So, are abstract and introduction the same? Absolutely not. But they are best friends who work together to make your paper shine. One is the dazzling poster on the wall; the other is the warm welcome at the door. You need both to throw a great academic party.
Next time you’re writing, just remember: The abstract says “Here’s what happened,” and the introduction says “Here’s why it matters.” You’ve got this. Go write your masterpiece, one killer paragraph at a time. And hey—even if you mix them up on the first draft, that’s what edits are for. You’re not a robot; you’re a human with a sense of humor. And that’s the best kind of writer to be.