By this time, you’ve mentioned a lot of different topics. Usually the easiest and most compelling way to begin the conclusion is by referring back to one (or more) of them. Or you can add another dimension to a story you already told or tie up loose ends. RESTATE THE BOOK’S MISSION/THESIS This is pretty simple, but make sure you again restate the book’s thesis. People like repetition; it reinforces and brings home points. SUMMARIZE CHAPTERS This is optional, but most good nonfiction books do this. They sum- marize the key points so succinctly and clearly that the reader can’t help but understand your lessons the same way that you do. You want the reader to think about and talk about your book to their friends the same way you do, and the best way to ensure they do that is to tell them precisely what to say to their friends. Put the words in their mouth. Specifically, this is about nailing what it is you want them to remem- ber about your book. What are the takeaways that really matter? How do you want them to talk about them? CALL TO ACTION When they finish the last word and put the book down, what is the first thing you want your reader to do? This is usually the final word, and this is what you leave them with. NOTE ON THE CALL TO ACTION A call to action (CTA) is not required in a conclusion, but most nonfiction books have them. It’s usually the very last bit of the OUTliNE ThE CONClUSiON · 119