The abstract will almost certainly require substantial revision following completion of the paper, but in writing the draft of an abstract, ideas will be clarified, substantial editing of the paper will take place and the paper will then be based upon a clear structure. The abstract is a summary of the paper's contents and conveys the main points to readers and colleagues who may not have time to read the full paper or attend the meeting. It is the abstract which will create that all-important first impression in the mind of a journal editor and which will catch the eye of those reading the journal or attending the meeting. The abstract will encourage readers to read on or to book a conference ticket to hear the author speak. A paper in a journal is likely to be read in its entirety by only a very small number of people, but many more will read the abstract.
Conference abstracts are likely to be seen by many more people than attended the conference.
The abstract will be the most permanent and public record of the study. It is very important that the abstract is accurate and honestly reflects the content of the paper. A good abstract communicates the essential ideas in the work. It covers all the key points, is precise and accurate, logical and to the point. It is clearly and concisely written, and interesting.