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Anterior cruciate ligaments , by alexis jenkins.

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Alexis Jenkins definitely is very active from the start. Sports have always been her passion; growing up, you could always catch her outside at the softball field playing with her high school, tournament team, or family. This all was until she had an almost career-ending injury occur not just once but twice. Luckily, she could continue to play two years of college softball, but she always wondered why tearing your ACL, also known as your Anterior Cruciate Ligament, was such a big deal. Now years later, she is a Senior here at Millersville studying Sports Journalism. After graduation, she plans to work her way into the ESPN world to eventually become an ESPN Broadcast Journalist.

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Main Differences Between a Summary and an Abstract

Writing for an abstract may have similar steps to writing for a summary, but they have different objectives and requirements. While an abstract is a short, descriptive paragraph overviewing your entire paper from introduction to the findings or future studies, a summary includes your entire paper and its visuals, just in a shorter length and more concise than it’s original document. This article will discuss the key parts to include in an abstract and a summary.

The abstract should summarize the main points of your paper without specific detail. So it should communicate, if relevant: main question of your paper, methods, major results or findings, the importance of results or findings, and how they shape a theory or answer your question.

-Start with the main point: The beginning statement should describe the main point you are trying to communicate to the reader. Sometimes, this may be the thesis, or it may be the research topic, all depending on what kind of paper you are writing.

-Keep it concise: This is meant to briefly discuss your article, and only talk about the main points between the introduction, body, and conclusion.

-Remember the length: This abstract is meant to be a paragraph; therefore, each piece of information given in the summary should be short, key parts of the article.

-Follow the same order: Make sure your abstract follows the same order that your paper is written in.

-Keep it to the facts: Keep in mind to only use factual statements or observations and avoid using opinions, repetition, and any ‘fluff’ content.

-Create an effective ending: The last sentence should be able to effectively wrap up the findings of the article.

On the other hand, the summary is a much longer version of the abstract, containing more details, visuals, and opinions.

-Follow the same order: Again, this should follow the same order as your paper.

-Keep in mind the length: Remember the length that the publication is asking your article to be at. With publishing for MiMJ , we are asking for a 2-3 page, 1000 word limit. With this, try to be concise and only have information that is key to conveying your message in your paper.

-Facts and opinions allowed: Unlike writing for an abstract, you are not limited to what kind of information you will be giving; you can include any fact, opinion, or finding, as long as it is a key piece of information that still allows your paper to be concise.

-You can use visuals: The use of visuals is welcomed while writing your summary. However, make sure they are necessary to convey your message to the reader due to the fact that summaries need to be concise (do you think I mentioned that your summary needs to be concise enough?). Secondly, make sure each visual that is used is explained well, as summaries are for a general audience.

-Remember the format: You still have to organize your paper in the format that is required by the publication you wish to publish your article with. With publishing with MiMJ , we require your paper to be written in 7th edition APA format.

-Remember your citations: As any paper would include, citations are an important way to credit the sources you used to create your wonderful paper. In addition, make sure your citations abide by the format you are using. This also ties in having a literature cited page as well.

In conclusion, your summary should be a shorter, more concise version of your original paper that still includes all important information and effectively translates the message from your paper. Whereas the abstract should be a short paragraph that presents all key facts and information. In the future, try to refer to this post as a mental checklist after writing any abstract or summary, or even while you are writing!

Furthermore, have you previously used any of these ideas while writing your summary? Are there any other tips that have helped you while writing a summary?

difference between abstract and summary in thesis

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This is a great explanation of Abstract and Summary.

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I think this is a very interesting paper discussing the differences between the two formats! Does anyone know if certain publications will prefer one type over another (ex: an abstract over a summary)? Or is it considered industry standard to include both?

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Summary vs. Abstract: What's the Difference?

difference between abstract and summary in thesis

Key Differences

Comparison chart, associated with, subjectivity, summary and abstract definitions, how long is a typical abstract, where is an abstract commonly found, what is the main goal of a summary, is a summary longer than an abstract, can a summary include personal opinions, who usually writes the abstract of a research paper, why is an abstract important for researchers, how should one approach writing a summary, what should be avoided in an abstract, can a summary be written for non-textual content, is a summary the same as a synopsis, is a summary a type of review, is an abstract the same as an introduction, is paraphrasing essential in writing a summary, can an abstract contain citations, how do editors and reviewers use the abstract, can a summary be as long as the original text, what's the primary purpose of an abstract in a conference, should a summary be objective, do all academic papers require an abstract.

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Graduate Researcher KnowHow

Writing abstracts and summaries, abstract or summary what’s the difference.

Adapted from Wallwork, A. English for Writing Research Papers . DOI 10.1007/978-1-4419-7922-3_12, © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2011.

How do I know which type to choose?

Follow the relevant guidelines provided by the journal, the conference organisers, or in the case of your thesis, the Graduate Research Office.

Common complaints about abstracts from HDR examiners/peer reviewers:

The author has written more than 400 words in the abstract and yet has only described the context but not the results of his/her work and the implications. The abstract doesn’t do justice to what the paper is about. It is too abstruse and dense. It is only understandable after the paper has been read. It should be understandable to a general economics-literate audience, not just to those few researchers within the author’s very specific field. The authors have failed to state why the scientific community should be interested in their work nor what value is being added to what is already known.

Workshop: Abstracts

The following video explains how to develop a discipline-relevant abstract .

Activity: Abstract analysis

This PDF contains different abstract samples  for you to analyse in preparation for writing your own.

Summary template: Nature journal

This summary template   comes from the website of high ranking science journal Nature.

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Difference Between Abstract and Summary

Main difference – abstract vs summary.

Though the two terms abstract and summary are often used interchangeably, there is a distinct difference between abstract and summary. A summary is a condensed version of a longer work. An abstract is a brief summary that is found at the beginning of a research article, thesis, etc. This is the main difference between abstract and summary. An abstract is a type of summary.

What is an Abstract

An abstract is a short yet powerful statement or account that summarizes a larger work. It is a brief summary of a research paper, thesis, dissertation, etc. An abstract is typically found at the beginning of a document and it acts as an introduction and review of the whole document. It may contain information about the background, purpose, results, and contents of the work. An abstract typically contains four elements: research focus, research methods , results, main conclusions and recommendations.

An abstract can act as a stand-alone entity. Many organizations use abstracts as the basis for selecting research. In addition, most of the research articles available online are in the form of abstracts; the readers can decide whether they want to purchase the article by reading the abstract. Thus, it can be said that abstracts help the readers to decide whether they should invest time and money in reading the whole article.

Difference Between Abstract and Summary

What is a Summary

A summary is a brief statement or account containing the central points of a text. It can be defined as a condensed or abridged version of a text. Since it only contains the central and most important concepts, it is considerably shorter than the original text.

The term summary can refer to several things. A summary can be a synopsis of a book, article, film or play. Here, the outline of the plot can be termed as a summary. An executive summary, which is seen at the beginning of a business report , proposal and plan, is also a summary; it summarizes the entire content, highlighting the central points of the document. An abstract is also a similar summary that is used in research papers.

Main Difference - Abstract vs Summary

Abstract is a concise summary found at the beginning of a research article.

Summary is a brief statement or account of the main points of a longer work.

Interconnection

Abstract is a type of a summary.

Summary can be a synopsis, abstract or an executive summary.

Abstract should contain the research purpose, method, results, conclusion and recommendations.

Difference Between Abstract and Summary - infographic

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difference between abstract and summary in thesis

What’s the Difference Between an Abstract, Summary, and Annotation?

With so many different terms related to citations (e.g. MLA format , footnotes, abstract, etc.), it can be difficult to understand how each one could fit into your paper. Let’s take a look at a few of the most commonly confused citation terms, and ways that you can properly use them in your work.

What is an Abstract? When do I use it?

An abstract is a condensed overview of a paper that usually includes the purpose of the paper/research study, the basic design of the study, the major findings, and a brief summary of your interpretations of the conclusions. Abstracts are usually used in social science or scientific papers, and are generally 300 words or less.

What is a Summary? When do I use it?

Like an abstract, a summary is just a condensed write-up on the topic discussed in your paper. However, summaries are more open ended than abstracts, and can contain much more varied information. They can be included in virtually any type of paper, and do not have a specific word count limit. Always check with your instructor for those types of guidelines before handing in your summary and paper.

What is an Annotation? When do I use it?

Annotations, otherwise referred to as annotated bibliographies, are contextual blurbs that are placed underneath the citation that they refer to within the bibliography of a paper. Each annotation is usually about 150 words, and is a descriptive and evaluative paragraph. The purpose of the annotation is to inform the reader of the relevance, accuracy, and quality of each source cited.

Before including any of these options in your paper, be sure to check with your instructor about their specifications for your assignment. It might also be beneficial to run it through a grammar checker in case there are any errors you may have missed in the abstract, summary, or annotation. —

If you need to create APA citations , learn how to cite a book , or are looking to for a way to review your paper, try BibMe Plus’s plagiarism and grammar checker.

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What Is the Difference Between an Abstract and a Thesis Statement?

How to Write a Thesis & Introduction for a Critical Reflection Essay

How to Write a Thesis & Introduction for a Critical Reflection Essay

College assignments, specifically the requirements when writing papers, can cause confusion for new students. Both forms of relaying information are utilized for different reasons but can be found within the same writing piece on occasion. Understanding the difference between two formats of information such as an abstract and thesis statement is important in professional writing at the college level. A strong thesis statement allows the reader to know what the stance of the writer is before reading through the full paper. An abstract allows the reader to understand at a glance what the full article is about.

An abstract is a short body of writing that is used to summarize a longer piece of writing. A dissertation for a doctoral program contains an abstract. The abstract information varies on the discipline that the writing addresses. In 1997, Philip Koopman from Carnegie Mellon University highlighted common considerations of an abstract to include the motivation, approach, problem statement, results and conclusion summarized into a brief document. The abstract is used to index the larger work or to simply describe the larger work. Abstracts allow researchers or readers to grasp the overall content of the full piece of writing within a paragraph or two.

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is a claim by the writer that can be argued or disputed by others. The statement is typically one sentence but may contain more in rare circumstances. The sentence(s) will describe what the writer wants to specifically discuss about the central topic. The rule of thumb is not to state a fact but to take a position regarding the facts. Thesis statements appear in a variety of writing pieces from small writing assignments within a college course or a major submission for degree requirements.

Similarities

Although the thesis statement and abstract are different entities, they share a number of similarities. John December and Susan Katz who wrote for the Rensselaer Writing Center and the University of North Carolina highlight that both the abstract and thesis statement should be written after the significant body of the paper is complete. Both require significant research and consideration before formulation. It is also not uncommon to find both a thesis statement and abstract within the same writing piece.

Differences

The significant difference between an abstract and a thesis statement is the purpose behind each. While the abstract summarizes the important aspects of a complete writing piece, the thesis statement lays out only the position a writer is offering within the document. The abstract is longer in length and contains at least five factors regarding the writing it introduces. The thesis statement is short and contains one significant piece of information to inform the reader.

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  • Carnegie Mellon University; How to Write an Abstract; Philip Koopman; 1997
  • Harvard University Writing Center; Developing a Thesis; Maxine Rodburg et al., 1999

Steph Radabaugh has been writing on gardening and mental health care since 2005. Her articles have helped people create beautiful gardens and sparked the interest of state lawmakers in Iowa's health-care organizations. Radabaugh has a Master of Science in industrial organizational psychology and has pursued her Doctor of Philosophy in research psychology.

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Executive summaries and abstracts both capture the essence of a project in a shorter form, but with differing levels of detail: an abstract is a highly condensed overview of the document, while an executive summary is a standalone version of the thesis in miniature.

See our handout on " What Goes in a Thesis Abstract? An Executive Summary? " for an overview of standard content and length—then, for more information and examples, read on!

For a more detailed explanation of abstracts, check out our infographics, tailored to your discipline:

  • Defense management
  • Social sciences

An abstract is a brief encapsulation of a document. Abstracts are quite limited in length (often about 200 words) and thus must be very concise, clear statements that convey a few key ideas:

  • The topic and significance of the research
  • The research question driving the inquiry
  • The methods used to answer the question
  • The findings and implications of the research

Understanding how an abstract is structured can also help you as a researcher. When conducting research , get in the habit of reading abstracts carefully to determine which documents closely fit your research needs.

Not all documents require an abstract, and most of your class papers won't. However, all NPS theses must have an abstract, and abstracts are often required for conference papers and articles submitted for publication .

Executive Summaries

Executive summaries are longer than abstracts, often running 2–5 pages. They summarize a larger document's purpose, methods, results, conclusions, and recommendations such that someone who reads  only the summary can glean a solid understanding of the research as a whole. Unlike abstracts, executive summaries can include citations and references .

Not all theses require an executive summary, so check with your advisor or department for guidance. The links below contain further information on the differences between abstracts and executive summaries.

In order to make your research easier to find by other researchers, it is a good idea to think about what searchable keywords are associated with your project. Make sure to include them in your abstract and executive summary!

Executive Summaries and Abstracts Links

  • " What Goes in a Thesis Abstract? An Executive Summary? , " GWC and TPO
  • " Abstracts ," University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Writing Center
  • " How to Write an Abstract ," Phil Koopman, Carnegie Mellon University
  • " Executive Summaries ," Colorado State University
  • Layering Reports: The Executive Summary 1 " (6:35), Zachery Koppleman, Purdue OWL
  • Layering Reports: The Executive Summary A Closer Look Part 1 " (5:53), Zachery Koppleman, Purdue OWL
  • Chapter from a book: " Technical Reports, Executive Summaries, and Abstracts , " Robert Shenk, The Naval Institute Guide to Naval Writing

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How to write the abstract and the summary of a study?

Abstract and summary is the short version summarizing and describing the contents of a paper. They comprise of the same context but are different in a few ways. They provide the first impression of a paper and act as a preface to answer the reader’s questions;

  • What has been done in the paper?
  • How has it been done?
  • What is the research about?
  • Why has it been done?
  • What were the findings?

Things to consider

Points to remember while writing abstract and summary

Abstract or summary is an important part is written at the beginning of a paper. However, they are always written after the completion of a project. Another aspect is that abstracts and summaries never include citations or references. They must be simple and easy to understand and should answer the questions mentioned in the above section. An abstract and summary must cover the complete research in a maximum of 1000 words. However, abstracts are usually limited to 500 words, summaries of 1000 words are usually termed as ‘Executive summaries’. If the paper is a scientific article, then write an abstract of a maximum of 300 words and a minimum of 150 words. The following points should be kept in mind while writing the abstract or the summary of a study:

  • the background or introduction
  • the rationale of the paper
  • aim of the research
  • literature reviews (only in case of summary and executive summary)
  • conceptual framework (in case of summary and executive summary)
  • methods used
  • findings of the research
  • conclusions and limitations

Things not to include

  • Lengthy background or contextual information.
  • Redundant phrases, unnecessary adverbs and adjectives, and repetitive information.
  • Acronyms or abbreviations.
  • References to other literature.
  • Using incomplete sentences and symbols.
  • Jargon or terms that may be confusing to the reader.
  • Citations to other works.
  • Any sort of image, illustration, figure, or table, or references.

Difference between abstract and summary

Steps to follow.

  • First, complete the whole research and the writing of the paper.
  • Extract the information.
  • Plan the type of abstract or summary; informative, descriptive or critical. Informative is usually lengthy and briefly describes all the chapters of a thesis or dissertation. Descriptive comprises of only goals and findings of the study, and critical presents only findings of research papers.
  • Provide information on aim, problem statement, methods, findings, and conclusions of the main paper.
  • Repeat the process and check if any important information is missing.
  • Cross-check with the questions mentioned in the earlier section of the article.

Aim of the study

(AIM) The main aim of the current paper was to find the different aspects of abstract and a summary.

(PROBLEM STATEMENT) It was, however, found that there are certain differences between an abstract and a summary. Moreover, summaries are extended parts of abstracts. Therefore, it is important to assess the different aspects and the difference between an abstract and a summary.

(BACKGROUND) It is the short version summarizing and describing the contents of a journal or a dissertation or thesis. Abstract and summary comprise of the same context but are different in a few ways. They provide the first impression of a research paper.

(METHODS) The current paper compares different samples of abstracts and summaries from different journal papers and theses. A sample of 5 different journals and 5 different theses was explored to find the difference between them.

(FINDINGS) There is a significant difference between abstract and summary on the basis of the type of research paper, no. of words and length, contents and type of abstract/summary.

(CONCLUSION AND LIMITATIONS) The current study found the presence of a significant difference. However, the study has certain limitations that need to be addressed in the future for better understanding the difference between abstract and summary. The limitations have been presented at the end of the paper.

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Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between an abstract and a summary.

An abstract concisely explains all the key points of an academic text such as a thesis , dissertation or journal article. It should summarise the whole text, not just introduce it.

An abstract is a type of summary , but summaries are also written elsewhere in academic writing . For example, you might summarise a source in a paper , in a literature review , or as a standalone assignment.

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Abstract and Summary 5 best difference

Abstract and Summary

Abstract and Summary can play an invaluable role in communicating the core of any document – be it an article, research paper, or report. They offer readers a quick snapshot of major details and results so they can assess whether this entire information meets their needs or not. In this article, we’ll look at their differences, learn to write efficient summaries/abstracts as well as explore what makes up their elements.

Table of Contents

What is an Abstract?

Abstracts are condensed versions of longer documents such as research papers or theses that allow readers to quickly gain an overview of major elements, arguments, findings and conclusions in an original text without reading all of it themselves.

Abstract

Abstracts help people quickly determine whether further study would be worthwhile by giving readers an outline of major ideas from each original document without reading its entirety first. Their purpose is also to help determine whether certain topics deserve further examination by readers who might encounter them by providing quick summary summaries such as abstracts.

Abstracts are commonly employed in scientific, academic professional and academic contexts. Usually appearing at the beginning of documents before any main text begins to unfold, abstracts should be written as stand-in pieces which remain readable and informative even when read independently of its rest of content.

Abstract length may depend upon the specifications or guidelines for any particular field or publication, with average abstracts typically falling somewhere between one or two sentences to an entire paragraph or two in length. Abstracts must be clear, concise, condensed and emphasize key aspects of text without excessive detail. They frequently follow an organized format which includes sections such as background techniques, methods results and conclusions, depending on what document type needs an abstract.

Abstracts play an indispensable role in aiding information retrieval and decision-making by helping readers quickly assess its significance before diving in deeper to read an entire document.

What is a Summary?

Summaries can be defined as short versions of larger texts such as articles, books or speeches in which key ideas, elements and essential details from them have been reduced down into simpler form for easier consumption. Contrasting with abstracts which often only present certain parts of an entire work in summary form.

Summary

An overview is designed to provide readers with a brief summary of an original document’s key arguments and content, providing readers with enough context and understanding without reading all the text themselves. Summaries may be employed in numerous contexts including literature reviews academic papers executive briefs business reports book reviews etc.

An effective summary encapsulates all the details found in an original text while maintaining its fundamental message. A well-written summary should convey principal ideas, supporting arguments and any relevant details while eliminating superfluous details and examples that are unnecessary for understanding or context. Depending on its intent or context it could include further discussion, interpretation or analysis of its entirety.

Summaries vary in terms of length depending on individual needs and guidelines provided typically shorter than their original text itself and should aim at maintaining clarity, coherence and accuracy while staying away from personal bias and opinions when writing summaries.

Summary in general means providing an outline of key concepts and points from an extensive text to aid reader understanding without needing to read every line individually.

Importance of understanding the difference between abstract and summary

Abstract-vs-Summary

Understanding the difference between abstract and summary is important for several reasons:

  • Information Retrieval: Abstracts and summaries help readers quickly assess the relevance and significance of a document before investing time in reading the full text. Knowing whether you need a brief overview (summary) or a comprehensive understanding (abstract) can save time and aid in efficient information retrieval.
  • Academic and Professional Writing: In academic and professional settings, abstracts and summaries are commonly required for research papers, articles, proposals and reports. Knowing how to effectively write each type of summary helps convey key points, findings and conclusions accurately to different audiences.
  • Writing Skills: Understanding the nuances of abstracts and summaries improves overall writing skills. It requires the ability to condense and communicate complex ideas concisely and accurately, which is a valuable skill in various fields and professions.
  • Communication and Presentation: Abstracts or summaries of research results are frequently employed during conferences to present or outline results from projects or investigations conducted over time. Knowing when to use an abstract or a summary helps presenters effectively convey key information to an audience within a limited timeframe.
  • Decision-Making: Abstracts and summaries aid decision-making processes. Decision-makers, such as journal editors, funding agencies or business executives, often rely on abstracts and summaries to evaluate the value and relevance of a document or project before making informed decisions.
  • Research and Literature Review: Researchers and students conducting literature reviews rely on abstracts and summaries to quickly assess the relevance and quality of published works. Understanding the differences helps in selecting relevant sources and extracting key information efficiently.
  • Critical Analysis: Differentiating between abstracts and summaries enhances critical analysis skills. By understanding how information is distilled and presented, readers can evaluate the accuracy, bias and completeness of abstracts and summaries compared to the original text.

Comprehending the distinction between abstracts and summaries enhances reading, writing, and critical thinking abilities. It allows for effective communication, efficient information retrieval and informed decision-making in various academic, professional and research contexts.

Components of an Abstract

The components of an abstract can vary depending on the requirements and guidelines of the specific field or publication. A typical abstract generally includes the following components:

  • Background or Introduction: This section presents brief background or context information regarding the subject or topic of research or paper, in order to convey its significance and purpose.
  • Objectives or Purpose: The objectives or purpose of the study are stated clearly in this section. It highlights the specific goals or aims of the research or document.
  • Methods or Approach: This component briefly outlines the methods or approach used to conduct the study or develop the document. Information should also include details regarding research plan techniques for data collection and experimental techniques as well as theoretical frameworks pertaining to your specific study.
  • Results or Findings: In this section, the key findings and/or conclusions of your study are presented and summarized. It highlights the most important outcomes or discoveries of the research or document.
  • Conclusion or Implications: This section gives a concise account of the major findings or implications from this investigation. It may discuss the significance, relevance or potential applications of the findings or ideas presented in the document.

It’s important to note that not all abstracts follow this exact structure. Depending on the discipline or publication, abstracts may have a more structured format with specific headings or they may be more narrative and descriptive. Abstract length can differ considerably, from just a few sentences up to an entire paragraph or even full page, depending on specifications.

Writing abstracts requires being careful that they are clear, straightforward and focused on communicating only what’s essential about their text. Readers must have enough information in the abstract so they can comprehend key points and decide whether further investigation of its entirety warrants further exploration.

Components of a Summary

The components of a summary can vary depending on the length and complexity of the original text, as well as the specific purpose and guidelines provided. A summary typically includes the following components:

  • Introduction: Introduction provides information regarding the text’s source material including author name and title as well as any relevant sources or references that were utilized during creation of text. It sets the stage for the summary and provides a brief overview of the main subject or topic.
  • Main Ideas: The main ideas are the central concepts or arguments presented in the original text. The summary should identify and capture these key points accurately and concisely. Dependent upon its length and nature, summaries may cover all principal ideas or focus solely on those most essential.
  • Supporting Details: Supporting details are specific pieces of evidence, examples or explanations that reinforce the main ideas in the original text. In a summary, these details are often condensed or omitted but some relevant and significant details may be included to provide context or strengthen the understanding of the main ideas.
  • Structure and Organization: The summary should reflect the structure and organization of the original text, presenting the main ideas and supporting details in a logical and coherent manner. Depending on the length of the summary, this may involve grouping related ideas or concepts together and presenting them in a clear and organized manner.
  • Conclusion: Summary conclusions provide a succinct summarization of key results or arguments present in a source text. It should capture the essence of the original text’s message and provide a sense of closure to the summary.

Be mindful that both the length and level of detail in a summary may differ significantly, from short paragraphs or sentences providing a quick snapshot, to longer summaries spanning multiple pages that provide a thorough outline.

When writing a summary, it is crucial to remain objective and avoid personal biases or opinions. The summary should accurately represent the main ideas and key points of the original text while maintaining clarity and coherence.

Differences Between Abstract and Summary

The primary differences between an abstract and an overview include:

Purpose: Abstracts’ purpose is to present a short yet comprehensive summary of a larger work, such as an article or research paper, by outlining its most critical points and conclusions in an accessible fashion. It helps readers decide whether to read the full document. Overviews are used to quickly summarize major themes and key details from any text such as an article or book in an accessible and succinct fashion for those without enough time or interest in reading through an entire piece. They offer quick summaries for people without access to full articles. Dependency: An abstract is an independent entity and is typically written as a standalone piece, separate from the main document. Readability and comprehension come naturally with reading it on its own. In contrast, a summary is derived from the main text and relies on it for its content. It is a condensed version of the original text, capturing its main points and ideas. Length: Abstracts are generally shorter than summaries. Abstracts can range in length from several lines up to several paragraphs depending on their guidelines and specifications. Summaries can vary in length, depending on the length of the original text being summarized and the specific purpose or guidelines provided. Content: Abstracts provide an overview of the entire document, including the background, objectives, methods, results and conclusions. They cover the main points and findings comprehensively. Summaries focus on the main ideas and key points of the original text, condensing and presenting them in a concise manner. They may omit certain details, examples, or supporting evidence found in the original text. Inclusion of Analysis: Abstracts are typically objective and do not include analysis or personal interpretation. They provide a factual summary of the main points and findings. In contrast, summaries may include some level of analysis, interpretation, or evaluation of the original text. Depending on the purpose and context, summaries may offer insights, commentary or critique in addition to summarizing the main ideas.

Abstracts and summaries serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics. Abstracts provide an independent overview of the entire document, while summaries condense the main ideas and key points of a longer text. Abstracts are shorter and do not include analysis, whereas summaries can vary in length and may include some interpretation or evaluation of the original text.

How to Write an Effective Abstract

Writing an effective abstract requires careful consideration and attention to detail. Here are some guidelines to help you write an effective abstract:

  • Understand the Purpose: Clearly understand the purpose of the abstract. Identify the key points, main findings or important arguments that need to be conveyed. Determine the specific requirements or guidelines for the abstract, such as word limit or structure.
  • Read the Full Document: Be familiar with all aspects of the document to gain an extensive grasp of its information. Identify the main sections, key arguments and supporting evidence.
  • Identify the Essential Elements: Determine the most critical elements that need to be included in the abstract. Focus on the key objectives, methods, results and conclusions of the document. Select the most relevant and significant points that capture the essence of the full text.
  • Use Clear and Concise Language: Write in a clear and concise manner. Use precise language and avoid unnecessary jargon or technical terms. Keep sentences short and to the point. Use active voice and avoid excessive use of passive voice.
  • Follow a Structured Format: Consider using a structured format if appropriate for your discipline or the guidelines provided. This may involve including sections such as background, objectives, methods, results and conclusions. The structure helps organize the information and makes it easier for readers to navigate the abstract.
  • Be Accurate and Objective: Ensure the abstract accurately represents the content of the full document. Be objective and avoid personal opinions or biases. Present the facts and findings without interpretation or analysis unless explicitly required by the guidelines.
  • Highlight Key Points: Emphasize the most important and impactful aspects of the document. Focus on the main findings, significant results or key arguments. Use keywords or phrases that will grab the reader’s attention and convey the main message effectively.
  • Revise and Edit: Review the abstract for clarity, coherence and accuracy. Check for any grammatical or typographical errors. Ensure that the abstract flows smoothly and logically. Edit and revise as necessary to improve the quality and effectiveness of the abstract.
  • Stay within Word Limit: If there is a word limit, make sure to adhere to it. Trim unnecessary words or phrases without sacrificing the clarity and comprehensibility of the abstract. Prioritize the inclusion of essential information while maintaining the overall conciseness.
  • Proofread and Seek Feedback: Before finalizing the abstract, proofread it carefully to catch any errors or inconsistencies. Seek feedback from peers, colleagues or mentors to get their perspective on the clarity, impact and overall effectiveness of the abstract.

By following these rules, you can craft an abstract that accurately presents and summarizes its main elements, conclusions or arguments from your work, so readers can quickly grasp its key elements and decide for themselves whether they need to read further.

How to Write a Compelling Summary

Writing an engaging summary requires distilling key concepts and essential information from text in an engaging fashion. Here are a few suggestions to assist with creating captivating summaries:

  • Read and Understand the Text: Read the entire text thoroughly and ensure you have a clear understanding of the main ideas, key arguments and supporting details. Identify the most important and impactful elements that need to be included in the summary.
  • Identify the Core Message: Search your text for its key message or main idea – that which you intend to convey when writing reports and essays. It should be a concise and compelling statement that captures the essence of the text.
  • Keep It Concise: Summaries should be concise and to the point. Use clear and straightforward language to convey the main ideas succinctly. Avoid unnecessary details, examples or tangents that may distract from the core message.
  • Use Engaging Language: Use language that is engaging and captures the reader’s attention. Choose strong and descriptive words that create impact and evoke interest. Consider using vivid imagery or powerful statements to make your summary stand out.
  • Focus on the Most Relevant Information: Select only pertinent and significant details to include in your summaries. Prioritize the main ideas, key arguments and important supporting evidence. Omit any extraneous or less relevant details that may dilute the impact of your summary.
  • Maintain Structure and Flow: Structure your summary in a logical and coherent manner. Present the main ideas in a clear sequence, ensuring that they flow smoothly from one point to another. Use transitional phrases or sentences to connect different ideas and create a seamless reading experience.
  • Capture the Tone and Style: Reflect the tone and style of the original text in your summary. If the text is formal and academic, maintain a similar tone in your summary. If the text is more casual or conversational, you can adjust your tone accordingly. This helps to maintain consistency and authenticity.
  • Convey the Impact or Significance: Highlight the impact, significance or relevance of the text in your summary. Explain why the ideas or information presented in the text are important or valuable. Consider discussing any implications or potential applications of the text’s content.
  • Edit and Revise: Review your summary carefully for clarity, coherence and effectiveness before editing and revising as necessary to make sure it reads well and achieves the intended result. Edit/revise as necessary until your work meets these criteria and is suitable to be presented effectively and succinctly. Check for any grammatical or typographical errors and make necessary corrections.
  • Seek Feedback: Share your summary with others and seek feedback to gauge its effectiveness. Listen to their perspectives and make revisions accordingly. Consider the input of others to improve the overall quality and appeal of your summary.

By following these tips, you can write a compelling summary that effectively captures the main ideas and essential information of a longer text, engaging readers and enticing them to explore the full content further.

Tips for Writing an Engaging Abstract

Writing an engaging abstract is crucial to capture the attention of readers and entice them to explore the full document. Here are some tips to help you write an engaging abstract:

  • Hook the Reader: Begin your abstract with a compelling and attention-grabbing statement. This could be a surprising fact, a thought-provoking question or a striking anecdote that immediately draws the reader in and generates curiosity.
  • Be Clear and Concise: Use clear and concise language to convey your main points. Avoid unnecessary jargon or technical terms that may confuse or alienate readers. Keep sentences short and focused, presenting information in a straightforward manner.
  • Highlight the Main Contribution: Clearly state the main contribution or significance of your research or document. Explain why it is important and how it adds value to the existing body of knowledge or addresses a specific problem or gap in the field.
  • Use Active Voice: Write your abstract in the active voice to make it more engaging and dynamic. Active voice adds a sense of immediacy and directness, making your abstract more compelling to read.
  • Showcase Results or Findings: If your abstract includes research findings or results, highlight them in a concise and impactful manner. Emphasize any novel or unexpected outcomes, important trends or key insights that your research has uncovered.
  • Include Key Keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords or phrases that accurately represent the main focus of your research or document. These keywords help readers quickly identify the relevance of your work and can improve discoverability in search engines or databases.
  • Provide a Clear Structure: Organize your abstract in a clear and logical structure. Depending on the guidelines or requirements, you may include sections such as background, objectives, methods, results and conclusions. A well-structured abstract makes it easier for readers to follow and comprehend the content.
  • Be Consistent with the Full Document: Ensure that your abstract accurately reflects the content of the full document. Avoid introducing new ideas or information in the abstract that are not covered in the main document. Consistency is important to establish credibility and trust.
  • Use Engaging Language: Employ language that is lively, engaging and accessible to a broad audience. Use vivid and descriptive words to paint a picture and evoke interest. Strike a balance between engaging language and maintaining a professional tone, depending on the context and audience.
  • Proofread and Revise: After writing your abstract, carefully proofread it for any errors, typos or inconsistencies. Edit and revise as necessary to increase clarity, coherence and overall quality. A polished abstract enhances its readability and engagement.

By implementing these tips, you can write an engaging abstract that captures the attention of readers, effectively communicates the main points and encourages them to delve deeper into your research or document.

Tips for Writing an Informative Summary

Writing an informative summary requires condensing the main ideas and essential information of a longer text into a concise and informative format. Here are some tips to help you write an informative summary:

  • Read and Understand the Text: Read the entire text carefully and ensure you have a solid understanding of the main ideas, key arguments, and supporting details. Locate and list the details which should form part of your summary.
  • Identify the Core Elements: Determine the core elements that should be covered in the summary. These may include the main points, key findings, essential arguments or important supporting evidence. Focus on capturing the essence of the text in a condensed form.
  • Prioritize Information: Prioritize the information based on its relevance and significance. Include the most important points that convey the main ideas or provide a comprehensive overview of the text. Omit less important or tangential details that may detract from the summary’s clarity and conciseness.
  • Maintain Clarity and Coherence: Write in a clear and coherent manner to ensure that the summary is easily understandable. Use simple and concise language to convey complex ideas effectively. Pay attention to the logical flow of the summary, organizing the information in a structured manner.
  • Be Objective and Accurate: Maintain objectivity in your summary. Present the information accurately, avoiding personal biases or interpretations. Focus on conveying the author’s original intent and ideas without adding your own opinions or judgments.
  • Use Paraphrasing and Summarizing Techniques: Use paraphrasing and summarization techniques to quickly summarize details and minimize their importance. Restate the original text’s ideas in your own words while preserving the core meaning. Be mindful of maintaining accuracy and avoiding plagiarism.
  • Include Key Supporting Evidence: If the original text includes supporting evidence, such as statistics, examples or quotes, include the most relevant and impactful ones in your summary. These elements can enhance the summary’s informativeness and credibility.
  • Focus on the Main Ideas: Ensure that your summary captures the main ideas and key arguments of the text. Highlight the central themes or concepts that the author wants to convey. Avoid getting sidetracked by minor details or secondary points.
  • Edit and Revise: Check your summary for clarity, coherence and precision before editing/revising to enhance its general quality and efficiency. Check for any grammatical or typographical errors and make necessary corrections.
  • Proofread and Seek Feedback: Before finalizing your summary, proofread it carefully to catch any errors or inconsistencies. Seek feedback from peers, colleagues or mentors to get their perspective on the clarity, accuracy and informativeness of the summary. Incorporate their suggestions to enhance the summary’s effectiveness.

By following these tips, you can write an informative summary that effectively captures the main ideas and essential information of a longer text, providing readers with a concise and comprehensive overview.

Abstract Length and Format

The length and format of an abstract can vary depending on the specific requirements and guidelines provided by the target audience or the publication venue. There are some general recommendations regarding abstract length and format:

  • Length: Abstracts are typically concise, providing a brief summary of the main points and findings of the document. While the specific word or character count may vary, abstracts are often limited to a few sentences to a paragraph or two. Under certain conditions, it may be desirable to limit word counts (for instance 150 words or 250-300) with certain restrictions placed upon them. It’s important to adhere to the specified length to ensure the abstract is concise and to the point.
  • Content: The content of the abstract should include the essential elements of the document . This typically includes a brief introduction or background, the objectives or research questions, the methods used, the main findings or results and the conclusions or implications. The specific content and structure may vary depending on the discipline and the requirements of the venue.
  • Style and Language: Abstracts must use concise language that can easily be understood by their intended audiences. Avoid excessive technical jargon or complex terminology unless it is necessary and appropriate for the target readers. Use plain language to effectively communicate the main points and findings of the document.
  • Structured Format: Depending on the guidelines, you may be required to follow a specific structure for your abstract. This may include headings or sections such as Background, Objectives, Methods, Results and Conclusions. A structured format can help organize the information and make it easier for readers to navigate the abstract.
  • Keywords: Some guidelines may require the inclusion of keywords or phrases that highlight the main focus of the document. Keywords help improve the discoverability of the abstract in databases or search engines and assist readers in quickly identifying the relevance of the document to their interests.
  • Formatting Requirements: Pay attention to any specific formatting requirements specified by the target venue or publication. This may include font size, font type, line spacing and margins. Adhering to these requirements ensures consistency and professionalism in the presentation of your abstract.
  • Abstract Title: In addition to the abstract content, you may need to provide a concise and descriptive title for your abstract. The title should accurately reflect the main topic or focus of the document and capture the reader’s interest.

It’s essential to carefully review the guidelines provided by the target venue or publication to ensure that you meet their specific requirements for abstract length and format. Sticking to these guidelines will help ensure your summary is well organized, clear, concise and efficiently communicates the key aspects of your paper.

Summary Length and Format

A summary’s length and structure depend upon its purpose, but here are general suggestions about its length and style:

  • Length: Summaries are typically shorter than the original text and aim to condense the main ideas and essential information into a concise format. The length of a summary can vary depending on the purpose and target audience. These may range anywhere from several sentences up to multiple paragraphs and must adhere to either word limits or character limitations.
  • Content: The content of a summary should focus on capturing the key points, main arguments and significant findings of the original text. It should provide a concise overview that accurately represents the main ideas and supporting details. Omit less relevant or extraneous information that does not contribute to the core message of the summary.
  • Structure: Depending on the context, a summary can be structured in different ways. One common approach is to provide a brief introduction that provides context, followed by the main points or arguments in a logical order. Another approach is to organize the summary based on the sections or themes in the original text. Choose a structure that effectively communicates the key information and maintains clarity.
  • Language and Style: Use clear and concise language to convey the main ideas effectively. Avoid excessive jargon, technical terms or complex language that may hinder understanding. Write in a style that is appropriate for the target audience and context. Strike a balance between being informative and engaging, maintaining a professional tone if needed.
  • Objective Tone: Summaries should be objective and neutral, presenting the information without personal biases or interpretations. Stick to the facts and avoid introducing subjective opinions or judgments. The goal is to provide an accurate and balanced representation of the original text.
  • Formatting: Pay attention to any specific formatting guidelines provided by the target audience or publication. This may include font size, font type, line spacing and margins. Adhering to the formatting requirements ensures consistency and professionalism in the presentation of your summary.
  • Editing and Proofreading: After writing the summary, review it for clarity, coherence and accuracy. Edit and revise as necessary to improve the quality and effectiveness. Check for any grammatical or typographical errors and make necessary corrections.

It’s important to consider the specific requirements and guidelines provided by the target audience or publication when formatting your summary. Adapting the length and format to suit the context and purpose of the summary helps to ensure that it effectively captures the main ideas and essential information of the original text in a concise and engaging manner.

Abstracts and summaries are powerful tools that enhance the accessibility and visibility of academic and non-academic content. Crafting effective abstracts and summaries requires a focus on clarity, brevity, and the needs of the audience. By mastering these skills, authors can ensure that their work receives the attention it deserves.

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How to Write a Summary | Guide & Examples

Published on November 23, 2020 by Shona McCombes . Revised on May 31, 2023.

Summarizing , or writing a summary, means giving a concise overview of a text’s main points in your own words. A summary is always much shorter than the original text.

There are five key steps that can help you to write a summary:

  • Read the text
  • Break it down into sections
  • Identify the key points in each section
  • Write the summary
  • Check the summary against the article

Writing a summary does not involve critiquing or evaluating the source . You should simply provide an accurate account of the most important information and ideas (without copying any text from the original).

Table of contents

When to write a summary, step 1: read the text, step 2: break the text down into sections, step 3: identify the key points in each section, step 4: write the summary, step 5: check the summary against the article, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about summarizing.

There are many situations in which you might have to summarize an article or other source:

  • As a stand-alone assignment to show you’ve understood the material
  • To keep notes that will help you remember what you’ve read
  • To give an overview of other researchers’ work in a literature review

When you’re writing an academic text like an essay , research paper , or dissertation , you’ll integrate sources in a variety of ways. You might use a brief quote to support your point, or paraphrase a few sentences or paragraphs.

But it’s often appropriate to summarize a whole article or chapter if it is especially relevant to your own research, or to provide an overview of a source before you analyze or critique it.

In any case, the goal of summarizing is to give your reader a clear understanding of the original source. Follow the five steps outlined below to write a good summary.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

You should read the article more than once to make sure you’ve thoroughly understood it. It’s often effective to read in three stages:

  • Scan the article quickly to get a sense of its topic and overall shape.
  • Read the article carefully, highlighting important points and taking notes as you read.
  • Skim the article again to confirm you’ve understood the key points, and reread any particularly important or difficult passages.

There are some tricks you can use to identify the key points as you read:

  • Start by reading the abstract . This already contains the author’s own summary of their work, and it tells you what to expect from the article.
  • Pay attention to headings and subheadings . These should give you a good sense of what each part is about.
  • Read the introduction and the conclusion together and compare them: What did the author set out to do, and what was the outcome?

To make the text more manageable and understand its sub-points, break it down into smaller sections.

If the text is a scientific paper that follows a standard empirical structure, it is probably already organized into clearly marked sections, usually including an introduction , methods , results , and discussion .

Other types of articles may not be explicitly divided into sections. But most articles and essays will be structured around a series of sub-points or themes.

Now it’s time go through each section and pick out its most important points. What does your reader need to know to understand the overall argument or conclusion of the article?

Keep in mind that a summary does not involve paraphrasing every single paragraph of the article. Your goal is to extract the essential points, leaving out anything that can be considered background information or supplementary detail.

In a scientific article, there are some easy questions you can ask to identify the key points in each part.

If the article takes a different form, you might have to think more carefully about what points are most important for the reader to understand its argument.

In that case, pay particular attention to the thesis statement —the central claim that the author wants us to accept, which usually appears in the introduction—and the topic sentences that signal the main idea of each paragraph.

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Now that you know the key points that the article aims to communicate, you need to put them in your own words.

To avoid plagiarism and show you’ve understood the article, it’s essential to properly paraphrase the author’s ideas. Do not copy and paste parts of the article, not even just a sentence or two.

The best way to do this is to put the article aside and write out your own understanding of the author’s key points.

Examples of article summaries

Let’s take a look at an example. Below, we summarize this article , which scientifically investigates the old saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

Davis et al. (2015) set out to empirically test the popular saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples are often used to represent a healthy lifestyle, and research has shown their nutritional properties could be beneficial for various aspects of health. The authors’ unique approach is to take the saying literally and ask: do people who eat apples use healthcare services less frequently? If there is indeed such a relationship, they suggest, promoting apple consumption could help reduce healthcare costs.

The study used publicly available cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Participants were categorized as either apple eaters or non-apple eaters based on their self-reported apple consumption in an average 24-hour period. They were also categorized as either avoiding or not avoiding the use of healthcare services in the past year. The data was statistically analyzed to test whether there was an association between apple consumption and several dependent variables: physician visits, hospital stays, use of mental health services, and use of prescription medication.

Although apple eaters were slightly more likely to have avoided physician visits, this relationship was not statistically significant after adjusting for various relevant factors. No association was found between apple consumption and hospital stays or mental health service use. However, apple eaters were found to be slightly more likely to have avoided using prescription medication. Based on these results, the authors conclude that an apple a day does not keep the doctor away, but it may keep the pharmacist away. They suggest that this finding could have implications for reducing healthcare costs, considering the high annual costs of prescription medication and the inexpensiveness of apples.

However, the authors also note several limitations of the study: most importantly, that apple eaters are likely to differ from non-apple eaters in ways that may have confounded the results (for example, apple eaters may be more likely to be health-conscious). To establish any causal relationship between apple consumption and avoidance of medication, they recommend experimental research.

An article summary like the above would be appropriate for a stand-alone summary assignment. However, you’ll often want to give an even more concise summary of an article.

For example, in a literature review or meta analysis you may want to briefly summarize this study as part of a wider discussion of various sources. In this case, we can boil our summary down even further to include only the most relevant information.

Using national survey data, Davis et al. (2015) tested the assertion that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” and did not find statistically significant evidence to support this hypothesis. While people who consumed apples were slightly less likely to use prescription medications, the study was unable to demonstrate a causal relationship between these variables.

Citing the source you’re summarizing

When including a summary as part of a larger text, it’s essential to properly cite the source you’re summarizing. The exact format depends on your citation style , but it usually includes an in-text citation and a full reference at the end of your paper.

You can easily create your citations and references in APA or MLA using our free citation generators.

APA Citation Generator MLA Citation Generator

Finally, read through the article once more to ensure that:

  • You’ve accurately represented the author’s work
  • You haven’t missed any essential information
  • The phrasing is not too similar to any sentences in the original.

If you’re summarizing many articles as part of your own work, it may be a good idea to use a plagiarism checker to double-check that your text is completely original and properly cited. Just be sure to use one that’s safe and reliable.

If you want to know more about ChatGPT, AI tools , citation , and plagiarism , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

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A summary is a short overview of the main points of an article or other source, written entirely in your own words. Want to make your life super easy? Try our free text summarizer today!

A summary is always much shorter than the original text. The length of a summary can range from just a few sentences to several paragraphs; it depends on the length of the article you’re summarizing, and on the purpose of the summary.

You might have to write a summary of a source:

  • As a stand-alone assignment to prove you understand the material
  • For your own use, to keep notes on your reading
  • To provide an overview of other researchers’ work in a literature review
  • In a paper , to summarize or introduce a relevant study

To avoid plagiarism when summarizing an article or other source, follow these two rules:

  • Write the summary entirely in your own words by paraphrasing the author’s ideas.
  • Cite the source with an in-text citation and a full reference so your reader can easily find the original text.

An abstract concisely explains all the key points of an academic text such as a thesis , dissertation or journal article. It should summarize the whole text, not just introduce it.

An abstract is a type of summary , but summaries are also written elsewhere in academic writing . For example, you might summarize a source in a paper , in a literature review , or as a standalone assignment.

All can be done within seconds with our free text summarizer .

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

McCombes, S. (2023, May 31). How to Write a Summary | Guide & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved April 2, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/working-with-sources/how-to-summarize/

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Abstract vs. Summary — What's the Difference?

difference between abstract and summary in thesis

Difference Between Abstract and Summary

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Enago Academy

Abstract Vs. Introduction — Do you know the difference?

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Ross wants to publish his research. Feeling positive about his research outcomes, he begins to draft his manuscript. After completing the abstract, he proceeds to write the introduction. That’s when he pauses in confusion. Do the abstract and introduction mean the same? How is the content for both the sections different?

This is a dilemma faced by several young researchers while drafting their first manuscript. An  abstract  is similar to a summary except that it is more concise and direct. Whereas, the  introduction  section of your paper is more detailed. It states why you conducted your study, what you wanted to accomplish, and what is your hypothesis.

This blog will allow us to learn more about the difference between the abstract and the introduction.

What Is an Abstract for a Research Paper?

An abstract provides the reader with a clear description of your research study and its results without the reader having to read the entire paper. The details of a study, such as precise methods and measurements, are not necessarily mentioned in the abstract. The abstract is an important tool for researchers who must sift through hundreds of papers from their field of study.

The abstract  holds more significance  in articles without open access. Reading the abstract would give an idea of the articles, which would otherwise require monetary payment for access. In most cases, reviewers will read the abstract to decide whether to continue to review the paper, which is important for you.

Your abstract should begin with a background or objective to clearly state why the research was done, its importance to the field of study, and any previous roadblocks encountered. It should include a very concise version of your methods, results, and conclusions but no references. It must be brief while still providing enough information so that the reader need not read the full article. Most journals ask that the abstract be no more than 200–250 words long.

Format of an Abstract

There are two general   formats — structured and unstructured. A  structured abstract   helps the reader find pertinent information  very quickly. It is divided into sections clearly defined by headings as follows:

  • Background : Latest information on the topic; key phrases that pique interest (e.g., “…the role of this enzyme has never been clearly understood”).
  • Objective : The research goals; what the study examined and why.
  • Methods : Brief description of the study (e.g., retrospective study).
  • Results : Findings and observations.
  • Conclusions : Were these results expected? Whether more research is needed or not?

Authors get tempted to write too much  in an abstract but it is helpful to remember that there is usually a maximum word count. The main point is to relay the important aspects of the study without sharing too many details so that the readers do not have to go through the entire manuscript text for finding more information.

The  unstructured abstract  is often used in fields of study that do not fall under the category of science. This type of abstracts does not have different sections. It summarizes the manuscript’s objectives, methods, etc., in one paragraph.

Related: Create an impressive manuscript with a compelling abstract.   Check out these resources and improve your abstract writing process!

Lastly, you must check the author guidelines of the target journal. It will describe the format required and the maximum word count of your abstract.

What Is an Introduction?

Your introduction is the first section of your research paper . It is not a repetition of the abstract. It does not provide data about methods, results, or conclusions. However, it  provides more in-depth information  on the background of the subject matter. It also explains your hypothesis , what you attempted to discover, or issues that you wanted to resolve. The introduction will also explain if and why your study is new in the subject field and why it is important.

It is often a good idea to wait until the rest of the paper is completed before drafting your introduction. This will help you to stay focused on the manuscript’s important points. The introduction, unlike the abstract, should contain citations to references. The information will help guide your readers through the rest of your document. The key tips for writing an effective introduction :

  • Beginning:  The importance of the study.
  • Tone/Tense:  Formal, impersonal; present tense.
  • Content:  Brief description of manuscript but without results and conclusions.
  • Length:  Generally up to four paragraphs. May vary slightly with journal guidelines.

Abstract

Once you are sure that possible doubts on the difference between the abstract and introduction are clear, review and submit your manuscript.

What struggles have you had in writing an abstract or introduction? Were you able to resolve them? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

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Insightful and educating Indeed. Thank You

Quite a helpful and precise for scholars and students alike. Keep it up…

thanks! very helpful.

thanks. helped

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Greeting from Enago Academy! Thank you for your positive comment. We are glad to know that you found our resources useful. Your feedback is very valuable to us. Happy reading!

Really helpful as I prepare to write the introduction to my dissertation. Thank you Enago Academy

This gave me more detail finding the pieces of a research article being used for a critique paper in nursing school! thank you!

The guidelines have really assisted me with my assignment on writing argument essay on social media. The difference between the abstract and introduction is quite clear now for me to start my essay…thank you so much…

Quite helpful! I’m writing a paper on eyewitness testimony for one of my undergraduate courses at the University of Northern Colorado, and found this to be extremely helpful in clarifications

This was hugely helpful. Keep up the great work!

This was quite helpful. Keep it up!

Very comprehensive and simple. thanks

As a student, this website has helped me greatly to understand how to formally report my research

Thanks a lot.I can now handle my doubts after reading through.

thanks alot! this website has given me huge clarification on writing a good Introduction and Abttract i really appreciate what you share!. hope to see more to come1 God bless you.

Thank you, this was very helpful for writing my research paper!

That was helpful. geed job.

Thank you very much. This article really helped with my assignment.

Woohoo! Amazing. I couldnt stop listening to the audio; so enlightening.

Thank you for such a clear breakdown!

I am grateful for the assistance rendered me. I was mystified over the difference between an abstract and introduction during thesis writing. Now I have understood the concept theoretically, I will put that in practice. So thanks a lots it is great help to me.

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  1. Abstract and summary. What is the difference. How to write?

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  3. Abstract vs Summary: When To Use Each One? What To Consider

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  4. The difference between abstract and conclusion

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  5. Abstract vs. Introduction: Academic Writing Guidelines

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COMMENTS

  1. What's the difference between an abstract and a summary?

    An abstract concisely explains all the key points of an academic text such as a thesis, dissertation or journal article. It should summarize the whole text, not just introduce it. An abstract is a type of summary, but summaries are also written elsewhere in academic writing. For example, you might summarize a source in a paper, in a literature ...

  2. Abstract vs Summary: When To Use Each One? What To Consider

    In this article, we'll explore the differences between abstract and summary, and when to use each one. Let's define our terms. Abstract is a noun that refers to a brief summary of a research article, thesis, review, conference proceeding, or any in-depth analysis of a particular subject and is often used to help the reader quickly ascertain ...

  3. Main Differences Between a Summary and an Abstract

    In conclusion, your summary should be a shorter, more concise version of your original paper that still includes all important information and effectively translates the message from your paper. Whereas the abstract should be a short paragraph that presents all key facts and information. In the future, try to refer to this post as a mental ...

  4. What is the difference between Abstract, conclusion and summary?

    A1: In the context of a journal article, thesis etc., the abstract should provide a brief summary of each of the main parts of the article: Introduction, Methods, Results and Discussion.In the words of Houghton (1975), "An abstract can be defined as a summary of the information in a document". The Conclusions (in some cases also called a Summary) chapter is a summary of the main ideas that ...

  5. How to Write an Abstract

    A good abstract is short but impactful, so make sure every word counts. Each sentence should clearly communicate one main point. To keep your abstract or summary short and clear: Avoid passive sentences: Passive constructions are often unnecessarily long. You can easily make them shorter and clearer by using the active voice.

  6. Summary vs. Abstract: What's the Difference?

    A summary typically captures the essence of a text, highlighting its main ideas and points. This means that after reading a summary, one should have a general understanding of the original content. 7. In contrast, an abstract is often associated with academic and scientific papers. It provides a concise description of the study's purpose ...

  7. Writing abstracts and summaries

    Conference abstract: Normally a standalone abstract (up to 500 words), designed to help conference organisers decide whether they would like you to present at the conference. It may follow Unstructured, Structured or Extended abstract forms. Text type. Journal article, conference submission. Thesis dissertation, policy or other business reports ...

  8. Difference Between Abstract and Summary

    A summary is a condensed version of a longer work. An abstract is a brief summary that is found at the beginning of a research article, thesis, etc. This is the main difference between abstract and summary. An abstract is a type of summary. What is an Abstract. An abstract is a short yet powerful statement or account that summarizes a larger work.

  9. What's the Difference Between an Abstract, Summary, and ...

    Like an abstract, a summary is just a condensed write-up on the topic discussed in your paper. However, summaries are more open ended than abstracts, and can contain much more varied information. They can be included in virtually any type of paper, and do not have a specific word count limit.

  10. What Is the Difference Between an Abstract and a Thesis Statement?

    Differences. The significant difference between an abstract and a thesis statement is the purpose behind each. While the abstract summarizes the important aspects of a complete writing piece, the thesis statement lays out only the position a writer is offering within the document. The abstract is longer in length and contains at least five ...

  11. Executive Summaries and Abstracts

    Executive summaries are longer than abstracts, often running 2-5 pages. They summarize a larger document's purpose, methods, results, conclusions, and recommendations such that someone who reads only the summary can glean a solid understanding of the research as a whole. Unlike abstracts, executive summaries can include citations and references.

  12. How to write the abstract and the summary of a study?

    Steps to follow. First, complete the whole research and the writing of the paper. Extract the information. Plan the type of abstract or summary; informative, descriptive or critical. Informative is usually lengthy and briefly describes all the chapters of a thesis or dissertation.

  13. Differences between summary, abstract, overview, and synopsis

    Summary is the most catch-all term of this group, and the one that shows up the most in general everyday English.. Abstract is most commonly used in the scientific context. It is typically a formal requirement for publication, as the initial section of a scientific paper. Often times if you find scientific papers online, it is just the abstract that is available.

  14. What's the difference between an abstract and a summary?

    An abstract concisely explains all the key points of an academic text such as a thesis, dissertation or journal article. It should summarise the whole text, not just introduce it. An abstract is a type of summary, but summaries are also written elsewhere in academic writing. For example, you might summarise a source in a paper, in a literature ...

  15. Difference Between Abstract and Summary

    Differences Between Abstract and Summary. The primary differences between an abstract and an overview include: Purpose: Abstracts' purpose is to present a short yet comprehensive summary of a larger work, such as an article or research paper, by outlining its most critical points and conclusions in an accessible fashion. It helps readers ...

  16. How to Write an Abstract for a Dissertation

    What's the difference between an abstract and an introduction? The main differences between a PhD dissertation abstract and an introduction are the purpose and the length. An abstract is a short, paragraph-sized summary of the whole thesis, covering context, your research and results. Whereas an introduction should be much longer and only ...

  17. How to Write a Summary

    Table of contents. When to write a summary. Step 1: Read the text. Step 2: Break the text down into sections. Step 3: Identify the key points in each section. Step 4: Write the summary. Step 5: Check the summary against the article. Other interesting articles. Frequently asked questions about summarizing.

  18. Lay summary vs. Abstract: Differences, similarities and writing tips

    An Abstract summarizes the contents of a research article to help the reader, typically a researcher in the same field, quickly grasp the purpose of the text. Meanwhile, a lay summary summarizes the contents of a research article for non-specialist audiences or members of funding body panels (researchers, but from different fields).

  19. Abstract vs. Summary

    Within the realm of academic writing, the distinction between an abstract and summary becomes crucial. The abstract is essentially a selling point. When researchers skim through databases, a compelling abstract can entice them to read the full paper. Conversely, a summary can be a tool for study, helping students and professionals grasp the ...

  20. Abstract vs Synopsis: Meaning And Differences

    An abstract is a brief summary of a research article, thesis, review, conference proceeding, or any in-depth analysis of a particular subject and is often used to help the reader quickly ascertain the paper's purpose. ... When it comes to writing academic papers, it's crucial to understand the difference between an abstract and a synopsis ...

  21. What is the difference between Abstract and Author Summary?

    3. For journals that have both, the abstract is typically intended to be a technical summary of the article for the core audience, while the author summary or popular summary is written in a less technical style and for a broader audience. For the linked example, this is laid out in the journal's Submission guidelines:

  22. Introduction vs. Abstract

    Abstracts. Abstracts in academic writing are intended for publication. Once the work has been published, the abstract acts as a summary for the reader so that the reader can determine if they want to take the time to read more of the work. When choosing a fiction novel, readers skim the back cover. When selecting research, they skim the abstract.

  23. Abstract Vs. Introduction

    An abstract is similar to a summary except that it is more concise and direct. Whereas, the introduction section of your paper is more detailed. It states why you conducted your study, what you wanted to accomplish, and what is your hypothesis. This blog will allow us to learn more about the difference between the abstract and the introduction.