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What is a conference abstract?
A conference abstract is a 250 to 300 word structured summary of a piece of research submitted to a conference for consideration as a poster or oral presentation. Even audits, surveys, and service evaluations can form the basis of an abstract.
Fastest academic achievement availableFrom submitting to presenting typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. If you have any completed work you can write and submit an abstract this week.
Poster vs oral presentation?⌄
A poster means standing next to your printed A0 poster and discussing with visiting delegates. An oral presentation means presenting with slides to a seated audience. Both are equally valid portfolio evidence. Oral presentations are more competitive.
Does my work need to be published first?⌄
No. Most abstracts are submitted before publication. You can submit about work in progress as long as you have preliminary results.
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Step by step guide
1
Identify your work
Any completed research qualifies: audit, QIP, survey, case report, or service evaluation.
2
Find a suitable conference
Use the Medlas conference finder to browse upcoming conferences with open abstract deadlines.
3
Read author guidelines
Every conference has specific word limits and formatting requirements. Read them before writing a single word.
4
Write your abstract
Background, Methods, Results with specific numbers, Conclusions. Be concise and data-rich.
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Get feedback before submitting
Ask your supervisor or a senior colleague to review. A second pair of eyes catches errors and strengthens the writing.
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Video walkthrough coming soon
A complete video guide for visual and auditory learners.
Coming soon3
Checklist
Click each item to mark complete.
Suitable conference identified
Author guidelines read carefully
Word limit checked and respected
Background establishes clinical significance
Methods states study design and sample size
Results contains specific numbers
Conclusions match evidence presented
Abstract reviewed by senior colleague
Author details and affiliation correct
Submission deadline confirmed
Test your understanding
5 questions on the key concepts.
1. What types of work can be submitted as an abstract?
2. Most common reason abstracts are rejected?
3. Must you publish before submitting an abstract?
4. Typical conference abstract word limit?
5. What should you always do before submitting?