysis, thus delving deeper into the area of criminal profiling, memory reliability, and common interrogation methods. 

Forensic assessment, eyewitness declarations, and physical offenses can also be found among the forensic psychology research paper topics, thus proving this branch of science to be too diverse to be underestimated. Whether it is psychological testing or offender assessments that you need to study in your psychology research, you will not be limited to simple tools like observation and evaluation but will also conduct research on deeper themes like false testaments and witness program classifications.

• Nature of False Testaments and Confessions.
• Why Witness Programs Are Ineffective.
• Mental Illness and the Patient’s Ability to Stand Trial.
• Psychological Tactics Used for Interrogations.
• How Legal Systems Can Use False Confessions.
• Accuracy and Reliability of Witness Accounts.
• Victimology: Is the Victim Science Real?
• Offender Rehabs: A Fallacy or an Opportunity?
• Psychopathy and Criminal Behavior.
• Personality Types and Their Relation to Criminal Offense.
•  How Imprisonment Can Change the Offender’s Behavior.
• Risk Assessment in Vulnerable Individuals.
• Implicit Bias and Its Effect on Criminals.
• Legal Insanity and Insanity Defense in Court.
• Support Services for Victims of Crimes.
• Reentry Programs for Prison Inmates.
• Correctional Psychology for Legal Offenders.
• Psychology and Legal System: Connections.
• Identifying Jury Bias during Trials.
• Child Custody Evaluation Principles.
• Crime Show Psychology and Impact.
• How to Perform Investigative Interviews.
• How Cyberpsychology Can Identify Cybercriminals.
• History of Victimization and Its Impact.
• Investigative Techniques and Detecting Criminals.

Interesting psychology research topics

There are many research topics in psychology that have not been investigated effectively. Given that psychology is a broad field of knowledge with many branches that have subfields and smaller, more specialized areas, students might become interested in one of these areas in the process of research. 

Some of the most challenging yet exciting psychology research topics include educational psychology themes that examine the connection between the student’s motivation and academic progress, as well as positive psychology topics emphasizing the impact of positive reinforcement and a serene mental state on the individual’s well-being. Other psychology topics for research that can be characterized as especially intriguing will often include developmental psychology topics studying parenting styles and attachment types in adults. 

Clinical psychology topics, such as the study of trauma, effectiveness of therapy, and mental illness bias, can also contribute to the narrative that interesting psychology topics are not limited to more common and, therefore, more researched neuropsychology and health psychology themes with the focal research point of behavioral change models and general mindfulness. Below, you will find interesting psychology research topics that have proved to be particularly exhilarating for high school and university students.

• Physical Stress and Health Outcomes.
• How the Brain Changes in Response to Learning.
• Effects of Sleep on Cognitive Function.
• Serotonin and Its Influence on Mood.
• Mental Health Stigma and Its Consequences.
• Effectiveness of Psychodynamic Therapy.
• Best Strategies for Dealing with Stress.
• Factors that Promote Altruistic Behavior.
• How to Reduce Conformity in Social Groups.
• Impact of Parenting Styles on Child Development.
• Attachment Styles and the Way They Dictate Relationships.
• Gender Roles in Different Cultures.
• The Ethical Implications of Having Clients as Friends.
• Following Freud: Why Childhood Therapy Can Actually Work
• Victimhood and the Origins of Victim Bias
• Management Styles in Different Cultures.
• Impact of Social Media on Teenagers.
• Mechanisms of Overcoming Trauma.
• Effectiveness of Individual Therapy.
• How Group Therapy Sessions Help with Mental Dysfunction.
• Importance of Family Dynamics for Mental Health.
• Emotional Development of Children.
• Is Social Intellect a Real Term?
• Mood Disorders and Their Origins.
• Exploring Adolescence and Its Challenges.

Psychology research topics for high school students

High school students are especially susceptible to psychological stress; therefore, knowing the foundations of psychology can help them deal with personal issues while getting insights into the nature of human behavior and the way we function as a society. Although this may sound like surface-level psychology that has no attachment to real science, psychology research topics for high school students can be a useful tool to help you develop critical thinking skills, learn about research methods, and provide invaluable insights into a multitude of psychology areas.

Among research topics that might ignite some curiosity among high school students, there are several well-researched disciplines like personality psychology, environmental psychology, cognitive psychology, and educational psychology. Any psychology topics for research that are age-appropriate and can help high school learners explore psychological factors that impact their lifestyle, personality traits, and behavior are listed below.

• Parenting Styles and Teenage Psychology.
• How Birth Order Can Influence a Child’s Personality.
• Teenage Brain Development and Its Effects on Decision-Making.
• Body Image and Self-Esteem Issues in High School Surroundings.
• Sleep and Academic Performance: Are They Connected?
• High School Ethics and Rules of Conduct in Modern Culture.
• The Effects of Severe Bullying and Peer Pressure on Teenagers.
• Multitasking and Learning Efficiency in Class.
• Sleep Patterns and Cognitive Functions.
• Memory Retention: Summarization and Spaced Repetition Methods.
• Anxiety Symptoms and Coping Mechanisms.
• Academic and Social Stressors in High School Students.
• How Physical Activity Brings Balance to Mentality.
• Nutrition and Cognitive Function in School.
• Smartphones and Tablets: Affecting Sleeping Patterns.
• How Cleanliness May Impact Student Behavior at Home.
• Stress Levels in Teenagers.
• Students in Rural Areas and Urban Areas.
• Introverts VS Extroverts: Student Classification.
• Achievement Pressure and Extracurricular Classes.
• Self-Esteem Building Activities for Students.
• Stress Reduction Practices for High School Students.
• Critical Thinking Skills in Student Environment.
• Social Identity Theory in Student Groups.
• The Connection between Personality Traits and Academic Success.

Psychology research topics for college students 

Since college students have more access to social psychology research topics and tools on how to obtain information pertaining to these topics, they are also free to delve deeper into the myriad of aspects that make up the best psychology themes. This allows most college learners to take a deep dive into more complex and elaborate themes. 

Cognitive psychology and developmental psychology are the dominating disciplines in the sphere of college psychology across the board, but it also takes a lot of time and effort to explore topics such as educational psychology and mental health psychology, which constitute a grand variety of themes presented for college study. 

If you are thinking about how to start paper for your psychology class, you may not only use the sources from your college’s digital library but also purchase a psychology research assignment from trusted writing professionals. By ordering a psychology paper that will be written from scratch, you ensure that no part of your work is plagiarized or taken from untrustworthy sources. As to the research topics in psychology that all college students should know about, you can check out the comprehensive list designed for your convenience.

• College Diversity and Student Performance.
• Role of Motivation in Academic Performance.
• Traditional Learning VS Online Learning.
• Inclusive Education: Overcoming Bias.
• Exploring Student-Centered Approach in Learning.
• Classroom Engagement for Hyperactive Students.
• Role of Social Identity in College.
• Young Adults and the Phenomenon of Group Thinking.
• Role of Social Identity in Group Conflicts.
• Effects of Social Media on Student Presentation.
• Inspiration Mindset: How to Promote Positivity.
• Being Alone and Self-Discovery: A Guide to Student Mindfulness.
• Sleep Patterns and Cognitive Psychology.
• Role of Working Memory in Learning.
• Effects of Noise on Stress Levels.
• Anger Management in Student Environments.
• Comprehensive Guide on Improving Memory.
• Psychological Characteristics of Creative Students.
• The Role of Psychology in Online Education.
• How Role Models Develop a Student’s Self-Image.
• Mental Background of a Leader’s Personality.
• The Mindset of Successful Students.
• Cognitive Therapy and Reducing Panic Attacks.
• Personality Development and Progress.
• Motivational Challenges among College Students.

Ethics in psychology research: remaining confidential

When you have topics in psychology to research, knowing that the participants of the research process are protected against deception, defamation, and disinformation is a crucial part of your academic findings. If you want to promote trust between the parties (the researchers and the participants) while keeping the integrity of your research intact, you need to follow these principles in your paper. 

Ethical measures are established against the misuse of the participants’ sensitive information when exploring the most interesting topics to research in psychology. These measures guarantee that those participating in your research will always retain their dignity and anonymity. The key foundations of ethics in psychology research are informed consent, confidentiality and data protection, and deception and debriefing.

Informed consent 

With various research topics in psychology being explored, having informed consent provided by the participants of the research is paramount for the study’s progress. Informed consent is when the participants know and agree to the conditions of the psychological research or experiment. Informed about the nature of the research, they realize the implications of such investigation and, therefore, make an informed decision about it. There are several key components comprising the informed consent:

• Voluntariness. Just as researchers carefully select good psychology research topics and sources, they must ensure that participation by individuals in their studies is entirely voluntary. This means there should be no forced or coerced consent nor any undue influence from third parties during the decision-making process. It’s crucial that participants feel completely safe and understand that they have the unconditional right to withdraw from the study at any point without any negative consequences. This freedom helps maintain the ethical integrity of the research and ensures that the data collected is a result of genuine and willing participation.
• Disclosure of content. Researchers engaged in research topics in psychology for college students must provide complete transparency about the study’s objectives, potential risks, and expected benefits. This full disclosure ensures that all participants are adequately informed about the purpose of the research they are contributing to, what it entails, and the potential outcomes and implications of the results. This openness not only builds trust between researchers and participants but also enhances the validity of the consent given by the participants.
• Understanding. It is imperative that all participants fully understand what the research entails before agreeing to take part. Researchers are responsible for explaining all aspects of the study in clear, simple language, avoiding technical jargon that may obscure the true nature of the research. This understanding is crucial, as it ensures that participants are not only aware of their involvement but are also knowledgeable about what their participation involves and the significance of the research. If there are any complexities or technical details, researchers must take the time to ensure that they are clearly and comprehensively explained.
• Documentation. In most psychological studies, participants are required to sign a consent form that serves as a formal record of their willingness to participate. This document typically outlines the details that have been disclosed and confirms that the participant understands and agrees to them. However, in cases involving less sensitive or less invasive research — often referred to as easy psychology research topics — verbal consent might suffice. This should still be formally documented in some way to ensure there is a record of consent. Proper documentation is essential not only for legal purposes but also for maintaining the ethical standards of the research process.

Confidentiality and data protection

Research topics in psychology for college students may require the researchers to secure the participant’s information from unauthorized use. To guarantee absolute confidentiality to all research contributors, you have to implement a number of measures:

• Data sharing. Normally, the participants of psychology research are worried about their sensitive information being traded to third parties or used unethically. For this reason, the diligent researcher who cares about their reputation and academic status is obligated to protect the participants’ sensitive information and guarantee the identities are never revealed in the process. It is known that the research process may be full of pitfalls and unexpected scenarios, with the participants accidentally sharing vital information with third parties or commenting on the research in advance. To prevent this and ensure no one can gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, the protocol for data sharing is established in the first place.
• Access control. Only the members of the research groups are allowed to access the results of the investigation and examine psychology topics to research their relevance. If there is a large community of people taking part in the research process, make sure that only the trusted personnel can provide commentary on the research findings and share them amongst the research group members. In some cases, this may also include the researchers signing the confidentiality agreement that explicitly states that the participants’ private information is their own and cannot be distributed to outsiders.
• Anonymity. To prevent information breaches and identity theft, your duty as a researcher is to ensure the privacy of all study participants by assigning pseudonyms or coded names to all of them whenever possible. The researchers should also remove all identifiable information from the research sheets, such as the participants’ first and last names, residential addresses, phone numbers, and email. While analyzing the data received in the research process, the use of fake names and coded definitions is mandatory due to ethical concerns. If the use of coded names is deemed impossible because of technical reasons, the researchers are obliged to inform the participants about the protocol changes before they publish the research findings.

Deception and debriefing

• Deception. Sometimes, health psychology report topics and forensic psychology research topics need to be studied without bias with the use of naturalistic, realistic settings. For this purpose, the researchers are allowed to withhold, purposely edit, or alter the information they deliver to the participants. The deception is only allowed if the outcome of the research is too vital to be conducted in regular conditions. For example, psychology research topics for college students often allow deception due to the fact college survey participants may not be willing to share personal details under regular circumstances. Before they apply this method in real life, researchers must demonstrate that there are no other ways of obtaining information, and the result justifies the actions. Still, deception is often considered controversial due to its ethical implications. 
• Debriefing. Debriefing is the process of disclosing information after the participants have taken part in the research. It is the researcher's task to inform the contributors about the use of deception and provide the reasoning. Participants should be given an opportunity to ask questions and receive answers to fully understand the purpose of the study. The researchers must also provide support and referrals if the deception caused distress or discomfort to the participants.

The excess of interesting topics to research in psychology may complicate your choice of the right topic for conducting the examination and make you spend long hours trying to find the perfect subject for profound research that resonates with your true passions, interests, and objectives. The risk of selecting the wrong topic can be, however, minimized when the researchers apply certain criteria to their choice. By identifying the right area of study (behavioral psychology research topics, cognitive psychology research topics, social psychology research topics, etc.), you can obtain ethical clearance and collect data that will be necessary for a more profound academic approach. Psychology research conducted in the right manner will help to highlight society’s problematic issues that are often masked by people’s indifference and the nation’s refusal to acknowledge their mental health challenges. 

The research may also foster critical thinking and analytical skills of the participants as well as the researchers, teaching them how to analyze their mental conditions in a safe, stress-free environment. The researchers are allowed to reflect on the results of their discoveries and improve their data interpretation and evaluation skills, exploring social and individual differences between various age groups in psychological practices. 

How do I choose a psychology research topic?

You can choose interesting psychology research topics by analyzing the latest critical work and psychology research published in psychology journals, as well as tuning into what you appreciate the most about various aspects of psychology. You should also choose a psychology topic that aligns with your passions and interests as a future psychology expert. Make sure that the topic that you have selected is not too challenging and can be handled within the assigned time. Selecting a subject that is too complicated will only ruin your chances of producing decent psychology research.

What are some common psychology research methods?

After you have found psychology topics to research, you will need a specialized method to conduct the research. The common methods that are used for research include case studies, experimental methods, content analysis, surveys, survey methodology, observation, and case interviews. Experimental methods include researchers studying cause-and-effect scenarios using real-life situations to determine the correlation between the two seemingly unrelated events. Survey research requires scholars to carefully and meticulously collect data from a specific group of people to evaluate their attitudes and opinions on a certain subject.

How do I conduct a psychology research study?

There are many interesting topics to research in psychology, so conducting a psychology research study should be easy once you know the steps. Start by identifying your area of interest, investigating measures, finding the participants, and collecting data for a psychology report. You should start the process of collecting and organizing data using a systematic approach that involves careful planning, survey research, reviewing existing research, and arranging data collection tools for your paper. In case you are unable to find information for your psychology report without outside help, you can always ask the professionals to write my essay for me and help you with an urgent assignment.

What is applied research in psychology?

Applied research is a branch of psychological studies that creates a correlation between scientific research and how the outcome of the research can be applied in real-world situations. For instance, experimental psychology research topics for college students can help them find healthy alternatives for approaching study materials, combine their social life with studies, and improve academic performance. Most applied research methods in psychology aim to produce a direct impact on social groups and nations, thus translating abstract psychological notions into actionable, reasonable methods that can be applied by individuals in their day-to-day lives.

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