An abstract is a concise summary of a research paper, designed to provide a quick overview of the study’s purpose, methods, results, and conclusions. It should be able to stand alone, allowing readers to understand the essence of the paper without needing to read the full text.
Key Components of an Abstract
Purpose and Objectives: Clearly state the research question or the purpose of the study. This often includes a brief introduction to the topic and the specific aims of the research (Quijorna, 2024; Swann, 2020; Khatri, 2022; , 2021).
Methods: Provide a brief outline of the methodology used in the study, including data collection procedures and instruments, without going into extensive detail (Swann, 2020; Khatri, 2022; , 2021).
Results: Summarize the principal findings of the research. This section should highlight the key results that answer the research question (Quijorna, 2024; Swann, 2020; Khatri, 2022; , 2021).
Conclusions: Discuss the major conclusions drawn from the results, including any theoretical or practical implications (Quijorna, 2024; Swann, 2020; Khatri, 2022; , 2021).
Additional Guidelines
Length: Typically, abstracts should be limited to 200-250 words, depending on the journal’s requirements (Kirst et al., 2010; Studies, 2009; Bulger, 1969; , 2021).
Clarity and Independence: The abstract must be clear and understandable on its own, as it is often published separately from the full article (Kirst et al., 2010; Studies, 2009; Bulger, 1969; Quijorna, 2024).
Avoidance of References and Abbreviations: Generally, references and uncommon abbreviations should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. If used, abbreviations must be defined at their first mention (Kirst et al., 2010; Studies, 2009; Quijorna, 2024; , 2021; , 1999).
Conclusion
An effective abstract succinctly encapsulates the entire research paper, providing a standalone summary that includes the study’s purpose, methods, results, and conclusions. It should be concise, clear, and free of unnecessary details, ensuring that readers can quickly grasp the core findings and significance of the research.
References
Kirst, H., Sanders, C., , J., & Wilks, P., 2010. ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS AND CHEMOTHERAPY. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 54, pp. 1 – 23. https://doi.org/10.1128/AAC.01351-09
Studies, G., 2009. MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR BIOLOGY. Molecular and Cellular Biology, 29, pp. 1 – 19. https://doi.org/10.1128/MCB.01342-08
Bulger, R., 1969. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. Nature, 209, pp. 358-359. https://doi.org/10.1128/AAC.01367-06
Quijorna, E., 2024. Nuclear instruments and methods in physics research section B: Beam interactions with materials and atoms. Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section B: Beam Interactions with Materials and Atoms. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nimb.2024.165287
Swann, P., 2020. Writing the Abstract. Science Research Writing. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429468308-12
Khatri, B., 2022. Writing an Effective Abstract for a Scientific Paper. Nepalese Journal of Development and Rural Studies. https://doi.org/10.3126/njdrs.v19i01.51910
, 2021. Instructions for Authors. Bioelectromagnetics, 43. https://doi.org/10.1002/bem.22385
, 1999. Solid state sciences. **.
