Content
Per APA (2020), an abstract should be "dense with information" (p. 73). A good abstract is accurate, nonevaluative, coherent and readable, concise (APA, 2020, pp. 73-74). The specific information included in the Walden capstone abstract may vary by degree type and program. In general, Walden Writing Center editors advise that Walden abstracts include the following types of information:
- Opening statement on the state of research on the topic and general introduction of the problem
Example: “[Topic] has been an area of study among scholars since…”
Example: “According to recent studies…” - Identification of the problem and why it is relevant
Example: “[Topic, variable, or concept] leads to [additional outcome].” - Summary findings from existing research and what is missing (i.e., the gap)
Example: “Researchers have demonstrated that… but have not established…” - Purpose of the study
Example: “The purpose of this qualitative single case study was to…”
Note: This is often a good place to mention participants/population; sample size, and inclusion criteria.
Example: “Using a cross-sectional, correlational design, a survey was administered to 90 managers…” - Theoretical or conceptual framework
Example: “[Theory or mode’] approach was used to analyze/explore…” - Method and research design
Example: “Using [method/design], surveys from [sample] were analyzed using [mode of analysis]…” - Results.
Example: “The results of these analyzes indicated…”
Note: Writers should choose a few key findings to highlight here as the “hook” (main message/finding) of the study. - Social change implications
Example: “[Specific population] may benefit from the results of this study through…”
Note: This is merely a set of suggested items/topics to be mentioned in the abstract, not a set of requirements. This list does not necessarily mean that there must be one sentence on each item. Often, students can combine sentences to improve the flow. Our suggestion is for students to begin writing the abstract by focusing on these ideas and then revising for flow. Additional information can also be added for clarification or further details and explanation, provided that the abstract does not exceed one page.
Additional note: This suggested list is designed for the presentation of a standard research design (execution of original research). Some of the items may not apply to some programs or capstone types. We suggest students include what is relevant and simply skip over items that are not related to the capstone.
