Presentation Tips

Before the Presentation

Organizing content

• Make sure the audience walks away understanding the following:
  • The problem and why it is a problem
  • What has been done about the problem
  • What you are doing (or have done) about the problem
  • The value your approach provides
  • Next steps
• Describe the problem clearly enough for the audience to appreciate the value of your contribution.
• Present your contribution clearly.
• Aim your presentation at an audience that is not familiar with your research area so you communicate the importance of your work, rather than simply laying out the results.
• Provide references and your contact information.

Preparing effective displays

• Keep it simple, so you don’t distract from your research.
• Use at least 24-point type.
• Do not use a photocopy of a standard printed page as a display.
• Summarize your main points.
• Limit your material to eight lines per slide.
• Limit tables to four rows/columns.
• Display large tables as graphs.
• Avoid numerous curves on a graphical display.
• Label graphs clearly with big, readable type.
• Use easy-to-read fonts such as Arial.
• Use light letters (e.g., yellow or white) on a dark background (e.g., dark blue) when displaying your material on an LCD projector.
• Use equations sparingly and concentrate on what your results mean.
• Keep a large margin on all sides of your slide.
• Identify the journal when you give references.
• Preview your presentation.

Timing your talk

• Present one slide per minute.
• Talk at a pace everybody in the audience can understand.
• Budget your time to take a minute or two less than your maximum allotment.
• Practice your talk.

During the Presentation

• Check to make sure the microphone works before you begin.
• Be sure everyone in the room can see your material.
• Don’t apologize for your displays (create them properly).
• Don’t apologize for incomplete results.

After the Presentation

• Thank the audience for its attention.
• Gather your materials and move off quickly to allow the next presenter to prepare.
• Stay for the entire session and, afterward, be available for people to ask you questions.