Abstract
(Section 2.05, p.25-27 & Section 8.03, p.229)
- An abstract is a brief description of an article's contents.
- The abstract should be concise yet comprehensive.
- Check with each journal for author instructions on the length limits for abstracts.
- Typically an abstract will be between 150 and 250 words.
- Begin the abstract on a new page and identify it with the running head and page number 2.
- The label 'Abstract' should be in upper case and lowercase letters, centered at the top of the page.
- Type the abstract itself as one long paragraph with no indentation.
Readers frequently read the abstract to decide if they want to read the entire article. A good abstract is accurate, non evaluative, coherent, readable and concise.
Accurate: The abstract should correctly reflect the purpose and content of the article. Be sure to compare the completed article with the abstract to ensure accuracy.
Non evaluative: Report rather than evaluate data in the abstract. Do not add to or comment on what is already reported in the body of the article.
Coherent and readable: Use active verbs and concise language. Use present tense to describe conclusions drawn or results with continuing applicability; use past tense to describe specific variables manipulated or outcome measures.
Concise: Be brief and begin with the most important points. Only include the most important four or five concepts or findings. Try to use specific words in the abstract that reader would use in an electronic search for articles with your subject matter.
Note: See section 2.04, page 24-27 for specific examples of what should be included in an abstract for empirical studies, literature reviews, theory-orientated papers, methodological papers and case studies.
https://youtu.be/vO_ahm4jwZQ
Click 'NEXT' on the top or bottom of page to continue
