A Comprehensive Guide To Writing A Dissertation Abstract In The APA Format


An abstract is a summary of the entire paper. It’s like a painted picture of what you have done including the conclusion.

The primary reason for an abstract is to give your readers a general idea of the contents of your study. The abstract will help a reader choose to read the detailed information you will further discuss in your research. Another reason is to inject inspiration and enthusiasm to your audience.

Here is a comprehensive guide to writing a dissertation abstract in the APA format:

  • Position
  • The abstract is a vital part of your dissertation and is found on page two of the paper. It follows after the cover page and comes before the primary body of the paper.

    The abstract is a minimized, single-segment rundown of your paper's inspiration, standard centers, procedure, revelations, and conclusions, and is recommended to be made after whatever is left of your paper.

  • General Format
  • In what format should it be presented?

    It must be at least 150 words to 250 words in one paragraph. The first sentence should be indented five spaces from the left margin. It should be double-spaced, using Times News Roman as font style and font size must be 12, with 1” margins.

    The running head is placed in the upper left-hand corner of each page, and the page number is indicated on the upper right-hand corner of each page. Remember that all letters of the running head must be in capital letters and should not exceed 50 characters, including the punctuations, letters, and intervals.

    The abstract’s title is in the middle of the page. There is no additional space between the title and the passage. Do not italicize, underline or place quotation marks on the title. Take note that the APA revised guidelines require two spaces after sentences that end in a period. Usually, sentences that end in other punctuation marks might be followed by a single space.

    Moreover, the APA recommends the use of the verb in the active voice in the majority of the paper’s parts and past tense in the abstract. The present tense might be used to state conclusions and suggestions. Acronyms or shortened words should be spelled out in the abstract.

    In what manner should the review of keywords be organized?

    Based on your professor’s instructions, you might be required to include a short outline of keywords to allow experts and directories to find your paper. The synopsis of significant terms must follow the unique statements, and the keywords must be emphasized and indented five spaces from the left margin, followed by a colon. There is no period at the end of these keywords.

Following this guide will result in a well-written abstract page. Most of all, keep it short or concise as much possible.