How to write an abstract

Writing an abstract for a journal or conference is difficult. Good abstracts depend not only on their scientific interest, but also on their editorial quality. Some errors can weaken or even invalidate the conclusions of a study or change its scientific message. They are often due to insufficient preparation and a lack of knowledge of the principles and requirements of scientific publication. Here are some tips on how to write an abstract.

1)    When you write an abstract: mind the order

Although some journals accept free-format abstracts, most establish recommendations for its structure. The word count is usually limited to 200-350 words. The most common organization has the following parts: Introduction, Methods, Results and Conclusion.

2)     Check the requirements

Before you start writing the abstract, it is important to check the journal’s publication requirements. Some journals require specific categories that are better known from the beginning than to start writing again and have to start from scratch. In addition, it is advisable to write the abstract after the article has been completed in order to ensure that you have an overall view of the article and to include the latest modifications.

3)     When you write an abstract: be thorough

Be careful not to forget to state the problem. Indeed, it is the problem itself that will incite the reader to take an interest in the thesis. The reader will want to know how the student will act and what the student’s proposed solutions are.

4)     Be specific

Specify the methodology used and define the groups of patients studied. Check the inclusion criteria ” …Including patients with such and such a pathology”. Verify the exclusion criteria if they are not symmetrical to the inclusion criteria. Specify the data collection methods.

5)     Be concise

State the results obtained without redundancy. No comments should be included in this paragraph.

The abstract and title are the only parts of the article that are always available through a simple internet search on dedicated databases. When submitting for congresses and journals, the abstract is of paramount importance because it is the only part sent and must reflect the work done. This is important information to consider when you write an abstract.