Importance of Abstract in Research Papers


The abstract is generally placed in the very beginning of a research paper or the dissertation. It is often referred to as a ‘mini-thesis’ that opens the door to your research for the readers. It is the first thing that your reader will go through. So we all expect that the writers make a great first impression with an informative and eye-catching abstract. 
What is the main purpose of an abstract? 
It is the right introduction 
The abstract introduces the topic to the readers, the problem that is being tacked through the research, the research methodology that is being used to solve that problem and the conclusion. You are not supposed to explain how you got to the conclusion. This is the main curiosity factor that will make people read your paper. 
It is the deciding factor 
The readers decide whether they want to dwell into your dissertation or not only on the basis of your dissertation abstract. Readers use the abstract to find more about your writing style and quality. If you write the abstract in a sophisticated manner, the readers expect the same from your paper. 
Keeps the readers glued further 
The abstract lays a foundation for your readers about your dissertation or research paper. They form a perspective, based on your abstract, about your paper. This makes it easier for them to read your paper efficiently. 
Highlights the key points 
If you have written an impactful abstract, it is likely that your readers will remember the key points about your paper through the abstract. If you include citations in the abstract, it gives a chance to the readers to begin their research and understand the topic on their own first.
How do you write a dissertation abstract? 
By now you might have understood that the abstract is an important aspect of the dissertation structure. But you will be able to facilitate the importance of abstract once you know how to write it well. So here are a few tips before we end this post. 
  • Jot down the main points that you want to mention in the abstract
  • Build a link among these ideas and hence create the structure of the abstract 
  • Tell the readers why they should focus on your paper
  • The abstract is an independent document and should be able to explain your research paper well on its own 
  • The number of words to be written is important. Hence always take note of the word-limit of the abstract 
  • Do not plan to make any fake promises or mention any information that is not mentioned in your paper in the abstract 
  • Make sure there are no grammatical errors or language inconsistencies 
  • Write clearly and engage the audience with catchy phrases but do not over-exaggerate 
  • The flow of ideas should also be correct. State the conclusion after you have stated the problem and introduced your topic to the readers

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