What is the purpose of the conclusion in an expository essay?

A. To summarize the main points of the essay
B. To list each of the supporting details
C. To add confusion for the reader
D. To provide a figurative interpretation of the essay

A. To summarize the main points of the essay

The purpose of the conclusion in an expository essay is A. To summarize the main points of the essay. The conclusion serves as a brief recap of the key ideas and arguments presented in the essay, allowing the reader to quickly understand the main points without having to read the whole essay again. This helps to reinforce the overall message and ensure that the reader understands the main ideas before finishing the essay. It is not used to list supporting details, add confusion, or provide a figurative interpretation.

The purpose of the conclusion in an expository essay is to summarize the main points of the essay. To find the answer to this question, you should have an understanding of what an expository essay is and what its components are.

An expository essay is a type of academic writing that presents a balanced analysis of a topic. It aims to explain or inform the reader about a particular subject by providing evidence, examples, and facts. The essay typically consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

In this case, the key phrase in the question is "purpose of the conclusion." The conclusion of an essay serves as the final paragraph that wraps up the ideas presented in the body paragraphs. It is where the writer restates the main points and provides closure to the essay.

To answer the question, it is important to eliminate options that do not align with the purpose of a conclusion in an expository essay. Option B, "To list each of the supporting details," is not accurate because the body paragraphs of an essay are where the supporting details are presented. Option C, "To add confusion for the reader," is also incorrect as the conclusion aims to provide clarity and a sense of resolution. Option D, "To provide a figurative interpretation of the essay," is not aligned with the purpose of a conclusion in an expository essay.

Therefore, by process of elimination, the correct answer is A, "To summarize the main points of the essay." The conclusion allows the writer to restate the main ideas concisely, tying them together and leaving a lasting impression on the reader.