Is it appropriate to use structured abstracts in social science journals?

Author: Hartley J.

Source: Learned Publishing, Volume 10, Number 4, 1 October 1997 , pp. 313-317(5)

Publisher: Association of Learned and Professional Society Publishers

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Abstract:

BACKGROUND. Structured abstracts (which use sub-headings like this one) have now become widespread in medical research journals. AIM. The aim of this paper is to consider whether or not such structured abstracts can be used effectively in social science journals. METHOD. The paper reviews a selection of studies of carried out by the author and his colleagues to see if structured abstracts written for social science journals are more informative, easier to read, and easier to search than are their traditional equivalents. RESULTS. The results suggest that structured abstracts do, indeed, have these virtues, and that they are thus appropriate for social science journals. CONCLUSION. The author therefore recommends that the editors of social science journals consider adopting structured abstracts.

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Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 1997-10-01

More about this publication?

Editor in Chief: Alan Singleton
North American Editor: Diane Scott-Lichter
Reviews Editor: Pippa Smart

Learned Publishing is the journal of the Association of Learned and Professional Society Publishers, published in collaboration with the Society for Scholarly Publishing. The journal is published quarterly in January/April/July/October.

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