Abstract is one of the most important parts of a research paper because it gives readers a quick

overview of your entire study. While quantitative and qualitative research share some
similarities in structure, their focus and language differ. Here’s how to structure each type
clearly:

🧮 For Quantitative Research

A quantitative abstract usually follows the IMRaD format (Introduction, Methods, Results,
and Discussion). It highlights the numerical data, statistical results, and objective findings.

Structure:

1. Background / Introduction
o Briefly explain the topic or problem being studied.
o Mention the purpose or objective of the study.
Example: “This study investigates the relationship between students’ study habits
and academic performance in mathematics.”
2. Methods
o Describe the research design, participants, sampling method, instruments, and
statistical tools used.
Example: “A descriptive-correlational design was employed with 150 senior high
school students using a validated questionnaire and analyzed through Pearson’s
r.”
3. Results
o Summarize key numerical findings and significant relationships.
Example: “Findings revealed a significant positive correlation between study
habits and academic performance (r = 0.72, p < 0.05).”
4. Conclusion / Implications
o State the main conclusion and possible applications of the findings.
Example: “Students with better study habits tend to perform better academically;
thus, interventions promoting effective study practices are recommended.”

💬 For Qualitative Research

A qualitative abstract emphasizes participants’ experiences, themes, and interpretations rather
than numbers or statistics.

Structure:

1. Background / Purpose
o Introduce the phenomenon or issue explored and the aim of the study.
Example: “This study explores the lived experiences of teachers adapting to
online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
2. Methods
o Mention the qualitative design, participants, sampling method, and data analysis
technique.
Example: “Using a phenomenological approach, in-depth interviews were
conducted with ten secondary school teachers, and data were analyzed through
thematic coding.”
3. Findings / Results
o Present the major themes or patterns discovered.
Example: “Three major themes emerged: (1) technological adjustment, (2)
emotional resilience, and (3) pedagogical innovation.”
4. Conclusion / Implications
o Highlight the essence of participants’ experiences and what can be learned.
Example: “The findings suggest that teachers’ adaptability and peer collaboration
were crucial in overcoming challenges in online teaching.”

✍️Tips for Writing Both Types

 Keep it between 150–250 words (unless your school or journal specifies otherwise).
 Write in past tense (e.g., “was conducted,” “revealed”).
 Avoid citations, abbreviations, or unnecessary jargon.
 Ensure it reflects all parts of your paper — a reader should understand your study just
by reading the abstract.
 The arrangement of content in the Findings/result section is based on the sequence of the
SOPs.

Example:

🧮 Quantitative Research Abstract

Title: The Relationship Between Social Media Use and Academic Performance of Senior High School
Students in Don Carlos, Bukidnon

Abstract:
This study investigated the relationship between social media use and academic performance among
senior high school students in Don Carlos, Bukidnon. Specifically, it aimed to determine how the
frequency and duration of social media use affect students’ grade point averages (GPAs). The study
employed a descriptive-correlational research design with 200 randomly selected respondents. Data
were gathered through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient.
Results revealed a significant negative correlation between social media use and academic performance
(r = -0.56, p < 0.05), indicating that increased time spent on social media was associated with lower
academic achievement. The findings suggest that regulating social media usage may enhance students’
academic focus and productivity. School administrators and parents are encouraged to implement
strategies promoting responsible and balanced use of social media among learners.

💬 Qualitative Research Abstract

Title: Exploring the Impact of Social Media Use on the Academic Experiences of Senior High School
Students in Don Carlos, Bukidnon

Abstract:
This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of senior high school students regarding how social
media use influences their academic life. Using a phenomenological approach, the study involved ten
purposively selected students from various strands who were active social media users. In-depth
interviews were conducted to gather narratives about their daily routines, study habits, and learning
motivation. Thematic analysis revealed three major themes: (1) Distraction and Time Mismanagement,
describing how excessive social media use interferes with study time; (2) Social Connection as Academic
Support, highlighting how platforms serve as venues for group discussions and resource sharing; and (3)
Emotional and Mental Fatigue, emphasizing the negative psychological effects of constant online
engagement. The findings suggest that while social media can facilitate academic collaboration,
unregulated use can hinder students’ focus and academic success. The study recommends promoting
digital discipline and awareness among youth.

🔍 Key Comparison Summary

Element Quantitative Qualitative

Measures relationships or differences using Explores meanings, experiences, and

Focus
numbers themes

Design
Descriptive-correlational Phenomenological
Mentioned

Data Source Questionnaire In-depth interviews

Analysis Tool Statistical (Pearson’s r) Thematic analysis

Findings Numerical correlation (r = -0.56) Thematic findings (3 major themes)

Tone Objective, concise, data-driven Descriptive, interpretive, narrative

✅ Ideal Practices for Keywords in a Thesis Abstract

1. Use 4–7 Keywords

Most academic guidelines recommend 4 to 7 keywords, depending on length and relevance.

Some journals or universities allow up to 10.

2. Choose Terms Relevant to Your Research Focus

Keywords should reflect the core elements of your study, such as:

 Research topic
 Methodology
 Variables
 Population or setting
 Theory or framework (if applicable)

Example: Cyberbullying, Coping Mechanisms, Adolescents, Qualitative Research, Thematic

Analysis

3. Use Established Academic Terms

Avoid overly general or informal words. Use vocabulary recognized in your discipline so the
research is searchable.

Bad: Love problems, breakup hurt

Better: Romantic Relationship Dissolution, Psychological Impact, Criminal Behavior

4. Avoid Repeating the Exact Title

Keywords should enhance discoverability, not duplicate the title. However, important concepts
already in the title can still be included as keywords.
5. Prefer Singular Form

Use singular nouns unless plural is required:

 Write: Bullying
 Not: Bullies

Exception: When a plural is the accepted term (e.g., Human Rights).

6. Alphabetical Order (If required)

Some institutions require listing keywords alphabetically. Check your formatting guidelines.

7. No punctuation except commas or semicolons

Keywords are generally separated by commas, although some formats use semicolons.

Example format:

Keywords: Cyberbullying, Coping Mechanisms, Adolescents, Qualitative Study

📌 Final Tips

 Check your university formatting style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.)

 Ensure each keyword accurately represents your study
 Think about what a researcher would type into a database to find your work

Sample:
Nothing Follows.