Creating a strong dissertation summary is essential to the success of a research work. An executive summary gives the reader a brief overview of the entire dissertation and acts as a first impression. Capturing the reader’s attention is critical, as is giving them a clear understanding of the problem, purpose, technique, findings, and conclusion of the study. To properly explain your study and leave a good first impression on your readers, in this article we give you ten suggestions for writing an effective dissertation summary.
10 tips for writing an effective dissertation summary
Follow the Guidelines
The first step in creating a successful abstract is to carefully read and adhere to the department or university criteria. The word count, formatting specifications, and detailed directions on what to include in the summary are usually included in these recommendations.
Start with a clear and concise summary
The main research question or hypothesis, the research technique, and the main findings of your research should all be briefly and clearly summarized at the beginning of the abstract.
To make your summary or summary concise and understandable:
- Avoid passive sentences: Passive sentences should be avoided as they often require unnecessary length. By using the active voice, you can quickly and easily make them shorter and clearer.
- Shorten your sentences: Replace longer phrases with concise phrases or single words (e.g. “to” for “to”).
- Avoid using technical language: the summary should be clear to people unfamiliar with the subject.
- Avoid using filler words and repetition: Where possible replace nouns with pronouns and remove unnecessary words.
- Avoid giving details: A summary is not expected to include in-depth definitions, historical context, or analysis of the work of other experts. Instead, provide this information in the body of the paper or thesis
Use clear and concise language
The wording of the summary should be understandable, simple and uncomplicated. Don’t use technical or jargon terminology that your readers won’t understand.
Add keywords
The visibility of your study can be increased and it will be easier for others to identify and cite your work if you include relevant keywords in your abstract.
Provide context
The abstract should provide a concise summary of the history and context of your research, as well as any relevant theories or literature that have helped inform your research.
Briefly describe the methods of your research.
The research methodology used in your research, including sample size, data collection procedures, and analytical strategies, should be briefly summarized in the abstract.
Highlight the main findings
The main findings of your research, as well as any notable results or conclusions, should be highlighted in the summary.
Emphasize the importance of your research
The relevance of your study and its potential contributions to the field should be emphasized in abstraction.
Proofreading and revising
Be sure to carefully review and rewrite your abstract before submitting to ensure that it summarizes your research correctly and is free of errors.
Find feedback
Consider seeking feedback from your supervisor, colleagues, or other experts in your field to ensure that your summary effectively communicates your research and its significance.
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Need answers on how to write summaries or templates Check out Scribbr
In summary, writing an effective dissertation summary requires careful attention to detail, clear and concise language, and a strong emphasis on the main research question, methodology, findings, and significance of your work. By following these 10 tips, you can create a summary that effectively communicates your research to the reader and paves the way for a successful dissertation.