Top 6 Tips to Create a Perfect Video Abstract for Your Research Paper

An Academy Guide

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Top 6 Tips to Create a Perfect Video Abstract for Your Research Paper

Table of Content

1. What is Video abstract?

A video abstract is a short, engaging summary of your research article. It’s usually 2 – 3 minutes long and summarises the essential findings, methodology, and importance of your research. A video abstract differs from a written abstract because it uses more than just text. A video abstract contains a spoken voice-over explanation, images, videos, and possibly music within a digital video file format to help the audience easily engage with your research topic.

Video abstracts are still not as commonly used as they could or should be by many journals and researchers alike, but in terms of improved visibility, accessibility, and interaction with academic work, they are being increasingly incorporated. A video abstract can be an excellent method for science communication when you want to connect with wider or interdisciplinary audiences. [1]

2. What is a Written Abstract?

2.1. Impact Factor (IF)

A written abstract is a short summary (usually 150–300 words) placed at the front of a research article. The written abstract includes: [2]

The research purpose

Methods
Main results
Conclusion and implications

The purpose of a written abstract is to provide readers a quick sense of the core content of the paper. Overall, while a good written abstract is valuable for indexing in databases and appearing in search engine results, a written abstract lacks the visuals and emotional reactions from readers found in a video abstract.

3. What are the Different Types of Video Abstracts?

There are several styles of video abstracts depending on your goals, resources, and journal requirements:

Types and Description Table – Responsive

Types	Description
Broadcast Interview Video	A researcher engaged in an interview-style conversation with a host and just enough narration needed to research. Not a great fit for quantitative studies Provides an assurance or credibility
Voiceover with PowerPoints/Animations	Voiceover of the researcher describes the research while visuals are shown on the screen Produces a professional appearance, accessible to non-native speakers
Whiteboard or Hand-drawn Animation	Concepts are drawn out in real-time or pre-recorded animations Can be very engaging and compelling format for explaining more complex ideas
Interview or Panel Style	Multiple authors and or experts discussing the study Good collaborative work or big science studies
Narrated Screen Recording	Great for Computational or software-based research Best for us to get to be a face in the crowd with a product

4. How to Create a Powerful Video Abstract

Following are the Top 6 Tips for creating an engaging video abstract:

4.1 Use Time Wisely

Number of words (less than 300)
Potential organization, what the study was about, why it’s social or academic importance, and the significant findings.
Use normal language; avoid jargon.

4.2 Use Useful Imagery

Support the narration with relevant charts or diagrams or perhaps simple animations
Branding (university logos, colours, etc.) lends credence to your video and keeps the production linked to your institution.

4.3 Limit the Length

The ideal length is 2-3 minutes.
Do not try to reverse engineer the thesis-based approach to presenting; think about the most significant things to share and only share that.

4.4 Minimum Audio and Video Quality

Use a high-quality microphone, in a quiet location.
When filming a video, make sure to record in a well-lit environment. For more specific production options, programs like OBS, iMovie, or Canva Video are excellent resources and easy to use.

4.5 Consider Subtitles or Captions

This makes the videos more accessible to those who do not speak English or to individuals with hearing impairments.

4.6 Share Your Video Abstract

Share your video on a variety of platforms; social media, your academic institution’s website, ResearchGate, YouTube, and professional profiles on an academic site.
Some also provide an embed link to distribute via email. You can also embed the link in your CV or portfolio. An impressive way to share your work with the world.

5. Do’s and Don’ts While Creating a Video Abstract

Do’s	Don’ts
Keep your tone confident, clear, and enthusiastic Practice your script multiple times Look into the camera if you’re presenting directly Use licensed or royalty-free visuals and music Check journal guidelines (some require specific formats)	Don’t read your script word-for-word Avoid complex, cluttered slides or animations Don’t use technical jargon or acronyms without explanation Don’t exceed the recommended time limit Don’t publish without reviewing for clarity and accuracy

Conclusion

A well-produced video abstract can effectively increase the visibility, engagement, and accessibility of your research. With the right scripting, visuals, and communication strategies, you can create a video that is seen by a wider audience (both academic and non-academic). A video abstract can serve to complement your written work and will also increase your discoverability on digital platforms. If you spend time planning and follow what is discussed in the previous few sections, a video abstract could be valuable to the success and reach of your research.

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References

What is a video abstract?(2017, January 15). BMJ Author Hub. https://authors.bmj.com/writing-and-formatting/video-abstracts/what-is-a-video-abstract/
Writing an abstract for your research paper. (n.d.). The Writing Center. Retrieved August 11, 2025, from https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/writing-an-abstract-for-your-research-paper/