When writing an abstract, many writers do not grasp the importance of writing one. Others do not have an idea of how to write one. The abstract is a section that helps you explain more about the essential ideas or aspects of the paper. This section helps the reader decide on whether to stop reading the content or continue. When you write an abstract, it should be concise, clear, and focused. It catches the reader’s attention. The readers become more eager to continue reading the rest of the article. To write an abstract that is eye-catching to the reader, you first need to understand the different types of abstracts and how to write them.

Types of abstracts 

There are generally four types of abstracts when it comes to writing:

• Informative abstract

It is the most widely used form of abstract in writing. It is usually used in the informative essay type. It does not evaluate or criticize the work, but it does provide some well-detailed information. When you talk about informative essays, their primary function is to elaborate and present on main arguments, facts in the article, and the conclusion. The abstract on the informative essay has recommendations from the writer, and it is usually short.

• Descriptive abstract

This type of abstract shows the type of information that is found in the essay or article. A descriptive abstract’s primary function is to provide conclusions or results of the research without any judgment or to get critical about it. Some highlight keywords are in the essay, methods used, the purpose of the research, and the research scope. To have an excellent abstract, you need to outline the work, be very clear, and be relevant to the study.

• Highlight abstract 

It the least accepted when it comes to abstracts in the academic writing field. The purpose of the highlight abstract is majorly written to draw the attention of the reader. This abstract has captivating language that pushes the readers to want to continue reading more. The writer uses incomplete phrases to capture the attention of the reader.

Guidelines when writing an abstract 

Writing style

When tasked with writing an abstract, make sure to use concise, precise, and complete sentences and phrases. Try to use as few words as possible. But ensure that the phrases and words are relevant and specific. You should always use active voice as much as possible; passive voice should be used when the research is complete.

Formatting 

The block format should be used when formatting the abstract. You should avoid paragraph indentations at all costs. The abstract should contain 250 words or less, and it should use Times New Roman font 12 and use of single space.

Composing the abstract 

It is the first section of your writing. The best way of ensuring you write a great abstract is writing it after writing has been done. It is essential to write the abstract at the end because the writer will be able to summarize the paper in its entirety.

Conclusion 

Once you understand the importance of an abstract and figure out how to write one, it is also to understand what is contained in a great abstract. The study’s purpose is essential, and the research problem, the study design, the research analysis, the research outcome, and the conclusions summary.