Monday, December 10, 2018

How to Get Your 107 Word Abstract Down to 100 Words

Many journals put word limits on abstracts. Often, there are word limits on applications for grants. We should always strive not to include any extra words in our writing---readers are busy people, don't waste their time! But if the your deadline is approaching and you really need to cut a few words quickly, then read this twitter thread.

My favorite one (because I'm guilty of this):

A common writing quirk: Writing a thick, dense sentence followed by "In other words," with a lucid explanation. Get rid of the first sentence and start with the second.


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1 comment:

  1. Wait, but I have more advice on this: Do not worry about words when you are writing your first draft. Just write! I would say, just put the words down as quickly as possible. Fix things later. My favorite quote about first drafts: “Every first draft is perfect, because all a first draft has to do is exist.” ― Jane Smiley

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