Targeted literature searches are a fundamental part of writing clinical manuscripts that will meet the standards of high-quality journals and contribute meaningfully to evidence-based practice. When physicians write clinical manuscripts, utilizing a targeted literature search can identify high-quality, relevant, and current evidence. While a general literature review is useful, a targeted literature search is specific to the clinical question and should be completed through frameworks established, such as PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome) and PRISMA [1].

Mastering the Art of Simplified Abstracts: A Practical Approach

High-Impact Journals

Interesting topics

Mastering the Art of Simplified Abstracts: A Practical Approach

Table of Content
1. What is a Simplified Abstract?
2. Key Components of a Simplified Abstract
3. Step-by-Step Process for Writing a Simplified Abstract
4. Tips for Writing an Effective Simplified Abstract
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
6. Example of a Simplified Abstract
7. Comparison of a Technical Abstract vs. a Simplified Abstract
8. Conclusion

In academia, simplified abstracts are considered an essential part of writing as they enable researchers and professionals to communicate the basic theories, methods, findings, and conclusions of their published research. This is important because writing a simplified abstract usually requires focus and clarity. This article explores the practical steps for crafting concise abstracts that effectively convey research findings while maintaining brevity.

1.What is a Simplified Abstract?

A simplified abstract reduces the research paper to a concise summary of about 150 to 250 words that identifies the key elements of the study without getting into too much detail. [1] It serves as an accessible entry point for readers, enabling them to quickly assess whether the full article aligns with their interests.

Purpose: A simplified abstract ensures that even those unfamiliar with the subject can quickly grasp the essence of the study.

Audience: It targets readers across disciplines, students, professionals, or anyone interested in the research topic.

2. Key Components of a Simplified Abstract

An effective, simplified abstract should include the following important aspects in a succinct but comprehensive presentation: [2]

2.1. Background/Context

Summarize the problem or research question the study addresses.
Indicate the significance of the study for your field or society in general.

2.2. Objectives/Purpose

State the primary objectives of the research or the main hypothesis tested.
Focus on what the study aims to accomplish.

2.3. Methods

Describe the research design in simple terms: the approach, tools, and techniques used.
Avoid overly technical language and focus on the process without unnecessary detail.

2.4. Results

Present the main findings of the study straightforwardly.
Provide general outcomes that are easy to understand.

2.5. Conclusion/Implications

Conclude by summarizing the impact or significance of the findings.
Mention potential applications or areas for future research, if relevant.

3. Step-by-Step Process for Writing a Simplified Abstract

Here’s a simplified approach for crafting an effective abstract:

Understand the Key Points of the Research	Before writing, ensure you have a clear understanding of the research paper’s key messages Identify the main aim, methods, results, and conclusions to ensure these elements are reflected in your abstract
Use Simple Language	Use brief, simple, and clear sentences and avoid complex language. Use plain language to explain the elements of the study Ensure it is understandable to readers from non-specialized domains
Be Concise	Stick to the word limit (often between 150–300 words) so you can stay succinct and precise Remove unnecessary words, filler phrases, and redundant ideas
Focus on Key Findings	Include only the most significant results and avoid overloading the reader with too many details Focus on the outcome that directly answers the research question
End with a Clear Conclusion	Conclude with a clear statement about the significance of the research findings or their application to the field

4. Tips for Writing an Effective Simplified Abstract

Here are a few tips for writing an effective, simplified abstract: [2]

Clarity: Ensure that each sentence is clear and directly related to the research. Avoid jargon or technical terms unless they are essential to the study.
Brevity: An abstract should be short yet comprehensive. Aim for conciseness without sacrificing essential information.
Avoid Redundancy: Refrain from repeating phrases or ideas. Each section of the abstract should offer new information.
Active Voice: Use active voice whenever possible to make the abstract more engaging and direct.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overloading with Technical Terms: Overuse of jargon can alienate readers
Being Vague: Avoid being too vague; readers should understand precisely what the study achieved.
Excessive Length: An abstract should not be a summary of the entire paper – be brief and succinct.
Neglecting the Conclusion: Always finish with a takeaway or implication of the study.

6. Example of a Simplified Abstract

Here’s a full example of a simplified abstract, integrating all the key elements: [3]

Title: Quantifying Environmental Waste From Diabetes Devices in the U.S.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes devices, including continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and insulin pumps, may significantly affect environmental sustainability and long-term resilience.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This observational study enrolled 49 adults with diabetes using CGMs, insulin pumps, or multiple daily injections (MDIs; three or more per day). Participants completed daily surveys detailing the types and amounts of diabetes-related waste discarded.

RESULTS

Of the 49 participants, 11 used MDIs and 38 used insulin pumps. Most were female (63%), were White (80%), had a bachelor’s degree (90%), lived in suburban/urban areas (86%), and were aged <65 years (78%). Average monthly waste was 2.7 lb for pumps and 3.1 lb for MDIs. Diabetes-related products contributed nearly 2% of household waste.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the importance of improving recycling methods and reducing waste from diabetes devices.

7. Comparison of a Technical Abstract vs. a Simplified Abstract

Element	Technical Abstract	Simplified Abstract
Audience	Researchers, experts in the field	General audience, non-experts, interdisciplinary readers
Language	Complex, technical, jargon-heavy	Simple, clear, non-technical
Detail Level	Detailed methodology, data, and statistical analysis	Focused on key findings, no excessive detail
Length	300–500 words	150–300 words
Clarity	Often assumes knowledge of the field	Must be understood by a wide audience
Purpose	To convey detailed information to experts	To provide a quick overview of the research

Connect with us to explore how we can support you in maintaining academic integrity and enhancing the visibility of your research across the world!

Conclusion

Creating a simplified abstract is an important skill for any researcher. By keeping the focus on clarity, brevity, and relevance, researchers can position their work for the wider public, where it commonly has the most impact. Whether for journal articles, contributions to conferences, or internet postings, a useful, simplified abstract will be a valuable access point into the research for a wider audience, helping to capture attention and provide context.

Need expert help with writing simplified abstracts for your PhD or research paper? Contact Pubrica for personalized academic writing support.

References

Writing an abstract for your research paper. (n.d.). The Writing Center. Retrieved July 9, 2025, from https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments
Ryan, E. (Ed.). (n.d.). How to Write an Abstract | Steps & Examples Published on February 28, 2019 by Shona McCombes. https://www.scribbr.com/dissertation
Tian, T., Ho, C. N., Ayers, A. T., Aaron, R. E., Klonoff, D. C., Ahn, D. T., Kerr, D., Peters, A. L., Philis-Tsimikas, A., Shah, V. N., Herndon, E. G., Yang, Y., Li, C., & Wang, J. (2025). Quantifying environmental waste from diabetes devices in the U.s. Diabetes Care, 48(7), 1198–1203. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc24-2522