An abstract is a concise summary of your research paper, typically 150-250 words long. It provides a brief overview of your study's purpose, methods, findings, and conclusions. Writing an effective abstract can be challenging, but following these steps will help you create a clear and informative summary:
Step 1: Understand Your Audience
Your abstract is your first impression on potential readers. Think about who you are trying to reach:
- Researchers in your field: They may be looking for specific findings or methodology.
- General audience: They may be interested in the broader implications of your research.
Step 2: Outline Your Paper
Before writing the abstract, create a clear outline of your research paper. This will help you identify the key points to include in your summary.
Step 3: Write a Concise Introduction
Start with a brief introduction that clearly states the topic of your research. Briefly state the problem or question you are addressing.
Example:
- "This study investigates the effectiveness of a new therapeutic approach for treating anxiety disorders."
Step 4: Summarize Your Methods
Describe the methods used in your research in a concise and informative manner.
Example:
- "A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 100 participants diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental treatment group or a control group."
Step 5: Highlight Your Key Findings
Present your most important findings in a clear and concise way. Focus on the results that answer your research question.
Example:
- "The results indicated that the experimental treatment group showed significant reductions in anxiety symptoms compared to the control group."
Step 6: State Your Conclusions
Conclude your abstract by summarizing your main findings and their implications.
Example:
- "The findings suggest that the new therapeutic approach is a promising treatment option for anxiety disorders. Further research is needed to confirm these results."
Step 7: Proofread and Edit
Carefully proofread and edit your abstract for clarity, conciseness, and accuracy. Ensure it is free of grammatical errors and typos.
Example:
- "This study investigated the effectiveness of a new therapeutic approach for treating anxiety disorders. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 100 participants diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental treatment group or a control group. The results indicated that the experimental treatment group showed significant reductions in anxiety symptoms compared to the control group. The findings suggest that the new therapeutic approach is a promising treatment option for anxiety disorders. Further research is needed to confirm these results."
Step 8: Keep it Concise and Focused
Remember, the abstract is a summary, not a complete retelling of your research. Focus on the most important information and avoid unnecessary details.
Step 9: Use Keywords
Include relevant keywords that will help researchers find your paper. These keywords should be specific to your field of study.
Step 10: Write in the Third Person
Write your abstract in the third person, using passive voice when appropriate. Avoid using personal pronouns like "I" or "we."
Step 11: Use a Consistent Style
Maintain a consistent style throughout your abstract. Use the same tense and voice throughout the summary.
Step 12: Revise and Refine
Once you have completed your abstract, revise and refine it to ensure it is clear, concise, and informative.
Example:
- "This study investigated the effectiveness of a new therapeutic approach for treating anxiety disorders. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 100 participants diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental treatment group or a control group. The experimental treatment group showed significant reductions in anxiety symptoms compared to the control group, suggesting that the new therapeutic approach is a promising treatment option for anxiety disorders. Further research is needed to confirm these results."
Note: The abstract should be a stand-alone document that can be understood independently of the full research paper.
