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Home » Blog » How to Write an Abstract for a Dissertation | EasyMarks

Academic Writing Tips

How to Write an Abstract

Summarise your whole study in a single, self-contained paragraph.

6 min read · Written by UK academic writers

Quick Answer

An abstract is a short, self-contained summary of your entire dissertation, usually 150-300 words. It states your aim, methods, key findings and conclusion, so a reader can understand the essence of your study without reading the full text.

The abstract is short but important: it is often the only part people read before deciding whether to read on. Write it last, once your study is complete. Here is how to summarise everything in one tight paragraph.

Cover the Whole Study

An abstract should briefly summarise your aim, your methods, your main findings and your conclusion. Each element gets just a sentence or two.

  • Aim: what you set out to investigate
  • Methods: how you researched it
  • Findings: what you discovered
  • Conclusion: what it means

Write It Last

Although it appears first, the abstract is best written after the dissertation is complete, so it accurately reflects the final study and findings.

Keep It Self-Contained

The abstract must stand alone. Avoid citations, abbreviations that are not explained, and references to specific chapters or figures.

Be Concise and Specific

Stay within the word limit and use precise language. Replace vague statements with concrete results, for example actual findings rather than "the results are discussed".

Match Keywords for Searchability

Include the key terms of your study so it can be found in databases. This matters for visibility once your work is catalogued or published.

Key Takeaways
  • Summarise aim, methods, findings and conclusion
  • Write the abstract after finishing the dissertation
  • Keep it self-contained, with no citations
  • Stay within the word limit and be specific
  • Include key terms for searchability

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should an abstract be?

Usually 150-300 words, but always follow your university's limit.

When should I write the abstract?

Last, once the dissertation is complete, so it reflects your final study and findings.

Should an abstract include references?

No. It should be self-contained and free of citations and unexplained abbreviations.

What is the difference between an abstract and an introduction?

An abstract summarises the entire study including findings; an introduction sets up the study but does not reveal results.

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