Abstract Writing Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure your abstract is effective:
Title
• Accurately reflects the content and focus of the paper
• Specific and concise (avoid vague or generic titles)
Background & Rationale
• Briefly explains the problem or knowledge gap
• States why the study is timely and important
Objective
• Clear research aim or question stated
• Matches the rest of the abstract content
Methods
• Study design (e.g., RCT, cohort, cross-sectional) specified
• Key elements: population, sample size, setting, data collection
• Main variables or measures mentioned
Results
• Key findings included with quantitative data (where possible)
• p-values, confidence intervals, or effect sizes provided (if appropriate)
• No placeholder phrases like "results will be discussed"
Conclusion & Implications
• Directly interprets findings (no overstatement)
• Relevance to practice, policy, or future research is clear
• Aligned with the results presented
Language & Structure
• Clear, concise, and jargon-free
• No abbreviations unless standard and defined
• Written in past tense (methods and results)
• Structured format used
Final Quality Checks
• No citations, footnotes, or references
• Word count within journal limits
• Tailored to the specific journal’s focus and audience