An abstract is an important part of a paper or thesis. There are several reasons why an abstract is important. First, it may help the reader to know what topics are covered in the paper or thesis. Second, it may help the reader to gain knowledge of the basic conclusions. Third, it may help the reader to know how the paper or thesis may make an original contribution to our knowledge.
Because of the three reasons indicated above, it is important to learn how to write an abstract for a paper or thesis. Based on the above reasons, the abstract should include the following information:
1. A brief summary of the basic ideas and findings in the paper or thesis.
2. A brief statement of the basic conclusions in the paper or thesis.
3. A brief statement of how the paper or thesis may make an original contribution to our knowledge.
Because the abstract is likely to be very brief (e.g., less than 150 words), it is very important that only the most essential information (as indicated above) is included in the abstract. Moreover, the abstract should be edited a number of times and unnecessary words should be omitted.
An abstract should help the reader decide whether to read the paper or thesis. Thus, it is very important that the abstract provides the reader with sufficient information that would allow the reader to have a good understanding of what is covered in the paper or thesis and how the paper or thesis may be original.