《硕士博士英语毕业论文写作》Chapter12AbstractandAcknowledgements.ppt

Important features An abstract allows the reader to survey the contents of a document quickly and decide whether to continue reading. It needs to be dense with information but also readable, well-organized, brief, and self-contained. Length of Abstracts Abstracts are generally 100-250 words, though a thesis or conference abstract may be up to 400 words. “SAEF” Abstract Start by clearly stating the topic being addressed and indicating its importance. Avoid over-reaching claims of significance and also being too narrow. Elaborate on the opening by explaining the specifics of your study: what have you done, how, and what did you discover? Finish by stating your conclusions and why they are significant? The abstract is critical for reviewers--make it interesting! Good Abstract The quality of an abstract will strongly influence the editors and reviewers Use the abstract to “sell” your article. A good abstract: Is precise and honest Can stand alone Use no technical jargon Is brief and specific Cites no references Qualities of a Good Abstract Able to stand alone. Uses keywords. Uses one or more well developed, unified, coherent and concise paragraphs. Uses an introduction/body/conclusion structure presenting the purpose, results, conclusions, and recommendations in that order. Follows strictly the chronology of the article, paper, or report. Provides logical connections between the information included. Does not include unnecessary details. Adds no new information, but simply summarizes the report. Is understandable to a wide audience. Adheres closely to the length given. Often uses passive verbs to downplay the author and emphasize the information. Principles of Abstracts ? avoid repetition. ? are limited to one paragraph of about 120-250 words. ? can stand alone. ? use the third person. ? use the passive voice. ? are highly signposted. What Goes into an Abstract? What Goes into an Abstract? Components ① The purpose of the st