In APNA News: The Psychiatric Nursing Voice (Winter 2019), Dr. Chizimuzo T.C. Okoli, the Chair of the APNA Scholarly Review Committee, provided 5 key pointers in the article, How to Write a Successful Abstract.
To take a step back, let's first discuss, "WHAT IS AN ABSTRACT?"
What is an abstract?
An abstract is a concise summary of your study or project. The function of the abstract is to describe your work in a clear and concise yet brief manner.
- An abstract provides information about what you did and why, what were the outcomes, and the implications of your outcomes.
- Components of an abstract vary based on discipline and conference. Abstracts usually contains the title, background, methods, results, and conclusion.
- Types of abstracts include but not limited to research, case presentation, quality improvement, and patient safety.
Why are abstracts important?
- An abstract helps reviewers to decide whether your study/project fits the conference theme and criteria.
- An Abstract helps individuals determine whether they are interested in attending your presentation and/or reading your entire work.
Who should be writing one?
- Psychiatric nurses who want to represent their work to peers and colleagues at conferences including local, regional, national, international
- Psychiatric nurses who want to network with leaders in their field of interest at conferences
- Psychiatric nurses who want to apply for research/project grants
Who can help you with your abstract?
- Consider reaching out to colleagues and/or mentors to proofread your abstract.
- Consider connecting with other APNA members on the member bridge to find collaborators.