University of Vermont - Department of Physics                last updated:  1/14/2001

 Writing an abstract of your experiment: 

The abstract of an experiment should include statements that describe and/or explain::

What you hoped to discover or confirm, and a brief explanation of how your equipment was used to accomplish this?

Which aspect(s) of the phenomenon (event) your attention was  focused on, and what were the most important measurements (or observations) that you made?

What you expected to happen?  Why? (Describe your model, mathematical or otherwise, for the event(s).

Your most important finding(s).  Whether your measurements and/or observations were sufficient to reinforce, refine or refute your model?

Abstract Style Considerations: Abstracts should be typewritten in a impersonal (3rd person) narrative (not outline) style.  Use past tense,  as what is being described will have taken place by the time your abstract is read.  Formulas should be mentioned in complete sentences that explain their relevance.   Always proof-read aloud what you have written, and check for proper spelling and grammar. Your abstract should be organized for clarity.  Be concise! Combine items that make better sense when read together.  Do not separate purpose(s), measurements, and conclusions, and never include headings in an abstract. . Limit your abstracts to less than 150 words in length.