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What is the purpose of a conclusion in an essay?

  1. To introduce new evidence

  2. To summarize the main points of the essay

  3. To refute opposing arguments

  4. To tie the essay together

The correct answer is: To tie the essay together

A conclusion in an essay serves the purpose of tying all the main ideas and arguments together and bringing closure to the essay. It is not meant to introduce any new evidence, as this is typically done in the body paragraphs of the essay. Similarly, while a conclusion may briefly summarize the main points of the essay, this is not its primary purpose. Finally, a conclusion should not include refuting opposing arguments, as this is typically done in the body paragraphs of the essay.