How do you write an abstract?

December 2021

The first thing you need to do is to write your complete paper. You might think that it makes sense to write the abstract the moment you finish your research. This research, however, is likely to take between three to five years. You may not be able to get a precise picture of the work that you have done. It therefore helps to write your entire paper first.

Once you have done this, it can be hard to decide what you should include in the abstract. A good idea would be to go section by section. Note down the key bullet points of each section in your abstract document (two points per section). Now, you at least have a clear idea of what it is that you would like to convey.

The abstract is the most often read portion of your paper. Most online databases provide only the abstract and access to the full article may be restricted, unless you are submitting to an open review journal. So, craft an abstract that adds value to the reader.

Provide specific key words that relate to the area of research – this will help SEO.

Here’s a simple format for your abstract:

• Well structured
• State the topic
• The research gap you are addressing
• Data collected/Research methods
• Findings and discussion
• Implications of the findings
• Limitations and scope for future research
• Key words

Some journals have a clear format, others may need a 200-250 word abstract.

A clear abstract that addresses the above issues will help readers get a good idea about what is going to come in the paper that follows.

Good-luck!

Connect with us if you need any help writing the abstract for your paper.