An abstract is a communication of restricted length that permits informed readers to evaluate significant contributions of a scientific study. Since an abstract becomes a part of the permanent scientific literature—and, normally, more people will read the abstract than the full manuscript—clearly stated, simple sentences with exact wording must be used to ensure clarity and brevity.

AN ABSTRACT SHOULD INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

1. The objective of the study should be stated clearly and concisely at the beginning of the abstract.

2. Pertinent experimental conditions (such as number of treatments, replications and experimental units) should be included to give an indication of the scope of the study.

3. The experimental methods should include only those details that directly influence the interpretation or enhance the understanding of the results.

4. The results should be compiled, condensed and presented with great care. Only numbers that are discussed should be presented. The following suggestions should be considered:

   1. Only data relating to the hypothesis stated in the objectives and the experimental plan should be reported.

   2. Statistical inferences should be sufficiently detailed to authenticate interpretation of the data.

   3. A simple illustrative table may be used if it is the most effective method to convey the results in a clear manner.

5. A clearly stated conclusion is essential.

AN ABSTRACT IS UNACCEPTABLE IF IT:

1. contains grammatical errors and/or meaningless statements such as: "The results will be presented."

2. presents treatment means without evidence of statistical analyses or measurements of data variability.

3. includes no data or statements relating to treatment differences.

4. does not use the metric system.

5. contains typing errors.

6. fails to comply with submission requirements.

The quality of an abstract for presentation is a direct reflection on the image of the author(s) and the American Society of Animal Science.

If you need clarification or additional information on abstract quality or submission, please contact the chairperson or the business office.