An abstract is a clear, accurate and concise summary of a research. It is usually written at the end of the research after the rest of the project report has been completed. An abstract should be between 100 - 250 words and should get the reader interested in the research paper. Knowing how abstracts are structured is the first step towards writing an awesome abstract.

Structure of an abstract

1. Overview of the Study (Research Problem, Aim and Objectives)
2. Methods/Research Methodology
3. Results/Findings
4. Conclusion/Recommendations



Overview of the Study (Research Problem, Aim and Objectives)

This section explains the main purpose of the work. Students need to ensure readers easily get what the research aims and objectives are as well as the problems motivating the researcher to carry out the study.

Methods/Research Methodology

This section of the abstract should briefly talk about the research methods employed in the research. With one or two sentences, you should let your readers know the data collection methods, research methodology, research instruments and techniques used in the study.

Results/Findings

The third section should indicate the main findings or results. Use one or two sentences to state the important results of the research.

Conclusion/Recommendations

This last section is where you draw conclusions from the analysis of your results and findings. Based on these results and findings, you should also give your readers suitable recommendations and/or suggestions.



Characteristics of a good abstract

1. The abstract should be written in a block paragraph(no indention).
2  An abstract should not be evaluative.
3. Use an active voice when writing an abstract.
4. Use past tense when writing an abstract.
5. Should be between 100 - 250 words.

Basically, when writing an abstract, you should ensure it is brief and engaging. This is important because it informs your readers(including your supervisor) whether to continue reading.



Common mistakes made when writing an abstract

1. Lengthy Abstracts - A standard abstract should be between 100 - 250 words.
2. Use of Ambiguous words - Use simple words your readers can understand.
3. Including references -  You should only include references when it is unavoidable. Be careful not to include too many references.
4. Not including significant points
5. Avoid Writing Abstracts When you have not completed your research.

Example of an abstract:

The research work was conducted to find out the impact of communication on organizational performance. The basic problem that led to this research work proffer reasonable solutions that will lead to an effective communication system and to form a basis on which further research could be carried out. Two hypothesis were formulated in other to effectively carry out the research work. The research is based on descriptive and field survey. The population was Two Hundred and Sixty Four (264) and the sample size was One Hundred and Eighty-Six (186). The techniques used were the simple random sampling in the collection of data. The primary and secondary data were used; the data collected was analyzed. The tool used for the data analysis was the chi-square (x2) and the simple percentage method. The findings include the problems of communication breakdown and distortion which militates against effective communication. Poor communication system and lack of maintenance also affected the communication among employers and employees. Inadequate communication facilities and lack of up to date communication equipment also affected communication in the management of an organization.