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Abstract Writing

Adapted from Kalée Tock and Ryan Caputo

The abstract is arguably the most important part of your scientific paper. Despite being the shortest section, it's often the only part many people will read, and it determines whether they'll continue to the full paper. For conference submissions, the abstract may be the sole basis for accepting or rejecting your work.

Purpose of an Abstract

A well-crafted abstract serves multiple functions:

  • Summarizes your entire study concisely
  • Entices readers to explore the full paper
  • Informs quick decisions about relevance to a reader's interests
  • Facilitates indexing in scientific databases
  • Represents your work at conferences and symposia

Timing in the Research Process

Traditionally, abstracts are written last, after all research and analysis are complete. However, in astronomy, you may need to write an abstract before your project is finished:

  • Conference Submissions: Deadlines often occur before research completion
  • Proposal Applications: Required for telescope time or funding requests
  • Progress Reports: Needed for ongoing projects

For the Society for Astronomical Sciences (SAS) Symposium and similar venues, you'll likely need to submit an abstract while your research is still in progress. In these cases, focus on what you've accomplished thus far and what you expect to find, being careful not to overstate conclusions.

Abstract Structure for Double Star Research

A standard abstract for double star research should be approximately 150-250 words and include these elements:

  1. Opening Statement (1-2 sentences):
  2. Identify the double star system(s) by WDS number and Discoverer code

  3. State that you're presenting astrometric measurements

  4. Methods (2-3 sentences):

  5. Specify telescope and equipment used
  6. Mention number of observations and dates

  7. Note key analysis techniques

  8. Results (2-3 sentences):

  9. Report position angle and separation measurements with uncertainties
  10. Compare with historical data if applicable

  11. Mention Gaia data analysis

  12. Conclusions (1-2 sentences):

  13. State whether the system appears to be physical and/or gravitationally bound

  14. Note any significant orbital or proper motion findings

  15. Significance (1 sentence):

  16. Explain the importance of your findings in the broader context

Examples of Effective Abstracts

Here's a template abstract structure for a double star paper:

We present astrometric measurements of the double star system WDS XXXXX (Discoverer Code). Observations were made using [telescope details] on [dates]. Our measurements yield a position angle of XX.X° ± X.XX° and separation of XX.XX″ ± X.XXX″. Analysis of Gaia DR3 data reveals parallaxes of XX.XX ± X.XX mas and XX.XX ± X.XX mas for the primary and secondary stars respectively, suggesting they are at [similar/different] distances. The proper motion vectors indicate these stars are [physical relationship assessment]. Comparison with historical measurements dating back to [year] shows [trend or pattern]. We conclude this system is likely a [physical/optical] pair that [is/is not] gravitationally bound, contributing to our understanding of [broader significance].

Adapting for Conference Abstracts

For conference submissions, particularly if your research is ongoing: - Be clear about what's been completed versus what's planned - Emphasize the significance and uniqueness of your approach - Include preliminary results if available - Acknowledge limitations appropriately

Practical Guidelines for Abstract Writing

Do's

  • Be specific: Include precise measurements with uncertainties
  • Use active voice: "We measured..." rather than "Measurements were made..."
  • Include keywords: Terms others might search for
  • Be concise: Every word should serve a purpose
  • Emphasize significance: Why your work matters

Don'ts

  • Don't include citations: Abstracts typically stand alone without references
  • Avoid jargon: Unless standard in your field
  • Don't introduce new information: Everything in the abstract should appear in the paper
  • Avoid speculation: Stick to what your data actually shows
  • Don't use acronyms: Unless immediately defined

Submitting an Abstract to SAS

If submitting to the Society for Astronomical Sciences Symposium:

  1. Review Guidelines: Check the current "Call for Abstracts" for specific requirements
  2. Team Coordination: Ensure all team members review and approve the abstract
  3. Authorship Order: For conference presentations, author order often reflects who will attend in person
  4. Submission Email: Use a professional tone and include all required information

Sample Submission Email

Dear SAS Committee,

My name is [Your Name], and I am a member of a [BinarSTAR Program] Astronomy Research Seminar team. We would be honored to be considered for a poster presentation at the SAS Symposium this coming June. Attached is our abstract titled "[Your Project Title]".

I am copying all team members along with our instructor, Dr. [Instructor Name]. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Team Members: [Full Name 1] - [Email 1] [Full Name 2] - [Email 2] [Full Name 3] - [Email 3]

Abstract Revision Process

After writing your initial abstract:

  1. Get Feedback: Have colleagues and mentors review for clarity and accuracy
  2. Revise Thoroughly: Incorporate all feedback
  3. Check Word Count: Ensure you're within the specified limits
  4. Final Proofread: Eliminate any typos or grammatical errors
  5. Update Everywhere: Ensure the abstract is consistent in your paper and any linked materials

Next Steps

Once your abstract is submitted to a conference or included in your paper, prepare for the next steps in the publication process: the formal submission of your manuscript.

Continue to Submission Process →