How to Write an Abstract in Standard American English
An abstract is a concise summary of a research paper, thesis, or other academic work. It provides a brief overview of the paper’s main points and findings, and it should be written in a clear and concise style. The abstract is typically the first part of a paper that a reader will encounter, so it is important to make a good impression.
Here are some tips on how to write an effective abstract:
- Start with a strong hook. The first sentence of your abstract should grab the reader’s attention and make them want to learn more. This could be a surprising statistic, a thought-provoking question, or a brief anecdote.
- State your main argument. The next sentence or two should state your main argument or thesis. This should be a clear and concise statement of what your paper is about and what you are trying to prove.
- Provide evidence to support your argument. The body of your abstract should provide evidence to support your argument. This could include data from your research, quotes from experts, or examples from your own experience.
- Summarize your findings. The final sentence or two of your abstract should summarize your findings. This should be a brief restatement of your main argument, followed by a statement of your conclusions.
Here is an example of an effective abstract:
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
Social media has become an increasingly important part of our lives. We use it to stay connected with friends and family, to share our thoughts and experiences, and to get news and information. However, there is growing concern about the impact of social media on our mental health.
This paper examines the relationship between social media use and mental health. The author conducted a survey of 1,000 social media users and found that those who spent more time on social media were more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. The author also found that social media use can lead to social comparison, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.
The author concludes that social media use can have a negative impact on mental health. They recommend that people limit their social media use and find other ways to connect with friends and family.
FAQ
What is the purpose of an abstract?
An abstract is a concise summary of a research paper, thesis, or other academic work. It provides a brief overview of the paper’s main points and findings, and it should be written in a clear and concise style.
How long should an abstract be?
Abstracts typically range from 150 to 250 words.
What should I include in an abstract?
An abstract should include the following information:
- A strong hook
- A statement of your main argument or thesis
- Evidence to support your argument
- A summary of your findings
How do I write a strong hook?
A strong hook can be a surprising statistic, a thought-provoking question, or a brief anecdote.
How do I state my main argument or thesis?
Your main argument or thesis should be a clear and concise statement of what your paper is about and what you are trying to prove.
How do I provide evidence to support my argument?
Evidence to support your argument could include data from your research, quotes from experts, or examples from your own experience.
How do I summarize my findings?
Your summary should be a brief restatement of your main argument, followed by a statement of your conclusions.
What is the difference between an abstract and an executive summary?
An abstract is a concise summary of a research paper, thesis, or other academic work. It provides a brief overview of the paper’s main points and findings, and it should be written in a clear and concise style. An executive summary is a more detailed summary of a business plan or other document. It typically includes more information than an abstract, and it is often used to make a decision about whether to invest in a particular project.
