- Posters should be readable from 5 feet away.
The message should be clear and understandable
without oral explanation.
- An effective slide has a single, readily identifiable principle
concept.
Focus on a few key points. Try different styles
of presentation. Do an initial sketch, then do a rough layout to get
a good idea of proportions and balance. At the final layout stage, ask
a friend if the message is clear and if the important points stand out.
- Avoid projecting slides that include only text.
Slides that contain more than a few words per line cannot be read by
the audience. Keep slides simple, with plenty
of open space.
- Make sure that slides are readable.
If you can read the information on the slide when it is held at arm's
length against a bright background, it should be readable to the audience.
- Do not present more than 10 slides in a 10 minute presentation:
The verbal text and the slide material should support each other. Give
the audience a moment to become orientated with each slide before continuing.
- Check all technology:
Make certain that whatever technology you may need for your presentation
will be available - projectors, computers, whatever you need. Be sure
you know how to use it, and that you are familiar with that
particular setup for the room you are in. If possible,
test everything in advance. Leave enough time for setup on the day of
your presentation.
- Further information:
Two excellent sources on assembling science posters and
other visuals are:
Envisioning Information, Edward R. Tufte.
qQA90.T914 1990 (In the Science Library), and
Visual Display of Quantitative Information,
Edward R. Tufte q HA31 .T84 (in Science Library and Clapp Library)
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