The PAAD Executive Council is excited to share a new podcast series from the CCAS Research Committee. Episode 1 is on “How to write a research abstract”.
A well-crafted research abstract is often the first—and sometimes only—opportunity to capture a reader’s attention, whether that’s a conference reviewer, journal editor, or potential collaborator. Abstracts serve as concise summaries that distill the essence of a study, outlining the research question, methods, results, and broader relevance. Especially in competitive selection processes, a clear and compelling abstract can be the deciding factor for acceptance or further engagement. Drafting a strong abstract requires more than just summarizing a manuscript; it demands clarity, focus, and an understanding of the intended audience. Investing time in this small but powerful piece of writing can significantly enhance the visibility and impact of your work.
In this episode, Dr. Laura Downey interviews Dr. Jennifer Lynch about what makes a research abstract clear, compelling, and impactful. They discuss how to structure an abstract that effectively highlights the research question, approach, key findings, and significance, while adhering to word limits. The conversation also touches on common pitfalls, how to tailor abstracts for different audiences, and strategies for helping your work stand out during peer review. Whether you're submitting your first abstract or polishing a seasoned one, this episode offers practical advice to elevate your academic writing.
Addendum from Debnath Chatterjee, MD, FAAP
Another great resource on this topic is a video from the Pediatric Anesthesia Internet-based Non-technical Skills (PAINTS) curriculum, a joint collaboration between the SPA, PAPDA, and OpenAnesthesia. Check out this video on “Writing an Effective Research Abstract” by Drs. Asheen Rama and Thomas Caruso at Stanford University.
https://www.openanesthesia.org/vodcasts/writing-an-effective-research-abstract-a-step-by-step-guide/
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