“Last but not least” introduces a final item while stressing that it is no less important than the others. Depending on the tone, you can use “finally,” “to finish,” “one final point,” or “to round things off.”
Choose the Transition by Tone
- Formal writing: “Finally”
- Presentation: “One final point”
- Conversational: “To finish”
- Warm or informal wrap-up: “To round things off”
Finally
The simplest and most versatile replacement in essays, reports, presentations, and instructions.
Example: “Finally, we need to consider the cost of implementation.”
To finish
Natural in speech and informal writing when introducing the last item.
Example: “To finish, I’d like to thank everyone who helped organize the event.”
One final point
Useful when the last item is an idea or argument rather than a person in a list.
Example: “One final point concerns how the policy will be evaluated.”
To conclude
Best when the final point also begins your conclusion or closing remarks.
Example: “To conclude, the results support a more cautious approach.”
To round things off
Friendly and conversational, especially in presentations or spoken summaries.
Example: “To round things off, let’s look at the timeline for next month.”
Lastly
A direct sequencing word, though some writers prefer “finally” because it sounds smoother.
Example: “Lastly, please remember to submit the form by Friday.”
As a final point
Formal and explicit, useful in structured arguments or reports.
Example: “As a final point, the analysis did not include participants under 18.”
To wrap up
Informal and common in meetings, presentations, and discussions.
Example: “To wrap up, there are three actions we need to take this week.”
Before we finish
Natural in speech when you want to add one final item without sounding rigid.
Example: “Before we finish, I want to mention the change of venue.”
One more thing
Very conversational. It introduces a final thought but does not imply equal importance.
Example: “One more thing — please send me your dietary requirements.”
And finally
Smooth in speeches, broadcasts, presentations, and list-based writing.
Example: “And finally, our thanks go to the volunteers who made the day possible.”
To end on
Useful when the final item has a particular tone, such as a positive note or practical reminder.
Example: “To end on a positive note, registrations are already ahead of last year.”
When “Last but Not Least” Still Works Best
The original phrase is especially useful when introducing the final person in a list because it explicitly reassures the audience that being mentioned last does not mean being less important.
Avoid Overloading the Ending
If you have several “final” points, transitions lose their force. Use one clear closing signal and then actually bring the section to an end.