Instructions

1.     Reread the piece that you need to develop the abstract from.

2.     In an outline, jot down or highlight the main idea reflected in a thesis statement, the headings and subheadings within the paper and the main ideas reflected. These ideas reflect the main points in the article.

3.     Write a first draft of your abstract using only your notes or the information that you highlighted and your memory. Put the ideas in your own words.

4.     Check the length of your draft. An abstract should be short--generally under 100 words and definitely less than 10 percent of the length of the entire paper. Condense if necessary to reach the proper length. Eliminate duplicate or otherwise unnecessary information.

5.     Organize the abstract so that the ideas follow the same order as those in the original.

6.     Proofread carefully for spelling, punctuation and grammar errors. Try reading aloud to see that sentences are clear and easy to understand.

Tips & Warnings

Avoid adding new information. The abstract should only include ideas from the original.