The publication journey for academic research is fraught with uncertainty, but one thing is certain: getting editors to read your work is the key first step. To help your manuscript stand out, put extra effort into the briefest parts—the title and the abstract.
It’s no surprise that the title and abstract are the most widely read (and often the only read) components of scholarly research by both potential publishers and your target audience. As such, these elements play a crucial role in publication acceptance, indexing, and citation generation.
The Title: No Time To Be Mysterious
To craft a title that gets your manuscript noticed, be specific and let the reader know what to expect. A vague title that “teases” a reveal or simply poses a question may deter the reader before it entices them to read further. At the same time, be accurate. Editors reviewing your work are likely well-versed in your field , and a vague or exaggerated title could undermine credibility.
The Abstract: Keep It Brief, Specific, and Focused
The abstract is a concise but thorough overview of your manuscript that helps readers decide whether they want to read on.
For many authors, condensing their research into a brief paragraph or two can be more challenging than writing the entire manuscript. To craft an effective abstract, consider the following tips:
1. Keep it brief.
An abstract can range from a few lines to three paragraphs. According to APA 7 guidelines, abstracts should be limited to no more than 250 words.
2. Keep it specific.
Avoid generalities and provide a clear description of the manuscript’s contents.
3. Keep it focused.
To determine what to include in your abstract, consider the following questions:
- Why did you select this topic and area of research?
- What did you do?
- Why did you do it?
- How did you do it?
- What do your findings mean?
Crafting an effective abstract requires careful attention to detail and a focus on conveying key information.
eContent Pro Is Here To Help
Condensing pages and pages of writing to a few sentences can feel daunting. eContent Pro’s English language copy-editing services can help ensure your manuscript—from title page to references—meets the high expectations of your target audience. Getting started is simple. Visit our website, choose the editorial package that best suits your needs, and upload your document. Our team of skilled editors will provide invaluable edits and feedback.
About eContent Pro
Based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA, eContent Pro offers high-quality end-to-end editorial and publishing services, ensuring seamless workflows through the eContent Pro Business Enterprise Management System (BEMS), fast turnaround times, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service. Since 1994, we have supported commercial publishers, university/library presses, organizations, and societies by streamlining their publishing workflow with innovative publishing solutions.
