Definition and Purpose of an Abstract
The abstract is a brief summary—no more than ≈ 300 words—located immediately after the title page. It distills your EE’s Research Question, scope, methodology, key findings, and conclusion, offering a professional snapshot of your research.(revisiondojo.com)
Is an Abstract Still Required?
Yes—RevisionDojo confirms that IB EE formatting still requires an abstract, and it must precede the Table of Contents. Although it doesn’t count toward the word limit, it's a formal element expected by IB.(revisiondojo.com)
What Should Be Included in an Abstract?
- Research Question in clear terms
- A brief overview of your scope and methodology
- Summary of key outcomes or insights
Avoid any new data, citations, or evidence that isn’t covered later in your essay.(revisiondojo.com)
Best Practices for Writing an Abstract
- Limit to roughly 300 words maximum
- Use formal and objective language
- Place it on its own page between the title page and table of contents
- Avoid introducing new ideas or citations in the abstract.(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Adding information that doesn’t appear elsewhere in the essay
- Including citations or quotes—abstracts must be self-contained
- Being overly vague or repetitive
Make every sentence purposeful and aligned to the essay.(revisiondojo.com, revisiondojo.com)
Does the Abstract Affect Your EE Grade?
While not assessed directly, the abstract contributes to Criterion D: Presentation—a professional abstract enhances the readability and polish of your submission.(revisiondojo.com)
When Should You Write It?
Always write or refine your abstract after completing the final draft of your essay, so it accurately reflects your argument, findings, and structure.(revisiondojo.com)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is an abstract mandatory or optional?
✅ Required by IB format—though not part of the word count.(revisiondojo.com)
Q2: How long can my abstract be?
Max ~300 words—concise and focused.(revisiondojo.com)
Q3: Where is it placed?
On its own page immediately after the title page.(revisiondojo.com)
Q4: Can I include citations or quotes?
No—abstracts should summarize, not reference sources.
Conclusion
The abstract might seem optional, but it plays a key role in presenting your EE professionally and clearly. Properly written and positioned, it supports criterion D while offering readers—and examiners—a concise overview of your essay’s content and conclusions.
Call to Action
✅ Need help formatting your EE or writing an abstract that works?
Visit RevisionDojo’s guide on how to format your EE according to IB guidelines for structure, placement, and presentation tips.(revisiondojo.com)
