How To Write An Abstract

 

What is an Abstract?

An abstract is usually a summary of an already written paper or other academic writing but can sometimes be written in the form of a proposal. Often, in undergraduate courses the professor or instructor requires an abstract in the form of a proposal before an essay is written. Academic conferences usually require abstracts in order for the organizers to properly review the submission and to decide if it is suitable for their respective conference.

How Do You Write Your Abstract?

The key to writing an abstract is (1) stating your subject and (2) saying how you will investigate it.

1. It is important to state your topic. You can do this in the same way you would write an introduction to a paper; you do not necessarily begin with stating “I am writing on [topic]” but instead you usually give a brief summary on the background of the topic you wish to address.
2. It is also important to state how you are planning to go about your research and what type of sources you are using. This does not necessarily mean listing the exact sources you have found but instead discuss your basic motivation for finding/using particular sources. For example, “To further investigate [topic] I will examine sources that address [particular issue of topic]…” and then state how this relates to your overall paper.
3. If you have a thesis statement complete it is perfectly acceptable to include this in your abstract. On the other hand, if you have not reached your thesis, simply state how it will be achieved. Often, in a classroom setting a professor or instructor may allow you to change your thesis for various reasons; however, when submitting to a conference, if a drastic change in your topic arises it is important to tell the organizers for various reasons as it may effect their placement of your presentation in the conference or other organizational aspects.
4. Most importantly, remember to be brief! An abstract is a summary, often to attract readers to your essay so it is important to clearly and concisely state your intentions.

Do’s and Don’ts

• DO have a solid topic in mind.
• DO think of a catchy title.
• DO be straightforward and concise.
• DON’T be too short. 200-300 words are ideal.
• DON’T be too long. It is important that your abstract is a BRIEF summary to pique interest.