Tips for
talks
1. The audience is broad in its
background. Avoid jargon and abbreviations
that are unique to your specific field.
2. Avoid overly wordy text slides--
bullet statements are often best.
3. On data slides, only include
information that you actually will discuss.
Panels that are not discussed are
distracting and are not useful. This often
includes much of your control data and such
data is better left for your poster.
4. Every data slide should have a
descriptive title that summarizes the
CONCLUSION of the slide rather than only the
type of experiment. Lettering should be
large (Titles are often best if 36 point or
larger and lettering on figure panels should
be at least 12 point and ideally larger)--
many use lettering way too small to be seen
well from the back of the room.
5. Conclusions should be concise and
probably no more than 4/slide. Again,
lettering should be very large (e.g., 22
Point font)
6. Future plans/directions - We
recommend a slide with your future
plans/directions. This may lead to better
questions and collaborations.
7. Color - Your color combinations
must be able to project well in a large room
that is not completely dark! There is
nothing wrong with black & white slides.
8. Include any relevant poster number
and time on your last slide.
9. Practice - Formally practice in
front of colleagues at least several days in
advance of the retreat so you have time to
alter slides. There is no excuse for having
typing/spelling mistakes! Indicating that
chocolate will be available at your practice
will ensure attendance by many of your
invitees. WE ASK THAT ALL MENTORS
PARTICIPATE IN SUCH A PRACTICE SESSION.
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