Lecture - 08
Writing a Research Abstract
A well-written abstract is
essential for communicating research findings and contributions effectively. It
serves as a concise summary of the research, enabling readers to grasp the
study's purpose, methods, results, and implications quickly. Abstracts are
typically prepared after completing the research thesis or report and are often
required by universities for evaluation purposes.
Need for an Abstract
1.
Quick Overview: Research reports
are often lengthy, and an abstract provides a snapshot of the work, saving time
and effort for readers.
2.
Evaluation Tool: Examiners use
abstracts to assess the research and identify areas needing clarification.
3.
Knowledge Dissemination: Abstracts
help other researchers review studies, avoid duplication, and build on existing
work.
4.
Publication and Funding: Abstracts
are used to prepare research papers, seek publication, and apply for financial
assistance.
5.
Field Surveys: Abstracts are
compiled to create comprehensive reviews of research in specific fields
(e.g., Survey of Educational Research in India).
Format of an Abstract
An abstract summarizes the main
points of a research report. It should comprehensively communicate the study's
essence. There are two common formats:
1. First Type Format:
o Introduction:
Problem statement, objectives, hypotheses, and theoretical background.
o Main
Body: Methods, sample, techniques, tools, and results.
2. Second Type Format:
Structure of an Abstract
1.
Introduction: Significance of the
problem, objectives, and hypotheses.
2.
Main Body: Methods, sampling, techniques,
tools, and results.
3.
Conclusions: Contributions, implications,
and recommendations.
Characteristics of a Good
Abstract
1.
Economical Communication
o Serves
as a concise and efficient tool to communicate the key contributions of a
research work.
2.
Clarity and Simplicity
o Written
in simple and clear language, ensuring that words and terms have a single,
unambiguous meaning.
3.
Dissemination of New Knowledge
o Effectively
shares new insights and findings in the field of study.
4.
Avoids Repetition
o Highlights
unique aspects of the research, preventing duplication of studies.
5.
Efficient Review of Related Studies
o Helps
researchers review related work in an economical manner, saving time, money,
and energy.
o Enhances
the researcher's reputation by showcasing significant contributions.
6.
Expert Feedback
o Enables
specialists or experts to provide comments and suggestions for further
investigation.
7.
Foundation for Research Papers
o Provides
a solid basis for preparing research papers for publication.