abstract

A brief overview of the key points of an article, report, or proposal.

See also:

• Annotation
• Paraphrase
• Precis
• Summary

Etymology:

Observations:

• "Depending on the kind of information they contain, abstracts are often classified as descriptive or informative. A descriptive abstract summarizes the purpose, scope, and methods used to arrive at the reported findings. It is a slightly expanded table of contents in sentence and paragraph form. A descriptive abstract need not be longer than several sentences. An informative abstract is an expanded version of the descriptive abstract. In addition to information about the purpose, scope, and research methods used, the informative abstract summarizes the results, conclusions, and any recommendations. The informative abstract retains the tone and essential scope of the report, omitting its details."
  (Gerald J. Alred, Charles T. Brusaw, and Walter E. Oliu, Handbook of Technical Writing. Bedford/St. Martin's, 2006)



• "Each proposal you write will focus on unique ideas. Therefore, the content of your abstracts will differ. Nonetheless, abstracts should focus on the following: (a) the problem necessitating your proposal, (b) your suggested solution, and (c) the benefits derived when your proposed suggestions are implemented. . . .
  
  "The purpose of the abstract is to provide your readers with an easy-to-understand summary of the entire proposal's focus. Your executives want the bottom line, and they want it quickly. They don't want to waste time deciphering your high-tech hieroglphics. Therefore, either avoid all high-tech terminology completely or define your terms parenthetically."
  (Sharon J. Gerson and Steven M. Gerson, Technical Writing: Process and Product. Pearson, 2003)