Conclusion vs. Result: What's the Difference?
By Janet White || Updated on November 12, 2023
Conclusion refers to a deduction or decision reached after consideration. Result refers to the outcome or effect of an action or event.
Key Differences
A conclusion is a judgment or decision formed after analyzing information or data, often marking the end of a discussion, argument, or process. It is the intellectual or logical end-point. In contrast, a result is the outcome or consequence of an action, process, or event, emphasizing the final product or effect, not necessarily involving a decision-making process.
Conclusions are often associated with reasoning, arguments, or deliberations in academic, legal, or intellectual discussions. They reflect a synthesis of information leading to a reasoned end. Results, however, are commonly used in scientific, experimental, or practical contexts, highlighting the aftermath or consequences of experiments, actions, or events.
Drawing a conclusion involves critical thinking, analysis, and synthesis of information. It's an active process of making a judgment or decision. On the other hand, results are typically observed or recorded outcomes, more passive in nature, following a set of actions or experiments.
Conclusions are often subjective, influenced by the individual's perspective, interpretation, and reasoning. They may vary from person to person. Results are usually more objective, observable, and measurable, less influenced by personal interpretation.
In communication, especially written or academic, conclusions serve to summarize key points, provide closure, and offer personal insights or recommendations. Results, in many contexts, are reported as factual data or outcomes, often leading to further analysis or conclusions.
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Comparison Chart
Nature
Deductive, intellectual
Observational, factual
Reliance
On reasoning and analysis
On empirical evidence or outcomes
Subjectivity/Objectivity
More subjective
More objective
Context
Academic, legal, rhetorical
Scientific, practical, experimental
Purpose
To provide closure, summarize or decide
To demonstrate or inform about outcomes
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Conclusion and Result Definitions
Conclusion
The last main division of a discourse, often summarizing points.
He restated his arguments in the conclusion.
Result
The consequence of an action.
The result of the experiment was surprising.
Conclusion
The final part of something.
The conclusion of the movie was unexpected.
Result
A result or effect of an action or condition.
The result of neglecting maintenance was a breakdown.
Conclusion
An inference drawn from premises or evidence.
His conclusion from the evidence was logical.
Result
The outcome of a game or contest.
The result of the match was a tie.
Conclusion
The closing section of a composition.
The symphony’s conclusion was dramatic.
Result
The solution to a mathematical problem.
The result of the calculation was 42.
Conclusion
A decision reached after consideration.
Her conclusion was that the plan would not work.
Result
A phenomenon that follows and is caused by some previous phenomenon.
The result of his hard work was a promotion.
Result
To happen as a consequence
Damage that resulted from the storm.
Charges that resulted from the investigation.
Result
To end in a particular way
Their profligate lifestyle resulted in bankruptcy.
Result
Something that follows naturally from a particular action, operation, or course; a consequence or outcome.
Result
Results Favorable or desired outcomes
A new approach that got results.
FAQs
Are results always numerical?
No, results can be numerical, qualitative, or descriptive, depending on the context.
Is a conclusion always at the end?
Typically, yes. In most contexts, a conclusion is at the end of a discussion, essay, or process.
Can a conclusion be subjective?
Yes, conclusions can be subjective as they often involve personal interpretation or judgment.
How does a result differ in experiments?
In experiments, a result is the observed outcome or data obtained after conducting the procedure.
What is a conclusion in writing?
A conclusion in writing is the final part that summarizes the main points or argues a final point.
Do results lead to conclusions?
Often, results are analyzed to draw conclusions, especially in research or scientific studies.
Can a conclusion change over time?
Yes, as new information emerges, conclusions can be revisited and altered.
Can there be multiple conclusions?
Yes, depending on the interpretation of data or information, there can be multiple conclusions.
How does one reach a conclusion?
One reaches a conclusion by analyzing information, weighing evidence, and using reasoning.
Are results always conclusive?
Not always. Some results may require further investigation or lead to more questions.
Are results always expected?
No, results can sometimes be unexpected, particularly in experimental or research contexts.
Is a conclusion the same as an opinion?
Not exactly. A conclusion is often based on evidence and reasoning, while an opinion is more about personal beliefs.
Can results be predicted accurately?
In many scientific and practical scenarios, results can be predicted, but not always with absolute accuracy.
Do results always solve problems?
Results provide data or outcomes, which may or may not solve the problem at hand.
How important is evidence in reaching a conclusion?
Evidence is crucial in reaching a sound and reasoned conclusion.
Do all actions have results?
In a broad sense, yes. Most actions have results, though they may vary in significance and visibility.
Do results always require analysis?
While results can be analyzed for deeper understanding, they can also be straightforward outcomes.
What makes a good conclusion?
A good conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and, if applicable, offers personal insight or a call to action.
Is a result always the end of a process?
Yes, in most cases, a result signifies the end of a process or action.
Can a conclusion be a solution?
Yes, especially in problem-solving contexts, a conclusion can be a proposed solution.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
