A Guide to Making Your DDW® Abstract Stand Out

Iqra Arshad, MD, is an assistant professor at Saint Louis University and Hospitalist and completed her internal medicine residency at Lincoln Medical Center, Bronx, NY. She is actively involved in clinical research in gastroenterology and presented her work at Digestive Disease Week^® (DDW). Her research interests include metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), transplant hepatology and preventive aspects in GI. She is passionate about the utilization of digital tools to improve health care outcomes Find her on Twitter @IqraArshad_MD1.

DDW is one of the most highlighted GI events of the year that provides an amazing platform for researchers and scholars around the globe to showcase their work. Presenting your work at DDW is “a big deal” and a great prestige. When you are ready to craft your abstract for consideration, remember these few tips that will help your abstract stand out and leave a long-lasting impression on the reviewers. Submit your abstract by Nov. 30.

1. Consider the Title

The title is the most important highlight of an abstract. Keep it concise and highlight the impact of your work, as it serves as a key to open the door of reviewer’s interest in your work. Avoid abbreviations in your title as much as you can. Additional advice is available on DDW News.

2. Create a Structured Format

Crafting the abstract in a structured format (introduction/background, methods, results, discussion/conclusion) with emphasis on key points in each section, will help you make sure to include all pertinent information and also give clarity to your content.

3. Keep it Brief

Keep in mind the fact that reviewers just want a glimpse or snapshot of your work, while still understanding the importance of it. Prepare yourself to present your work as precisely as you can and without losing the interest of your reviewers. Focus on quality, not quantity.

4. Create Strong Visuals

Visual impact is always greater than a verbal one. Abstracts may include up to two images, so use clear visuals against an appropriate background that should not be too dark or too light for the reviewers. Try to keep it simple, concise and attractive.

5. Be Open for a Q&A Session and Feedback

If your abstract is selected, be open to feedback during the meeting to improve future abstract submissions and presentations. Don’t forget to provide your contact information (email addresses/QR codes).

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