19/01/2026
a manuscript
Part 3
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How to Write a Strong Abstract and Keywords for Your Manuscript
1️⃣ Writing the Abstract (Think: IMRaD in Miniature)
A good abstract is clear, concise, and complete. Most journals expect 150–250 words.
A. Background (1–2 sentences)
• What is already known?
• Why is this study needed?
✍️ Example:
“Childhood obesity is associated with multiple cardiometabolic complications. Evidence regarding the role of lactoferrin in improving metabolic parameters remains limited.”
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B. Objective / Aim (1 sentence)
• What exactly did you study?
. This is usually included in Background section
✍️ Example:
“This study aimed to evaluate the effect of lactoferrin supplementation in obese children.”
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C. Methods (2–3 sentences)
• Study design
• Population
• Intervention and comparison
• Main outcome measures
✍️ Example:
“In this randomized controlled trial, obese children were assigned to receive lactoferrin or placebo for 12 weeks. Anthropometric and metabolic parameters were assessed before and after treatment.”
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D. Results (2–3 sentences)
• Report key numerical results
• Mention statistical significance
✍️ Example:
“The lactoferrin group showed a significant reduction in BMI z-score and triglyceride levels compared with placebo (p < 0.05). No serious adverse effects were observed.”
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E. Conclusion (1–2 sentences)
• What do the results mean?
• Clinical or scientific relevance
✍️ Example:
“Lactoferrin supplementation may represent a safe and effective adjunct in the management of childhood obesity.”
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2️⃣ Choosing the Right Keywords (Small but Powerful)
Most journals require 3–6 keywords.
✅ How to Choose Keywords Correctly:
• Use MeSH terms when possible
• Avoid repeating words already in the title
• Think: What would a researcher type into PubMed to find my paper?
❌ Avoid:
• Very general terms (e.g., study, children)
• Abbreviations (unless universally accepted)
✔️ Good Keyword Examples:
• Childhood obesity
• Lactoferrin
• Randomized controlled trial
• Body mass index
• Metabolic syndrome
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3️⃣ Quick Checklist Before Submission ✔️
• ⬜ Within word limit
• ⬜ No references or abbreviations
• ⬜ Results include numbers
• ⬜ Conclusion matches results
• ⬜ Keywords are searchable and specific