What's An Abstract?
An abstract is a summary of points (as of a writing) usually presented in skeletal form ; also : something that summarizes or concentrates the essentials of a larger thing or several things. (Merriam-Webster Dictionary Online)
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An abstract is a self-contained, short, and powerful statement that describes a larger work. Components vary according to discipline; an abstract of a social science or scientific work may contain the scope, purpose, results, and contents of the work. An abstract of a humanities work may contain the thesis, background, and conclusion of the larger work. An abstract is not a review, nor does it evaluate the work being abstracted. While it contains key words found in the larger work, the abstract is an original document rather than an excerpted passage. (The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)
Welcome
While this guide is designed primarily to assist participants in Thinking Matters, it will also serve the greater population of students formulating thesis statements. A brief, concise abstract serves to focus one's research before they actually begin the work through careful use of language to precisely describe the exact purpose, methods and other elements involved in the project.
The tabs located at the top of this page provide a range of tools, text and examples. This guide also supplements any instruction you may have received from the library or from individual faculty members.
If you need further assistance don't hesitate to contact us.
"How to Write an Abstract" Sessions:
February 27, 2012 12:00-1:00 pm. Room 223 Glickman Library
March 1, 2012 from 12:00-1:00 p.m. Room 518 Glickman Library
Contact us
Zip Kellogg
Glickman Library
University of Southern Maine
(207) 780-5661
Send Email
Pat Prieto
Glickman Library
University of Southern Maine
207.780.5662
Send Email
Zip and Pat are your library contacts; for Thinking Matters Coordinators or Faculty Directors, go to the Thinking Matters website.
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