Your abstract (project summary) is the most-read section of any grant application—and often, it’s the only part every reviewer reads.

It needs to do a lot with a little: introduce your project, justify the funding, explain the approach, and convince a time-poor panel you’re worth investing in. All in under 250 words.

At Straight Up, we see too many abstracts that either undersell the research or inflate the impact beyond what’s credible. Here’s how to strike the right balance—so your abstract works as hard as you do.

Get to the point quickly

The opening line should answer a simple question: What is this project, and why does it matter? Avoid vague introductions or long-winded context.

Instead, lead with clarity:

“This project aims to [do what] in order to [achieve what].”

This approach orients the reviewer immediately. They shouldn’t have to search for your purpose.

Avoid the hype—use grounded language

Funders don’t want to be “wowed”; they want to be confident. So skip the buzzwords (“disruptive,” “world-first,” “innovative”) unless you can substantiate them. Reviewers are trained to spot overclaims—and they’ll discount applications that feel inflated.

Replace hype with clarity. Demonstrate value with plain English and credible framing.

Summarise your method and milestones, not the technical detail

You don’t need to compress your entire methodology into the abstract. Focus instead on:

• What approach you’ll take

• Key milestones you’ll deliver

• Any unique partnerships or infrastructure that strengthen your case

Think of it as setting up a storyline—the detail will come later.

Make the impact clear and credible

This is where many abstracts fall short—or overshoot.

Instead of vague claims like:

“This project will revolutionise the sector…”
Try something grounded:
“This project will support [X group/industry] by generating new data to inform [specific policy/tool/practice].”

Even if your research has long-term potential, reviewers want to see a realistic picture of what this project will deliver in its current timeframe.

Use the final sentence strategically

Close with a strong final statement. Summarise your proposal’s contribution or connect it back to the funder’s priorities. This sentence should echo what the funder is hoping to support—without repeating their wording verbatim.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Starting with a literature review

• Using too much jargon

• Failing to explain why now

• Copying text from other sections (the abstract deserves its own voice)

How Straight Up can help

We’ve written and edited hundreds of abstracts across ARC, NHMRC, AEA, and major industry schemes. We help researchers refine their story and make their value clear—without overpromising.

From first draft to final polish, we bring strategy to every sentence.

A strong abstract sets the tone for your entire application. It’s the difference between being skimmed and being seriously considered.

Take the time to craft one that’s sharp, clear, and funder-aligned.

👉 Book a consultation if you’d like support shaping your next abstract by completing the form below.