Checklist (RTF File)

Overview

An abstract provide a brief summary of a longer document, most often a published research article. They are a single paragraph, typically 200-500 words (10% or less of the original document). Readers use abstracts most often to determine whether to read the entire article.

Content

Abstracts typically include purpose, methods, scope, conclusions, and recommendations (the exact information depends on the specific field, and sometimes the journal that publishes the article).

"Descriptive Abstracts," which serve only to introduce the document, often do not include conclusions and recommendations. Usually only 100 words or so, they typically act as a kind of "table of contents" for the document, explaining what it covers, but providing few, if any, details.

"Informative Abstracts" are usually longer and cover key details such as the major findings or conclusions of the document.

Writing Tips

(Review the samples above right for more specific examples of these strategies at work).

• As you read the article, note the key components (purpose, method, scope, conclusions, recommendations).
• Use the article's headings and subheadings to help you define and organize what information the document includes.
• After reading the document and making notes, write a rough draft from memory, then check it against the document for completeness and accuracy.
• Don't rely on the language of the article itself; summarize the information in your own words.
• Begin with the document's main purpose or focus to orient the reader.
  • For Example:

    This article summarizes the current state of computer technology for music education and provides guidelines for implementing it in schools.

    This article provides an overview of the ethical debates surrounding the Human Genome Project.

• Specify what kind of information the document includes, but for brevity, avoid specific details.
  • For Example:

    The article provides a brief background on computer technology in education, describes the Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI), and covers budgeting, hardware and software needs, and facility design. It also offers additional resources for those who want more information.

• Do not include background; references to any charts, tables, or figures in the document; or any information not found in the document itself.
• When writing an abtract for publication, include a list of keywords to use for indexing purposes.

(Sources: Jones, Dan. The Technical Communicator's Handbook. Boston: Allyn and Bacon, 2000; Markel, Mike. Technical Communication 6th Edition. New York: Bedfort/St. Martins, 2001)

Annotated Bibliographies-->