writing an abstract for a presentation

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How to Write a Really Great Presentation Abstract

Whether this is your first abstract submission or you just need a refresher on best practices when writing a conference abstract, these tips are for you..

An abstract for a presentation should include most the following sections. Sometimes they will only be a sentence each since abstracts are typically short (250 words):

• What (the focus): Clearly explain your idea or question your work addresses (i.e. how to recruit participants in a retirement community, a new perspective on the concept of “participant” in citizen science, a strategy for taking results to local government agencies).
• Why (the purpose): Explain why your focus is important (i.e. older people in retirement communities are often left out of citizen science; participants in citizen science are often marginalized as “just” data collectors; taking data to local governments is rarely successful in changing policy, etc.)
• How (the methods): Describe how you collected information/data to answer your question. Your methods might be quantitative (producing a number-based result, such as a count of participants before and after your intervention), or qualitative (producing or documenting information that is not metric-based such as surveys or interviews to document opinions, or motivations behind a person’s action) or both.
• Results: Share your results — the information you collected. What does the data say? (e.g. Retirement community members respond best to in-person workshops; participants described their participation in the following ways, 6 out of 10 attempts to influence a local government resulted in policy changes ).
• Conclusion : State your conclusion(s) by relating your data to your original question. Discuss the connections between your results and the problem (retirement communities are a wonderful resource for new participants; when we broaden the definition of “participant” the way participants describe their relationship to science changes; involvement of a credentialed scientist increases the likelihood of success of evidence being taken seriously by local governments.). If your project is still ‘in progress’ and you don’t yet have solid conclusions, use this space to discuss what you know at the moment (i.e. lessons learned so far, emerging trends, etc).

Here is a sample abstract submitted to a previous conference as an example:

Giving participants feedback about the data they help to collect can be a critical (and sometimes ignored) part of a healthy citizen science cycle. One study on participant motivations in citizen science projects noted “When scientists were not cognizant of providing periodic feedback to their volunteers, volunteers felt peripheral, became demotivated, and tended to forgo future work on those projects” (Rotman et al, 2012). In that same study, the authors indicated that scientists tended to overlook the importance of feedback to volunteers, missing their critical interest in the science and the value to participants when their contributions were recognized. Prioritizing feedback for volunteers adds value to a project, but can be daunting for project staff. This speed talk will cover 3 different kinds of visual feedback that can be utilized to keep participants in-the-loop. We’ll cover strengths and weaknesses of each visualization and point people to tools available on the Web to help create powerful visualizations. Rotman, D., Preece, J., Hammock, J., Procita, K., Hansen, D., Parr, C., et al. (2012). Dynamic changes in motivation in collaborative citizen-science projects. the ACM 2012 conference (pp. 217–226). New York, New York, USA: ACM. doi:10.1145/2145204.2145238

📊   Data Ethics  – Refers to trustworthy data practices for citizen science.

Get involved » Join the Data Ethics Topic Room on CSA Connect!

📰   Publication Ethics  – Refers to the best practice in the ethics of scholarly publishing.

Get involved » Join the Publication Ethics Topic Room on CSA Connect!

⚖️  Social Justice Ethics  – Refers to fair and just relations between the individual and society as measured by the distribution of wealth, opportunities for personal activity, and social privileges. Social justice also encompasses inclusiveness and diversity.

Get involved » Join the Social Justice Topic Room on CSA Connect!

👤   Human Subject Ethics  – Refers to rules of conduct in any research involving humans including biomedical research, social studies. Note that this goes beyond human subject ethics regulations as much of what goes on isn’t covered.

Get involved » Join the Human Subject Ethics Topic Room on CSA Connect!

🍃  Biodiversity & Environmental Ethics – Refers to the improvement of the dynamics between humans and the myriad of species that combine to create the biosphere, which will ultimately benefit both humans and non-humans alike [UNESCO 2011 white paper on Ethics and Biodiversity ]. This is a kind of ethics that is advancing rapidly in light of the current global crisis as many stakeholders know how critical biodiversity is to the human species (e.g., public health, women’s rights, social and environmental justice).

⚠ UNESCO also affirms that respect for biological diversity implies respect for societal and cultural diversity, as both elements are intimately interconnected and fundamental to global well-being and peace. ( Source ).

Get involved » Join the Biodiversity & Environmental Ethics Topic Room on CSA Connect!

🤝  Community Partnership Ethics – Refers to rules of engagement and respect of community members directly or directly involved or affected by any research study/project.

Get involved » Join the Community Partnership Ethics Topic Room on CSA Connect!

How to Write an Abstract (Ultimate Guide + 13 Examples)

Whether you’re crafting an abstract for a research paper, a lab report, a dissertation, or a conference, this guide will walk you through every step.

Here is a quick overview of how to write an abstract:

Write an abstract by summarizing the key elements of your work: start with an introduction, state the purpose, describe the methods used, present the results, and conclude with the implications. Ensure clarity, conciseness, and adherence to specific guidelines.

By the end of this blog post, you’ll have all the tools you need to write a clear, concise, and compelling abstract for any purpose.

What Is an Abstract?

Table of Contents

An abstract is a brief summary of a larger work, such as a research paper, dissertation, or conference presentation.

It provides an overview of the main points and helps readers decide whether to read the entire document.

Abstracts are typically 150-250 words and include the research problem, methods, results, and conclusion. They are essential for academic writing and are often the first part of your work that readers see.

Types of Abstracts

Different types of abstracts serve various purposes.

Understanding these types will help you write the most effective abstract for your specific needs.

1. Descriptive Abstracts

Descriptive abstracts provide a brief overview of the work’s purpose and focus. They do not include the study’s results or conclusions. These abstracts are often used for shorter papers or reports.

2. Informative Abstracts

Informative abstracts are comprehensive summaries that include the main arguments, results, and conclusions of the work. They are used for longer, more detailed papers and provide a complete snapshot of the study.

3. Critical Abstracts

Critical abstracts not only summarize the work but also provide a critical evaluation. They discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the study and are less common in scientific writing.

4. Highlight Abstracts

Highlight abstracts are written to catch the reader’s attention and make them want to read the full document. They are often used in promotional materials and conference programs.

5. Structured Abstracts

Structured abstracts follow a specific format with headings like Background, Methods, Results, and Conclusion. This format is common in medical and scientific journals.

How to Write an Abstract

Writing an abstract involves summarizing the key elements of your work.

It’s both that simple and that complex. Follow these detailed steps to create a clear and effective abstract.

Step 1: Identify the Purpose

Determine the main purpose of your abstract.

Are you summarizing a research paper, lab report, dissertation, or conference presentation? This will guide your approach and format.

• Research Paper : Summarize the research question, methods, results, and implications.
• Lab Report : Focus on the experiment’s objective, methodology, key findings, and conclusions.
• Dissertation : Provide a comprehensive summary, including the research problem, methods, results, discussion, and conclusions.
• Conference Presentation : Highlight the background, research question, methods, results, and significance.

Step 2: Follow the Abstract Formula

Use this formula as a template for your abstract:

Introduction + Purpose + Methods + Results + Conclusion

Break down each part:

• Introduction : Introduce the topic and provide context. Start with a brief background that sets the stage for your research. Explain why the topic is important or interesting. Example : “The impact of social media on academic performance is a growing area of interest in educational research.”
• Purpose : Clearly state the main objective or research question. What did you aim to discover or achieve with your study? Example : “This study aims to examine the correlation between social media use and academic performance among college students.”
• Methods : Describe the methodology used to conduct the research. Include details about the study design, sample size, data collection, and analysis methods. Example : “A survey of 200 college students was conducted, collecting data on their social media usage and GPA.”
• Results : Summarize the key findings of your research. What were the main outcomes? Present the most significant data without going into too much detail. Example : “The results indicate a significant negative correlation between social media use and GPA, with higher usage linked to lower academic performance.”
• Conclusion : Discuss the implications of your findings. What do they mean for the field? What recommendations or future directions do you suggest? Example : “These findings suggest that social media use can adversely affect academic performance, highlighting the need for better time management strategies among students.”

Step 3: Write a Draft

Start by writing a rough draft of your abstract.

Focus on including the most important key points from each section of your work.

• Start with the Introduction : Write a sentence or two that introduces the topic and provides context. Make it engaging to capture the reader’s interest.
• State the Purpose : Clearly outline the main objective or research question. Be concise and specific.
• Describe the Methods : Summarize the research design, sample size, and data collection methods. Keep it brief but informative.
• Present the Results : Highlight the most important findings. Use clear and direct language to convey the key outcomes.
• Conclude with Implications : Discuss the significance of the results. Provide a brief summary of what the findings mean for the field and any recommendations.

Step 4: Review and Revise

Review your draft for clarity and conciseness. Make sure each sentence contributes to the overall summary.

• Check for Clarity : Ensure that your abstract is easy to understand. Avoid jargon and complex sentences. Each sentence should convey a clear idea.
• Be Concise : Abstracts are typically 150-250 words. Remove any unnecessary words or phrases. Focus on the essential information.
• Revise for Grammar and Punctuation : Proofread your abstract for grammatical errors and punctuation mistakes. A well-edited abstract reflects professionalism.
• Ensure Readability : Your abstract should be readable and engaging. Use active voice and strong verbs to make your writing more dynamic.
• Get Feedback : If possible, ask a colleague or mentor to review your abstract. They can provide valuable feedback and catch any mistakes you might have missed.

Step 5: Format Your Abstract

Format your abstract according to the specific guidelines of your field or publication.

This may include specific word counts, headings, or structure.

• Check the Guidelines : Review the submission guidelines for your target journal, conference, or institution. Note any specific formatting requirements.
• Use Headings if Required : Some abstracts require structured headings like Background, Methods, Results, and Conclusion. Make sure to include these if specified.
• Adhere to Word Limits : Ensure your abstract stays within the required word count. Too long or too short abstracts can be rejected.
• Maintain Consistency : Use consistent formatting throughout your abstract. This includes font type, size, and spacing.
• Include Keywords if Needed : Some abstracts require keywords. Choose 3-5 keywords that are relevant to your research and include them at the end of the abstract.

Example of a Formatted Abstract:

Title : The Impact of Social Media on Academic Performance

Objective : To examine the correlation between social media use and academic performance among college students.

Methods : A survey of 200 college students was conducted, collecting data on their social media usage and GPA.

Results : The results indicate a significant negative correlation between social media use and GPA, with higher usage linked to lower academic performance.

Conclusion : These findings suggest that social media use can adversely affect academic performance, highlighting the need for better time management strategies among students.

Check out this good video about how to write an abstract:

Example Abstracts

Now let’s look at example abstracts for some of the most common types of abstracts you might encounter.

1. How to Write an Abstract in APA

APA abstracts typically include the following sections:

• Objective : State the main research question or objective.
• Methods : Describe the research methods used.
• Results : Summarize the main findings.
• Conclusion : Highlight the significance of the results.

Objective : This study investigates the impact of social media on academic performance. Methods : A survey of 200 college students was conducted. Results : The results indicate a significant negative correlation between social media use and GPA. Conclusion : Social media use can adversely affect academic performance, suggesting the need for better time management strategies.

2. How to Write an Abstract for a Research Paper

Research paper abstracts should include:

• Purpose : The main research problem or question.
• Methods : The approach used to investigate the problem.
• Results : The main findings or outcomes.
• Implications : The significance or impact of the results.

Purpose : To explore the relationship between sleep quality and mental health. Methods : A longitudinal study was conducted with 500 participants over six months. Results : Poor sleep quality was found to correlate with increased levels of anxiety and depression. Implications : These findings suggest that improving sleep quality could be beneficial for mental health interventions.

3. How to Write an Abstract for a Lab Report

Lab report abstracts should be concise and include:

• Background : Brief context for the experiment.
• Objective : The main aim of the experiment.
• Methods : A summary of the procedures used.
• Results : Key findings from the experiment.
• Conclusion : The implications of the findings.

Background : Photosynthesis is a crucial process for plant life. Objective : To measure the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis. Methods : Spinach leaves were exposed to varying light intensities, and oxygen production was measured. Results : Higher light intensity increased the rate of photosynthesis. Conclusion : Light intensity directly affects the rate of photosynthesis, highlighting the importance of adequate lighting for plant growth.

4. How to Write an Abstract for a Conference

Conference abstracts should attract attention and include:

• Title : A clear, informative title.
• Background : The context and significance of the study.
• Objective : The main aim or research question.
• Methods : The approach or methodology.
• Results : The main findings.
• Conclusion : The implications or next steps.

Title : The Future of Renewable Energy: Advances in Solar Technology Background : Renewable energy is crucial for sustainable development. Objective : To evaluate recent advancements in solar technology. Methods : A review of current literature and case studies. Results : New technologies have significantly increased the efficiency of solar panels. Conclusion : Continued innovation in solar technology is essential for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and achieving environmental sustainability.

5. How to Write an Abstract for a Literature Review

Literature review abstracts should include:

• Background : The scope and relevance of the review.
• Objective : The main focus or research question.
• Methods : The criteria for selecting and analyzing sources.
• Results : Key findings or trends identified.
• Conclusion : The implications or gaps in the literature.

Background : Social media has transformed communication in the 21st century. Objective : To review the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships. Methods : An analysis of 50 peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2020. Results : Social media can both positively and negatively affect relationships, depending on usage patterns. Conclusion : Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of social media on interpersonal relationships.

6. How to Write an Abstract for a Dissertation

Dissertation abstracts should provide a comprehensive overview and include:

• Introduction : The research problem or question.
• Methods : The research design and methodology.
• Discussion : The significance and implications of the findings.
• Conclusion : The overall conclusions and recommendations.

Introduction : This dissertation examines the impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems. Methods : A mixed-methods approach was used, including field studies and laboratory experiments. Results : Rising sea levels and increased temperatures are causing significant changes in coastal biodiversity. Discussion : These changes have profound implications for ecosystem services and human livelihoods. Conclusion : Immediate action is required to mitigate the impacts of climate change on coastal ecosystems.

7. How to Write an Abstract (Formula + Template)

Use this general template to draft your abstract:

Introduction : Briefly introduce the topic and research question. Methods : Summarize the approach and methodology used. Results : Highlight the main findings. Conclusion : Discuss the significance and implications of the results.

Introduction : This study investigates the relationship between diet and cognitive function in older adults. Methods : A cohort of 300 participants was monitored over five years, with dietary intake and cognitive performance assessed annually. Results : A diet rich in fruits and vegetables was associated with better cognitive performance. Conclusion : Dietary interventions could play a key role in maintaining cognitive health in aging populations.

Note: Not all abstracts include the bolded terms (intro, methods, results, conclusion). Always refer to and follow the exact instructions and examples in your class or field of study.

How to Write an Abstract: Summary Table

Final thoughts.

Writing an abstract is a crucial skill for academic success.

By understanding the different types of abstracts and following a structured approach, you can create effective summaries for any type of work. Remember, clarity and conciseness are key. With practice, you’ll be able to write abstracts that accurately reflect your research and engage your readers.

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How to Write an Abstract That Professors Can’t Ignore – In Less Than 30 Minutes!

Writing an abstract can seem daunting, but with the right approach, you can create one that grabs attention in under 30 minutes. An abstract is a brief summary of your research, and it plays a vital role in helping readers understand the essence of your work. This guide will break down how to craft a compelling abstract that professors will notice, using simple steps and clear examples.

Key Takeaways

• An abstract should clearly summarize your research and its importance.
• Start with a strong opening sentence to catch the reader's interest.
• Keep your language simple and avoid complex terms.
• Edit your abstract for clarity and ask for feedback from others.
• Manage your time wisely to write an effective abstract quickly.

Understanding the Purpose of an Abstract

An abstract serves as a brief summary of your research paper, providing readers with a quick overview of your work. It is the first thing people see after your title , making it crucial for capturing their attention.

Defining an Abstract in Academic Writing

An abstract is a concise description of your paper, usually limited to one paragraph of 300 words or less. It summarizes the major aspects of your research, including the purpose, methods, results, and conclusions. This allows readers to quickly determine the relevance of your work to their interests.

The Role of an Abstract in Research Papers

The abstract plays a vital role in research papers by:

• Guiding readers to understand the main points of your work.
• Helping researchers decide whether to read the full paper.
• Enhancing the visibility of your research in academic databases.

Why Professors Value Well-Written Abstracts

Professors appreciate well-crafted abstracts because they:

• Save time by providing a clear summary of the research.
• Help in evaluating the quality and relevance of the work.
• Serve as a reflection of the writer's ability to communicate effectively.

In summary, a well-written abstract is essential for engaging your audience and ensuring that your research is recognized and valued in the academic community. By understanding its purpose, you can craft an abstract that stands out and captures the attention of professors and peers alike.

Key Components of a Compelling Abstract

Essential Elements to Include

When writing an abstract, it’s crucial to include the following key components:

• Title : Clearly state the title of your research.
• Background : Provide context for your study.
• Objectives : Outline the main goals of your research.
• Methods : Briefly describe the methods used in your study.
• Results : Summarize the main findings.
• Conclusion : Highlight the significance of your work.

Balancing Brevity and Detail

A compelling abstract must strike a balance between being concise and informative. Aim for clarity while ensuring that you cover all essential points. Use clear language and avoid unnecessary jargon to make your abstract accessible to a wider audience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To enhance the effectiveness of your abstract, be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Overloading with Information : Keep it focused and relevant.
• Neglecting the Abstract’s Purpose : Remember, it’s a summary, not a detailed report.
• Ignoring Formatting Guidelines : Adhere to any specific formatting requirements provided by your institution or publisher.

Pre-Writing Strategies for a Quick Abstract

Brainstorming key points.

Before you start writing your abstract, take a moment to brainstorm key points . This helps you gather your thoughts and focus on what’s important. Here are some tips:

• Write down all ideas that come to mind.
• Use a tool like WhatsApp to share ideas with peers for feedback.
• Highlight the most relevant points that align with your research.

Creating a Rough Outline

Once you have your ideas, create a rough outline. This will serve as a roadmap for your abstract. Consider these steps:

• Organize your key points into a logical order.
• Identify the main argument or thesis of your research.
• Ensure each section of your outline corresponds to the essential components of an abstract.

Identifying Your Audience

Understanding your audience is crucial. Ask yourself:

• Who will read your abstract?
• What are their expectations?
• How can you make your abstract appealing to them?

By keeping these strategies in mind, you can write an abstract that captures attention and conveys your research effectively. Remember, a well-structured abstract can make a significant difference in how your work is perceived.

Crafting a Strong Opening Sentence

The importance of the first sentence.

The first sentence of your abstract is crucial. It sets the tone and grabs the reader's attention. A strong opening can make your research stand out. Consider starting with a compelling fact or a thought-provoking question that relates to your study. This approach not only engages your audience but also provides context for your research.

Techniques for Engaging Openings

To craft an engaging opening, you can use several techniques:

• Start with a surprising statistic that highlights the importance of your research topic.
• Pose a question that your research aims to answer, inviting curiosity.
• Use a brief anecdote or scenario that illustrates the relevance of your work.

Examples of Effective Opening Lines

Here are some examples of effective opening lines:

• "Did you know that nearly 70% of students struggle with writing abstracts?"
• "This study investigates the impact of social media on academic performance, a topic that has gained significant attention in recent years."
• "In an era where information overload is common, understanding how to summarize research effectively is more important than ever."

By focusing on these strategies, you can create an opening sentence that not only captures attention but also clearly communicates the essence of your research. Remember, the abstract should be a concise summary of your paper, with 1–2 sentences on each of these topics, ensuring clarity and engagement throughout.

Summarizing Your Research Effectively

Highlighting main findings.

When summarizing your research, focus on the main findings that support your thesis. This is crucial because it helps your readers understand the core of your work. Here are some tips to effectively highlight your findings:

• Be specific : Use clear and direct language to convey your results.
• Use data : If applicable, present your findings in a table for clarity. For example:

Discussing Methodology Briefly

In your abstract, briefly mention your methodology . This gives context to your findings. You might say something like:

• "This study utilized a qualitative approach to gather data from 100 participants."
• "Data was analyzed using statistical software to ensure accuracy."
• "A mixed-methods approach was employed to enhance the depth of the research."

Emphasizing the Significance of Your Work

Finally, it’s important to emphasize the significance of your work . This is where you can explain why your research matters. Consider these points:

• Impact on the field : How does your research contribute to existing knowledge?
• Practical applications : What real-world problems does your research address?
• Future research : Suggest areas for further investigation based on your findings.

By following these guidelines, you can create a compelling summary that captures the essence of your research and engages your audience effectively. Remember, a well-crafted abstract can make a significant difference in how your work is perceived, especially when you know how to write thesis easily .

Maintaining Clarity and Conciseness

Avoiding jargon and complex terms.

When writing your abstract, it’s crucial to use simple language. Avoid using jargon that might confuse your readers. Instead, aim for clarity by choosing words that everyone can understand. Here are some tips:

• Use everyday language.
• Replace complex terms with simpler alternatives.
• Ensure that your sentences are straightforward.

Using Clear and Direct Language

Your abstract should communicate your ideas effectively. Direct language helps convey your message without unnecessary fluff. Consider the following:

• Be specific about your research.
• Use active voice whenever possible.
• Keep your sentences short and to the point.

Tips for Concise Writing

Conciseness is key in an abstract. You want to convey your message in as few words as possible while still being informative. Here are some strategies:

• Eliminate redundant phrases.
• Focus on essential information only .
• Review your abstract multiple times to cut unnecessary words.

By following these guidelines, you can create an abstract that is both clear and concise, making it more likely to catch the attention of professors. Remember, clarity and brevity are your best friends in academic writing!

Editing and Refining Your Abstract

Self-editing techniques.

Editing your abstract is crucial for clarity and impact. Here are some effective self-editing techniques:

• Read your abstract aloud to catch awkward phrases and errors.
• Take a break after writing, then return with fresh eyes to spot mistakes.
• Use a checklist to ensure all key components are included.

Seeking Feedback from Peers

Getting feedback from peers can provide valuable insights. Consider the following:

• Choose peers who understand your topic to give informed feedback.
• Ask specific questions about clarity and engagement.
• Be open to constructive criticism ; it can enhance your work.

Revising for Clarity and Impact

When revising, focus on making your abstract as clear and impactful as possible. Here are some tips:

• Cut unnecessary words ; aim for concise language. Editing for conciseness often involves cutting out redundant words or phrases and refining your language to be as precise as possible.
• Ensure your verb tenses are consistent ; for example, use the simple past tense when describing your study. For example, in the following excerpt from an abstract, the verb tense for describing the study should be in the simple past tense, but the ai editor changed it...
• Highlight the significance of your findings to engage your audience effectively.

By following these steps, you can refine your abstract into a polished piece that captures attention and communicates your research effectively.

Time Management Tips for Quick Abstract Writing

Setting a timer for each section.

To maximize your efficiency, set a timer for each part of your abstract writing. This helps you stay focused and prevents you from spending too much time on any one section. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Prewriting and Outlining : 10 minutes
• Drafting : 15 minutes
• Revising and Editing : 5 minutes

Prioritizing Key Information

When writing your abstract, it’s crucial to prioritize the most important information. Focus on:

• Main findings of your research.
• Briefly discussing your methodology .
• Emphasizing the significance of your work.

Avoiding Procrastination

Procrastination can derail your writing process. To combat this, consider these strategies:

• Break your writing into smaller tasks.
• Set specific goals for each writing session.
• Reward yourself after completing each section.

By following these time management tips, you can learn how to write a thesis fast and effectively manage your time, ensuring that your abstract stands out to professors. Remember, a well-structured approach can make all the difference in your writing process!

Utilizing Abstract Writing Tools and Resources

Writing an abstract can be a daunting task, but utilizing the right tools and resources can make it much easier. Here are some effective strategies to help you create a compelling abstract in a short amount of time.

Free Online Abstract Generators

One of the most helpful resources is a free online abstract generator . These tools use natural language processing algorithms to identify key points from your research and synthesize them into a concise abstract. This can save you valuable time and ensure that you capture the essence of your work.

Academic Writing Software

Consider using academic writing software that offers features specifically designed for abstract writing. These programs often include templates and guidelines that can help you structure your abstract effectively. Some popular options include:

• Grammarly : For grammar and style checks.
• EndNote : For managing references and citations.
• Mendeley : For organizing research and notes.

Helpful Guides and Templates

Many universities provide guides and templates for writing abstracts. These resources can help you understand the specific requirements and expectations for your field. Look for:

• University writing centers : They often have downloadable resources.
• Online academic blogs : These can provide tips and examples of successful abstracts.
• Research Rebels : They offer a comprehensive solution for students struggling with thesis writing, including a lifetime access to thesis action plan + academic project planner .

By leveraging these tools and resources, you can streamline your abstract writing process and create a document that stands out to professors. Remember, a well-crafted abstract is your first chance to make a strong impression!

Learning from Examples of Successful Abstracts

Analyzing published abstracts.

When you look at successful abstracts, you can learn a lot about what works. Pay attention to how they summarize key points. Here are some aspects to consider:

• Clarity : Is the main idea easy to understand?
• Structure : Does it follow a logical order?
• Brevity : Is it concise without losing important details?

Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses

By examining various abstracts, you can spot common strengths and weaknesses. For example:

• Strengths : Clear language, focused content, and engaging openings.
• Weaknesses : Overly complex terms, lack of focus, or missing key information.

Applying Lessons to Your Own Writing

Once you identify what makes an abstract effective, you can apply these lessons to your own writing. Here are some tips:

• Use simple language to convey your ideas.
• Highlight your main findings clearly.
• Avoid unnecessary jargon that might confuse readers.

By learning from examples, you can create an abstract that stands out and captures the attention of professors. Remember, an abstract is a summary of your paper and/or research project ; it should highlight your major points.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Overloading with information.

When writing an abstract, one major mistake is overloading it with too much information . You might feel tempted to include every detail of your research, but this can overwhelm your reader. Instead, focus on the most important points. Here are some tips to avoid this pitfall:

• Identify key findings that are essential to your research.
• Limit your abstract to a specific word count, usually between 150-250 words.
• Use bullet points to highlight main ideas if necessary.

Neglecting the Abstract’s Purpose

Another common error is neglecting the purpose of the abstract. Remember, the abstract is meant to summarize your work, not to present it in full detail. To keep this in mind:

• Ask yourself what the main goal of your research is.
• Ensure that your abstract reflects this goal clearly.
• Avoid including background information that is not directly relevant to your findings.

Ignoring Formatting Guidelines

Lastly, many authors overlook formatting guidelines. Ignoring these can lead to rejection of your work. To ensure you follow the correct format:

• Check the specific requirements of the journal or conference.
• Use consistent font sizes and styles throughout.
• Include necessary sections like objectives, methods, results, and conclusions.

By being aware of these common pitfalls, you can craft an abstract that stands out and effectively communicates your research.

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Final Thoughts

In conclusion, writing an abstract that stands out is not just about following rules; it’s about connecting with your audience. By keeping your language clear and your ideas focused, you can create an abstract that grabs attention. Remember to summarize your main points and highlight the significance of your work. With practice, you can master this skill in less than thirty minutes. Embrace the process, and don’t hesitate to seek feedback. Your abstract is often the first impression of your research, so make it count!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of an abstract in academic writing.

An abstract gives a short summary of a research paper. It helps readers quickly understand the main points and decide if they want to read the whole paper.

Why do professors care about well-written abstracts?

Professors value good abstracts because they show that the writer understands their research and can communicate it clearly. A strong abstract can make a great first impression.

What should I include in my abstract?

Your abstract should cover the main findings, the methods you used, and why your work is important. Keep it brief but informative.

How can I write an abstract quickly?

To write an abstract fast, brainstorm key points, make a quick outline, and focus on the most important information. Set a timer to help you stay on track.

What are common mistakes to avoid when writing an abstract?

Avoid using too much jargon, including unnecessary details, or making it too long. Stick to the main points and keep it clear.

How can I make my opening sentence strong?

Start with a clear and engaging sentence that captures the essence of your research. This helps draw readers in right away.

What tools can help me write an abstract?

There are online abstract generators and academic writing software that can assist you. You can also find helpful guides and templates.

How can I learn from successful abstracts?

Look at published abstracts to see what works well. Identify their strengths and think about how you can apply those lessons to your own writing.

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Writing an abstract - a six point checklist (with samples)

Posted in: abstract , dissertations

The abstract is a vital part of any research paper. It is the shop front for your work, and the first stop for your reader. It should provide a clear and succinct summary of your study, and encourage your readers to read more. An effective abstract, therefore should answer the following questions:

• Why did you do this study or project?
• What did you do and how?
• What did you find?
• What do your findings mean?

So here's our run down of the key elements of a well-written abstract.

• Size - A succinct and well written abstract should be between approximately 100- 250 words.
• Background - An effective abstract usually includes some scene-setting information which might include what is already known about the subject, related to the paper in question (a few short sentences).
• Purpose  - The abstract should also set out the purpose of your research, in other words, what is not known about the subject and hence what the study intended to examine (or what the paper seeks to present).
• Methods - The methods section should contain enough information to enable the reader to understand what was done, and how. It should include brief details of the research design, sample size, duration of study, and so on.
• Results - The results section is the most important part of the abstract. This is because readers who skim an abstract do so to learn about the findings of the study. The results section should therefore contain as much detail about the findings as the journal word count permits.
• Conclusion - This section should contain the most important take-home message of the study, expressed in a few precisely worded sentences. Usually, the finding highlighted here relates to the primary outcomes of the study. However, other important or unexpected findings should also be mentioned. It is also customary, but not essential, to express an opinion about the theoretical or practical implications of the findings, or the importance of their findings for the field. Thus, the conclusions may contain three elements:
• The primary take-home message.
• Any additional findings of importance.
• Implications for future studies.

Example Abstract 2: Engineering Development and validation of a three-dimensional finite element model of the pelvic bone.

Abstract from: Dalstra, M., Huiskes, R. and Van Erning, L., 1995. Development and validation of a three-dimensional finite element model of the pelvic bone. Journal of biomechanical engineering, 117(3), pp.272-278.

And finally...  A word on abstract types and styles

Abstract types can differ according to subject discipline. You need to determine therefore which type of abstract you should include with your paper. Here are two of the most common types with examples.

Informative Abstract

The majority of abstracts are informative. While they still do not critique or evaluate a work, they do more than describe it. A good informative abstract acts as a surrogate for the work itself. That is, the researcher presents and explains all the main arguments and the important results and evidence in the paper. An informative abstract includes the information that can be found in a descriptive abstract [purpose, methods, scope] but it also includes the results and conclusions of the research and the recommendations of the author. The length varies according to discipline, but an informative abstract is usually no more than 300 words in length.

Descriptive Abstract A descriptive abstract indicates the type of information found in the work. It makes no judgements about the work, nor does it provide results or conclusions of the research. It does incorporate key words found in the text and may include the purpose, methods, and scope of the research. Essentially, the descriptive abstract only describes the work being summarised. Some researchers consider it an outline of the work, rather than a summary. Descriptive abstracts are usually very short, 100 words or less.

Adapted from Andrade C. How to write a good abstract for a scientific paper or conference presentation. Indian J Psychiatry. 2011 Apr;53(2):172-5. doi: 10.4103/0019-5545.82558. PMID: 21772657; PMCID: PMC3136027 .

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Five Steps to a Brilliant Abstract

by Dr. Jo Koster, Winthrop University

Humanities scholars and students aren’t usually taught to write abstracts like our friends in the natural and social sciences are. That’s because in the humanities, full pieces of discourse are preferred to short, condensed summaries. But in many cases you will NEED to write an abstract for your work—and a lot of what your colleagues in other disciplines know can help you.

Let’s start with the basic questions.

What is a descriptive abstract?

A descriptive abstract is the summary of work you have already completed or work you are proposing. It is not the same thing as the introduction to your work. The abstract should give readers a short, concise snapshot of the work as a whole—not just how it starts. Remember that the readers of your abstract will sometimes not read the paper as a whole, so in this short document you need to give them an overall picture of your work. If you are writing an abstract as a proposal for your research—in other words, as a request for permission to write a paper—the abstract serves to predict the kind of paper you hope to write.

What’s different about a conference paper (or informative) abstract?

A conference abstract is one you submit to have your paper considered for presentation at a professional conference (CURAH maintains a growing list of these opportunities ). The conference organizers will specify the length — rarely be more than 500 words (just short of two double-spaced pages). In an ideal world, you write your abstract after the actual paper is completed, but in some cases you may write an abstract for a paper you haven’t yet written—especially if the conference is some time away. Because the conference review committee will usually read the abstract and not your actual paper, you need to think of it as an independent document, aimed at that specific committee and connecting solidly with the theme of the conference. You may want to pick up phrasing from the conference title or call for papers in the abstract to reinforce this connection. Examine the call for papers carefully; it will specify the length of the abstract, special formatting requirements, whether the abstract will be published in the conference bulletin or proceedings, etc. Abstracts that do not meet the specified format are usually rejected early in the proceedings, so pay attention to each conference’s rules!

How wedded are you to the abstract you submit?

An abstract is a promissory note. That is, you are promising that you can and will produce the goods in the paper. Particularly in the case of a conference abstract, the organizers will make up a session based on the contents of the abstract. If you propose a paper that says you will use Foucault to comment on post-colonialism in Heat and Dust” and then show up with a paper on “Metaphors for Spring in A Bend in the River,” your paper may not fit the session where it was slotted, and you’ll look silly—and those organizers may not ask you back. While some divergence from the promised topic is acceptable (and probably inevitable if you haven’t written the paper when you submit the abstract), you need to produce a paper that’s within shouting distance of your original topic for the sake of keeping your promise.

The Five Step Process

Descriptive abstracts are usually only 100-250 words, so they must be pared down to the essentials. Typically, a descriptive abstract answers these questions:

Why did you choose this study or project? What did/will you do and how? What did you/do you hope to find? (For a completed work) What do your findings mean?

Step 1: A catchy title

Which paper would you rather go hear at a conference? ‘Issues of Heteronormativity and Gender Performance In Twain’s Novels” or “Come Back to the Raft, Huck Honey”?

Your title should be informative and focused, indicating the problem and your general approach. It’s very fashionable in the humanities to have titles featuring a catchy phrase, a colon, and then an explanation of the title. While snappy titles may help your abstract be noticed, it’s really what comes after the colon that sells the abstract, so pay attention to it. “All the World’s a Ship: Race and Ethnicity in Moby Dick” catches the eye, but “Melville’s Deconstruction of Ethnicity in the ‘Midnight, Forecastle’ Episode of Moby Dick” tells readers much more specifically what you’re promising to deliver.

Step 2: A snappy context sentence (or sentences)

The abstract should begin with a clear sense of the research question you have framed. Often writers set this up as a problem: “Although some recent scholars claim to have identified Shakespeare’s lost play Cardenio, that attribution is still not accepted.

Step 3: Introduce your argument (don’t just copy your thesis statement).

If you began with a problem, you can pose your argument as the solution: “In this paper I use the records of the Worshipful Company of Stationers, London’s chief publishing organization, to show that the play identified by Charles Hamilton in 1990 is not actually the play Shakespeare’s company mounted in 1613.” It’s perfectly legit to use “I” in sentences referring to your argument.

Step 4: Add some sentences describing how you make your argument.

It always helps when you identify the theoretical or methodological school that you are using to approach your question or position yourself within an ongoing debate. This helps readers situate your ideas in the larger conversations of your discipline. For instance, “The debate among Folsom, McGann, and Stallybrass over the notion of database as a genre (PMLA 122.5, Fall 2007) suggests that….” or “Using the definition of dataclouds proposed by Johnson-Eilola (2005), I will argue that…”

Finally, briefly state your conclusion.

“ Through analyzing Dickinson’s use of metaphor, I demonstrate that she systematically transformed Watt’s hymnal tropes as a way of asserting her own doctrinal truths. This transformation…”

Not everyone agrees how much jargon should be included in an abstract. My best advice is to add any technical terms you need, but don’t put in jargon for jargon’s sake or just to make it look like you are an expert (this especially extends to (post)modernizing your words or other typographical excrescences).

Special for conference papers:

To the basic requirements of the descriptive abstract, a conference paper abstract should also include a few sentences about how the proposed paper fits in the theme of the conference. For instance, a call for papers for a session on “Science and Literature in the 19th Century” at a conference entitled “(Dis)Junctions” requested “critical works on the interaction between scientific writing and literature in the 19th century. How did scientific discoveries, theories and assumptions (for example, in medicine and psychology, but not limited to these) influence contemporaneous fiction?” If you were submitting a paper to this session, you would want to have a sentence or two about the theories you were discussing and name the particular works where you would identify their influence. If you can work the words “join” or “junction” (or “disjunction”) into your title or abstract, you’ll increase your chance of having the paper accepted, since you’re showing clearly how the paper fits the theme of the session.

Step 5: Show the conference organizers or editors that you’re a pro.

Tell them your essay is a finished work (even if it’s only complete in your head!). It’s also considered good in a conference abstract to conclude with a sentence about your presentation, since the great horror of session chairs is the paper that runs far too long (or embarrassingly too short). Organizers also need to know if you need any special technology to present the paper. So a a much-appreciated professional touch is concluding passage such as, “My paper is complete and can be presented in 20 minutes. I will bring bring video clips on a portable drive but will need a computer, projector, and Internet access to show all my materials.”

Be professional!

Double-check your abstract to make sure it meets the length requirements. Make sure it’s edited and documented. And above all, make sure it’s submitted on time.

Here is a video version of this page, taking you from the call for papers to the finished abstract.

Check out these other guides from CURAH:

• How to write a proposal
• How to make a poster
• A list of regional and national conferences where you can present your work

Acknowledgements:

Illustrated by Ian MacInnes Thanks to Dr. Leslie Bickford for her sample abstract

I consulted and borrowed material from the following websites in preparing these suggestions:

www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/abstracts.html www.linguistics.ucsb.edu/faculty/bucholtz/sociocultural/abstracttips.html www.academic-conferences.org/abstract-guidelines.htm ceca.icom.museum/ dbase upl/writinganabstract.pdf ling.wisc.edu/macaulay/800.abstracts.html writingcenter.unlv.edu/writing/abstract.html www.lightbluetouchpaper.org/2007/03/14/how-not-to-write-an-abstract/ webapp.comcol.umass.edu/msc/absGuidelines.aspx www.oberlin.edu/history/Honors/prospectus.html www.english.eku.edu/ma/scholarlythesis.php

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How to write a good abstract for a scientific paper or conference presentation

Chittaranjan andrade.

• Author information
• Copyright and License information

Address for correspondence: Dr. Chittaranjan Andrade, Department of Psychopharmacology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore – 560 029, Karnataka, India. E-mail: [email protected]

This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0 Unported, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Abstracts of scientific papers are sometimes poorly written, often lack important information, and occasionally convey a biased picture. This paper provides detailed suggestions, with examples, for writing the background, methods, results, and conclusions sections of a good abstract. The primary target of this paper is the young researcher; however, authors with all levels of experience may find useful ideas in the paper.

Keywords: Abstract, preparing a manuscript, writing skills

INTRODUCTION

This paper is the third in a series on manuscript writing skills, published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry . Earlier articles offered suggestions on how to write a good case report,[ 1 ] and how to read, write, or review a paper on randomized controlled trials.[ 2 , 3 ] The present paper examines how authors may write a good abstract when preparing their manuscript for a scientific journal or conference presentation. Although the primary target of this paper is the young researcher, it is likely that authors with all levels of experience will find at least a few ideas that may be useful in their future efforts.

The abstract of a paper is the only part of the paper that is published in conference proceedings. The abstract is the only part of the paper that a potential referee sees when he is invited by an editor to review a manuscript. The abstract is the only part of the paper that readers see when they search through electronic databases such as PubMed. Finally, most readers will acknowledge, with a chuckle, that when they leaf through the hard copy of a journal, they look at only the titles of the contained papers. If a title interests them, they glance through the abstract of that paper. Only a dedicated reader will peruse the contents of the paper, and then, most often only the introduction and discussion sections. Only a reader with a very specific interest in the subject of the paper, and a need to understand it thoroughly, will read the entire paper.

Thus, for the vast majority of readers, the paper does not exist beyond its abstract. For the referees, and the few readers who wish to read beyond the abstract, the abstract sets the tone for the rest of the paper. It is therefore the duty of the author to ensure that the abstract is properly representative of the entire paper. For this, the abstract must have some general qualities. These are listed in Table 1 .

General qualities of a good abstract

SECTIONS OF AN ABSTRACT

Although some journals still publish abstracts that are written as free-flowing paragraphs, most journals require abstracts to conform to a formal structure within a word count of, usually, 200–250 words. The usual sections defined in a structured abstract are the Background, Methods, Results, and Conclusions; other headings with similar meanings may be used (eg, Introduction in place of Background or Findings in place of Results). Some journals include additional sections, such as Objectives (between Background and Methods) and Limitations (at the end of the abstract). In the rest of this paper, issues related to the contents of each section will be examined in turn.

This section should be the shortest part of the abstract and should very briefly outline the following information:

What is already known about the subject, related to the paper in question

What is not known about the subject and hence what the study intended to examine (or what the paper seeks to present)

In most cases, the background can be framed in just 2–3 sentences, with each sentence describing a different aspect of the information referred to above; sometimes, even a single sentence may suffice. The purpose of the background, as the word itself indicates, is to provide the reader with a background to the study, and hence to smoothly lead into a description of the methods employed in the investigation.

Some authors publish papers the abstracts of which contain a lengthy background section. There are some situations, perhaps, where this may be justified. In most cases, however, a longer background section means that less space remains for the presentation of the results. This is unfortunate because the reader is interested in the paper because of its findings, and not because of its background.

A wide variety of acceptably composed backgrounds is provided in Table 2 ; most of these have been adapted from actual papers.[ 4 – 9 ] Readers may wish to compare the content in Table 2 with the original abstracts to see how the adaptations possibly improve on the originals. Note that, in the interest of brevity, unnecessary content is avoided. For instance, in Example 1 there is no need to state “The antidepressant efficacy of desvenlafaxine (DV), a dual-acting antidepressant drug , has been established…” (the unnecessary content is italicized).

Examples of the background section of an abstract

The methods section is usually the second-longest section in the abstract. It should contain enough information to enable the reader to understand what was done, and how. Table 3 lists important questions to which the methods section should provide brief answers.

Questions regarding which information should ideally be available in the methods section of an abstract

Carelessly written methods sections lack information about important issues such as sample size, numbers of patients in different groups, doses of medications, and duration of the study. Readers have only to flip through the pages of a randomly selected journal to realize how common such carelessness is.

Table 4 presents examples of the contents of accept-ably written methods sections, modified from actual publications.[ 10 , 11 ] Readers are invited to take special note of the first sentence of each example in Table 4 ; each is packed with detail, illustrating how to convey the maximum quantity of information with maximum economy of word count.

Examples of the methods section of an abstract

The results section is the most important part of the abstract and nothing should compromise its range and quality. This is because readers who peruse an abstract do so to learn about the findings of the study. The results section should therefore be the longest part of the abstract and should contain as much detail about the findings as the journal word count permits. For example, it is bad writing to state “Response rates differed significantly between diabetic and nondiabetic patients.” A better sentence is “The response rate was higher in nondiabetic than in diabetic patients (49% vs 30%, respectively; P <0.01).”

Important information that the results should present is indicated in Table 5 . Examples of acceptably written abstracts are presented in Table 6 ; one of these has been modified from an actual publication.[ 11 ] Note that the first example is rather narrative in style, whereas the second example is packed with data.

Information that the results section of the abstract should ideally present

Examples of the results section of an abstract

CONCLUSIONS

This section should contain the most important take-home message of the study, expressed in a few precisely worded sentences. Usually, the finding highlighted here relates to the primary outcome measure; however, other important or unexpected findings should also be mentioned. It is also customary, but not essential, for the authors to express an opinion about the theoretical or practical implications of the findings, or the importance of their findings for the field. Thus, the conclusions may contain three elements:

The primary take-home message

The additional findings of importance

The perspective

Despite its necessary brevity, this section has the most impact on the average reader because readers generally trust authors and take their assertions at face value. For this reason, the conclusions should also be scrupulously honest; and authors should not claim more than their data demonstrate. Hypothetical examples of the conclusions section of an abstract are presented in Table 7 .

Examples of the conclusions section of an abstract

MISCELLANEOUS OBSERVATIONS

Citation of references anywhere within an abstract is almost invariably inappropriate. Other examples of unnecessary content in an abstract are listed in Table 8 .

Examples of unnecessary content in a abstract

It goes without saying that whatever is present in the abstract must also be present in the text. Likewise, whatever errors should not be made in the text should not appear in the abstract (eg, mistaking association for causality).

As already mentioned, the abstract is the only part of the paper that the vast majority of readers see. Therefore, it is critically important for authors to ensure that their enthusiasm or bias does not deceive the reader; unjustified speculations could be even more harmful. Misleading readers could harm the cause of science and have an adverse impact on patient care.[ 12 ] A recent study,[ 13 ] for example, concluded that venlafaxine use during the second trimester of pregnancy may increase the risk of neonates born small for gestational age. However, nowhere in the abstract did the authors mention that these conclusions were based on just 5 cases and 12 controls out of the total sample of 126 cases and 806 controls. There were several other serious limitations that rendered the authors’ conclusions tentative, at best; yet, nowhere in the abstract were these other limitations expressed.

As a parting note: Most journals provide clear instructions to authors on the formatting and contents of different parts of the manuscript. These instructions often include details on what the sections of an abstract should contain. Authors should tailor their abstracts to the specific requirements of the journal to which they plan to submit their manuscript. It could also be an excellent idea to model the abstract of the paper, sentence for sentence, on the abstract of an important paper on a similar subject and with similar methodology, published in the same journal for which the manuscript is slated.

Source of Support: Nil

Conflict of Interest: None declared.

• 1. Andrade C, Mendhekar DN. Lithium, trifluperazine, and idiopathic leucopenia: Author and reviewer perspectives on how to write a good case report. Indian J Psychiatry. 2010;52:187–90. doi: 10.4103/0019-5545.64594. [ DOI ] [ PMC free article ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]
• 2. Andrade C. A 6-week, multicentre, randomized controlled clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of placeboxetine hydrochloride in the treatment of major depressive disorder in an Indian setting. Indian J Psychiatry. 2011;53:69–72. doi: 10.4103/0019-5545.75555. [ DOI ] [ PMC free article ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]
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• 6. Andrade C, Srihari BS, Reddy KP, Chandramma L. Melatonin in medically ill patients with insomnia: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Clin Psychiatry. 2001;62:41–5. doi: 10.4088/jcp.v62n0109. [ DOI ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]
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• 8. Andrade AC, Pai S, Cardoza S, Andrade C. Personality profile of urban, female college students. Indian J Psychol Med. 1994;17:41–6. [ Google Scholar ]
• 9. Andrade C, Postma K, Abraham K. Influence of women's work status on the well-being of Indian couples. Int J Soc Psychiatry. 1999;45:65–75. doi: 10.1177/002076409904500108. [ DOI ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]
• 10. Kumar CN, Andrade C, Murthy P. A randomized, double-blind comparison of lorazepam and chlordiazepoxide in patients with uncomplicated alcohol withdrawal. J Stud Alcohol Drugs. 2009;70:457–74. doi: 10.15288/jsad.2009.70.467. [ DOI ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]
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ACS Student Magazine

How To Write a Professional, Polished Scientific Abstract

In the science world, you make your first impression long before you meet anyone in person. How? Through an abstract—that brief, powerful paragraph that describes your research.

Whether it’s for a conference presentation, journal article, grant proposal, or dissertation, the abstract—as well as the title and the author listing—is the first window into the scope and purpose of your work. It tells the reader about the content of your research and the results of your experimentation. And it tells the reviewer or editor which session or journal you belong in, so potential collaborators can find you. 

To show that your research is relevant and worth learning more about, you need to write a polished and professional abstract. Here’s how to write titles, author listings, and text for abstracts that are informative and professional in any presentation format.

Keep your title short and descriptive. Don’t oversell or sensationalize your work; simply state what it is. If you absolutely must give detail, you can add a subtitle, using a colon to separate it from the main title.

Reviewers start with the title to make sure they have you in the right session. For example, “C–H bond functionalization in long-chain alkanes” will be placed in an Organic Chemistry session, whereas “Iron oxide catalysts for hydrocarbon C–H bond functionalization” will be placed in an Inorganic Chemistry session.

Scientists use titles to see whether your work is relevant to them. If you write “Curing genetic diseases through molecular modeling”, 

you had better have the clinical trial data to back up your claim. 

“Molecular basis of multiple mitochondrial dysfunctions syndrome: Impact of substitution on the protein NFU1” will be of interest to other biochemists studying protein functionality.

Here are some additional technical tips for titles of scientific abstracts:

• Start with an adjective, a noun, or a verb. Never start with an article (e.g., “The”, “A”, or “An”).
• Do not end with punctuation; your title is not a sentence.
• Use plain text (no bold, italics, or special fonts).
• Use sentence case. The only words that need to be capitalized are the first word of the title, the first word after a colon, and any proper nouns, acronyms (e.g., FT-IR), or element symbols in formulas (e.g., NaOH).

The authors and affiliations

List the names and affiliations of everyone who contributed to the work, starting with you. If you are submitting the abstract for an oral or poster presentation, you are the presenting author and your name goes first. If you are submitting an article to a journal, your name will either go first or be highlighted in some fashion. (It depends on the protocols of the journal and the preferences of your research advisor.)

You also need to include your research advisor. With the exception of some very unusual circumstances, your project is part of a larger body of research that is coordinated by your advisor. Your advisor helped you to develop your project, guided your interpretation of the results, and provided you with laboratory space and supplies, and your results will be incorporated into your advisor’s overall body of research. So your advisor gets credit.

You should include anyone else who contributed significantly to the research, such as a labmate who performed some of the work or a colleague in another lab who assisted you with analyses.

Include your affiliation as well as that of your coauthors. Your affiliation is your school. For clarity, be sure to cite the complete name of your school, not an abbreviation or short form (e.g., use “California Institute of Technology”, not “Caltech”). Unless you are collaborating with a group outside of your department or doing research at another institution, your coauthors will have the same affiliation as you.

Abstracts are high-level summaries. They are typically no longer than 2000 characters (preferably shorter than 1000 characters). Using complete sentences, describe why the work was done, what types of experiments were completed, and the results. You are writing for other scientists, so you do not need to explain common scientific terms, only techniques specific to your research. This guideline will help you stay within the character limit.

Keep it simple. Experimental parameters, data, graphs, references, and extensive discussion of the results are for your presentation or article. If you find yourself trying to include these details, you are saying too much. Some abstract submission systems, like the ACS Meeting Abstracts Programming System (MAPS), do not accept graphs, figures, or references, so you run the risk of being rejected from a symposium. There are instances when a graph or figure is necessary, but they are the exception.

Here are some key elements to keep in mind as you are writing:

• Why is your research important?
• What problem does your work attempt to solve?
• What specific approaches did you take or methods did you use?
• What were the results?
• How does your research add to the body of knowledge?

Keeping the abstract general helps with the challenge: having to submit your abstract before you complete your research. This is especially common if you are presenting at a technical conference, like an ACS national meeting, where submissions are due six to seven months before the conference. In this case, you can submit a short abstract of the work you are planning to do, and end with, “The results of this work will be presented.”

Write in the third person using passive voice (e.g., “Microporous silicates were synthesized” rather than “I synthesized a series of microporous silicates”). In the scientific community, this is the more professional way to present research.

Finally, proofread, proofread, and proofread again. Make sure that your sentences are clear and error-free. Have a peer, grad student, or experienced labmate (or two) review your abstract for clarity, grammar, and punctuation. Also, have your research advisor review and approve it. This work represents your advisor’s lab, so your advisor should have a say in what you report.

Writing abstracts is a skill that is essential to both the research world and the business world (where it’s called an “executive summary”). Start developing this skill now to set yourself up for success later. 

ABSTRACT CHALLENGE 

See if you can spot the errors in this online quiz.

Anatomy of an Awesome Abstract

A professional abstract summarizes the scope of your research and shows why your study is worth learning more about. Check out the infographic below for a breakdown of what should be included in your abstract, and click on the image to access the PDF.

How to Write an Undergraduate Abstract, by Elzbieta Cook. www.acs.org/content/acs/en/meetings/national-meeting/agenda/student-program/undergraduate-abstract.html 

About the Author

Blake Aronson is a program manager for ACS Student Communities. She works with undergraduate programs at two- and four-year institutions, as well as the SCI Scholars Program and other ACS initiatives.

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January 27th, 2015

How to write a killer conference abstract: the first step towards an engaging presentation..

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Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Helen Kara responds to our previously published guide to writing abstracts and elaborates specifically on the differences for conference abstracts. She offers tips for writing an enticing abstract for conference organisers and an engaging conference presentation. Written grammar is different from spoken grammar. Remember that conference organisers are trying to create as interesting and stimulating an event as they can, and variety is crucial.

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The Impact blog has an  ‘essential ‘how-to’ guide to writing good abstracts’ . While this post makes some excellent points, its title and first sentence don’t differentiate between article and conference abstracts. The standfirst talks about article abstracts, but then the first sentence is, ‘Abstracts tend to be rather casually written, perhaps at the beginning of writing when authors don’t yet really know what they want to say, or perhaps as a rushed afterthought just before submission to a journal or a conference.’ This, coming so soon after the title, gives the impression that the post is about both article and conference abstracts.

I think there are some fundamental differences between the two. For example:

• Article abstracts are presented to journal editors along with the article concerned. Conference abstracts are presented alone to conference organisers. This means that journal editors or peer reviewers can say e.g. ‘great article but the abstract needs work’, while a poor abstract submitted to a conference organiser is very unlikely to be accepted.
• Articles are typically 4,000-8,000 words long. Conference presentation slots usually allow 20 minutes so, given that – for good listening comprehension – presenters should speak at around 125 words per minute, a conference presentation should be around 2,500 words long.
• Articles are written to be read from the page, while conference presentations are presented in person. Written grammar is different from spoken grammar, and there is nothing so tedious for a conference audience than the old-skool approach of reading your written presentation from the page. Fewer people do this now – but still, too many. It’s unethical to bore people! You need to engage your audience, and conference organisers will like to know how you intend to hold their interest.

Image credit:  allanfernancato  ( Pixabay, CC0 Public Domain )

The competition for getting a conference abstract accepted is rarely as fierce as the competition for getting an article accepted. Some conferences don’t even receive as many abstracts as they have presentation slots. But even then, they’re more likely to re-arrange their programme than to accept a poor quality abstract. And you can’t take it for granted that your abstract won’t face much competition. I’ve recently read over 90 abstracts submitted for the  Creative Research Methods conference in May  – for 24 presentation slots. As a result, I have four useful tips to share with you about how to write a killer conference abstract.

First , your conference abstract is a sales tool: you are selling your ideas, first to the conference organisers, and then to the conference delegates. You need to make your abstract as fascinating and enticing as possible. And that means making it different. So take a little time to think through some key questions:

• What kinds of presentations is this conference most likely to attract? How can you make yours different?
• What are the fashionable areas in your field right now? Are you working in one of these areas? If so, how can you make your presentation different from others doing the same? If not, how can you make your presentation appealing?

There may be clues in the call for papers, so study this carefully. For example, we knew that the  Creative Research Methods conference , like all general methods conferences, was likely to receive a majority of abstracts covering data collection methods. So we stated up front, in the call for papers, that we knew this was likely, and encouraged potential presenters to offer creative methods of planning research, reviewing literature, analysing data, writing research, and so on. Even so, around three-quarters of the abstracts we received focused on data collection. This meant that each of those abstracts was less likely to be accepted than an abstract focusing on a different aspect of the research process, because we wanted to offer delegates a good balance of presentations.

Currently fashionable areas in the field of research methods include research using social media and autoethnography/ embodiment. We received quite a few abstracts addressing these, but again, in the interests of balance, were only likely to accept one (at most) in each area. Remember that conference organisers are trying to create as interesting and stimulating an event as they can, and variety is crucial.

Second , write your abstract well. Unless your abstract is for a highly academic and theoretical conference, wear your learning lightly. Engaging concepts in plain English, with a sprinkling of references for context, is much more appealing to conference organisers wading through sheaves of abstracts than complicated sentences with lots of long words, definitions of terms, and several dozen references. Conference organisers are not looking for evidence that you can do really clever writing (save that for your article abstracts), they are looking for evidence that you can give an entertaining presentation.

Third , conference abstracts written in the future tense are off-putting for conference organisers, because they don’t make it clear that the potential presenter knows what they’ll be talking about. I was surprised by how many potential presenters did this. If your presentation will include information about work you’ll be doing in between the call for papers and the conference itself (which is entirely reasonable as this can be a period of six months or more), then make that clear. So, for example, don’t say, ‘This presentation will cover the problems I encounter when I analyse data with homeless young people, and how I solve those problems’, say, ‘I will be analysing data with homeless young people over the next three months, and in the following three months I will prepare a presentation about the problems we encountered while doing this and how we tackled those problems’.

Fourth , of course you need to tell conference organisers about your research: its context, method, and findings. It will also help enormously if you can take a sentence or three to explain what you intend to include in the presentation itself. So, perhaps something like, ‘I will briefly outline the process of participatory data analysis we developed, supported by slides. I will then show a two-minute video which will illustrate both the process in action and some of the problems encountered. After that, again using slides, I will outline each of the problems and how we tackled them in practice.’ This will give conference organisers some confidence that you can actually put together and deliver an engaging presentation.

So, to summarise, to maximise your chances of success when submitting conference abstracts:

• Make your abstract fascinating, enticing, and different.
• Write your abstract well, using plain English wherever possible.
• Don’t write in the future tense if you can help it – and, if you must, specify clearly what you will do and when.
• Explain your research, and also give an explanation of what you intend to include in the presentation.

While that won’t guarantee success, it will massively increase your chances. Best of luck!

This post originally appeared on the author’s personal blog and is reposted with permission.

Note: This article gives the views of the author, and not the position of the Impact of Social Science blog, nor of the London School of Economics. Please review our  Comments Policy  if you have any concerns on posting a comment below.

About the Author

Dr Helen Kara has been an independent social researcher in social care and health since 1999, and is an Associate Research Fellow at the Third Sector Research Centre , University of Birmingham. She is on the Board of the UK’s Social Research Association , with lead responsibility for research ethics. She also teaches research methods to practitioners and students, and writes on research methods. Helen is the author of Research and Evaluation for Busy Practitioners (2012) and Creative Research Methods in the Social Sciences (April 2015) , both published by Policy Press . She did her first degree in Social Psychology at the LSE.

About the author

Dr Helen Kara FAcSS has been an independent researcher since 1999 and an independent scholar since 2011. She writes about research methods and research ethics, and teaches doctoral students and staff at higher education institutions worldwide. Her books include Creative Research Methods: A Practical Guide and Research Ethics in the Real World: Euro-Western and Indigenous Perspectives for Policy Press, and Qualitative Research for Quantitative Researchers for SAGE. She is an Affiliate at Swansea University and a Visiting Fellow at the Australian National University.

34 Comments

Personally, I’d rather not see reading a presentation written off so easily, for three off the cuff reasons:

1) Reading can be done really well, especially if the paper was written to be read.

2) It seems to be well suited to certain kinds of qualitative studies, particularly those that are narrative driven.

3) It seems to require a different kind of focus or concentration — one that requires more intensive listening (as opposed to following an outline driven presentation that’s supplemented with visuals, i.e., slides).

Admittedly, I’ve read some papers before, and writing them to be read can be a rewarding process, too. I had to pay attention to details differently: structure, tone, story, etc. It can be an insightful process, especially for works in progress.

Sean, thanks for your comment, which I think is a really useful addition to the discussion. I’ve sat through so many turgid not-written-to-be-read presentations that it never occurred to me they could be done well until I heard your thoughts. What you say makes a great deal of sense to me, particularly with presentations that are consciously ‘written to be read’ out loud. I think where they can get tedious is where a paper written for the page is read out loud instead, because for me that really doesn’t work. But I love to listen to stories, and I think of some of the quality storytelling that is broadcast on radio, and of audiobooks that work well (again, in my experience, they don’t all), and I do entirely see your point.

Helen, I appreciate your encouraging me remark on such a minor part of your post(!), which I enjoyed reading and will share. And thank you for the reply and the exchange on Twitter.

Very much enjoyed your post Helen. And your subsequent comments Sean. On the subject of the reading of a presentation. I agree that some people can write a paper specifically to be read and this can be done well. But I would think that this is a dying art. Perhaps in the humanities it might survive longer. Reading through the rest of your post I love the advice. I’m presenting at my first LIS conference next month and had I read your post first I probably would have written it differently. Advice for the future for me.

Martin – and Sean – thank you so much for your kind comments. Maybe there are steps we can take to keep the art alive; advocates for it, such as Sean, will no doubt help. And, Martin, if you’re presenting next month, you must have done perfectly well all by yourself! Congratulations on the acceptance, and best of luck for the presentation.

Great article! Obvious at it may seem, a point zero may be added before the other four: which _are_ your ideas?

A scientific writing coach told me she often runs a little exercise with her students. She tells them to put away their (journal) abstract and then asks them to summarize the bottom line in three statements. After some thinking, the students come up with an answer. Then the coach tells the students to reach for the abstract, read it and look for the bottom line they just summarised. Very often, they find that their own main observations and/or conclusions are not clearly expressed in the abstract.

PS I love the line “It’s unethical to bore people!” 🙂

Thanks for your comment, Olle – that’s a great point. I think something happens to us when we’re writing, in which we become so clear about what we want to say that we think we’ve said it even when we haven’t. Your friend’s exercise sounds like a great trick for finding out when we’ve done that. And thanks for the compliments, too!

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Thank you very much for the tips, they are really helpful. I have actually been accepted to present a PuchaKucha presentation in an educational interdisciplinary conference at my university. my presentation would be about the challenges faced by women in my country. So, it would be just a review of the literature. from what I’ve been reading, conferences are about new research and your new ideas… Is what I’m doing wrong??? that’s my first conference I’ll be speaking in and I’m afraid to ruin it!!! I will be really grateful about any advice ^_^

First of all: you’re not going to ruin the conference, even if you think you made a bad presentation. You should always remember that people are not very concerned about you–they are mostly concerned about themselves. Take comfort in that thought!

Here are some notes: • If it is a Pecha Kucha night, you stand in front of a mixed audience. Remember that scientists understand layman’s stuff, but laymen don’t understand scientists stuff. • Pecha Kucha is also very VISUAL! Remember that you can’t control the flow of slides – they change every 20 seconds. • Make your main messages clear. You can use either one of these templates.

A. Which are the THREE most important observations, conclusions, implications or messages from your study?

B. Inform them! (LOGOS) Engage them! (PATHOS) Make an impression! (ETHOS)

C. What do you do as a scientist/is a study about? What problem(s) do you address? How is your research different? Why should I care?

Good luck and remember to focus on (1) the audience, (2) your mission, (3) your stuff and (4) yourself, in that order.

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I don’t know whether it’s just me or if perhaps everybody else encountering problems with your site. It appears as if some of the text in your content are running off the screen. Can someone else please comment and let me know if this is happening to them as well? This could be a issue with my browser because I’ve had this happen before. Thank you

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Thank you Dr Kara for the great guide on creating killer abstracts for conferences. I am preparing to write an abstract for my first conference presentation and this has been educative and insightful. ‘ I choose to be ethical and not bore my audience’.

Thank you Judy for your kind comment. I wish you luck with your abstract and your presentation. Helen

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Dear Dr. Helen Kara, Can there be an abstract for a topic presentation? I need to present a topic in a conference.I searched in the net and couldnt find anything like an abstract for a topic presentation but only found abstract for article presentation. Urgent.Help!

Dear Rekha Sthapit, I think it would be the same – but if in doubt, you could ask the conference organisers to clarify what they mean by ‘topic presentation’. Good luck!

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Tips for Writing an Excellent Conference Abstract

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Have you ever attended a nursing conference and thought to yourself that someday you would love to present a session at this conference? Perhaps you submitted an abstract that didn’t get accepted. Have you read a call for abstracts and wished you knew how to write an excellent abstract? Maybe you are ready to take your professional growth to the next level by presenting at a national conference. Following are some tips to help you write an excellent conference abstract.

The road to an outstanding abstract begins with carefully reviewing the submission guidelines for the conference.

Before You Begin

• Read the directions carefully and often.
• Understand the format, length and content expected.
• Seek a mentor who has experience writing abstracts.
• Allow yourself enough time to prepare a first-rate submission; waiting until the last minute rarely results in quality content.
• Make sure there is evidence to support your topic, and provide current references.

Selecting a Topic

Let’s start at the beginning of your submission with the topic of your abstract. Consider the audience who attends the conference, and think of clinical or professional practice topics that would be meaningful and valuable to them. Timely and relevant topics with fresh ideas and takeaways are a great way to start, and they include:

• New research or clinical guidelines
• Topics that highlight your area of expertise
• Topics that are relevant to conference attendees
• Subjects that apply to current practice challenges or workplace concerns
• Narrowing your topic to focus on key information that will fit in the time allotted

Abstract Titles

The title is the first thing abstract scorers and conference attendees will see, so it is worth spending some time trying a few variations to see what conveys the main point of your abstract and entices the audience to read further:

• Keep the title clear and concise; be certain it accurately reflects your presentation.
• Catchy titles grab the reader’s attention, yet describe the subject well.
• A title with 12 or fewer words is optimal.

Abstract Content

Plan your abstract thoroughly before writing it. A high-quality abstract addresses the problem or question, the evidence and the solutions. It is important to give an overview of what you intend to include in the presentation. Abstracts should be concise but also informative. Sentences should be short to convey the needed information and free of words or phrases that do not add value. Keep your audience in mind as you prepare your abstract. How much background information you provide on a topic will depend on the conference. It is a good idea to explain how you plan to engage the audience with your teaching methods, such as case studies, polling or audience participation.

• After the title, the first sentence should be a hook that grabs the reader’s attention and entices them to continue reading.
• The second sentence should be a focused problem statement supported by evidence.
• The next few sentences provide the solution to the problem.
• The conclusion should reiterate the purpose of your presentation in one or two sentences.

Learning Objectives

If the conference abstract requires learning objectives, start each one with an action verb. Action verbs are words such as apply, demonstrate, explain, identify, outline and analyze. Refrain from using nonaction verbs and phrases such as understand, recognize, be able to, and become familiar with. Learning objectives must be congruent with the purpose, session description/summary and abstract text. For a list of action verbs, refer to a Bloom’s Taxonomy chart .

Editing Your Abstract

Editing is an important part of the abstract submission process. The editing phase will help you see the abstract as a whole and remove unnecessary words or phrases that do not provide value:

• The final draft should be clear and easy to read and understand.
• Your language should be professional and adhere to abstract guidelines.
• Writing in the present tense is preferred.
• If there is more than one author, each author should review and edit the draft.
• Ask a colleague who is a good editor to critique your work.
• Reread your abstract and compare it with the abstract guidelines.
• Great content that is written poorly will not be accepted.
• Prevent typographical errors by writing your submission as a Word document first, and copy and paste it into the submission platform after you check spelling and grammar.
• Follow word and character count instructions, abstract style and formatting guidelines.
• Do not try to bend the rules to fit your needs; authors who do not follow the guidelines are more likely to have their submission rejected.
• After you finish writing your abstract, put it aside and return later with a fresh mind before submitting it.

Grammar Tips

• Avoid ampersands (&) and abbreviations such as, etc.
• Parenthetical remarks (however relevant they may seem) are rarely necessary.
• It is usually incorrect to split an infinitive. An infinitive consists of the word “to” and the simple form of a verb (e.g., to go, to read).
• Examples: “To suddenly go” and “to quickly read” are examples of split infinitives, because the adverbs (suddenly and quickly) split (break up) the infinitives to go and to read.
• Contractions are not used in scholarly writing. Using contractions in academic writing is usually not encouraged, because it can make your writing sound informal.
• I’m = I am
• They’re = They are
• I’d = I had
• She’s = She is
• How’s = How is
• Avoid quotations.
• Do not be redundant or use more words than necessary.
• Use an active voice.

National Teaching Institute (NTI) Submissions

We invite you to participate in AACN’s mission to advance, promote and distribute information through education, research and science. The API (Advanced Practice Institute) and NTI volunteer committees review and score every abstract submitted for NTI. Abstracts are reviewed for relevance of content, quality of writing and expression of ideas. At NTI there are four session times to choose from. Your abstract should demonstrate that you have enough content to cover the selected time frame.

Session Types for NTI

• Mastery: 2.5 hours of content
• Concurrent: 60- or 75-minute sessions
• Preconference half-day: 3 hours of content
• Preconference full-day: 6 hours of content

Links for NTI Submissions

• Submit an abstract for NTI
• Read the Live Abstract Guidelines before submitting your abstract

Putting time and effort into writing an excellent abstract is the gateway to a podium presentation. It’s time to kickstart your professional growth and confidently submit a conference abstract.

For what conference will you submit an abstract?

This is an excellent blog with very sound advice. It has great content for nurses who are wanting to submit an abstract but feel they do not know whe ... re to start and so they never take the opportunity to do it. Read More

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Best Practices for Abstract Writing and Presentation

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The development of an abstract, poster, or podium presentation is a significant undertaking. Presenting the scope of your work in a concise and effective way can be daunting, but it does not have to be. Erica Fischer-Cartlidge, MSN, CNS, CBCN ® , AOCNS ® , a clinical nurse specialist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, provided advice on abstract writing and presentation.

What Are the First Steps In Writing an Effective Abstract?

First, consider the conference goals and objectives to ensure that your research has a place there. If it’s a good fit, begin writing an abstract that clearly demonstrates the relevance of your presentation. Before starting this work, determine if your employer’s approval is needed for you to submit your research. Once approval is granted, gather all necessary information for a complete abstract.

Clearly identify your purpose, methods, findings, and discussion points for nursing implications. Identify all authors who contributed to your work, and include their names, credentials, and work settings. Determine if you are the project leader or facilitator, and include other coauthors, if applicable. In some cases, the number of coauthors who can be listed is limited by abstract guidelines.

It’s important to adhere to all abstract guidelines. Identify necessary sections, headers, and other formatting requirements, particularly word counts, as outlined by the selection committee. These can help you fill out the content of your abstract by acting as an outline. Work with coauthors to decide which parts of the research belong in each section. Selection committees will use scoring criteria to evaluate each abstract. Review them to guide you in selecting the right content for your abstract.

What Are Some Best Practices for Writing an Abstract?

Beyond including the required content and following formatting guidelines, incorporate other style considerations. Use abbreviations only when necessary and only after writing out the terminology on first reference. Present findings with data and statistics; leave speculations and conclusion for the discussion section. A good rule of thumb to follow is the mnemonic KISS : Keep It Short and Simple. Your reader should be left wanting, not wondering.

Write to express, not to impress. Your abstract will be clearer if participants always appear before verbs and you avoid passive voice (e.g., “we studied,” “patients reported”). And, of course, select an informative and dynamic title.

When finished, it helps to read your abstract aloud to get a sense flow and clarity, and to catch errors. Be sure to do a “human” check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation; don’t rely on spellcheck programs alone. Ask a friend or colleague to read your abstract draft to ensure that your work is clear and understandable. And, finally, score your abstract against the conference scoring criteria. How does it measure up?

Once the Abstract Is Accepted, How Is the Work Generally Presented?

You may present your work in three ways: poster, podium, or lecture. (Abstract submission guidelines may ask you to specify whether you are submitting for a podium or a poster.) Usually, the type of presentation is determined by relevance of the subject to the conference goals and the scoring during the review process. Lectureship is generally a separate process. Posters may be a standard paper poster, a moderated poster, or an electronic poster.

Moderated posters or electronic posters include a short (less than five minutes) verbal presentation of the project, in addition to the visual poster you create. Electronic posters involve the projection of the poster on a computer or television monitor instead of printing it on paper to hang for display.

Podium presentations are grouped by subject, and the sessions generally include three to five presenters who cover related topics. Each presenter typically has about 15 minutes to verbally present the work alongside accompanying slides.

What Are the Key Considerations in Developing and Executing a Presentation?

Review formatting guidelines before starting your work. Use institutional branding when appropriate. Be consistent with fonts, bullets, justification, indentation, and point size. Limit the use of all capitals and italics. The content and organization should mirror the sections of your abstract. When reporting data, find the best visual representation for the information you are sharing.

• Bar graphs show trends, similarity, or differences among groups of information.
• Line graphs demonstrate change over time for a group of data.
• Pie charts represent parts of a whole.

For podium sessions, your research will appear in a slide presentation. Slides should emphasize your verbal content—don’t simply read from them. For this reason, aim for slides to have no more than six lines of text, as more than this can crowd the slide and distract the audience from the content. In some cases, graphics and images can replace text on a slide to better engage the audience.

In formatting your content, simpler is better. Avoid complete sentences, and avoid abbreviations for terms that are not general knowledge to your audience. Finally, pay careful attention to correct presentation of schools, titles, degrees, and more. Make sure these are capitalized, accurate, and complete.

Posters require a slightly different approach. Again, be sure to read the criteria and follow the requirements closely. Before beginning, find out whether your institution has branded templates for conferences; your organization’s information technology, graphics, or public affairs departments may be able to help you with this. When designing the poster, minimize text and use bullets for key points. Avoid excess white space. Enhance your text with graphs, photos, and/or smart art. Variation in column sizes can help enhance the design of your poster.

What Tips Can You Give for Delivering the Presentation?

Dress to impress. Come prepared with business cards and any applicable handouts. Arrive early to assess your environment. Where is the slide show projected? How is the microphone set up?

Test the microphone and volume before the presentation start time.

While presenting, make eye contact with members of the audience. Do not simply read the content from your slides—remember, these are talking points only. When fielding audience questions, allow the question to be asked fully before answering. Rephrase the attendee’s question, and repeat it into the microphone for the other audience members. Avoid over answering, be diplomatic with controversy, and don’t misrepresent any information.

Editor’s Note: This interview was edited from materials presented by Erica Fischer-Cartlidge, MSN, CNS, CBCN ® , AOCNS ® , clinical nurse specialist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, at the 2017 ONS 42nd Annual Congress.

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• How to Write an Abstract

Expedite peer review, increase search-ability, and set the tone for your study

The abstract is your chance to let your readers know what they can expect from your article. Learn how to write a clear, and concise abstract that will keep your audience reading.

How your abstract impacts editorial evaluation and future readership

After the title , the abstract is the second-most-read part of your article. A good abstract can help to expedite peer review and, if your article is accepted for publication, it’s an important tool for readers to find and evaluate your work. Editors use your abstract when they first assess your article. Prospective reviewers see it when they decide whether to accept an invitation to review. Once published, the abstract gets indexed in PubMed and Google Scholar , as well as library systems and other popular databases. Like the title, your abstract influences keyword search results. Readers will use it to decide whether to read the rest of your article. Other researchers will use it to evaluate your work for inclusion in systematic reviews and meta-analysis. It should be a concise standalone piece that accurately represents your research. 

What to include in an abstract

The main challenge you’ll face when writing your abstract is keeping it concise AND fitting in all the information you need. Depending on your subject area the journal may require a structured abstract following specific headings. A structured abstract helps your readers understand your study more easily. If your journal doesn’t require a structured abstract it’s still a good idea to follow a similar format, just present the abstract as one paragraph without headings. 

Background or Introduction – What is currently known? Start with a brief, 2 or 3 sentence, introduction to the research area. 

Objectives or Aims – What is the study and why did you do it? Clearly state the research question you’re trying to answer.

Methods – What did you do? Explain what you did and how you did it. Include important information about your methods, but avoid the low-level specifics. Some disciplines have specific requirements for abstract methods. 

• CONSORT for randomized trials.
• STROBE for observational studies
• PRISMA for systematic reviews and meta-analyses

Results – What did you find? Briefly give the key findings of your study. Include key numeric data (including confidence intervals or p values), where possible.

Conclusions – What did you conclude? Tell the reader why your findings matter, and what this could mean for the ‘bigger picture’ of this area of research. 

Writing tips

The main challenge you may find when writing your abstract is keeping it concise AND convering all the information you need to.

• Keep it concise and to the point. Most journals have a maximum word count, so check guidelines before you write the abstract to save time editing it later.
• Write for your audience. Are they specialists in your specific field? Are they cross-disciplinary? Are they non-specialists? If you’re writing for a general audience, or your research could be of interest to the public keep your language as straightforward as possible. If you’re writing in English, do remember that not all of your readers will necessarily be native English speakers.
• Focus on key results, conclusions and take home messages.
• Write your paper first, then create the abstract as a summary.
• Check the journal requirements before you write your abstract, eg. required subheadings.
• Include keywords or phrases to help readers search for your work in indexing databases like PubMed or Google Scholar.
• Double and triple check your abstract for spelling and grammar errors. These kind of errors can give potential reviewers the impression that your research isn’t sound, and can make it easier to find reviewers who accept the invitation to review your manuscript. Your abstract should be a taste of what is to come in the rest of your article.

Don’t

• Sensationalize your research.
• Speculate about where this research might lead in the future.
• Use abbreviations or acronyms (unless absolutely necessary or unless they’re widely known, eg. DNA).
• Repeat yourself unnecessarily, eg. “Methods: We used X technique. Results: Using X technique, we found…”
• Contradict anything in the rest of your manuscript.
• Include content that isn’t also covered in the main manuscript.
• Include citations or references.

Tip: How to edit your work

Editing is challenging, especially if you are acting as both a writer and an editor. Read our guidelines for advice on how to refine your work, including useful tips for setting your intentions, re-review, and consultation with colleagues.

• How to Write a Great Title
• How to Write Your Methods
• How to Report Statistics
• How to Write Discussions and Conclusions
• How to Edit Your Work

The contents of the Peer Review Center are also available as a live, interactive training session, complete with slides, talking points, and activities. …

The contents of the Writing Center are also available as a live, interactive training session, complete with slides, talking points, and activities. …

There’s a lot to consider when deciding where to submit your work. Learn how to choose a journal that will help your study reach its audience, while reflecting your values as a researcher…