Creating a strong dissertation abstract is essential for a research work to succeed. An abstract gives the reader a brief overview of the full dissertation and acts as their initial impression. Attracting the reader’s interest is crucial, as is giving them a clear comprehension of the study problem, purpose, technique, findings, and conclusion. In order to properly explain your study and leave a good first impression on your readers, we’ll give you ten suggestions for writing an effective dissertation abstract in this post.
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10 Tips for Writing an Effective Dissertation Abstract
Follow the Guidelines
The first step in creating a successful abstract is to carefully read and adhere to the departmental or university criteria. The word count, formatting specifications, and detailed directions on what should be in the abstract are usually included in these recommendations.
Start with a clear and concise summary
The major research question or hypothesis, the research technique, and the key findings of your study should all be briefly and clearly summarised at the beginning of the abstract.
To make your abstract or summary concise and understandable:
- Avoid Passive sentences: Passive sentences should be avoided since they frequently need unnecessary length. By using the active voice, you can quickly and easily make them shorter and clearer.
- Shorten your sentences: Replace lengthier formulations for concise expressions or single words (e.g., “In order to” for “To”).
- Avoid using technical language: the abstract should be clear to people unfamiliar with the subject.
- Avoid using filler words and repetition: When possible, substitute pronouns for nouns, and cut out superfluous words.
- Avoid giving specifics: An abstract is not expected to include in-depth definitions, historical context, or analyses of the work of other experts. Instead, provide this information in the paper’s or thesis’s main body
Use clear and concise language
The abstract’s wording should be understandable, simple, and straightforward. Don’t use technical or jargony terminology that your readers won’t understand.
Include keywords
The visibility of your study might be increased and it will be simpler for others to identify and cite your work if you include relevant keywords in your abstract.
Provide context
The abstract should give a succinct summary of the history and context of your research, as well as any pertinent theories or literature that helped to inform your study.
Describe your research’s methods in brief.
The research methodology employed in your study, including the sample size, data collection procedures, and analytic strategies, should be briefly summarised in the abstract.
Highlight the main findings
The major findings of your study, as well as any noteworthy outcomes or inferences, should be highlighted in the abstract.
Emphasize the significance of your research
The relevance of your study and its potential contributions to the area should be highlighted in the abstract.
Proofread and revise
Make sure to carefully check and rewrite your abstract before submitting it to make sure it appropriately summarises your research and is error-free.
Seek feedback
Consider seeking feedback from your supervisor, peers, or other experts in your field to ensure that your abstract effectively communicates your research and its significance.
Recommended Resources:
- How to Write a Research Proposal for Your Dissertation
- How to Maximise Your Campus Library: A Guide to Research and Study Resources
- The Importance of Literature Review
- 10 Tips for Choosing a Dissertation Topic
Need answers on how to write abstract or templates Check out Scribbr
In summary, writing an effective dissertation abstract requires careful attention to detail, clear and concise language, and a strong emphasis on the main research question, methodology, findings, and significance of your work. By following these 10 tips, you can create an abstract that effectively communicates your research to the reader and sets the stage for a successful dissertation.