In sum Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Wrap-up Signal Use 'in sum' to indicate you're summarizing or concluding your thoughts. In sum, our team's effort led to our success. Pro Tip 2/3Academic Context 'In sum' is often used in essays or formal writing to introduce a conclusion. In sum, the data supports our hypothesis. Pro Tip 3/3Not for Calculations Don't confuse 'in sum' with mathematical summing; it's not about adding numbers. In sum, the story's themes are complex and multifaceted.