what to write in the abstract of a dissertation

• How to Write an Abstract for a Dissertation or Thesis
• Doing a PhD

What is a Thesis or Dissertation Abstract?

The Cambridge English Dictionary defines an abstract in academic writing as being “ a few sentences that give the main ideas in an article or a scientific paper ” and the Collins English Dictionary says “ an abstract of an article, document, or speech is a short piece of writing that gives the main points of it ”.

Whether you’re writing up your Master’s dissertation or PhD thesis, the abstract will be a key element of this document that you’ll want to make sure you give proper attention to.

What is the Purpose of an Abstract?

The aim of a thesis abstract is to give the reader a broad overview of what your research project was about and what you found that was novel, before he or she decides to read the entire thesis. The reality here though is that very few people will read the entire thesis, and not because they’re necessarily disinterested but because practically it’s too large a document for most people to have the time to read. The exception to this is your PhD examiner, however know that even they may not read the entire length of the document.

Some people may still skip to and read specific sections throughout your thesis such as the methodology, but the fact is that the abstract will be all that most read and will therefore be the section they base their opinions about your research on. In short, make sure you write a good, well-structured abstract.

How Long Should an Abstract Be?

If you’re a PhD student, having written your 100,000-word thesis, the abstract will be the 300 word summary included at the start of the thesis that succinctly explains the motivation for your study (i.e. why this research was needed), the main work you did (i.e. the focus of each chapter), what you found (the results) and concluding with how your research study contributed to new knowledge within your field.

Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States of America, once famously said:

The point here is that it’s easier to talk open-endedly about a subject that you know a lot about than it is to condense the key points into a 10-minute speech; the same applies for an abstract. Three hundred words is not a lot of words which makes it even more difficult to condense three (or more) years of research into a coherent, interesting story.

What Makes a Good PhD Thesis Abstract?

Whilst the abstract is one of the first sections in your PhD thesis, practically it’s probably the last aspect that you’ll ending up writing before sending the document to print. The reason being that you can’t write a summary about what you did, what you found and what it means until you’ve done the work.

A good abstract is one that can clearly explain to the reader in 300 words:

• What your research field actually is,
• What the gap in knowledge was in your field,
• The overarching aim and objectives of your PhD in response to these gaps,
• What methods you employed to achieve these,
• You key results and findings,
• How your work has added to further knowledge in your field of study.

Another way to think of this structure is:

• Introduction,
• Aims and objectives,
• Discussion,
• Conclusion.

Following this ‘formulaic’ approach to writing the abstract should hopefully make it a little easier to write but you can already see here that there’s a lot of information to convey in a very limited number of words.

How Do You Write a Good PhD Thesis Abstract?

The biggest challenge you’ll have is getting all the 6 points mentioned above across in your abstract within the limit of 300 words . Your particular university may give some leeway in going a few words over this but it’s good practice to keep within this; the art of succinctly getting your information across is an important skill for a researcher to have and one that you’ll be called on to use regularly as you write papers for peer review.

Keep It Concise

Every word in the abstract is important so make sure you focus on only the key elements of your research and the main outcomes and significance of your project that you want the reader to know about. You may have come across incidental findings during your research which could be interesting to discuss but this should not happen in the abstract as you simply don’t have enough words. Furthermore, make sure everything you talk about in your thesis is actually described in the main thesis.

Make a Unique Point Each Sentence

Keep the sentences short and to the point. Each sentence should give the reader new, useful information about your research so there’s no need to write out your project title again. Give yourself one or two sentences to introduce your subject area and set the context for your project. Then another sentence or two to explain the gap in the knowledge; there’s no need or expectation for you to include references in the abstract.

Explain Your Research

Some people prefer to write their overarching aim whilst others set out their research questions as they correspond to the structure of their thesis chapters; the approach you use is up to you, as long as the reader can understand what your dissertation or thesis had set out to achieve. Knowing this will help the reader better understand if your results help to answer the research questions or if further work is needed.

Keep It Factual

Keep the content of the abstract factual; that is to say that you should avoid bringing too much or any opinion into it, which inevitably can make the writing seem vague in the points you’re trying to get across and even lacking in structure.

Write, Edit and Then Rewrite

Spend suitable time editing your text, and if necessary, completely re-writing it. Show the abstract to others and ask them to explain what they understand about your research – are they able to explain back to you each of the 6 structure points, including why your project was needed, the research questions and results, and the impact it had on your research field? It’s important that you’re able to convey what new knowledge you contributed to your field but be mindful when writing your abstract that you don’t inadvertently overstate the conclusions, impact and significance of your work.

Thesis and Dissertation Abstract Examples

Perhaps the best way to understand how to write a thesis abstract is to look at examples of what makes a good and bad abstract.

Example of A Bad Abstract

Let’s start with an example of a bad thesis abstract:

In this project on “The Analysis of the Structural Integrity of 3D Printed Polymers for use in Aircraft”, my research looked at how 3D printing of materials can help the aviation industry in the manufacture of planes. Plane parts can be made at a lower cost using 3D printing and made lighter than traditional components. This project investigated the structural integrity of EBM manufactured components, which could revolutionise the aviation industry.

What Makes This a Bad Abstract

Hopefully you’ll have spotted some of the reasons this would be considered a poor abstract, not least because the author used up valuable words by repeating the lengthy title of the project in the abstract.

Working through our checklist of the 6 key points you want to convey to the reader:

• There has been an attempt to introduce the research area , albeit half-way through the abstract but it’s not clear if this is a materials science project about 3D printing or is it about aircraft design.
• There’s no explanation about where the gap in the knowledge is that this project attempted to address.
• We can see that this project was focussed on the topic of structural integrity of materials in aircraft but the actual research aims or objectives haven’t been defined.
• There’s no mention at all of what the author actually did to investigate structural integrity. For example was this an experimental study involving real aircraft, or something in the lab, computer simulations etc.
• The author also doesn’t tell us a single result of his research, let alone the key findings !
• There’s a bold claim in the last sentence of the abstract that this project could revolutionise the aviation industry, and this may well be the case, but based on the abstract alone there is no evidence to support this as it’s not even clear what the author did .

This is an extreme example but is a good way to illustrate just how unhelpful a poorly written abstract can be. At only 71 words long, it definitely hasn’t maximised the amount of information that could be presented and the what they have presented has lacked clarity and structure.

A final point to note is the use of the EBM acronym, which stands for Electron Beam Melting in the context of 3D printing; this is a niche acronym for the author to assume that the reader would know the meaning of. It’s best to avoid acronyms in your abstract all together even if it’s something that you might expect most people to know about, unless you specifically define the meaning first.

Example of A Good Abstract

Having seen an example of a bad thesis abstract, now lets look at an example of a good PhD thesis abstract written about the same (fictional) project:

Additive manufacturing (AM) of titanium alloys has the potential to enable cheaper and lighter components to be produced with customised designs for use in aircraft engines. Whilst the proof-of-concept of these have been promising, the structural integrity of AM engine parts in response to full thrust and temperature variations is not clear.

The primary aim of this project was to determine the fracture modes and mechanisms of AM components designed for use in Boeing 747 engines. To achieve this an explicit finite element (FE) model was developed to simulate the environment and parameters that the engine is exposed to during flight. The FE model was validated using experimental data replicating the environmental parameters in a laboratory setting using ten AM engine components provided by the industry sponsor. The validated FE model was then used to investigate the extent of crack initiation and propagation as the environment parameters were adjusted.

This project was the first to investigate fracture patterns in AM titanium components used in aircraft engines; the key finding was that the presence of cavities within the structures due to errors in the printing process, significantly increased the risk of fracture. Secondly, the simulations showed that cracks formed within AM parts were more likely to worsen and lead to component failure at subzero temperatures when compared to conventionally manufactured parts. This has demonstrated an important safety concern which needs to be addressed before AM parts can be used in commercial aircraft.

What Makes This a Good Abstract

Having read this ‘good abstract’ you should have a much better understand about what the subject area is about, where the gap in the knowledge was, the aim of the project, the methods that were used, key results and finally the significance of these results. To break these points down further, from this good abstract we now know that:

• The research area is around additive manufacturing (i.e. 3D printing) of materials for use in aircraft.
• The gap in knowledge was how these materials will behave structural when used in aircraft engines.
• The aim was specifically to investigate how the components can fracture.
• The methods used to investigate this were a combination of computational and lab based experimental modelling.
• The key findings were the increased risk of fracture of these components due to the way they are manufactured.
• The significance of these findings were that it showed a potential risk of component failure that could comprise the safety of passengers and crew on the aircraft.

The abstract text has a much clearer flow through these different points in how it’s written and has made much better use of the available word count. Acronyms have even been used twice in this good abstract but they were clearly defined the first time they were introduced in the text so that there was no confusion about their meaning.

The abstract you write for your dissertation or thesis should succinctly explain to the reader why the work of your research was needed, what you did, what you found and what it means. Most people that come across your thesis, including any future employers, are likely to read only your abstract. Even just for this reason alone, it’s so important that you write the best abstract you can; this will not only convey your research effectively but also put you in the best light possible as a researcher.

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Writing an abstract - a six point checklist (with samples)

Posted in: abstract , dissertations

The abstract is a vital part of any research paper. It is the shop front for your work, and the first stop for your reader. It should provide a clear and succinct summary of your study, and encourage your readers to read more. An effective abstract, therefore should answer the following questions:

• Why did you do this study or project?
• What did you do and how?
• What did you find?
• What do your findings mean?

So here's our run down of the key elements of a well-written abstract.

• Size - A succinct and well written abstract should be between approximately 100- 250 words.
• Background - An effective abstract usually includes some scene-setting information which might include what is already known about the subject, related to the paper in question (a few short sentences).
• Purpose  - The abstract should also set out the purpose of your research, in other words, what is not known about the subject and hence what the study intended to examine (or what the paper seeks to present).
• Methods - The methods section should contain enough information to enable the reader to understand what was done, and how. It should include brief details of the research design, sample size, duration of study, and so on.
• Results - The results section is the most important part of the abstract. This is because readers who skim an abstract do so to learn about the findings of the study. The results section should therefore contain as much detail about the findings as the journal word count permits.
• Conclusion - This section should contain the most important take-home message of the study, expressed in a few precisely worded sentences. Usually, the finding highlighted here relates to the primary outcomes of the study. However, other important or unexpected findings should also be mentioned. It is also customary, but not essential, to express an opinion about the theoretical or practical implications of the findings, or the importance of their findings for the field. Thus, the conclusions may contain three elements:
• The primary take-home message.
• Any additional findings of importance.
• Implications for future studies.

Example Abstract 2: Engineering Development and validation of a three-dimensional finite element model of the pelvic bone.

Abstract from: Dalstra, M., Huiskes, R. and Van Erning, L., 1995. Development and validation of a three-dimensional finite element model of the pelvic bone. Journal of biomechanical engineering, 117(3), pp.272-278.

And finally...  A word on abstract types and styles

Abstract types can differ according to subject discipline. You need to determine therefore which type of abstract you should include with your paper. Here are two of the most common types with examples.

Informative Abstract

The majority of abstracts are informative. While they still do not critique or evaluate a work, they do more than describe it. A good informative abstract acts as a surrogate for the work itself. That is, the researcher presents and explains all the main arguments and the important results and evidence in the paper. An informative abstract includes the information that can be found in a descriptive abstract [purpose, methods, scope] but it also includes the results and conclusions of the research and the recommendations of the author. The length varies according to discipline, but an informative abstract is usually no more than 300 words in length.

Descriptive Abstract A descriptive abstract indicates the type of information found in the work. It makes no judgements about the work, nor does it provide results or conclusions of the research. It does incorporate key words found in the text and may include the purpose, methods, and scope of the research. Essentially, the descriptive abstract only describes the work being summarised. Some researchers consider it an outline of the work, rather than a summary. Descriptive abstracts are usually very short, 100 words or less.

Adapted from Andrade C. How to write a good abstract for a scientific paper or conference presentation. Indian J Psychiatry. 2011 Apr;53(2):172-5. doi: 10.4103/0019-5545.82558. PMID: 21772657; PMCID: PMC3136027 .

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The Dissertation/Thesis Abstract

How To Write A High-Impact Abstract (With Examples)

By:   Madeline Fink (MSc) Reviewed By: Derek Jansen (MBA)   | June 2020

Overview: The Dissertation/Thesis Abstract

• What exactly is a dissertation (or thesis) abstract
• What’s the purpose and function of the abstract
• Why is the abstract so important
• How to write a high-quality dissertation abstract
• Example/sample of a quality abstract
• Quick tips to write a high-quality dissertation abstract

What is an abstract?

Simply put, the abstract in a dissertation or thesis is a short (but well structured) summary that outlines the most important points of your research (i.e. the key takeaways). The abstract is usually 1 paragraph or about 300-500 words long (about one page), but but this can vary between universities.

A quick note regarding terminology – strictly speaking, an abstract and an executive summary are two different things when it comes to academic publications. Typically, an abstract only states what the research will be about, but doesn’t explore the findings – whereas an executive summary covers both . However, in the context of a dissertation or thesis, the abstract usually covers both, providing a summary of the full project.

In terms of content, a good dissertation abstract usually covers the following points:

• The purpose of the research (what’s it about and why’s that important)
• The methodology (how you carried out the research)
• The key research findings (what answers you found)
• The implications of these findings (what these answers mean)

We’ll explain each of these in more detail a little later in this post. Buckle up.

What’s the purpose of the abstract?

A dissertation abstract has two main functions:

The first purpose is to  inform potential readers  of the main idea of your research without them having to read your entire piece of work. Specifically, it needs to communicate what your research is about (what were you trying to find out) and what your findings were . When readers are deciding whether to read your dissertation or thesis, the abstract is the first part they’ll consider. 

The second purpose of the abstract is to  inform search engines and dissertation databases  as they index your dissertation or thesis. The keywords and phrases in your abstract (as well as your keyword list) will often be used by these search engines to categorize your work and make it accessible to users. 

Simply put, your abstract is your shopfront display window – it’s what passers-by (both human and digital) will look at before deciding to step inside. 

Why’s it so important?

The short answer – because most people don’t have time to read your full dissertation or thesis! Time is money, after all…

If you think back to when you undertook your literature review , you’ll quickly realise just how important abstracts are! Researchers reviewing the literature on any given topic face a mountain of reading, so they need to optimise their approach. A good dissertation abstract gives the reader a “TLDR” version of your work – it helps them decide whether to continue to read it in its entirety. So, your abstract, as your shopfront display window, needs to “sell” your research to time-poor readers.

You might be thinking, “but I don’t plan to publish my dissertation”. Even so, you still need to provide an impactful abstract for your markers. Your ability to concisely summarise your work is one of the things they’re assessing, so it’s vital to invest time and effort into crafting an enticing shop window.  

A good abstract also has an added purpose for grad students . As a freshly minted graduate, your dissertation or thesis is often your most significant professional accomplishment and highlights where your unique expertise lies. Potential employers who want to know about this expertise are likely to only read the abstract (as opposed to reading your entire document) – so it needs to be good!

Think about it this way – if your thesis or dissertation were a book, then the abstract would be the blurb on the back cover. For better or worse, readers will absolutely judge your book by its cover .

How to write your abstract

As we touched on earlier, your abstract should cover four important aspects of your research: the purpose , methodology , findings , and implications . Therefore, the structure of your dissertation or thesis abstract needs to reflect these four essentials, in the same order.  Let’s take a closer look at each of them, step by step:

Step 1: Describe the purpose and value of your research

Here you need to concisely explain the purpose and value of your research. In other words, you need to explain what your research set out to discover and why that’s important. When stating the purpose of research, you need to clearly discuss the following:

• What were your research aims and research questions ?
• Why were these aims and questions important?

It’s essential to make this section extremely clear, concise and convincing . As the opening section, this is where you’ll “hook” your reader (marker) in and get them interested in your project. If you don’t put in the effort here, you’ll likely lose their interest.

Step 2: Briefly outline your study’s methodology

In this part of your abstract, you need to very briefly explain how you went about answering your research questions . In other words, what research design and methodology you adopted in your research. Some important questions to address here include:

• Did you take a qualitative or quantitative approach ?
• Who/what did your sample consist of?
• How did you collect your data?
• How did you analyse your data?

Simply put, this section needs to address the “ how ” of your research. It doesn’t need to be lengthy (this is just a summary, after all), but it should clearly address the four questions above.

Need a helping hand?

Step 3: Present your key findings

Next, you need to briefly highlight the key findings . Your research likely produced a wealth of data and findings, so there may be a temptation to ramble here. However, this section is just about the key findings – in other words, the answers to the original questions that you set out to address.

Again, brevity and clarity are important here. You need to concisely present the most important findings for your reader.

Step 4: Describe the implications of your research

Have you ever found yourself reading through a large report, struggling to figure out what all the findings mean in terms of the bigger picture? Well, that’s the purpose of the implications section – to highlight the “so what?” of your research. 

In this part of your abstract, you should address the following questions:

• What is the impact of your research findings on the industry /field investigated? In other words, what’s the impact on the “real world”. 
• What is the impact of your findings on the existing body of knowledge ? For example, do they support the existing research?
• What might your findings mean for future research conducted on your topic?

Example: Dissertation/thesis abstract

The U.S. citizenship application process is a legal and symbolic journey shaped by many cultural processes. This research project aims to bring to light the experiences of immigrants and citizenship applicants living in Dallas, Texas, to promote a better understanding of Dallas’ increasingly diverse population. Additionally, the purpose of this project is to provide insights to a specific client, the office of Dallas Welcoming Communities and Immigrant Affairs, about Dallas’ lawful permanent residents who are eligible for citizenship and their reasons for pursuing citizenship status . The data for this project was collected through observation at various citizenship workshops and community events, as well as through semi-structured interviews with 14 U.S. citizenship applicants . Reasons for applying for U.S. citizenship discussed in this project include a desire for membership in U.S. society, access to better educational and economic opportunities, improved ease of travel and the desire to vote. Barriers to the citizenship process discussed in this project include the amount of time one must dedicate to the application, lack of clear knowledge about the process and the financial cost of the application. Other themes include the effects of capital on applicant’s experience with the citizenship process, symbolic meanings of citizenship, transnationalism and ideas of deserving and undeserving surrounding the issues of residency and U.S. citizenship. These findings indicate the need for educational resources and mentorship for Dallas-area residents applying for U.S. citizenship, as well as a need for local government programs that foster a sense of community among citizenship applicants and their neighbours.

Practical tips for writing your abstract

When crafting the abstract for your dissertation or thesis, the most powerful technique you can use is to try and put yourself in the shoes of a potential reader. Assume the reader is not an expert in the field, but is interested in the research area. In other words, write for the intelligent layman, not for the seasoned topic expert.

Start by trying to answer the question “why should I read this dissertation?”

Remember the WWHS.

Make sure you include the  what , why ,  how , and  so what  of your research in your abstract:

• What you studied (who and where are included in this part)
• Why the topic was important
• How you designed your study (i.e. your research methodology)
• So what were the big findings and implications of your research

Keep it simple.

Use terminology appropriate to your field of study, but don’t overload your abstract with big words and jargon that cloud the meaning and make your writing difficult to digest. A good abstract should appeal to all levels of potential readers and should be a (relatively) easy read. Remember, you need to write for the intelligent layman.

Be specific.

When writing your abstract, clearly outline your most important findings and insights and don’t worry about “giving away” too much about your research – there’s no need to withhold information. This is the one way your abstract is not like a blurb on the back of a book – the reader should be able to clearly understand the key takeaways of your thesis or dissertation after reading the abstract. Of course, if they then want more detail, they need to step into the restaurant and try out the menu.

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How to Write an Abstract for Your Dissertation

Understanding the Purpose of the Abstract    

5 Key Components of an Abstract    

7 Practical Tips for Writing an Effective Abstract    

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Abstract     

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid    

Conclusion     

Writing an abstract for your dissertation is a crucial part of your academic work. The abstract provides a concise summary of your research, encapsulating the main points and findings in a way that enables readers to quickly grasp the essence of your study. This article will guide you through the process of writing an effective abstract, covering its purpose, key components, and practical tips for crafting a clear and comprehensive summary.

Understanding the Purpose of the Abstract

The abstract serves several important functions in your dissertation:

Summary: It provides a brief overview of the entire study, including the research problem, methods, results, and conclusions.

First Impression: It is often the first part of your dissertation that readers will see, making it crucial for capturing their interest.

Accessibility: It helps readers decide whether the full dissertation is relevant to their interests and worth reading.

Indexing: It aids in the indexing and searchability of your dissertation in databases and repositories.

5 Key Components of an Abstract

An effective abstract typically includes the following components:

Introduction/Background

Research Problem/Objective

Methods/Methodology

Results/Findings

Conclusion/Implications

1. Introduction/Background

The first part of your abstract should provide a brief introduction or background to your study. This includes the context of your research and the rationale behind it. You should clearly state the research problem or the main question your dissertation addresses .

2. Research Problem/Objective

Clearly state the primary research problem or objective of your study . This part should succinctly explain what your research aims to achieve and why it is important. It sets the stage for the rest of the abstract by highlighting the focus of your dissertation.

3. Methods/Methodology

Describe the methods or methodology used in your research. This includes the research design, data collection techniques, and analysis methods. This section should be concise but provide enough detail to give readers an understanding of how the research was conducted.

4. Results/Findings

Summarize the main results or findings of your study. This section should present the key outcomes of your research without going into excessive detail. Highlight the most significant results that directly address your research problem or objectives.

5. Conclusion/Implications

Conclude your abstract by discussing the implications of your findings. This includes the significance of your results, how they contribute to the field, and any recommendations for future research. This section should leave readers with a clear understanding of the impact of your study.

7 Practical Tips for Writing an Effective Abstract

1. be concise and clear.

An abstract should be concise, typically between 150 to 300 words. It should provide a clear and comprehensive summary of your research without unnecessary details. Every word should add value and contribute to the overall clarity of the abstract.

2. Use Simple and Direct Language

Avoid jargon and complex sentences. Use simple and direct language to ensure that your abstract is accessible to a broad audience. The goal is to communicate your research effectively to readers who may not be experts in your specific field.

3. Write in the Past Tense

Since the abstract describes work that has already been completed, it should be written in the past tense. This helps to convey that the research and results are finalized.

4. Include Keywords

Incorporate relevant keywords into your abstract to enhance its searchability. Keywords are specific terms related to your research topic that others might use to find studies like yours. Including them can help increase the visibility of your dissertation in databases.

5. Avoid Citations

Abstracts typically do not include citations. The focus should be on summarizing your research, not discussing or referencing other works. Save citations for the main body of your dissertation.

6. Follow Institutional Guidelines

Check the specific guidelines provided by your institution or the dissertation database where you plan to submit your work. Different institutions may have varying requirements for abstract length, structure, and formatting.

7. Review and Revise

Writing a strong abstract often requires multiple drafts. Review and revise your abstract to ensure clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Seek feedback from advisors or peers and be open to making changes based on their suggestions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Abstract

Step 1: write the introduction/background.

Begin by providing a brief introduction to your study. Explain the context and rationale for your research. This section should set the stage for the rest of the abstract by highlighting the importance of the topic and the specific problem you are addressing.

Step 2: State the Research Problem/Objective

Clearly articulate the primary research problem or objective. This should be a concise statement that captures the main focus of your study. Explain what you aimed to achieve and why it is significant.

Step 3: Describe the Methods/Methodology

Summarize the methods or methodology used in your research. Include key details about your research design, data collection techniques, and analysis methods. This section should give readers an understanding of how the research was conducted without overwhelming them with details.

Step 4: Summarize the Results/Findings

Present the main results or findings of your study. Focus on the most significant outcomes that directly address your research problem or objectives. Be concise and highlight the key points.

Step 5: Conclude with Implications

Discuss the implications of your findings. Explain the significance of your results, how they contribute to the field, and any recommendations for future research. This section should leave readers with a clear understanding of the impact of your study.

Step 6: Review and Revise

Review your abstract to ensure it is clear, concise, and comprehensive. Revise it to improve clarity and coherence. Seek feedback from advisors or peers and be open to making changes based on their suggestions.

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. being too vague or general.

Avoid vague statements and generalizations. Your abstract should provide specific information about your study, including the research problem, methods, results, and conclusions. Be precise and detailed.

2. Including Too Much Detail

While it is important to be specific, avoid including too much detail in your abstract. Focus on the key points and leave out unnecessary details that can overwhelm readers.

3. Using Jargon or Technical Language

Avoid jargon and technical language that may not be accessible to all readers. Use simple and direct language to ensure that your abstract is understandable to a broad audience.

4. Writing in the Present Tense

5. ignoring institutional guidelines.

Different institutions may have varying requirements for abstract length, structure, and formatting. Make sure to follow the specific guidelines provided by your institution or the dissertation database where you plan to submit your work.

Writing an effective abstract for your dissertation is a critical step in the academic writing process. It requires careful consideration of the main components of your study and a clear, concise summary of your research. By focusing on the introduction, research problem, methods, results, and implications, you can create an abstract that captures the essence of your dissertation and engages your readers.

Remember to be concise and clear, use simple and direct language, write in the past tense, include relevant keywords, and follow institutional guidelines. Review and revise your abstract to ensure it is comprehensive and coherent. By following these guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you can craft an abstract that effectively communicates the significance and impact of your research.

Additional Resources

For more focused guidance on crafting an effective dissertation abstract, consider these additional resources that offer specific advice on writing your abstract:

Books and Guides:

"Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches" by John W. Creswell and J. David Creswell. This book provides a comprehensive overview of research design, including tips on formulating research questions and titles. It covers various methodologies and offers practical advice for structuring and naming your research projects.

"How to Write a Lot: A Practical Guide to Productive Academic Writing" by Paul J. Silvia. Silvia’s book provides practical advice on improving your academic writing productivity. It includes tips on developing clear and effective titles and abstracts that accurately reflect the content of your research.

Lined and Blank Notebooks: Available for purchase from Amazon , we offer a selection of lined and blank notebooks designed for students to capture all dissertation-related thoughts and research in one centralized place, ensuring that you can easily access and review your work as the project evolves.

The lined notebooks provide a structured format for detailed notetaking and organizing research questions systematically

The blank notebooks offer a free-form space ideal for sketching out ideas, diagrams, and unstructured notes.

By exploring these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of how to craft a dissertation abstract that effectively communicates the essence of your research, captures the interest of your readers, and adheres to academic standards.

As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases.

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How to Write an Abstract for a Dissertation or Thesis: Guide & Examples

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A dissertation abstract is a brief summary of a dissertation, typically between 150-300 words. It is a standalone piece of writing that gives the reader an overview of the main ideas and findings of the dissertation.

Generally, this section should include:

• Research problem and questions
• Research methodology
• Key findings and results
• Original contribution
• Practical or theoretical implications.

You need to write an excellent abstract for a dissertation or thesis, since it's the first thing a comitteee will review. Continue reading through to learn how to write a dissertation abstract. In this article, we will discuss its purpose, length, structure and writing steps. Moreover, for reference purposes, this article will include abstract examples for a dissertation and thesis and offer extra guidance on top of that.

In case you are in a hurry, feel free to buy dissertation from our professional writers. Our experts are qualified and have solid experience in writing Ph.D. academic works.

What Is a Dissertation Abstract?

Dissertation abstracts, by definition, are summaries of a thesis's content, usually between 200 and 300 words, used to inform readers about the contents of the study in a quick way. A thesis or dissertation abstract briefly overviews the entire thesis. Dissertation abstracts are found at the beginning of every study, providing the research recap, results, and conclusions. It usually goes right after your title page and before your dissertation table of contents . An abstract for a dissertation (alternatively called “précis” further in the article) should clearly state the main topic of your paper, its overall purpose, and any important research questions or findings. It should also contain any necessary keywords that direct readers to relevant information. In addition, it addresses any implications for further research that may stem from its field. Writing strong précis requires you to think carefully, as they are the critical components that attract readers to peruse your paper.

Purpose of a Dissertation or Thesis Abstract

The primary purpose of an abstract in a dissertation or thesis is to give readers a basic understanding of the completed work. Also, it should create an interest in the topic to motivate readers to read further. Writing an abstract for a dissertation is essential for many reasons: 

• Offers a summary and gives readers an overview of what they should expect from your study.
• Provides an opportunity to showcase the research done, highlighting its importance and impact.
• Identifies any unexplored research gaps to inform future studies and direct the current state of knowledge on the topic.

In general, an abstract of a thesis or a dissertation is a bridge between the research and potential readers.

What Makes a Good Abstract for a Dissertation?

Making a good dissertation abstract requires excellent organization and clarity of thought. Proper specimens must provide convincing arguments supporting your thesis. Writing an effective dissertation abstract requires students to be concise and write engagingly. Below is a list of things that makes it outstanding:

• Maintains clear and concise summary style
• Includes essential keywords for search engine optimization
• Accurately conveys the scope of the thesis
• Strictly adheres to the word count limit specified in your instructions
• Written from a third-person point of view
• Includes objectives, approach, and findings
• Uses simple language without jargon
• Avoids overgeneralized statements or vague claims.

How Long Should a Dissertation Abstract Be?

Abstracts should be long enough to convey the key points of every thesis, yet brief enough to capture readers' attention. A dissertation abstract length should typically be between 200-300 words, i.e., 1 page. But usually, length is indicated in the requirements. Remember that your primary goal here is to provide an engaging and informative thesis summary. Note that following the instructions and templates set forth by your university will ensure your thesis or dissertation abstract meets the writing criteria and adheres to all relevant standards.

Dissertation Abstract Structure

Dissertation abstracts can be organized in different ways and vary slightly depending on your work requirements. However, each abstract of a dissertation should incorporate elements like keywords, methods, results, and conclusions. The structure of a thesis or a dissertation abstract should account for the components included below:

• Title Accurately reflects the topic of your thesis.
• Introduction Provides an overview of your research, its purpose, and any relevant background information.
• Methods/ Approach Gives an outline of the methods used to conduct your research.
• Results Summarizes your findings.
• Conclusions Provides an overview of your research's accomplishments and implications.
• Keywords Includes keywords that accurately describe your thesis.

Below is an example that shows how a dissertation abstract looks, how to structure it and where each part is located. Use this template to organize your own summary. 

Things to Consider Before Writing a Dissertation Abstract

There are several things you should do beforehand in order to write a good abstract for a dissertation or thesis. They include:

• Reviewing set requirements and making sure you clearly understand the expectations
• Reading other research works to get an idea of what to include in yours
• Writing a few drafts before submitting your final version, which will ensure that it's in the best state possible.

Write an Abstract for a Dissertation Last

Remember, it's advisable to write an abstract for a thesis paper or dissertation last. Even though it’s always located in the beginning of the work, nevertheless, it should be written last. This way, your summary will be more accurate because the main argument and conclusions are already known when the work is mostly finished - it is incomparably easier to write a dissertation abstract after completing your thesis. Additionally, you should write it last because the contents and scope of the thesis may have changed during the writing process. So, create your dissertation abstract as a last step to help ensure that it precisely reflects the content of your project.

Carefully Read Requirements

Writing dissertation abstracts requires careful attention to details and adherence to writing requirements. Refer to the rubric or guidelines that you were presented with to identify aspects to keep in mind and important elements, such as correct length and writing style, and then make sure to comprehensively include them. Careful consideration of these requirements ensures that your writing meets every criterion and standard provided by your supervisor to increase the chances that your master's thesis is accepted and approved.   

Choose the Right Type of Dissertation Abstracts

Before starting to write a dissertation or thesis abstract you should choose the appropriate type. Several options are available, and it is essential to pick one that best suits your dissertation's subject. Depending on their purpose, there exist 3 types of dissertation abstracts: 

• Informative
• Descriptive

Informative one offers readers a concise overview of your research, its purpose, and any relevant background information. Additionally, this type includes brief summaries of all results and dissertation conclusions .  A descriptive abstract in a dissertation or thesis provides a quick overview of the research, but it doesn't incorporate any evaluation or analysis because it only offers a snapshot of the study and makes no claims.

Critical abstract gives readers an in-depth overview of the research and include an evaluative component. This means that this type also summarizes and analyzes research data, discusses implications, and makes claims about the achievements of your study. In addition, it examines the research data and recounts its implications. 

Choose the correct type of dissertation abstract to ensure that it meets your paper’s demands.

How to Write an Abstract for a Dissertation or Thesis?

Writing a good abstract for a dissertation or thesis is essential as it provides a brief overview of the completed research. So, how to write a dissertation abstract? First of all, the right approach is dictated by an institution's specific requirements. However, a basic structure should include the title, an introduction to your topic, research methodology, findings, and conclusions. Composing noteworthy precis allows you to flaunt your capabilities and grants readers a concise glimpse of the research. Doing this can make an immense impact on those reviewing your paper.

1. Identify the Purpose of Your Study

An abstract for thesis paper or dissertation is mainly dependent on the purpose of your study. Students need to identify all goals and objectives of their research before writing their précis - the reason being to ensure that the investigation’s progress and all its consequent findings are described simply and intelligibly. Additionally, one should provide some background information about their study. A short general description helps your reader acknowledge and connect with the research question. But don’t dive too deep into details, since more details are provided when writing a dissertation introduction . Scholars should write every dissertation abstract accurately and in a coherent way to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the area. This is the first section that potential readers will see, and it should serve as a precise overview of an entire document. Therefore, researchers writing abstracts of a thesis or dissertation should do it with great care and attention to details.

2. Discuss Methodology

A writer needs to elaborate on their methodological approach in an abstract of PhD dissertation since it acts as a brief summary of a whole research and should include an explanation of all methods used there. Dissertation and thesis abstracts discuss the research methodology by providing information sufficient enough to understand the underlying research question, data collection methods, and approach employed. Additionally, they should explain the analysis or interpretation of the data. This will help readers to gain a much better understanding of the research process and allow them to evaluate the data quality. Mention whether your methodology is quantitative or qualitative since this information is essential for readers to grasp your study's context and scope. Additionally, comment on the sources used and any other evidence collected. Furthermore, explain why you chose the method in the first place. All in all, addressing methodology is a crucial part of writing abstracts of a thesis or dissertation, as it will allow people to understand exactly how you arrived at your conclusions.

3. Describe the Key Results

Write your abstract for dissertation in a way that includes an overview of the research problem, your proposed solution, and any limitations or constraints you faced. Students need to briefly and clearly describe all key findings from the research. You must ensure that the results mentioned in an abstract of a thesis or dissertation are supported with evidence from body chapters.  Write about any crucial trends or patterns that emerged from the study. They should be discussed in detail, as this information can often provide valuable insight into your topic. Be sure to include any correlations or relationships found as a result of the study. Correlation, in this context, refers to any association between two or more variables.  Finally, write about any implications or conclusions drawn from your results: this is an essential element when writing an abstract for dissertation since it allows readers to firmly comprehend the study’s significance.

4. Summarize an Abstract for a Dissertation

Knowing how to write an abstract for dissertation is critical in conveying your work to a broad audience. Summarizing can be challenging (since precis is a summary in itself), but it is an essential part of any successful work. So, as a final step, conclude this section with a brief overview of the topic, outline the course of your research and its main results, and answer the paper’s central question.  Summarizing an abstract of your dissertation is done to give readers a succinct impression of the entire paper, making an accurate and concise overview of all its key points and consequent conclusions. In every PhD dissertation abstract , wrap up its summary by addressing any unanswered questions and discussing any potential implications of the research.

How to Format an Abstract in Dissertation

Format depends on the style (APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago), which varies according to your subject's discipline. Style to use is usually mentioned in the instructions, and students should follow them closely to ensure formatting accuracy. These styles have guidelines that inform you about the formatting of titles, headings and subheadings, margins, page numbers, abstracts, and tell what font size and family or line spacing are required. Using a consistent formatting style ensures proper readability and might even influence paper’s overall structure. Another formatting concern to consider when writing dissertation and thesis abstracts is their layout. Most commonly, your paper should have a one-inch margin on all sides with double spacing. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the right guidelines to get the correct information on how to write dissertation abstract in APA format and ensure that it meets formatting standards.

Keywords in a Dissertation Abstract

When writing thesis abstracts, it is essential to include keywords. Keywords are phrases or words that help readers identify main topics of your paper and make it easier for them to find any information they need. Keywords should usually be placed at the end of a dissertation abstract and written in italics. In addition, include keywords that represent your paper's primary research interests and topics. Lastly, use keywords throughout your thesis to ensure that your précis accurately reflect an entire paper's content.

Thesis and Dissertation Abstract Examples

When writing, checking out thesis and dissertation abstracts examples from experts can provide a valuable reference point for structuring and formatting your own précis. When searching for an excellent sample template, engaging the assistance of a professional writer can be highly beneficial. Their expertise and knowledge offer helpful insight into creating an exemplary document that exceeds all expectations. Examples of dissertation abstracts from different topics are commonly available in scholarly journals and websites. We also encourage you to go and search your university or other local library catalogue -  multiple useful samples can surely be found there. From our part, we will attach 2 free examples for inspiration.

Dissertation abstract example

Thesis abstract example

Need a custom summary or a whole work? Contact StudyCrumb and get proficient assistance with PhD writing or dissertation proposal help .

Extra Tips on Writing a Dissertation Abstract

Writing a dissertation or PhD thesis abstract is not an easy task. You must ensure that it accurately reflects your paper's content. In this context, we will provide top-class tips on how to write an abstract in a dissertation or thesis for you to succeed. Combined with an example of a dissertation abstract above, you can rest assured that you'll do everything correctly. Below are extra tips on how to write a thesis abstract:

• Keep it concise, not lengthy - around 300 words.
• Focus on the “what”, “why”, “how”, and “so what” of your research.
• Be specific and concrete: avoid generalization.
• Use simple language: précis should be easy to understand for readers unfamiliar with your topic.
• Provide enough relevant information so your readers can grasp a main idea without necessarily reading your paper in its entirety.
• Write and edit your abstract several times until every sentence is clear and concise.
• Verify accuracy: make sure that précis reflect your content precisely.

Bottom Line on How to Write a Dissertation or Thesis Abstract

The bottom line when it comes to how to write a dissertation abstract is that you basically need to mirror your study's essence on a much lower scale. Specifically, students should keep their précis concise, use simple language, include relevant information, and write several drafts. Don't forget to review your précis and make sure they are precise enough. In addition, make sure to include all keywords so readers can find your paper quickly. You are encouraged to examine several sample dissertation abstracts to understand how to write your own.

Are you still struggling with your abstract? Contact our dissertation writing service and our qualified writers will gladly help you with this uneasy task. They will make sure it is delivered strictly on time and meets all requirements!  

FAQ About Dissertation Abstract Writing

1. why is a dissertation abstract important.

Dissertation abstracts are important because they give readers a brief overview of your research. They succinctly introduce critical information and study’s key points to help readers decide if reading your thesis is worth their time. During indexing, an abstract allows categorizing and filtering papers through keyword searches. Consequently, this helps readers to easily find your paper when searching for information on a specific topic.

2. When should I write an abstract for a dissertation or thesis?

You are supposed to write a dissertation or thesis abstract after completing research and finishing work on your paper. This way, you can write précis that accurately reflects all necessary information without missing any important details. Writing your thesis précis last also lets you provide the right keywords to help readers find your dissertation.

3. What should a dissertation abstract include?

A dissertation abstract should include a research problem, goals and objectives, methods, results, and study implications. Ensure that you incorporate enough information so readers can get an idea of your thesis's content without reading it through. Use relevant keywords to ensure readers can easily find your paper when searching for information on a specific topic.

4. How to write a strong dissertation abstract?

To write a strong abstract for a dissertation, you should state your research problem, write in an active voice, use simple language, and provide relevant information. Additionally, write and edit your précis several times until it is clear and concise, and verify that it accurately mirrors your paper’s content. Reviewing several samples is also helpful for understanding how to write your own.

Joe Eckel is an expert on Dissertations writing. He makes sure that each student gets precious insights on composing A-grade academic writing.

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How to Write an Abstract for a Dissertation

At roughly 200 words, the abstract is the shortest part of the dissertation! Thankfully, it’s also one of the simplest to write – as long as you approach it sensibly…

The cardinal rule for writing an abstract is to leave it ‘til last. After all, the abstract is a summary of the entire dissertation, so it makes sense to leave it until the end.

Having said that, it’s a good idea to prepare yourself. If you learn how to write an abstract well ahead of time, there’ll be no last-minute panics. With that in mind, let’s run through the basics of writing a dissertation abstract.

What is the purpose of an abstract?

As mentioned, the abstract is essentially a summary of your dissertation. Think of it like a film synopsis or a book blurb. In roughly 200 words, it should tell the reader exactly what to expect from reading your dissertation.

A good abstract will also hint at the relevance and usefulness of the project. Indeed, in many ways, the abstract is an opportunity for you to ‘sell’ your project to the reader. The more compelling the abstract is, the more likely they are to read your dissertation.

What should an abstract include?

Later on, we’ll show you exactly how to structure an abstract. But first, it’s important to understand the elements of an abstract. In brief, an abstract should:

• Intrigue – In the first few sentences, you should introduce your topic to the reader, and highlight a key debate or issue that inspired the dissertation. If you can intrigue your reader in the opening sentence, they’re much more likely to continue reading!
• Convince – You’ll then need to convince your reader that your dissertation is necessary and worthwhile. Often, this is achieved by explaining how your dissertation extends or challenges the existing literature.
• Describe – You should describe the research methods very briefly but accurately.
• Inform – The abstract should be informative, particularly in relation to the findings of the study. It is not necessary to state all the findings, but you should highlight the key insights.
• Demonstrate relevance and usefulness – As mentioned, a good abstract finishes by saying who will find this research useful and why. Occasionally, it may also suggest directions for future research.

Remember, since the abstract is a summary of a project you’ve completed, it should be written in the present or past simple tense .

How should you structure an abstract?

The structure of an abstract can vary depending on the subject you are studying at university. Also, some universities have specific guidelines for writing an abstract, so always check with your tutor first. In particular, APA style has quite specific rules for formatting an abstract.

Though, generally speaking, the following structure is a good starting point for students in most subject areas:

1. Provide some background

The first 1-2 sentences should provide a very brief background to your topic of study. Remember, the aim is to intrigue here. These sentences are usually written in the present tense.

2. Refer to existing debates

Next, you should briefly explain the existing theory/research that has informed your chosen topic. If there are any key debates relevant to your topic, briefly mention them here. Try to limit this to 1-2 sentences and stick with the present or past tense.

3. Explain why the dissertation was worthwhile

In the next sentence or two, you’ll need to convince your reader that this study was worthwhile. Try to use the previous few sentences as a springboard, but explain why your study was unique.

4. State your research question

If it was not stated in the last section, the next sentence should clearly state your research question. You may have had more than one research question/research aim, but try to be as succinct as possible here.

5. State the methodology

In this sentence, you should clearly describe the methodology used . There is no need to explain why this method was chosen; just be as precise and succinct as possible.

6. State the key findings

The next sentence should explain the findings of your dissertation. Try not to be too technical here as your reader may be a novice. Also, there probably won’t be space to state all your findings, so present the ones that are most relevant and interesting. In fact, leaving a bit to the imagination is a good thing because it should intrigue the reader…

7. State who will find this research useful and why

In the last sentence, you should explain the usefulness and relevance of your dissertation. Consider: Who will benefit from this research? Does it have any practical applications?

8. List of keywords

Depending on your subject, you may be expected to provide a short list of keywords. This is common in Psychology research, for example. Check with your tutor if keywords are necessary. Remember, these should be listed in alphabetical order underneath the body of the abstract.

What’s the secret to writing a great abstract?

So, we’ve covered the basics of writing an abstract, but how can you write a first-class dissertation abstract? Well, we have two pieces of advice.

Firstly, be precise and succinct. Once you’ve written your abstract, you should set it aside for at least 24 hours, and then return to it with fresh eyes. As you read through it, cut out anything that’s not absolutely essential. Also, consider rewording sentences so that they are clear and readable. You can use our disseration writing services to help you with this.

Secondly, when you reveal your findings, try to find the right balance between revealing too much and revealing too little. It’s important to demonstrate that your study was interesting and relevant, but if you reveal too much, the reader may not want to bother reading your dissertation.

Indeed, writing a good dissertation is all about taking your reader on a journey and building momentum as you go. If you can manage this, you’ll keep your reader’s attention until the very last page! Creating this balance is not easy but it is a skill that can be developed through practice.

Common mistakes to avoid

So, we’ve reviewed the components of a good dissertation abstract. But what constitutes a bad abstract? Let’s finish by exploring some of the common mistakes students make when writing an abstract:

• Too long – Generally speaking, an abstract should be between 150 and 250 words, and it should fit on one page. If you make it too long, it won’t be compelling, and it’ll probably just confuse the reader.
• Lack of relevant keywords in the body of the abstract – Although an abstract should be written in reasonably non-technical language, it should include some relevant keywords. E.g. In the above example “Green marketing” and “Green purchasing behaviour” were pertinent keywords. Using appropriate keywords shows you’ve done wider reading and you understand where your project ‘fits in’ to the literature. Also, if your research were to be published, keywords would help other researchers to find it.
• Written in the wrong tense – A common mistake students make is that they write their abstract in the future tense (I.e. “This dissertation will explore the relationship between…”). The research has already been conducted, so it should be written in the past tense.
• Wrong positioning – The abstract should go after the title page and before the contents page.
• References and quotes – Generally speaking, an abstract should not contain references or quotations from other theorists. The only exception might be if your dissertation was solely focused on one particular theory/debate. In that case, keep quotes and references to an absolute minimum – your introduction and literature review will provide a comprehensive description of the theory!

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Dissertation Writing

Dissertation Abstract

Dissertation Abstract Writing - A Quick Guide

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Write Dissertation Introduction With Expert Tips

Many students face challenges when it comes to writing an effective dissertation abstract. They often struggle to condense their extensive research into a concise yet informative summary.

A well-crafted abstract can draw readers in, provide a clear overview of your work, and leave a lasting impression. On the other hand, a poorly written abstract may deter potential readers, making it imperative to get it right.

In this blog, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to write a dissertation abstract that not only meets the necessary academic standards but also captivates your audience. 

With expert insights and step-by-step instructions, you'll gain the skills and knowledge needed to create an abstract that stands out.

Let's dive into the art of crafting a winning dissertation abstract.

• 1. What Exactly is a Dissertation Abstract?
• 2. How to Write a Dissertation Abstract
• 3. Dissertation Abstract Sample
• 4. Tips for Writing an Effective Dissertation Abstract

What Exactly is a Dissertation Abstract?

A dissertation abstract is a concise summary that provides a snapshot of your entire dissertation . 

It's a crucial component, typically found at the beginning of your dissertation, and serves as a teaser or trailer for your research. Think of it as the first impression your work makes on your readers.

In essence, the abstract is your opportunity to convey the essence of your study in a succinct and engaging manner. It should cover the main objectives, methodology, findings, and conclusions of your research. While it might seem like a mere formality, it plays a pivotal role in the academic world and beyond.

Purpose of a Dissertation Abstract

The dissertation abstract has a distinct purpose, serving several vital roles in the academic and research world:

• Snapshot of Your Work

It acts as a concise snapshot of your entire dissertation, giving readers a quick overview of your research. This is especially useful for busy academics and researchers who want to evaluate the relevance of your work to their own studies.

• Discoverability

A well-crafted abstract includes keywords and phrases relevant to your research, making your work more discoverable in academic databases and search engines..

• Clarity and Conciseness

It challenges you to communicate your research effectively in a limited word count. This exercise encourages you to distill complex ideas into simple, clear language, promoting a deeper understanding of your work.

• Decision-Making Tool

For those deciding whether to read your full dissertation, the abstract plays a critical role. It helps readers determine if your research aligns with their interests and needs, saving them time and guiding their choices.

• Academic Significance

In academic and research circles, the abstract can act as a standalone work. Researchers often use abstracts to quickly assess the value and relevance of a study before committing to reading the entire paper.

• Professional Applications

Beyond the academic world, a dissertation abstract can also have professional implications. Potential employers and organizations often use them to assess a candidate's research abilities, critical thinking, and the potential for future contributions.

Dissertation Abstract Structure

The structure of a dissertation abstract is a critical aspect of creating an effective summary of your research. 

A well-structured abstract ensures that your readers can quickly grasp the key elements of your study. Here's a typical structure to follow:

• Introduction
• Objective or Hypothesis
• Methodology
• Key Findings
• Conclusions and Implications

Remember that while your abstract should be structured, conciseness is the key. It's a challenge to convey all of this information effectively within a limited word count. 

Each section should be using clear and straightforward language. Aim to give readers a sense of what your dissertation is about without overwhelming them with details.

How Long Should a Dissertation Abstract Be?

The ideal length of a dissertation abstract can vary depending on institutional guidelines, but a typical abstract should be concise and to the point. 

It's often recommended to keep it within the range of 150 to 300 words. While some institutions might allow slightly longer abstracts, it's crucial to remain as concise as possible. 

The goal is to provide a comprehensive summary of your research while being mindful of the limited word count. 

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How to Write a Dissertation Abstract

Writing an abstract is an art that requires precision and conciseness. To create an abstract that engages readers and accurately represents your research, follow these guidelines for each section:

1. Introduce the Research Problem

Begin with a compelling introduction that clearly states the research problem or question your dissertation addresses. 

Provide context by briefly explaining the background of the study and why it's important. The introduction should draw readers in and make them want to learn more.

2.  State the Main Objective or Hypothesis

After the introduction, present the main objective or hypothesis of your research. This should be a clear and specific statement of what you intended to achieve in your study. 

This section sets the stage for what readers can expect in terms of the study's focus.

3.  Describe Your Research Methods

Provide a concise description of the research methods you used. Mention whether your research employed qualitative , quantitative , or mixed methods. 

Briefly explain the data collection techniques, sampling methods, and any analytical tools or software used. Keep it informative while being succinct so readers understand your approach.

For instance , if your thesis abstract involved surveys and data analysis, you could say:

4. Summarize Key Findings

Summarize the most significant findings of your research. Focus on the main results, trends, or discoveries that emerged from your study. 

Use quantitative data, statistics, or qualitative insights, as appropriate, to support your findings. Highlight the key takeaways that contribute to your field of study.

For example , your thesis or dissertation revealed a concerning trend, you could state: 

5.  Conclude and Discuss Implications

Conclude your abstract by summarizing the conclusions you drew from your research. Discuss the broader implications of your findings and their significance.

Answer the "so what" question – explain why your research matters, both academically and practically.

6.  Include Relevant Keywords

Include a list of relevant keywords or phrases. These are crucial for ensuring your work is discoverable in academic databases and search engines. 

Choose terms commonly used in your field and reflect the main themes of your research.

Take a look at this dissertation abstract example for a more comprehensive understanding

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Dissertation Abstract Sample

The best way to understand how to write a great dissertation abstract is to look at some examples. These dissertation examples will help you understand how a good abstract is constructed.

Dissertation Abstract Humanities

Thesis Dissertation Abstract

Law Dissertation Abstract Example

Tips for Writing an Effective Dissertation Abstract

Crafting a compelling dissertation abstract is essential to grab the attention of your target audience and provide a clear overview of your research. 

Here are some valuable tips to ensure your abstract is effective:

• Clarity and Brevity : Keep your dissertation or thesis abstract clear and concise. Avoid jargon or overly technical language. 
• Focus on Key Information : Highlight the most significant aspects of your research questions. Readers should grasp the main points and relevance of your work quickly.
• Stay within Word Limit : Adhere to the word limit specified by your institution or guidelines. Typically, abstracts are limited to 150-300 words.
• Be Accurate and Honest : Ensure that your abstract accurately represents your research. Don't make exaggerated claims or overstate your findings.
• Edit and Proofread : Carefully proofread your abstract for grammar and spelling errors. A well-edited abstract demonstrates professionalism.
• Consider Your Audience : Keep in mind your target audience, whether it's academic peers, potential employers, or a general readership. Tailor your abstract to their level of understanding.
• Write in the Past Tense: Abstracts typically use past tense when referring to your research, as it has already been completed.
• Seek Feedback : Before finalizing your abstract, get feedback from peers, advisors, or writing experts. Their insights can help refine your content.

In conclusion,

The dissertation abstract serves as a powerful gateway into the world of academia. It's the gateway to your research and the lens through which your work is viewed by others. 

By following a structured approach, focusing on key elements, and adhering to word limits, you can write a dissertation abstract that stands out.

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How to Write a Dissertation Abstract in 2024

A dissertation or thesis abstract is a short summary outlining the purpose and scope of a dissertation or a thesis. An abstract succinctly explains the outcomes and the goal of a longer work so that the reader would know what to expect out of it.

A dissertation abstract reflects the author’s grasp of the research topic and sets the tone for the dissertation.

It is always a good idea to write your thesis abstract or the abstract for your dissertation at the very end after you’ve completed your research. However, many universities ask for an abstract before you begin work on your dissertation so as to grasp your understanding of the topic. In that case, you are expected to form an abstract based on your preliminary research and based on how you plan to carry out your research.

Table of Contents

What does a dissertation or thesis abstract include.

• An outline of the research problem and the proposed objectives
• The research methodology
• Key arguments or results
• The conclusion of the dissertation

How Long Should an Abstract be?

The length of an abstract for a dissertation might vary from university to university as well as from program to program. Ideally, the length of an abstract is between 300 words to 500 words. It is always a good idea to check the requirements a university or journal might have about the word count of the dissertation abstract before submitting it.

An abstract is often included on a separate page in a dissertation or thesis. It should come after the title page as well as the acknowledgments but should be placed before the table of contents.

When to Write an Abstract?

An abstract is always included when you are submitting a thesis, research, or a research paper or while sending a research paper to an academic journal.

In most cases, an abstract is something that you write at the very end of your research. It should not seem like an extension of your research or a disjointed portion and should be complete by itself. It should be a stand-alone piece that strokes the reader’s curiosity to read your paper. Sometimes, universities might ask for an abstract before approving your topic for a dissertation or thesis. In that case, an abstract is submitted to show that the student has a clear idea about how to go about the research.

What Should a Dissertation Abstract Include?

As an abstract reflects the quality of a larger work, it should contain 4 key components.

1. Aim of the research :

If the aim or purpose of the research is not clear from the abstract section of your dissertation, it might leave the impression that your research has nothing new to offer. So, the abstract should be able to tell the reader or the examiner about what practical or theoretical problem the research is responding to (in other words, the research question) and what outcomes you expect to derive or what is the new thing that makes your dissertation stand apart.

You can write the aim of the dissertation or thesis in your abstract after proving the context or background for the research. A detailed background is not necessary and not possible, so only the most relevant information should be included. Once the background of your study is established and the gap in the existing literature is analyzed, you should propose the objective of your study.

It is usually preferred to use the present or simple past tense while stating the objective. This is because an abstract should be as precise and concise as possible and should reflect the same kind of rigorousness and objectivity that your dissertation will have. Find below examples of how to frame an objective for your abstract based on the use of language.

2. Method of research (the research methodology) :

After the objective of the study is stated, we move on to the methods used to conduct the research. This part should be a straightforward description of the kind of research methodology that you have used (quantitative or qualitative) in one or two sentences.

If the full thesis or dissertation is submitted, then the methodology is usually written in the simple past tense as it indicates the past action. There is no need to explain the validity of the methodology or the obstacles faced during the process in this part. Those parts only need to be included in the research methodology section of the dissertation. The goal is just to give the reader a basic insight into how you have conducted the research.

3. Outcomes of the research :

The results or the outcomes section should be included in the concluding paragraph of the abstract. This part summarizes the resolutions offered to the problem statement identified initially in the abstract. The outcome of the study should be indicated in clear terms.

Depending on the length and complexity of your research, you can decide what to include in this part. Ideally, it should not exceed 3-4 sentences. If the outcomes are complex, you could just mention the relevant ones that the reader would be able to understand without wanting further elaboration. Results are often written in the present or simple past tense.

4. The conclusion of the abstract

Particular care should be given to the way you frame the conclusion of your abstract. In this part, the main conclusions of your research should be stated. The conclusion should clearly answer the problem statement that you have proposed initially in your abstract.

The conclusion should tell the reader what your research has accomplished and what new knowledge it is adding to the existing ones. Conclusions are usually written in the simple present tense.

Keywords are added at the end of a dissertation or abstract if it is going to be published. The keyword gives the reader an idea about the essential concepts in the dissertation or thesis. They also provide visibility to your paper when others search the related words on a search engine. So, you should make sure that you add only the most important and relevant words related to your dissertation in the keywords’ section.

Example of a Dissertation Abstract

How to Structure your Dissertation or Thesis Abstract?

Abstract for the dissertation can be structured in the following way:

• As the abstract would be around 300-500 words, it is better to divide it into 2-3 paragraphs.
• More than three paragraphs might not be recommended as the abstract is of very short length.
• The aim of the research should be mentioned in the first paragraph or the introductory paragraph of the abstract.
• You should not start writing the abstract by directly stating the aim. Instead, provide background information about your area of research in 2-3 lines.
• You could even start your abstract by stating the problem statement.
• The background information on the existing literature would give the reader information about where your dissertation or thesis is situated.
• The background information or short literature review would be followed by the problem statement or vice versa according to your arguments.
• The problem statement identifies the gap in the existing literature.
• Following the problem statement, you should propose what research question you aim to answer.
• The last paragraph mentions the results or the outcomes/conclusion of the study. You could even make suggestions for future studies in this part.

Tips for writing an abstract

Writing an abstract can be challenging as you need to filter down the most relevant aspects of your dissertation into 300-500 words. This means that you will have to omit a lot of information while providing enough to interest the reader or evaluator. Here are some tips to get started on your abstract:

Tips to help you write an abstract :

• Chapter by chapter method :

List the keywords and draft a few sentences outlining the relevance of each chapter of your dissertation or thesis. The short summary of each chapter should be related to your central argument. Combine them together and fill in the gaps. Add in more information and remove the unnecessary ones as you revise the draft.

• Read other abstracts:

This is the best way to learn the conventions of abstract writing in your area of research. Notice how other well-accepted research abstracts present their ideas. Make a list of what you find interesting in those.

• Write many versions of the rough drafts:

Ultimately, it is important not to wait for the perfect version. The perfect version won’t happen unless you keep writing. Write mediocre abstracts and notice what is wrong with those versions. Write multiple versions of the abstract in different ways and work on that which you think reads the best.

• Make it compact:

Revision is an important aspect of perfecting any academic writing. Revise, change the words, and write in different ways but keep it compact. An abstract is a condensed piece of your dissertation so it should reflect that compactness.

• Keep editing:

This is one of the most important steps in writing an abstract for any academic piece. Even if you think the abstract looks perfect, come back to it after a while, and let someone else, a professional editor or a senior, have a look over it.

Let’s Conclude

So, there you go! We have outlined all the steps and tips we consider necessary before you write your dissertation . We have covered what a dissertation abstract should include, the dissertation abstract structure that you need to keep in mind, and have included tips and an example of a dissertation to help you get to it!

-Lily Brooke

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