Abstract Writing Guidelines printable pdf download

How to write an abstract for the ANZICS/ACCCN ASM

Tips for Success from ACCCN’s Research Advisory Panel

An abstract is a brief but accurate summary of a research project. The abstract is not only used in

determining which research should be presented at a conference, but it is also serves as a ‘taster’ for

what your presentation will cover/include. It helps the reader determine if your presentation is worth

their viewing. Abstracts for the ASM must follow a specific format:-

Title

•

Make the title dynamic, directive and conclusive. Ideally it should follow PICO (participants,

intervention, comparison, outcome) format. It can be beneficial to state the method, for example,

‘ICU nurses can accurately estimate patient height and weight: an observational study’.

Abstract content

First and foremost, be guided by the submission instructions. Headings are NOT allowed, so instead, use

paragraphs and present your content in this order:

•

Introduction/Problem – rationale for study including importance of your study. Aim for 2-4 short

sentences.

•

Aim(s) should be clearly stated. Hypothesis can be included (if applicable). Aim for 1-2 short

sentences.

•

Methods – study design, who and number studied; context of study (e.g. ICU or Trauma ICU); what

data/outcomes; how data was collected and analysed.

•

Results – You must present results here. If quantitative, start with demographics and then findings.

Use as many words as you can in this section.

•

Conclusion/s – must relate to the aim/hypothesis and be supported by the results. Clinical

implications/relevance should be included. No more than 2-3 short sentences.

Other formatting hints

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An abstract must be written in the past tense, stating what was done, tested or measured.

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It must contain sufficient detail to be a complete report in the published conference proceedings.

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All terms should be written in full, except terms such as ICU, which is considered common language.

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Do not exceed word/character length. This will likely result in immediate rejection of your abstract.

•

Do not make statements alluding to results or conclusions not presented in the abstract. For

example, abstracts stating “results will be discussed”, “will be described” or “will be presented”, will

be rejected by the reviewers. Definitive data and outcomes must be included in your abstract.

Originally authored by Professor Sharon McKinley, Professor Judy Currey and Professor Andrea Marshall 2012

Updated by Dr Melissa Bloomer 2016

Abstract Writing Guidelines