The Five Step Process Step 1: A catchy title. Step 2: A snappy context sentence (or sentences) ... Step 3: Introduce your argument (don't just copy your thesis statement). Step 4: Add some sentences describing how you make your argument. Step 5: Show the conference organizers or editors that you're a pro.
On abstract structure: Start with the topic, state the problem or paint point, tease a solution, then finish off with the takeaways. Your abstract serves as a promise of what conference attendees will learn from your talk.
Abstracts commonly have these parts: introduction, purpose, method, result, and conclusion. Each part has a different communicative goal or specific function. Most abstracts examined had purpose, method, and result with about half including a clear introduction and conclusion.
Complete — it covers the major parts of the project. Concise — it contains no excess wordiness or unnecessary information. Clear — it is readable, well organized, and not too jargon-laden. Cohesive — it flows smoothly between the parts.
“The abstract is a brief, clear summary of the information in your presentation. A well-prepared abstract enables readers to identify the basic content quickly and accurately, to determine its relevance to their interests or purpose and then to decide whether they want to listen to the presentation in its entirety.”
The best way to go about an abstract is to start with what you want the audience to take away from the session. From there, you can start summarizing what the speaker plans to say without giving too much away.
Be Concise: Aim for clarity and brevity. Most abstracts are typically 150-300 words. Use Clear Language: Avoid jargon and complex sentences. Make it accessible to a broad audience. Focus on Key Points: Emphasize the most important aspects of your research. Stay Objective: Present your findings without exaggeration.
Abstract words allow us to convey important human ideas like scientific (e.g. theory, calculus) and social (e.g. justice) concepts, and extend our capacity to convey ideas beyond the physical reality of the here and now.