An extract takes portions of a document exactly as it is, while an abstract summarizes important details. With the latter, you can personalize the information as you wish.
Similarities between extracts and abstracts
- Both must have a full citation of the document
- Both use quotations but are more prevalent in extracts
- Indicate text you have left out using ellipses (…), most commonly in extracts
- Square brackets [] indicate short comments, and incorrect facts, spellings, or information you are aware of but choose to leave as per the original document.
Why and When to prepare extracts and abstracts
- When you cannot make scans, photocopies, or take photographs.
- For inclusion in reports or notes
- When you need to pinpoint important details
- Important when developing research plans or analyzing documents
- Unlike a full transcription, they are very concise, especially if you’re working with little space