Preface vs. Abstract: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on September 26, 2023
Preface is an introductory statement in a book, explaining its purpose or background, while Abstract is a concise summary of a research paper or thesis, highlighting its main points.
Key Differences
Preface typically appears at the beginning of a book, offering insights into the book’s genesis, its journey, and any acknowledgments the author might wish to make. It sets a personal tone. An Abstract, predominantly found in scholarly articles, provides a brief summary, enabling readers to quickly grasp the main arguments and results.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
When one encounters a Preface, it often provides context, perhaps detailing the inspiration behind the work or the challenges faced during its creation. In contrast, an Abstract aims to condense the essential aspects of a lengthy piece, such as a research paper, into a short, digestible format.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
A Preface often carries a subjective tone, reflecting the author’s personal touch and feelings. An Abstract, on the other hand, retains an objective stance, focusing purely on the factual content and conclusions of the work it represents.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
In essence, while a Preface serves as a window into the author's personal relationship with the content and offers context, an Abstract functions as a practical tool for readers to decide the relevance of the full document.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
If one was to skip the Preface, they might miss out on the emotional or personal backstory of the work. Skipping the Abstract, especially in academic circles, might lead to missing the crux or the primary findings of a document.
Janet White
Sep 26, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Position in Document
Typically at the beginning of books
Usually at the start of research papers
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Length
Can vary, generally longer than an abstract
Concise, typically around 150-300 words
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
Content
Background, motivation, acknowledgments
Research objectives, methods, results
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
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Preface and Abstract Definitions
Preface
An introduction to a book, explaining its purpose.
In the Preface, the author explained why she wrote the memoir.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Abstract
A brief summary of research findings.
The Abstract highlighted the study's groundbreaking results.
Janet White
Sep 26, 2023
Preface
A section acknowledging those who contributed to the work.
He thanked his mentors in the Preface.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Abstract
A snapshot of a research paper's content.
The Abstract provided a quick review of the experimental methods used.
Janet White
Sep 26, 2023
Preface
An opening remark or introduction.
The Preface set the tone for the upcoming chapters.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 26, 2023
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Abstract
A short representation of a study's objectives and conclusions.
The Abstract emphasized the significance of the findings.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Preface
A preliminary statement or essay introducing a book that explains its scope, intention, or background and is usually written by the author.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
A distilled version of a lengthy document.
The conference attendees were provided with Abstracts of each presentation.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Preface
Something introductory; a preliminary
An informal brunch served as a preface to the three-day conference.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Preface
Often Preface The words introducing the central part of the Eucharist in several Christian churches.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Denoting something that is immaterial, conceptual, or nonspecific, as an idea or quality
Abstract words like truth and justice.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Preface
A beginning or introductory portion that comes before the main text of a document or book, typically serving to contextualize or explain the writing of the book and sometimes to acknowledge others' contributions.
The book included a brief preface explaining the author's motivations for writing.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Having an intellectual and affective artistic content that depends solely on intrinsic form rather than on narrative content or pictorial representation
Abstract painting and sculpture.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Preface
(Roman Catholic) The prelude or introduction to the canon of the Mass.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Preface
(transitive) To introduce or make a comment before (the main point).
Let me preface this by saying that I don't know him that well.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To take away; remove
Abstract the most important data from a set of records.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To remove without permission; steal
A painting that was abstracted from the museum.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Preface
Something spoken as introductory to a discourse, or written as introductory to a book or essay; a proem; an introduction, or series of preliminary remarks.
This superficial taleIs but a preface of her worthy praise.
Heaven's high behest no preface needs.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To consider (an idea, for example) as separate from particular examples or objects
Abstract a principle of arrangement from a series of items.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
(ăbstrăkt′) To write a summary of; summarize
Abstract a long article in a paragraph.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Preface
To introduce by a preface; to give a preface to; as, to preface a book discourse.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To create artistic abstractions of (something else, such as a concrete object or another style)
"The Bauhaus Functionalists were ... busy unornamenting and abstracting modern architecture, painting and design" (John Barth).
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Something that concentrates in itself the qualities of a larger item, or multiple items.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Preface
Furnish with a preface or introduction;
She always precedes her lectures with a joke
He prefaced his lecture with a critical remark about the institution
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Preface
A preliminary statement in a book by the book's author.
The Preface provided a brief history of the manuscript's journey.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Abstract
(medicine) A powdered solid extract of a medicinal substance mixed with lactose.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Preface
A statement of the book's origins and scope.
The Preface outlined the span of time the biography would cover.
Janet White
Sep 26, 2023
Abstract
The theoretical way of looking at things; something that exists only in idealized form.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
(real estate) A summary title of the key points detailing a tract of land, for ownership; abstract of title.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Not concrete: conceptual, ideal.
Her new film is an abstract piece, combining elements of magic realism, flashbacks, and animation but with very little in terms of plot construction.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Apart from practice or reality; vague; theoretical; impersonal; not applied.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
(grammar) As a noun, denoting a concept or intangible as opposed to an object, place, or person.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Difficult to understand; abstruse; hard to conceptualize.
The politician gave a somewhat abstract answer when asked about their plans to cut spending.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Separately expressing a property or attribute of an object that is considered to be inherent to that object: attributive, ascriptive.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Pertaining comprehensively to, or representing, a class or group of objects, as opposed to any specific object; considered apart from any application to a particular object: general, generic, nonspecific; representational.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
(arts) Pertaining to the formal aspect of art, such as the lines, colors, shapes, and the relationships among them.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Free from representational qualities, in particular the non-representational styles of the 20th century.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Being a partial basis for subclasses rather than a complete template for objects.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To conceptualize an ideal subgroup by means of the generalization of an attribute, as follows: by apprehending an attribute inherent to one individual, then separating that attribute and contemplating it by itself, then conceiving of that attribute as a general quality, then despecifying that conceived quality with respect to several or many individuals, and by then ideating a group composed of those individuals perceived to possess said quality.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
(transitive) To consider abstractly; to contemplate separately or by itself; to consider theoretically; to look at as a general quality.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
(transitive) To draw off (interest or attention).
He was wholly abstracted by other objects.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To produce an abstraction, usually by refactoring existing code. Generally used with "out".
He abstracted out the square root function.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Considered apart from any application to a particular object; separated from matter; existing in the mind only; as, abstract truth, abstract numbers. Hence: ideal; abstruse; difficult.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Expressing a particular property of an object viewed apart from the other properties which constitute it; - opposed to concrete; as, honesty is an abstract word.
A concrete name is a name which stands for a thing; an abstract name which stands for an attribute of a thing. A practice has grown up in more modern times, which, if not introduced by Locke, has gained currency from his example, of applying the expression "abstract name" to all names which are the result of abstraction and generalization, and consequently to all general names, instead of confining it to the names of attributes.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To withdraw; to separate; to take away.
He was incapable of forming any opinion or resolution abstracted from his own prejudices.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To draw off in respect to interest or attention; as, his was wholly abstracted by other objects.
The young stranger had been abstracted and silent.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To separate, as ideas, by the operation of the mind; to consider by itself; to contemplate separately, as a quality or attribute.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To take secretly or dishonestly; to purloin; as, to abstract goods from a parcel, or money from a till.
Von Rosen had quietly abstracted the bearing-reins from the harness.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To separate, as the more volatile or soluble parts of a substance, by distillation or other chemical processes. In this sense extract is now more generally used.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
To perform the process of abstraction.
I own myself able to abstract in one sense.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
That which comprises or concentrates in itself the essential qualities of a larger thing or of several things. Specifically: A summary or an epitome, as of a treatise or book, or of a statement; a brief.
An abstract of every treatise he had read.
Man, the abstractOf all perfection, which the workmanshipOf Heaven hath modeled.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
A state of separation from other things; as, to consider a subject in the abstract, or apart from other associated things.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
An abstract term.
The concretes "father" and "son" have, or might have, the abstracts "paternity" and "filiety."
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
A powdered solid extract of a vegetable substance mixed with sugar of milk in such proportion that one part of the abstract represents two parts of the original substance.
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
A concept or idea not associated with any specific instance;
He loved her only in the abstract--not in person
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Consider a concept without thinking of a specific example; consider abstractly or theoretically
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Consider apart from a particular case or instance;
Let's abstract away from this particular example
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Existing only in the mind; separated from embodiment;
Abstract words like `truth' and `justice'
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Not representing or imitating external reality or the objects of nature;
A large abstract painting
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
Dealing with a subject in the abstract without practical purpose or intention;
Abstract reasoning
Abstract science
Sawaira Riaz
Mar 28, 2023
Abstract
A concise overview of a document's main points.
By reading the Abstract, I understood the article's core arguments.
Sara Rehman
Sep 26, 2023
FAQs
Is an Abstract necessary for all research papers?
In academic and scientific contexts, most research papers require an Abstract.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can a Preface be considered a summary of the book?
Not exactly. A Preface provides context and background, not a summary of content.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Does an Abstract include personal opinions?
No, an Abstract is objective and focuses on key findings and methodologies.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
How long is a typical Abstract?
Abstracts are concise, often ranging from 150-300 words.
Sara Rehman
Sep 26, 2023
Is an Abstract found in fictional works?
Rarely. Abstracts are mainly for summarizing non-fiction, especially research.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 26, 2023
Is a Preface always written by the author?
Generally, yes, the Preface is written by the author to give personal context.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can a book have both a Preface and an Introduction?
Yes, a book can have a Preface for personal context and an Introduction for content overview.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
In what order do Abstract and Introduction appear in a paper?
Usually, the Abstract comes first, followed by the Introduction.
Sara Rehman
Sep 26, 2023
Can a Preface acknowledge people?
Yes, authors often use the Preface to acknowledge and thank contributors and supporters.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Is reading the Preface essential to understand a book?
Not always, but it can provide valuable context and the author's perspective.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
What's the main goal of a Preface?
The Preface offers insights into the book’s genesis, challenges faced, and acknowledgments.
Janet White
Sep 26, 2023
What kind of documents usually have an Abstract?
Abstracts are common in research papers, theses, and scholarly articles.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
Can a Preface be emotional?
Yes, a Preface can carry emotional tones, reflecting the author's personal journey.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
Who should read the Preface?
Readers interested in the author's motivations, context, and book journey should read the Preface.
Harlon Moss
Sep 26, 2023
Why is an Abstract important for scholars?
It helps determine the relevance of the full document without reading it entirely.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 26, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
