Is it appropriate to use structured abstracts in non-medical science journals?

Abstract

BACKGROUND. Structured abstracts (which use subheadings) have become widespread in medical research journals and are beginning to spread into other fields. AIM. The aim of this paper is to consider whether or not such structured abstracts can be used effectively in non-medical science journals. METHOD. This paper first reviews a selection of studies on structured abstracts from the medical and psychological literature. It then presents examples of structured abstracts published in non-medical science journals. Finally, it presents examples of how original abstracts might be written in a structured form for non-medical science journals. OBSERVATIONS. The results of the literature review suggest that structured abstracts are longer and more informative than are their traditional equivalents, that they are easier to search and to read and that they are generally welcomed by readers and authors. The examples of structured abstracts from non-medical science journals, together with the examples of the rewritten abstracts, allow the readers to judge these characteristics for themselves. CONCLUSIONS. The author recommends, in the light of the above, that editors of non-medical science journals consider the value of adopting structured abstracts.

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