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How to write abstracts in MLA

Abstracts are usually between 100-250 words or around 5-7 sentences depending on the type. They can include short descriptions of your motivations, objective, methods, findings, discussion, and conclusion of the paper. You can also include why you wrote the paper and why readers should be interested.

APA abstracts have different formatting from MLA abstracts, so do not to use their rules interchangeably.

Why do you need an abstract?

Abstracts allow for a quick summary of your paper for other researchers. Busy researchers don’t have time to read everything, so they rely on the abstract to help them decide whether or not they will read the paper.

Although MLA style doesn’t require an abstract, the MLA style abstract is the most commonly used style in the humanities. If you are writing a paper for a class in literature, religion, philosophy, or other similar subjects, you should use MLA style. Check with your professor to see if an abstract is required for your paper.

Different types of abstracts

There are two different types of abstracts: descriptive and informative.

• Descriptive abstracts are approximately 100 words and give a brief overview of the paper. They do not include a full analysis and may not include the results and/or conclusions.
• Informative abstracts are longer and are approximately 150-250 words. They are a condensed version of your writing that contains information from every part of the paper.

How to write an abstract in MLA style

To write a high-quality abstract in MLA style, you will need an explanation of what research was done and what the outcomes were. Write in a clear, simple, and direct style. The abstract gives readers the information they need to decide whether to read the complete paper or not.

Here are some guidelines for writing a great abstract in MLA style:

• Finish the paper first. While it may be tempting to get a head start on your abstract, you should complete your paper before writing the abstract.
• Review your paper for key points and take notes. One way to take notes is to write one sentence for each paragraph. You should not copy directly from your text since your abstract should have different words and phrases. You do not need to include every detail, and in fact, you should avoid doing so. If you have an outline of your paper, use that as a guide to writing your abstract.
• Give a detailed account of the research methods used in the study and how the results were obtained.
• Provide an account of your findings and what you found as a result of your research.
• If your findings have larger implications, include them in the abstract.
• Condense those main points by summarizing the “who, what, where, and when” of your paper.
• If you don’t have an outline, organize information in the same order as in the paper.
• Write a rough draft of your abstract. Begin your abstract with a clear statement about your thesis and why your readers should care about what you’ve written. Then turn your notes into sentences.
• Avoid using long complicated sentences in your abstract along with ambiguous and unnecessary words and phrases. Remember that your abstract needs to be simple and easy to read.
• Do not include citations or footnotes in your abstract.
• Add transitions to show clear connections between ideas and create a smooth flow to your writing.
• Revise your abstract until it is 5-7 sentences or 250 words or less. Limit the length to one or two paragraphs.
• Proofread your abstract several times to make sure it is free of errors. People will stop reading if they see mistakes, and it will damage your credibility.

Format for an MLA abstract

• Use one-inch margins.
• Double-space the abstract.
• Place the abstract after the title and before the main body of the paper.
• Use one space after punctuation marks.
• Indent the first line of the paragraphs ½ inch from the left margin.
• Use 12-point font such as Times New Roman or Arial.
• Spell out acronyms.
• Include italics instead of quotation marks if you reference a long work in the abstract.

MLA abstract examples

Descriptive abstracts.

• Example 1 on Cannon’s “From Literacy to Literature: Elementary Learning and the Middle English Poet.”
• Example 2 on Sealy-Morris’s “The Rhetoric of the Paneled Page: Comics and Composition Pedagogy.”

Informational abstracts

• Example 1 on O’Neill’s “The Personal Public Sphere of Whitman’s 1840s Journalism.”

Works cited

Cannon, Christopher. “From Literacy to Literature: Elementary Learning and the Middle English Poet.”  PMLA , vol. 129, no. 3, 2014, pp. 349–364.  JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/24769474.

MLA Handbook . 9th ed., Modern Language Association of America, 2021.

O’Neill, Bonnie Carr. “The Personal Public Sphere of Whitman’s 1840s Journalism.”  PMLA , vol. 126, no. 4, 2011, pp. 983–998.   JSTOR , www.jstor.org/stable/41414171.

Sealey-Morris, Gabriel. “The Rhetoric of the Paneled Page: Comics and Composition Pedagogy.”  Composition Studies , vol. 43, no. 1, 2015, pp. 31–50.   JSTOR , www.jstor.org/stable/43501877.

Wallace, Joseph. “How to Write an Abstract.”  MLA Style Center , Modern Language Association of America, 5 Dec. 2018, style.mla.org/how-to-write-an-abstract/.

Published October 25, 2020. Updated July 18, 2021.

By Catherine Sigler. Catherine has a Ph.D. in English Education and has taught college-level writing for 15 years.

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How to Write an Abstract in MLA Style

Last Updated: July 13, 2021

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 40,301 times.

An abstract is a short summary of a longer paper. It’s like looking at a map before taking a journey – the map doesn’t tell the whole story of what happens, but it does clue you in to the major turns and sites along the way so you know what to expect. What's more, a good abstract can save readers time, which they will appreciate. They are often written in the American Psychological Association (APA) style because scientific researchers add abstracts to their papers more often than in other disciplines. However, providing an abstract of a research paper can be helpful no matter what part of academia you’re writing in. Below, you’ll find steps to take when writing an abstract in MLA style.

Outlining Your Abstract

• Remember, a summary gives the general idea; you don’t have to provide every detail. Imagine you're in a lecture hall and only have time to write down the key words before your professor moves on. When taking notes on your abstract, stick to what you actually need to keep the process quick, easy, and effective.
• If you have an outline of your paper, that can be a great way to see the summary of your main points and ideas, as it should include everything.

• Is there anything in the larger picture of your paper that needs to be addressed? Make sure you take notes on each important point but also the consequences, implications, and results of the points you make.

Making A Cohesive Abstract

• If it feels like you've essentially written your paper twice now, go through and weed out what you don't need. The abstract is essentially useless if it's too long. While there technically isn't an MLA length requirement, most abstracts are somewhere between 150-250 words. [1] X Research source www.pvamu.edu/.../MLA_vs_APA.ppt

• If there are any leaps you have to make between sentences or any assumptions your audience would have to make to understand your abstract, take it as a cue that you missed a main point from your paper and fill it in as necessary.

• Cut out anything that’s unnecessary. If it bulks up your abstract and it doesn't lead to a greater end, cut it. You don't need it.
• Add transitions in places if it still seems jarring.
• Check to make sure you’ve included all your main ideas, though each main idea doesn’t need to be its own sentence.
• View it as a whole. Does it make sense overall? Does it answer the main questions your paper sets out to ask?

Formatting Your Abstract to MLA Style

• Only use one space after end punctuation, like periods.
• Use paragraph indentations by tabbing over once at the beginning of each paragraph.
• Make your abstract double-spaced by highlighting the section and clicking on “Paragraph.” Go down to “Spacing.” Under “Line Spacing,” select “Double.” Click “OK” at the bottom of the window.
• Use 1-inch margins. Select the “Page Layout” tab, and use the margin drop-down menu to select 1-inch margins (generally labeled “Normal”).

• The sentence, "We saw two elephants, William, and Kate" can mean something entirely different than, "We saw two elephants, William and Kate." In the first sentence, we saw four things: two elephants and two people. In the second sentence, we saw two things: two elephants (with the names William and Kate). For this reason, the Oxford comma is very important!

• This is similar to pronouns. You would never start off a story saying "He went to the store." Who's he? Without saying what the acronym stands for, your audience may not know what you're talking about.

• Two sets of eyes are always better than one. Once you have your finished product, ask a friend (or two) to read your abstract. Do they notice any grammar mistakes? Do they understand the topic at hand? This can be especially useful since they aren't already familiar with your paper and their eyes are fresh on the page.

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How to write an abstract in MLA format

Published October 22, 2020. Updated August 15, 2021.

An abstract is not normally included with an MLA formatted paper, but there may be a time when your instructor or publisher requests that one be included with your work. The MLA Handbook does contain any rules on abstracts, but you can still follow MLA style formatting guidelines in order to be consistent with your MLA paper. Below are general abstract tips and guidelines you can use to create an MLA format abstract.

For help writing your essay, research paper , or other project, check out these writing tips .

Definition of abstract

An abstract can be defined as a crisp summary of a research paper. The abstract acts as a concise paragraph that gives the reader insight into the paper. An abstract is the first impression of the paper in the mind of the reader. A reader will decide to read the paper or not based on the abstract.

Purpose of an abstract

The purpose of an abstract is to summarize the following:

• Points discussed in the paper such as the aim of the paper
• Methods used to construct the paper
• Information which has been included
• Discussion about the topic
• Conclusion derived by the paper

Most importantly, the abstract sparks the interest of the reader and entices the reader to read the paper. An abstract is often the first thing someone will read about a paper. It allows the readers to easily select a paper as per their requirement from the numerous papers available for them to read. It allows them to understand whether the paper contains the information they are looking for or not.

Position of an abstract

The position of the abstract in a paper, be it in APA or MLA style, is generally before the paper starts and after the title of the paper. If any special instructions about the position of the abstract are given, they should be considered while positioning the abstract in the paper.

Types of abstracts

Descriptive abstracts.

Descriptive abstracts, as the name suggests, describe the paper through a short summary of the purpose of the paper, the way the paper has been constructed, and the relevance of the paper to different areas the reader might be interested in. It consists of approximately 100 words or less. The reason for writing a descriptive abstract is to tempt the reader to read the paper.

Informative abstracts

Informative abstracts are a more detailed summary of the paper. They include all the points discussed in the paper along with the results of the paper. They are generally 150-250 words. They provide the reader with an insight into the aim of the paper and the result of the paper.

Rules for writing the abstract in MLA format

There are certain rules which are to be followed as guidelines while writing an abstract in the MLA format.

Abstract length

The descriptive abstract in the MLA format should consist of not more than 100 words. It should include the aim of the paper, the way the paper has been formulated, and the relevance of the paper to different areas of interest.

The informative abstract in the MLA format should have 150 to 200 words. It should include the aim of the paper, the way the paper has been formulated, the relevance of the paper to different areas of interest, the findings of the paper, and the results obtained from the paper.

For either type of abstract, the maximum number of paragraphs that the abstract can consist of is two.

Abstract location in a paper

The abstract should be on its own page. Place the abstract page after the title page of the paper and before the subject matter of the paper begins.

Abstract contents

• The abstract should summarize all the points discussed in the paper briefly and crisply.
• The abstract should include the purpose behind writing the paper and explain what the reader would gain by reading the paper.
• The abstract should provide the details of the methods which have been used to acquire the information in the paper.
• The abstract should provide the details of the results obtained in the paper.

Abstract formatting

For consistency, the abstract follows the same formatting as the rest of an MLA paper.

• The abstract should be written in a standard font and size, such as Times New Roman with the font size as 12 pt.
• All lines of the abstract should be double-spaced.
• The margin of the abstract should be 1 inch from all sides of the paper (i.e., right and left as well as top and bottom).
• Indent the first line of every paragraph by ½ an inch.

Additional guidelines

• All the acronyms that are included in the abstract must be spelled out.
• No citation or footnotes are required for an MLA style abstract.
• The abstract should be constructed after the completion of the paper to make sure that all the points discussed in the paper are covered.

Tips for writing an abstract in MLA format

To write an effective abstract, the following tips should be kept in mind:

• Avoid the use of extra words and sentences which can distort the actual meaning of the sentence or misdirect the reader about the research.
• Do not copy-paste sentences from the paper. Construct new and interesting sentences to capture the reader’s attention.
• The introductory part of the abstract must include the essence of the topic of the paper clearly and concisely.
• Do not use lengthy or complex sentences as it might confuse the reader.
• Ensure that all the points discussed in the paper are covered in brief in the abstract.
• Make sure that the order of the abstract is as per the order of the paper.
• The ending of the abstract should provide a brief insight into the results derived in the paper.
• Proofread the abstract. Make sure that there are no errors in the abstract of the paper such as grammatical errors, punctuation errors, or spelling errors. The abstract is meant to attract the reader toward the paper. If there are errors in the abstract, it would give a bad impression and the reader might lose interest in the paper.

Example abstracts

• Descriptive abstract example   on  Civille’s “‘ Ain’t  Got No Chance’: The Case of ‘The Breaking Point.’”    
• Informational abstract example   on  Knevett  and Gammon’s  “English Folk Song Collectors and the Idea of the Peasant.”   

Common mistakes to avoid in an MLA format abstract

Certain mistakes can easily occur while constructing an abstract of the paper. These mistakes can make the paper appear unorganized and ill-constructed to the reader. You can easily avoid these mistakes if you keep in mind the following points.

Not summarizing the paper effectively

The abstract is the summary of all the points covered in the paper. The reader should be able to understand the points in the paper as well as the flow of the paper. Not summarizing the paper effectively can confuse the reader about the importance and the relevance of reading the paper.

Not carrying out effective paraphrasing

While all the points discussed in the paper are to be explained in brief, it does not mean that the sentences in the paper are to be directly included in the abstract. The reader should get the essence of the points discussed without reading the exact words from the paper.

Not including the details present in the paper

A common mistake students make is to write the abstract before completing the paper. When the abstract is written before the completion of the paper, the details present in the paper are often left out. The abstract appears to be focused only on the introduction and the conclusion.

Not including enough information or including too much information

While it is necessary that the abstract consists of all the points in the paper, the abstract also needs to be short and crisp.

Key takeaways

• An abstract is a clear and concise summary of the paper, which provides the reader with an insight into the paper and sparks the interest of the reader toward the paper.
• There are two types of abstracts (i.e., informative abstract and descriptive abstract).
• The abstract should always be included  after  the title of the paper and  before  the subject-matter of the paper.
• Ensure that the abstract is concise and does not contain the same sentences as the paper.

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MLA Formatting: How Do I Do: An Abstract

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• References for this MLA Document

What is an Abstract?

Here is some information you should know when formatting your abstract:

          An abstract is a condensed summary of your entire paper, which can be found immediately after your title page, if you are required to have these components. Since the abstract is the first thing that your readers will come across, make sure that your writing is clear, impactful, and succinct. When you are witting an abstract for a paper, you must first make sure to check what the guidelines are from your professor or instructor, to make sure that you are following the directions given and meeting the requirements needed to grading. Since abstracts are not always required with MLA, nor are cover pages, be sure to check these items if they are required for submission or not. If you are not given specifics, here are some basic guidelines that you can follow when forming your abstract:

• Generally, an abstract should be written within 150-250 words. This amount can vary if you are given specific directions otherwise.
• Your abstract should be easy to follow when reading it; it should match the order and flow in which your writing does with what you talk through in each section of your entire paper. Your abstract should read like your paper would.
• When writing an abstract, focus your sentences to be more reporting, rather than commentary; your reader is deciding if the information you present in your work is relevant to what they are interested in, save the commentary for the bodies of your writing and focus the abstract on factual information.
• Make sure that you are saying something in your abstract; although this is only going to be a single, doubled spaced paragraph that is not indented, make sure that it is a powerful summary of your writing, and not something that comes across as vague and incapable of telling the reader what you are communicating.
• Your abstract should focus on your findings and your original work, so save the additional work done by others for your writing; do not include citations in your abstract
• You may have key words included at the end of your abstract, but note that they count towards the word count you are given.
• You will need to include a page number for your abstract, but do not for your cover page. The page number will be in little roman numerals, since it is prefacing your writing. Your page numbers officially begin on the first page of your written work, everything that comes prior to that (excluding the cover page) is to be numbered in small roman numerals.

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How to Write an Abstract : Home

• How to Format a Research Abstract MLA Style with Examples
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• Link to Online Writing Lab Information on Research Abstracts

Writing a Research Abstract: General Guidelines for MLA Style

An abstract of a work, usually of an essay, is a concise summary of its main points. It is meant to concentrate the argument of a work, presenting it as clearly as possible.

The abstract often appears after the title and before the main body of an essay. If you are writing an abstract as part of an assignment, you should check with your instructor about where to place it.

Here are a few guidelines to follow when composing an abstract:

• In general, avoid too much copying and pasting directly from your essay, especially from the first paragraph. An abstract is often presented directly before an essay, and it will often be the first thing readers consult after your title. You wouldn’t repeat your ideas verbatim in the body of your essay, so why would you do that in an abstract? Consider the abstract part of the work itself. 
• Start off strong. An abstract should be a mini essay, so it should begin with a clear statement of your argument. This should be the first sentence or two.
• Abstracts vary in length. But a good rule is to aim for five to seven sentences. The bulk of the abstract will review the evidence for your claim and summarize your findings.
• Avoid complicated syntax. Long sentences and intricate phrasing have their place in essays, but the abstract should be concise. It is not the place for ambitious grammar.
• The last sentence or two should point to any conclusions reached and the direction future research might take. Like the first sentence, the last should be provocative and direct. Leave your readers wanting to read your essay.

In what follows, the authors have written an effective abstract that adheres to the basic principles above:

Literary critics have long imagined that T. S. Eliot’s The Sacred Wood (1920) shaped the canon and methods of countless twentieth-century classrooms. This essay turns instead to the classroom that made The Sacred Wood : the Modern English Literature extension school tutorial that Eliot taught to working-class adults between 1916 and 1919. Contextualizing Eliot’s tutorial within the extension school movement shows how the ethos and practices of the Workers’ Educational Association shaped his teaching. Over the course of three years, Eliot and his students reimagined canonical literature as writing by working poets for working people—a model of literary history that fully informed his canon reformation in The Sacred Wood . This example demonstrates how attention to teaching changes the history of English literary study. It further reveals how all kinds of institutions, not just elite universities, have shaped the discipline’s methods and canons. (Buurma and Heffernan)

This abstract uses the first two sentences to establish the essay’s place in its field of study and to suggest how it intervenes in existing scholarship. The syntax is direct and simple. The third sentence begins to outline how the authors will support their argument. They aim to demonstrate the relevance of Eliot’s teaching to his ideas about literature, and so they move next to discuss some of the details of that teaching. Finally, the abstract concludes by telling us about the consequences of this argument. The conclusion both points to new directions for research and tells us why we should read the essay. 

Buurma, Rachel Sagner, and Laura Heffernan. Abstract of “The Classroom in the Canon: T. S. Eliot’s Modern English Literature Extension Course for Working People and  The Sacred Wood. ”  PMLA , vol. 133, no. 2, Mar. 2018, p. 463.

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How to Write an Abstract in MLA Format

Jerry P Black

An abstract is a concise summary of a research paper or academic article. In MLA (Modern Language Association) format, an abstract is typically a brief paragraph of about 150–250 words that follows the title and precedes the main body of the paper. It provides a snapshot of the paper’s main points and findings. Here’s how to write an abstract in MLA format:

Formatting the Abstract

• Title: The word “Abstract” should be centered at the top of the page. There should be no bolding, underlining, or italics.
• Alignment: The entire abstract should be left-aligned, and there should be no indentation.
• Length: An abstract in MLA format is typically 150–250 words. It should be concise and to the point.
• Font and Size: Use a legible font such as Times New Roman or Arial, and use 12-point font size.

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Content of the Abstract

• Content: The abstract should provide a summary of the paper’s main points, objectives, methodology, and conclusions.
• Objective: Begin by stating the purpose or objective of your research. Why did you conduct the study or write the paper?
• Methodology: Briefly describe the research methods or approach used in the study. Include the key methods or sources you used.
• Main Findings: Summarize the most important findings or results of the paper. This is the core of your abstract.
• Conclusion: Conclude the abstract by discussing the significance of the findings or the implications of the study.
• Keywords: It’s common to include a list of keywords at the end of the abstract. These are important terms that readers might use to search for your paper in databases. Keywords should be italicized.

Clarity and Conciseness

• Clarity: Write the abstract in clear and straightforward language. Avoid jargon or technical terms that might confuse non-specialist readers.
• Conciseness: Keep the abstract concise and focused on the main points. Omit unnecessary details.
• No Citations: Avoid citing sources in the abstract. The abstract should be a self-contained summary.

Proofreading

• Proofread: After writing your abstract, proofread it carefully to check for grammatical and typographical errors.

Sample MLA Abstract

Here’s a sample abstract in MLA format for a hypothetical research paper on climate change:

Climate change is a global environmental challenge that demands immediate attention and action. This paper investigates the impact of rising global temperatures on the melting of polar ice caps and the resulting sea level rise. Employing data from satellite observations and climate models, this study reveals a significant acceleration in the rate of polar ice melt over the past two decades. The findings highlight the urgency of implementing global mitigation and adaptation strategies to combat sea-level rise and its associated risks to coastal communities, ecosystems, and economies.

Keywords: climate change, polar ice melt, sea-level rise, global warming, climate models

In this example, the abstract concisely presents the paper’s objectives, methodology, main findings, and their significance. It also includes a list of keywords at the end to assist in database searches.

Written by Jerry P Black

Hello, I'm Jerry P. Black, and I am your go-to essay wizard. I specialize in crafting impeccable and professional essays across a range of subjects

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Writing an Abstract for Your Research Paper

Definition and Purpose of Abstracts

An abstract is a short summary of your (published or unpublished) research paper, usually about a paragraph (c. 6-7 sentences, 150-250 words) long. A well-written abstract serves multiple purposes:

• an abstract lets readers get the gist or essence of your paper or article quickly, in order to decide whether to read the full paper;
• an abstract prepares readers to follow the detailed information, analyses, and arguments in your full paper;
• and, later, an abstract helps readers remember key points from your paper.

It’s also worth remembering that search engines and bibliographic databases use abstracts, as well as the title, to identify key terms for indexing your published paper. So what you include in your abstract and in your title are crucial for helping other researchers find your paper or article.

If you are writing an abstract for a course paper, your professor may give you specific guidelines for what to include and how to organize your abstract. Similarly, academic journals often have specific requirements for abstracts. So in addition to following the advice on this page, you should be sure to look for and follow any guidelines from the course or journal you’re writing for.

The Contents of an Abstract

Abstracts contain most of the following kinds of information in brief form. The body of your paper will, of course, develop and explain these ideas much more fully. As you will see in the samples below, the proportion of your abstract that you devote to each kind of information—and the sequence of that information—will vary, depending on the nature and genre of the paper that you are summarizing in your abstract. And in some cases, some of this information is implied, rather than stated explicitly. The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association , which is widely used in the social sciences, gives specific guidelines for what to include in the abstract for different kinds of papers—for empirical studies, literature reviews or meta-analyses, theoretical papers, methodological papers, and case studies.

Here are the typical kinds of information found in most abstracts:

• the context or background information for your research; the general topic under study; the specific topic of your research
• the central questions or statement of the problem your research addresses
• what’s already known about this question, what previous research has done or shown
• the main reason(s) , the exigency, the rationale , the goals for your research—Why is it important to address these questions? Are you, for example, examining a new topic? Why is that topic worth examining? Are you filling a gap in previous research? Applying new methods to take a fresh look at existing ideas or data? Resolving a dispute within the literature in your field? . . .
• your research and/or analytical methods
• your main findings , results , or arguments
• the significance or implications of your findings or arguments.

Your abstract should be intelligible on its own, without a reader’s having to read your entire paper. And in an abstract, you usually do not cite references—most of your abstract will describe what you have studied in your research and what you have found and what you argue in your paper. In the body of your paper, you will cite the specific literature that informs your research.

When to Write Your Abstract

Although you might be tempted to write your abstract first because it will appear as the very first part of your paper, it’s a good idea to wait to write your abstract until after you’ve drafted your full paper, so that you know what you’re summarizing.

What follows are some sample abstracts in published papers or articles, all written by faculty at UW-Madison who come from a variety of disciplines. We have annotated these samples to help you see the work that these authors are doing within their abstracts.

Choosing Verb Tenses within Your Abstract

The social science sample (Sample 1) below uses the present tense to describe general facts and interpretations that have been and are currently true, including the prevailing explanation for the social phenomenon under study. That abstract also uses the present tense to describe the methods, the findings, the arguments, and the implications of the findings from their new research study. The authors use the past tense to describe previous research.

The humanities sample (Sample 2) below uses the past tense to describe completed events in the past (the texts created in the pulp fiction industry in the 1970s and 80s) and uses the present tense to describe what is happening in those texts, to explain the significance or meaning of those texts, and to describe the arguments presented in the article.

The science samples (Samples 3 and 4) below use the past tense to describe what previous research studies have done and the research the authors have conducted, the methods they have followed, and what they have found. In their rationale or justification for their research (what remains to be done), they use the present tense. They also use the present tense to introduce their study (in Sample 3, “Here we report . . .”) and to explain the significance of their study (In Sample 3, This reprogramming . . . “provides a scalable cell source for. . .”).

Sample Abstract 1

From the social sciences.

Reporting new findings about the reasons for increasing economic homogamy among spouses

Gonalons-Pons, Pilar, and Christine R. Schwartz. “Trends in Economic Homogamy: Changes in Assortative Mating or the Division of Labor in Marriage?” Demography , vol. 54, no. 3, 2017, pp. 985-1005.

Sample Abstract 2

From the humanities.

Analyzing underground pulp fiction publications in Tanzania, this article makes an argument about the cultural significance of those publications

Emily Callaci. “Street Textuality: Socialism, Masculinity, and Urban Belonging in Tanzania’s Pulp Fiction Publishing Industry, 1975-1985.” Comparative Studies in Society and History , vol. 59, no. 1, 2017, pp. 183-210.

Sample Abstract/Summary 3

From the sciences.

Reporting a new method for reprogramming adult mouse fibroblasts into induced cardiac progenitor cells

Lalit, Pratik A., Max R. Salick, Daryl O. Nelson, Jayne M. Squirrell, Christina M. Shafer, Neel G. Patel, Imaan Saeed, Eric G. Schmuck, Yogananda S. Markandeya, Rachel Wong, Martin R. Lea, Kevin W. Eliceiri, Timothy A. Hacker, Wendy C. Crone, Michael Kyba, Daniel J. Garry, Ron Stewart, James A. Thomson, Karen M. Downs, Gary E. Lyons, and Timothy J. Kamp. “Lineage Reprogramming of Fibroblasts into Proliferative Induced Cardiac Progenitor Cells by Defined Factors.” Cell Stem Cell , vol. 18, 2016, pp. 354-367.

Sample Abstract 4, a Structured Abstract

Reporting results about the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy in managing acute bacterial sinusitis, from a rigorously controlled study

Note: This journal requires authors to organize their abstract into four specific sections, with strict word limits. Because the headings for this structured abstract are self-explanatory, we have chosen not to add annotations to this sample abstract.

Wald, Ellen R., David Nash, and Jens Eickhoff. “Effectiveness of Amoxicillin/Clavulanate Potassium in the Treatment of Acute Bacterial Sinusitis in Children.” Pediatrics , vol. 124, no. 1, 2009, pp. 9-15.

“OBJECTIVE: The role of antibiotic therapy in managing acute bacterial sinusitis (ABS) in children is controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of high-dose amoxicillin/potassium clavulanate in the treatment of children diagnosed with ABS.

METHODS : This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Children 1 to 10 years of age with a clinical presentation compatible with ABS were eligible for participation. Patients were stratified according to age (<6 or ≥6 years) and clinical severity and randomly assigned to receive either amoxicillin (90 mg/kg) with potassium clavulanate (6.4 mg/kg) or placebo. A symptom survey was performed on days 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 20, and 30. Patients were examined on day 14. Children’s conditions were rated as cured, improved, or failed according to scoring rules.

RESULTS: Two thousand one hundred thirty-five children with respiratory complaints were screened for enrollment; 139 (6.5%) had ABS. Fifty-eight patients were enrolled, and 56 were randomly assigned. The mean age was 6630 months. Fifty (89%) patients presented with persistent symptoms, and 6 (11%) presented with nonpersistent symptoms. In 24 (43%) children, the illness was classified as mild, whereas in the remaining 32 (57%) children it was severe. Of the 28 children who received the antibiotic, 14 (50%) were cured, 4 (14%) were improved, 4(14%) experienced treatment failure, and 6 (21%) withdrew. Of the 28children who received placebo, 4 (14%) were cured, 5 (18%) improved, and 19 (68%) experienced treatment failure. Children receiving the antibiotic were more likely to be cured (50% vs 14%) and less likely to have treatment failure (14% vs 68%) than children receiving the placebo.

CONCLUSIONS : ABS is a common complication of viral upper respiratory infections. Amoxicillin/potassium clavulanate results in significantly more cures and fewer failures than placebo, according to parental report of time to resolution.” (9)

Some Excellent Advice about Writing Abstracts for Basic Science Research Papers, by Professor Adriano Aguzzi from the Institute of Neuropathology at the University of Zurich:

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The Structured Abstract: An Essential Tool for Researchers

Need help writing a structured abstract for publication or a conference submission? Members of the MLA Research Caucus developed this guide as MLA transitioned to structured abstracts for conference submissions.

Originally appeared as:  Bayley L, Eldredge J. The structured abstract: an essential tool for researchers.  Hypothesis 2003 Spring ; 17 (1): 1, 11-13.

Liz Bayley, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario [email protected]

Jonathan D. Eldredge, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM [email protected]

By now, most health sciences librarians are well aware of structured abstracts. Since the introduction of this convention for summarizing clinical research in 1987 1,2  structured abstracts have become the predominant mode of abstract found in the major clinical journals. Many behavioral, social, biological, and basic medical sciences journals are now also following the convention of structured abstracts. In their most basic form, structured abstracts organize their summaries of publications with the following headings:

• CONCLUSIONS

Some clinical journals include structured abstracts with variations on these headings. For example, some will use headings such as: Context, Background, Aim, Findings, and Interpretation. Some additional headings include: Design, Population, Setting, Participants, Intervention (method), Main Outcome Measures and other aspects relevant to the research.

A summary of the advantages of structured abstracts appears in the Summer 2001 issue of Hypothesis. 3  The evidence points in particular to advantages for searching 4-6  and quickly extracting needed information 7  from these types of summaries, regardless of the exact headings use by a journal. No wonder then that structured abstracts are gaining popularity. The MLA Annual Meeting for 2003 strongly recommends use of structured abstracts; participants wishing to present papers or posters at the 2004 MLA Annual Meeting will be required to submit their entries in structured abstract format.

Fortunately, preparing structured abstracts also can help you from the very outset of contemplating your research, progressing through the research process itself, and culminating in its final reporting to your colleagues. This article shows you how.

OBJECTIVE: Envisioning Your Research Question

Do you have a research idea? Not sure where to start? The structured abstract can guide your thinking at the very beginning. Consider the overall purpose of your research. What are you trying to learn or to demonstrate? Such questions are the beginnings of a hypothesis. Here are some generic examples of research questions:

• What made our program a success?
• Which form of teaching results in students searching effectively?
• Which information resources are used the most?

There are many types of other questions you can entertain. For an inventory of research questions already developed by a worldwide collaboration of health sciences librarians see the Spring 2001 issue of Hypothesis. 8  Advice on formulating questions can be found elsewhere. 9  In addition, please see Bayley et al’s examples of alternatives to the more conventional formats for structured abstracts. 10

An increasing number of journals are allowing authors to begin their structured abstracts under the heading QUESTION. Should you choose a more traditional approach, however, you can convert your question into a statement under the headings of OBJECTIVE. Consider how the questions above become converted to OBJECTIVE statements:

• To demonstrate how this program (name) was a success in achieving its five goals.
• To determine if teaching MEDLINE by the _____ method results in second year medical students retaining 90% of the search skills learned after three months duration.
• To measure electronic resources usage at the ______ Library and Informatics Center over the 2001-2002 period as a means of predicting future use.

Note how these research questions became more refined in the process of stating them clearly for the structured abstract. Research questions typically become more focused as one writes up the proposal in structured abstract form. Normally research questions also become more specific and detailed during this process.

The content to be drafted in the METHODS and RESULTS sections will anticipate the actual research project in the initial stages. This might be the moment when you decide to submit your structured abstract for consideration as a presentation or poster at a professional meeting such as the MLA Annual Meeting. Your eventual research project need not be tied absolutely to what you propose, but the more you can clarify what methods you think will be needed and what results you anticipate while still in the proposal stage, the easier your work will be later. Clarification also will attract colleagues with similar interests.

METHODS: Documenting Your Research Steps

Now that you have determined what you want to research or demonstrate, how will you proceed? The METHODS section in a structured abstract should accurately, although concisely, summarize how you will proceed in learning the answer to your question. METHODS headings are sometimes brief:

• Prospective cohort study
• Randomized controlled trial
• Series of three focus groups

These brief descriptions often communicate a great deal because of the specific meanings attached to these shorthand descriptions of study designs. A handbook of research methods or two probably will suggest the type of methods that might be appropriate for answering your question and suggest some instruments you might use to gather information. Some authors substitute the term DESIGN for methods in their structured abstracts. Because questions vary and the designs have relative validity you also might want to consult a table of Evidence-Based Librarianship (EBL) Levels of Evidence for ideas. 11  As your research inquiry proceeds, you will find that your methods become more specific. Even the most experienced researchers must fine-tune their methods as practical issues arise.

As you contemplate what method to use, you might find it easier to identify two other elements found in some structured abstracts: SETTING and POPULATION. Most health sciences librarianship/informatics research includes these components. And, by thinking about the parameters of your setting or the exact criteria of who will be included (and who will be excluded) in your population, you begin to clarify your research project that much further. SETTING headings might be followed by the following sample statements:

• A small library with one librarian and two technicians serving a 400-bed hospital.
• A small research library that serves an MRI research facility owned by a healthcare corporation.
• An academic health sciences library serving a school of medicine, a college of nursing, and two allied health sciences programs

POPULATION headings might precede the following types of concise, but descriptive text:

• First-year medical students with no previous formal MEDLINE training
• Third-year internal medicine residents.
• All users of an academic health sciences library
• Physicians and research scientists

Will your methods include an INTERVENTION or an EXPOSURE? These might be helpful headings to include in your structured abstract. These headings might, coincidentally, might help clarify the direction of your research. Experimental designs such as randomized controlled trials or observational designs such as the cohort studies usually utilize interventions or exposures respectively. An INTERVENTION usually has a specific research meaning. Some examples are:

• Weeding according by _____, ______, and _____ criteria.
• A 30-60 minute interview in the faculty members’ offices
• A 120- minute in-depth MEDLINE training session for the study group whereas the control group received only a 15-minute overview session.

The heading EXPOSURE also has a specific research design meaning. Some examples are:

• Access to information resources during the 2002-2003 period
• One 60-minute required training session on MEDLINE search strategies
• Teamwork training lasting two days for all managers

RESULTS: Reporting Your Research

The RESULTS section of the structured abstract reports what you have discovered. It will probably report that you only made a modest discovery or perhaps some unexpected results. Contrary to popular belief, when conducted correctly most solid research often does not report any dramatic or surprising results. Even if you wonder, “Who cares?” while reviewing less than dramatic or unexpected results, you have a professional responsibility to report whatever it was that your research produced. Do try to be as accurate as possible for the sake of those trying to understand your research method and results. Quantify as much as possible to lend precision. You might want to review the kinds of methods employed by colleagues who have attempted to answer research questions resembling your own. If their methods do nor seem appropriate do not let the range of their methods limit your choice of research design. Your own design might produce unique data or observations worth sharing with your colleagues. On the other hand, by employing similar research designs capable of collecting compatible data, your research might be more easily included in a systematic review or meta-analysis.

At the time of submitting a proposal for a poster or a presented paper you most likely will not have your results ready yet or the results might still be unanalyzed. This should be perfectly acceptable, but you should consider what results your hypothesis, null hypothesis, and alternative hypotheses suggest. Colleagues reviewing your proposal should be able to evaluate your proposal on the basis of your Objective, Methods, and anticipated Results alone, so do not worry about having actual results to report at the proposal submission stage.

The CONCLUSION should not introduce any information or ideas not already described elsewhere in your structured abstracts. Ideally, it should be only one or two sentences in length, and can include an evaluation of your research and areas for further research—questions for your colleagues to use as they start research with their own structured abstracts!

Examples of Structured Abstracts

The following articles include structured abstracts to give you some examples for different types of research:

SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS

• Brettle A. Information skills training: a systematic review of the literature. Health Information and Libraries Journal. 2003 Jun; 20 (2): in press.
• Winning A., Beverley C. Clinical librarianship: a systematic review.  Hypothesis. 2001 Fall ; 15(3): 3, 8-9. 

META-ANALYSIS

• Sharpe D, Rossiter L. Siblings of children with a chronic illness: a meta-analysis. Journal of Pediatric Psychology. 2002 Dec; 27 (8): 699-710.

RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL (INTERVENTION)

• Bradley DR et al. Real-time, evidence-based medicine instruction: a randomized controlled trial in a neonatal intensive care unit. Journal of the Medical Library Association. 2002 Apr;90(2):194-201. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11999177/

COHORT STUDY (PREDICTION)

• brown ha, Alpi K, Cleary D, Dorsey MJ. Accessing the most recent information Part II.  Hypothesis. 2002 Summer ; 16 (2): 6. 

QUALITATIVE RESEARCH STUDIES (EXPLORATION)

• Maliski SL, Heilemann MV, McCorkle R. From “death sentence” to “good cancer”: couples’ transformation of a prostate cancer diagnosis. Nursing Research. 2002 Nov-Dec;51(6):391-7.
• Fuat A, Hungin AP, Murphy JJ. Barriers to accurate diagnosis and effective management of heart failure in primary care: qualitative study. BMJ. 2003 Jan 25;326(7382):196.
• Gallagher TH, Waterman AD, Ebers AG, Fraser VJ, Levinson W. Patients’ and physicians’ attitudes regarding the disclosure of medical errors. JAMA. 2003 Feb 26;289(8):1001-7.

PROGRAM EVALUATION

• Tannery NH et. al. Use of Web-based library resources by medical students in community and ambulatory settings. Journal of the Medical Library Association. 2002 Jul;90(3):305-9. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113515/

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

• Gregg AL et al. Designing a curriculum on Internet health resources for deaf high school students. Journal of the Medical Library Association. 2002 Oct;90(4):431-6. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12398249/

NARRATIVE REVIEW

• Eldredge J. Cohort studies in health sciences librarianship. Journal of the Medical Library Association. 2002 Oct;90(4):380-92. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12398244/

Here is a checklist based on this description of the steps in the research process and how the structured abstract can assist you in clarifying your thoughts and actions:

• Formulate a research QUESTION, refining it as you proceed with your research.
• Consider the METHODS you will use to answer the question, including the population and setting, the research design, any instruments you might develop or employ and if you will include an intervention or exposure.
• Once you have carried out your research, analyze the data you have collected and summarize it in your RESULTS section.
• Finally, prepare your CONCLUSION and inspire your colleagues.
• Ad Hoc Working Group for Critical Appraisal of the Medical Literature. A proposal for more informative abstracts of clinical articles. Annals of Internal Medicine 1987 Apr.; 106(4):598-604.
• Huth EJ. Structured abstracts for papers reporting clinical trials. Annals of Internal Medicine 1987 Apr. ; 106(4):626-7.
• Bayley, L. Evidence-Based Librarianship Implementation Committee Report: Report of the Research Results Dissemination Task Force. Hypothesis 2001;15(2):6-7.
• McIntosh N. Structured abstracts and information transfer. British Library R&D Report 6142. London: British Library, 1994.
• Hartley J. Sydes M. Blurton A. Obtaining information accurately and quickly: are structured abstracts more efficient? Journal of Information Science 1996; 22(5):349-356.
• Booth A. O’Rourke AJ. The value of structured abstracts in information retrieval from MEDLINE. Health Libraries Review 1997 Sep; 14(3):157-166.
• Hartley J. Sydes M. Are structured abstracts easier to read than traditional ones? Journal of Research in Reading 1997 Jun; 20(2):122-136.
• Evidence-Based Librarianship Implementation Committee. The most relevant and answerable research questions facing the practice of health sciences librarianship. Hypothesis 2001 Spring; 15(1): 9-15, 17.
• Eldredge JD. Evidence-based librarianship: formulating EBL questions. Bibliotheca Medica Canadiana; BMC 2000 Winter; 22(2): 74-7.
• Bayley L. Wallace A. Brice A. Evidence-Based Librarianship Implementation Committee Research Results Dissemination Task Force recommendations. Hypothesis 2002 Spring; 16(1):6-8.
• Eldredge JD. Evidence-based librarianship levels of evidence. Hypothesis 2002 Fall; 10-13.

How to Write MLA Abstracts

Abstracts provide succinct information to scholars and researchers in business and academia. In its most basic form, the abstract offers a clear and concise synopsis of the results and methodology of a completed research project. Subsequent researchers can then look to an abstract to determine if the article being considered fits their own purposes. The abstract helps to sift away extraneous and off-topic information.

Explore this article

• Modern Language Association
• Descriptive Abstracts
• Informational Abstracts

1 Modern Language Association

MLA or Modern Language Association is an organization that produces one of the citation style guides used by students, scholars and professionals in research writing. The use of MLA and other academic style guides assures that resources are properly identified and credited in a uniform manner. While MLA parameters dictate the structure, style and tone of a written work, their more important functions are to lend validity to research, allow readers an efficient means to cross-reference sources, assure and protect against incidents of plagiarism and provide a consistent treatment across academic disciplines. According to the Purdue Online Writing Lab, MLA is used in studies of language, literature and culture.

2 Abstracts

Abstracts are most generally included in APA style papers. However, professors and editors of academic journals sometimes meld components of different style guides to conform to the specific purposes of assignments and editorial guidelines. Since abstracts are meant to summarize the produced research, they must include details on the purpose, method and results of conducted research or analysis contained within the document. Generally one or two paragraphs, abstracts are written in clear, concise, scholarly language. They precede the cover page and are formatted in the same style as the research paper. Abstracts are therefore double spaced and typed in a legible 12-point font -- generally Times New Roman -- on 8 1/2-by-11-inch paper with 1-inch margins. They appear before the first page but after the cover page if one is included. With regard to any academic and scholarly writing, students and professionals must conform to the expectations of their college, professor or editor.

3 Descriptive Abstracts

Descriptive abstracts are very brief -- usually less than 100 words -- summaries of what is contained in a research paper. They include the purpose of the research, along with its methodology and its scope but no results or conclusions.

4 Informational Abstracts

Informational abstracts are designed to offer readers easy access to the information contained within a research report but with more detailed information than a descriptive abstract. According to the Purdue Online Writing Lab, they must briefly communicate the contents of the article, including its purpose, methodology, results, conclusions and recommendations for future action or research.

• 1 MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th Edition; Modern Language Association
• 2 Purdue: Online Writing Lab
• 3 Cornell University Library: Citation Management -MLA Citation Style
• 4 Endicott College You Tube: How Do I Format My Paper Using MLA?

About the Author

Linda Emma is a long-standing writer and editor. She is also a digital marketing professional and published author with more than 20 years experience in media and business. She works as a content manager and professional writing tutor at a private New England college. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Northeastern University.

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In academic writing, learning how to create a brief and informative abstract for your research paper is really important. An abstract serves as a sneak peek into your research, giving readers a quick look to decide if they want to read more.

But what exactly is an abstract in a research paper, and how to write an abstract for a research paper that captures the essence of your study effectively? Let’s dive into the nuances of writing a standout research paper abstract!

Improve your paper’s quality with top-notch editing! Get started

Let’s start by understanding what is an abstract in a research paper:

What is an abstract in a research paper?

A research paper abstract is a summary that outlines the key points of your research paper. It serves as a condensed version of your work, allowing readers to quickly grasp the purpose, methodology , results, implications, and conclusion of your study. Think of it as a mini-version of your paper, where you highlight the most critical information to entice further reading.

What is the purpose of an abstract in a research paper?

The primary purpose of an abstract in a research paper is to inform potential readers about the essential contents of the document. It will help them decide whether it aligns with their own research interests or objectives. Also, it’s important because it helps your paper show up in academic databases, making it easier for people to find and read.

Where does the abstract go in a research paper?

Typically, the abstract is placed right after the title page and before the main body of the research paper . This arrangement guarantees that it is the first in-depth synopsis of your work that readers will come across. 

How long should an abstract be for a research paper?

The length of an abstract for a research paper typically ranges from 150 to 250 words. This short length summarizes the research’s main aspects clearly and briefly. Sticking within this word range is important to maintain clarity and brevity so that readers can quickly grasp the important information. You can use academic ChatGPT prompts to reduce your abstract’s length if it exceeds the word count. 

What does the abstract of a research paper contain?

A research paper abstract usually contains the following key elements:

• Purpose of the study: Clearly states the main goal or issue addressed by the research, providing insight into its importance.
• Methodology: Concisely explains the methods or approaches employed in the research, including the type of study conducted (e.g., experimental, observational, qualitative) and specific techniques or tools utilized.
• Results: Summarizes the primary findings or outcomes of the research, highlighting key data points, trends, or discoveries relevant to the research question and objectives.
• Conclusions: Outlines the implications of the findings. This could involve discussing the significance of the results in the context of the field, potential applications, or future research directions. If your study has significant limitations, it’s advisable to briefly note them in the abstract.
• Keywords: Often, research paper abstracts include a list of keywords that help categorize the paper and make it easier for others to find through searches. Select words that are directly related to your research topic. Typically, 5-7 keywords are sufficient. Check the journal’s guidelines for specific requirements.

How to write an abstract for a research paper?

Use the following steps to write your research paper abstract perfectly:

1. Start with clarity and precision

Begin your abstract by clearly stating the research problem or the main objective of the study. This should address the ‘what’ of your study—what was your research trying to find or prove? 

• Avoid vague phrases and focus on delivering a specific and concise statement that encapsulates the essence of your research .
• Use active voice and confident language to state your research aim. For example, instead of saying “This research attempts to explore,” you could say, “This research explores.”
• Ensure that the first one or two sentences encapsulate the critical motivation behind the study.

Poor example: “This paper looks at climate change.”

Improved example: “This study quantifies the impact of industrial emissions on urban air quality, addressing a critical gap in environmental policy formulation.”

• Avoid filler words or overly complex sentences that do not add value to the core understanding of your research.

2. Describe your methodology

Provide a concise overview of the methods you employed for your research. This part should give readers a clear understanding of your approach and techniques. The goal is to provide enough information to understand the foundation of your findings.

• Focus on including only the most crucial methods used in your research. Typically, this would be the overall approach (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods), significant techniques or instruments used, and the type of analysis conducted.
• Avoid jargon or overly technical terms that might be unfamiliar to a broader audience, aiming instead for clear, accessible language.
• If specific tools, software, or technologies are central to the results, mention them by name.

Example: “Data was analyzed using SPSS software.”

• Abstracts do not allow for extensive methodological descriptions. Provide enough detail to understand the framework briefly.

For example: Instead of saying, “We conducted several tests to analyze the samples,” specify briefly, “Samples were analyzed using X-ray diffraction and gas chromatography.”

3. Highlight key findings

Briefly summarize the most significant results of your study . Make sure to capture the importance and implications of your results. This part typically grabs the most attention from readers.

• Focus on mentioning quantifiable results if applicable, as these often convey the impact of your findings more powerfully.
• Use phrases that summarize significant trends rather than complex data details. For example, “Results show a 50% increase in efficiency” or “Findings indicate a significant reduction in incidence rates.”
• Use strong, positive adjectives to describe your findings, such as “significant,” “substantial,” “robust,” etc., where appropriate and accurate.
• Include critical statistics such as p-values or confidence intervals to support the significance of your findings.

4. Discuss the implications

In a few sentences, describe the broader implications of your findings. How does your research contribute to the field? What are the practical or theoretical implications?

• Consider questions like, “Why does this matter?” and “Who will benefit from this research?”
• This can be framed as, “These findings suggest new pathways for clinical treatment,” or “This research informs policy by demonstrating…”
• Clearly state how your findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge in your field. Do they extend, contradict, or refine previous theories?

Example: “These findings challenge the conventional understanding of X, suggesting a revised model for Y.”

• Use strong action verbs to describe the effect of your research, such as “transforms,” “enables,” “revolutionizes,” or “underscores.”

5. Keep it concise

Focus on writing within the word limit and keeping the information that is required to be showcased or highlighted. 

• After drafting your abstract, review it specifically for redundancy and verbosity. You can edit your research paper abstract using content editors and grammar checker tools to ensure an error-free research paper abstract.
• Word counter tools like QuillBot, Semrush, Word Count, etc. can help ensure you stay within the typical 150-250 word range. 
• Additionally, asking a colleague to review your abstract format can provide insights into any unnecessary details or unclear wording. Proofreading your research paper abstract is a crucial step.

Research paper abstract example

To solidify your understanding, let’s look at a research paper abstract example:

In this study, we explored the impact of climate change on Arctic marine life. Using a combination of satellite imagery and direct observation methods over five years, we observed a significant decrease in sea ice coverage and its direct effects on the indigenous marine populations. Notably, the reduction in ice has led to altered migration patterns and decreased population stability in polar bears and seals. These findings highlight the urgent need for policies aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change in polar regions.

Creating a strong research paper abstract goes beyond simply summarizing your work. It involves offering a clear, concise, and captivating overview that sparks interest and showcases the significance of your research. By adhering to these tips, you can develop an abstract that meets academic requirements while also engaging your target audience effectively.

To refine your abstract, consider PaperTrue’s expert editing and proofreading services . Our team of professionals can help ensure that your abstract—and your entire research paper—meets the highest standards of academic excellence and is ready to make a lasting impression in the scholarly community!

Here are some more research-related articles for you:

• Research Paper Outline: Templates & Examples
• Primary vs. Secondary Sources: Definition, Types & Examples

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be included in a research paper abstract, how does one write an effective research paper abstract, can a research paper abstract include citations.

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Learn How to Write a Research Paper in MLA Format with Samples

Updated 30 Aug 2024

This guide will help you learn how to format and structure your research paper based on MLA format guidelines. We shall focus on general formatting guidelines and essential MLA research paper structure. Our guide will provide several helpful tips that will add to your writing confidence. Essentially, you will learn how to write a research paper in MLA format correctly.

What is MLA Formatting? 

MLA stands for Modern Language Association and is currently in its 9th edition , which has been published in 2021. In simple terms, MLA style formatting is a special system of referencing and structuring research papers. The main purpose is to cite sources correctly and keep your research writing always accurate. By learning how to write a research paper in MLA format, you will be able to submit your college homework according to specified rules and will avoid confusion. You will also learn how to format and structure the list of bibliography references for a research or essay paper by using the Works Cited page. It is another essential aspect of MLA style format.

MLA style format aims to help your college professor and the target audience to navigate through your paper by turning to various in-text citations with an opportunity to see where information has been taken. Since MLA has specific standards, your academic advisor will check whether you have followed the rules and used the same format, font sizes, headers, and other aspects that make research writing universal. What is MLA format then? The MLA style is mostly used by college students majoring in English, Literature, social sciences, arts, and humanities. One can assume that MLA style format is one of the most accessible writing standards, which is why it is often required during an introductory course where students learn how to structure their papers and keep information properly referenced.

When you are looking for reliable sources online, it will be easy to recognize the use of MLA format because of the famous MLA header that is always included on the first page where you must mention your full name, instructor's name, your course, and the date. It is also necessary to use page formatting with your last name on each page, which also helps to determine that an MLA format has been used. We shall discuss this aspect further on as you proceed with our guide. 

MLA Research Paper Format: General Guidelines 

If you are already familiar with at least one other academic writing format, you will already know the basics and it will be easier for you to process the information in MLA style. The majority of formats of research paper writing stand for the general rules on how to structure your page layout and a list of rules regarding correct citation. The most important is to start with the MLA header, which will look this way:

Adam Greeley

Professor Smith

Humanities 7311

14 May 2022 

This header is always placed at the top left corner of the first page (no title page is required in most cases!) with the page number and your name aligned to the top right of the page. It will look this way: 

The other rules on how to write a MLA research paper include:

• The recommended fonts include Times New Roman, Arial, or Verdana in 12 pt size. 
• All the margins of the page in MS Word or a similar processor should be set at 1 inch. 
• The main content is double-spaced unless specified otherwise. 
• The MLA header is included only on the first page of your research paper. 
• The title of your work must be centered. 
• Every new research paper paragraph should have a hanging indent. 
• The MLA style uses the author-page citation pattern where you should list the author's last name with the page number. 
• The Bibliography page has the "Works Cited" title at the top and center of the first page with your citations. 
• The sources are listed alphabetically. 
• Do not place a period after the title or headers. 
• Do not underline words unless it’s necessary.

It is recommended to use the rules of inclusive language, according to the latest manual edition of the MLA style. It means that you must avoid certain terms that focus on ethnic peculiarities, religion, gender, disability, age, or social challenges unless it is absolutely necessary. You can also use words like "human-made" to specify gender-neutral aspects. 

MLA Research Paper Structure: Essential Parts

One of the most important parts of writing a research paper successfully is following the correct structure that is specified by the chosen writing style. Here are the MLA research paper format parts that you should consider:

It should have your university's name on top of the page, then the title of your research paper at the center of the page, and at the bottom of the page: your name, course name, professor's name, and the paper's due date (all centered).

Section Headings

The main heading should include your name, instructor's name, relevant class information, and the paper's delivery date.

The other MLA page headings:

First Level Heading.

Your text 

Second Level Heading.

Third Level Heading 

Fourth Level Heading

Fifth Level Heading 

Research Paper Outline

Title of the page (centered)

1. Introduction

• Talk about the importance of your subject. 
• An interesting topic sentence.

2. Thesis Statement

3. Body Paragraphs

• Methodology. 
• Research Justification. 
• Research Findings.

4. Research Discussion

5. Conclusion

• Thesis explanation. 

Introduction & Thesis

Talk about the importance of your research and use a strong thesis statement. Research paper MLA style guidebook recommends allocating about 10% of your final word count to this part.

This is where you must use in-text citations to support your arguments. Always introduce the subject that you want to explore, make a claim, and use citing only then to make it suitable.

In-text Citations

The classic in-text citation will look this way: According to Darren Smith, “certain peculiarities have been noticed in Shakespeare’s perception of time and death” (9). The majority of references to youth and the fragility help to understand how age has been limited by social circumstances (Smith 11).

Works Cited Page.

If you already know how to format your Bibliography, it is essential to look for complete information and provide as much as you can. If you are citing from a poetry book or an analysis paper that has been published:

Last Name, First Name of the author. "Title of your research paper." Title of Collection , edited by Editor's Name(s), Publisher, Year, page range of the data you have used.

Research paper MLA style Works Cited page example: 

Stanley, Lace. "Shakespeare's Psychology." The Collected Classic English Poems, edited by John Langsley, Penguin Books, 2006, p.26.

Citing something from Jstor scientific database:

Author’s Last Name, First Name. “Title.” Title of Scientific Journal , vol. Volume, no. Issue, Month Year of publication, pp. Pages, https://doi.org/DOI, or any relevant identifier.

Enciso, Patricia, et al. “Children’s Literature: Standing in the Shadow of Adults.” Reading Research Quarterly , vol. 45, no. 2, 2010, pp. 252–63. JSTOR , http://www.jstor.org/stable/20697185. Accessed 20 Jun. 2022.

Regardless of whether you are using MLA format or would like to learn how to use different styles, your research paper should have an introduction, a review of the literature that you have used, the methodology that has been chosen, the results of your research, and a discussion of the findings, or you can simply pay someone to write my paper. You may also be limited by an introduction with a thesis statement, body parts with the arguments, and the conclusion part where you talk about the findings. It will always depend on your subject and research paper type.

Research Paper in MLA Format Writing Tips

Contrary to the popular belief, research paper writing in MLA format is not too difficult if you know the basic rules. If you plan to learn how to write a research paper in APA format , you will feel even more confident because you will be able to differentiate the styles. As a way to help you with your research writing, we have collected these simple MLA formatting for research paper tips:

• Always start with the sources and check for Bibliography pages that may be included. 
• Use only verified sources and look for databases like Google Scholar, Jstor, PubMed, etc. 
• Always introduce your subject and talk about its importance.
• Do not overuse citations in your research paper. 

Correct Research Paper Formatting Helps to Avoid Plagiarism

Numerous college students often ask about the purpose of correct research formatting, be it MLA, APA, Chicago, or any other format. Formatting a research paper in MLA format can be time-consuming and intricate, leading many students to seek professionals who write essays for money to ensure their papers meet all formatting guidelines and academic standards. In addition to structuring things according to academic standards, the most important aspect of staying accurate as you research is to provide correct structure and citations if you use any external sources. It will help you to prepare your writing for publishing purposes and let you avoid plagiarism issues. It is the main purpose of correct research paper formatting. This guide contains the main rules that provide a checklist that will help you stay safe and follow all the essential rules. 

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Writing Report Abstracts

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Types of abstracts

There are two types of abstracts: informational and descriptive.

Informational abstracts

• Communicate contents of reports
• Include purpose, methods, scope, results, conclusions, and recommendations
• Highlight essential points
• Are short—from a paragraph to a page or two, depending upon the length of the report (10% or less of the report)
• Allow readers to decide whether they want to read the report

Descriptive abstracts

• Tell what the report contains
• Include purpose, methods, scope, but NOT results, conclusions, and recommendations
• Are always very short— usually under 100 words
• Introduce subject to readers, who must then read the report to learn study results

Qualities of a good abstract

An effective abstract

• Uses one or more well-developed paragraphs, which are unified, coherent, concise, and able to stand alone
• Uses an introduction-body-conclusion structure in which the parts of the report are discussed in order: purpose, findings, conclusions, recommendations
• Follows strictly the chronology of the report
• Provides logical connections between material included
• Adds no new information but simply summarizes the report
• Is intelligible to a wide audience

Steps for writing effective report abstracts

To write an effective report abstract, follow these four steps.

Reread your report with the purpose of abstracting in mind. Look specifically for these main parts: purpose, methods, scope, results, conclusions, and recommendations.

After you have finished rereading your report, write a rough draft without looking back at your report. Consider the main parts of the abstract listed in step #1. Do not merely copy key sentences from your report. You will put in too much or too little information. Do not summarize information in a new way.

Revise your rough draft to

Correct weaknesses in organization and coherence,

Drop superfluous information,

Add important information originally left out,

Eliminate wordiness, and

Correct errors in grammar and mechanics.

Carefully proofread your final copy.

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

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How to Create a Structured Research Paper Outline | Example

Published on August 7, 2022 by Courtney Gahan . Revised on August 15, 2023.

A research paper outline is a useful tool to aid in the writing process , providing a structure to follow with all information to be included in the paper clearly organized.

A quality outline can make writing your research paper more efficient by helping to:

• Organize your thoughts
• Understand the flow of information and how ideas are related
• Ensure nothing is forgotten

A research paper outline can also give your teacher an early idea of the final product.

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Table of contents

Research paper outline example, how to write a research paper outline, formatting your research paper outline, language in research paper outlines.

• Definition of measles
• Rise in cases in recent years in places the disease was previously eliminated or had very low rates of infection
• Figures: Number of cases per year on average, number in recent years. Relate to immunization
• Symptoms and timeframes of disease
• Risk of fatality, including statistics
• How measles is spread
• Immunization procedures in different regions
• Different regions, focusing on the arguments from those against immunization
• Immunization figures in affected regions
• High number of cases in non-immunizing regions
• Illnesses that can result from measles virus
• Fatal cases of other illnesses after patient contracted measles
• Summary of arguments of different groups
• Summary of figures and relationship with recent immunization debate
• Which side of the argument appears to be correct?

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Follow these steps to start your research paper outline:

• Decide on the subject of the paper
• Write down all the ideas you want to include or discuss
• Organize related ideas into sub-groups
• Arrange your ideas into a hierarchy: What should the reader learn first? What is most important? Which idea will help end your paper most effectively?
• Create headings and subheadings that are effective
• Format the outline in either alphanumeric, full-sentence or decimal format

There are three different kinds of research paper outline: alphanumeric, full-sentence and decimal outlines. The differences relate to formatting and style of writing.

• Alphanumeric
• Full-sentence

An alphanumeric outline is most commonly used. It uses Roman numerals, capitalized letters, arabic numerals, lowercase letters to organize the flow of information. Text is written with short notes rather than full sentences.

• Sub-point of sub-point 1

Essentially the same as the alphanumeric outline, but with the text written in full sentences rather than short points.

• Additional sub-point to conclude discussion of point of evidence introduced in point A

A decimal outline is similar in format to the alphanumeric outline, but with a different numbering system: 1, 1.1, 1.2, etc. Text is written as short notes rather than full sentences.

• 1.1.1 Sub-point of first point
• 1.1.2 Sub-point of first point
• 1.2 Second point

To write an effective research paper outline, it is important to pay attention to language. This is especially important if it is one you will show to your teacher or be assessed on.

There are four main considerations: parallelism, coordination, subordination and division.

Parallelism: Be consistent with grammatical form

Parallel structure or parallelism is the repetition of a particular grammatical form within a sentence, or in this case, between points and sub-points. This simply means that if the first point is a verb , the sub-point should also be a verb.

Example of parallelism:

• Include different regions, focusing on the different arguments from those against immunization

Coordination: Be aware of each point’s weight

Your chosen subheadings should hold the same significance as each other, as should all first sub-points, secondary sub-points, and so on.

Example of coordination:

• Include immunization figures in affected regions
• Illnesses that can result from the measles virus

Subordination: Work from general to specific

Subordination refers to the separation of general points from specific. Your main headings should be quite general, and each level of sub-point should become more specific.

Example of subordination:

Division: break information into sub-points.

Your headings should be divided into two or more subsections. There is no limit to how many subsections you can include under each heading, but keep in mind that the information will be structured into a paragraph during the writing stage, so you should not go overboard with the number of sub-points.

Ready to start writing or looking for guidance on a different step in the process? Read our step-by-step guide on how to write a research paper .

Cite this Scribbr article

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Gahan, C. (2023, August 15). How to Create a Structured Research Paper Outline | Example. Scribbr. Retrieved August 29, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/research-paper/outline/

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When learning how to write a research proposal, it is important to start with a detailed plan that outlines the objectives, methodology, and significance of a research project. A research proposal is a crucial document for securing funding, gaining approval from academic committees, or outlining a structured plan for personal research endeavours. Crafting a compelling research proposal requires a clear understanding of the subject matter, a well-defined research question, and a meticulous approach to planning and presenting your research. This article will explore how to write a winning research proposal and how to navigate the challenges associated with it.

Understanding the Components of a Research Proposal

A well-structured research proposal typically includes several key components. Each section serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall coherence and persuasiveness of the proposal.

The title of your research proposal should be concise, descriptive, and indicative of the main research question or hypothesis. A well-crafted title captures the essence of the study and draws the reader’s attention.

2. Abstract

The abstract is a brief summary of the research proposal, usually no more than 250 words. It should provide an overview of the research problem, objectives, methodology, and potential implications. The abstract should be clear and succinct, giving readers a quick understanding of what the proposal entails.

3. Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for your research by providing background information on the topic, outlining the research problem, and stating the research objectives. This section should:

• Introduce the topic: Provide context and explain why the topic is important.
• State the research problem: Clearly define the issue or gap in knowledge that your research aims to address.
• Outline the research objectives: Specify the aims of your research and the questions you intend to answer.

4. Literature Review

The literature review demonstrates your understanding of the existing research on your topic. This section should:

• Summarise relevant studies: Discuss key findings from previous research that relate to your topic.
• Identify gaps: Highlight areas where further research is needed.
• Justify your research: Explain how your study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge.

5. Research Methodology

The methodology section outlines the research design and the methods you will use to collect and analyse data. This section should include:

• Research design: Describe whether your study is qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods.
• Data collection methods: Detail how you will gather data (e.g., surveys, interviews, experiments).
• Data analysis methods: Explain how you will analyse the data (e.g., statistical analysis, thematic analysis).
• Ethical considerations: Address any ethical issues related to your research and how you will handle them.

6. Research Plan and Timeline

Provide a detailed plan of the research activities and a timeline for completing each phase of the project. This section should demonstrate that your research is feasible within the given timeframe.

7. Budget (if applicable)

If you are seeking funding, include a budget that outlines the estimated costs of your research. Be specific about how funds will be allocated (e.g., equipment, travel, participant incentives).

8. Expected Outcomes and Impact

Discuss the potential outcomes of your research and its significance. Explain how your findings could contribute to the field, inform policy, or have practical applications.

9. References

List all the sources you cited in your proposal. Use a consistent and appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

Tips for Writing a Strong Research Proposal

Be clear and concise.

Use clear and straightforward language. Avoid jargon and complex sentences that might confuse readers. Aim for clarity and precision in explaining your research.

Stay Focused

Ensure that your proposal remains focused on the research question and objectives. Avoid including irrelevant information that does not contribute to the understanding of your proposed study.

Demonstrate Feasibility

Provide a realistic assessment of what can be achieved within the given timeframe and resources. Be honest about the scope of your research and any potential limitations.

Edit and Proofread

Your proposal must be clear, concise, and logically organised, following all rules of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and referencing. Adhere to the specific format and style required by your funding source or institution. Proofread your proposal multiple times, ideally with the help of a colleague or mentor, to identify and correct any mistakes or inconsistencies. Enhance the proposal’s structure, flow, and language to improve its overall quality. Ensure your proposal is compelling, engaging, and professionally presented.

Writing a research proposal is a critical step in the research process. It requires careful planning, a thorough understanding of the topic, and a clear presentation of your research plan. By following the structure outlined in this guide and paying attention to detail, you can craft a compelling research proposal that effectively communicates your ideas and secures the necessary support for your research.

At Unicaf , we offer comprehensive courses and resources to help you develop your research skills and succeed in your academic and professional endeavours. Explore our programmes today and take the next step in your research journey.

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