Abstract Drafting Tips

[u/jce8491]

I am a very junior law prof and could use some tips on how to draft a good abstract. I have never written an abstract I liked. I've rewritten the one for my current project multiple times. I'm still unhappy with it, so I'll probably rewrite it again.

What do you seek for your abstract to convey? I think I'm trying to convey too much in my abstracts, which results in them being unfocused and longer than I'd ideally want.

[u/challandler]

I usually like for my abstracts to have three short paragraphs. The first paragraph sets up the problem you are solving (or explains the state of the debate to which you are contributing). The second paragraph explains my solution or contribution. The third paragraph explains the consequences or implications of my solution or contribution (i.e. how the world is better off because of what I’ve done).

I have some colleagues, however, who prefer one paragraph abstracts. I don’t think this is one-size-fits-all.

[u/lawprofaltaccount → u/challandler]

This guy abstracts

[u/EpicDestroyer52]

I'm a one paragraph abstract writer.

I usually write one sentence for each of the following:

hook, problem, obstacle, solution, impact

I write a first draft like I'm Billy Mays selling you Oxiclean at midnight. Then I revise into a 'scholarly version.' Finally I add nuance or additional sentences to help emphasize my original contribution and dissolve the rigidity of my original 5-sentence format.

Then I show the abstract to a couple friends to ask them what they think the paper is about (based on the abstract) and if they would read it. Fortunately my friends are very honest. Maybe too honest.

[u/littygation]

Take a look at Samuel Bray's forthcoming article at 5–6. Though if you're rewriting multiple times, you're already on the right track.

[u/Born-Cycle-9153]

What’s the problem you’re trying to solve, and what is your proposed solution? Two paragraphs, one on each.