conference presentation rules

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PLoS Comput Biol
v.17(12); 2021 Dec

Ten simple rules for effective presentation slides

Kristen m. naegle.

Biomedical Engineering and the Center for Public Health Genomics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America

Introduction

The “presentation slide” is the building block of all academic presentations, whether they are journal clubs, thesis committee meetings, short conference talks, or hour-long seminars. A slide is a single page projected on a screen, usually built on the premise of a title, body, and figures or tables and includes both what is shown and what is spoken about that slide. Multiple slides are strung together to tell the larger story of the presentation. While there have been excellent 10 simple rules on giving entire presentations [ 1 , 2 ], there was an absence in the fine details of how to design a slide for optimal effect—such as the design elements that allow slides to convey meaningful information, to keep the audience engaged and informed, and to deliver the information intended and in the time frame allowed. As all research presentations seek to teach, effective slide design borrows from the same principles as effective teaching, including the consideration of cognitive processing your audience is relying on to organize, process, and retain information. This is written for anyone who needs to prepare slides from any length scale and for most purposes of conveying research to broad audiences. The rules are broken into 3 primary areas. Rules 1 to 5 are about optimizing the scope of each slide. Rules 6 to 8 are about principles around designing elements of the slide. Rules 9 to 10 are about preparing for your presentation, with the slides as the central focus of that preparation.

Rule 1: Include only one idea per slide

Each slide should have one central objective to deliver—the main idea or question [ 3 – 5 ]. Often, this means breaking complex ideas down into manageable pieces (see Fig 1 , where “background” information has been split into 2 key concepts). In another example, if you are presenting a complex computational approach in a large flow diagram, introduce it in smaller units, building it up until you finish with the entire diagram. The progressive buildup of complex information means that audiences are prepared to understand the whole picture, once you have dedicated time to each of the parts. You can accomplish the buildup of components in several ways—for example, using presentation software to cover/uncover information. Personally, I choose to create separate slides for each piece of information content I introduce—where the final slide has the entire diagram, and I use cropping or a cover on duplicated slides that come before to hide what I’m not yet ready to include. I use this method in order to ensure that each slide in my deck truly presents one specific idea (the new content) and the amount of the new information on that slide can be described in 1 minute (Rule 2), but it comes with the trade-off—a change to the format of one of the slides in the series often means changes to all slides.

An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is pcbi.1009554.g001.jpg

Top left: A background slide that describes the background material on a project from my lab. The slide was created using a PowerPoint Design Template, which had to be modified to increase default text sizes for this figure (i.e., the default text sizes are even worse than shown here). Bottom row: The 2 new slides that break up the content into 2 explicit ideas about the background, using a central graphic. In the first slide, the graphic is an explicit example of the SH2 domain of PI3-kinase interacting with a phosphorylation site (Y754) on the PDGFR to describe the important details of what an SH2 domain and phosphotyrosine ligand are and how they interact. I use that same graphic in the second slide to generalize all binding events and include redundant text to drive home the central message (a lot of possible interactions might occur in the human proteome, more than we can currently measure). Top right highlights which rules were used to move from the original slide to the new slide. Specific changes as highlighted by Rule 7 include increasing contrast by changing the background color, increasing font size, changing to sans serif fonts, and removing all capital text and underlining (using bold to draw attention). PDGFR, platelet-derived growth factor receptor.

Rule 2: Spend only 1 minute per slide

When you present your slide in the talk, it should take 1 minute or less to discuss. This rule is really helpful for planning purposes—a 20-minute presentation should have somewhere around 20 slides. Also, frequently giving your audience new information to feast on helps keep them engaged. During practice, if you find yourself spending more than a minute on a slide, there’s too much for that one slide—it’s time to break up the content into multiple slides or even remove information that is not wholly central to the story you are trying to tell. Reduce, reduce, reduce, until you get to a single message, clearly described, which takes less than 1 minute to present.

Rule 3: Make use of your heading

When each slide conveys only one message, use the heading of that slide to write exactly the message you are trying to deliver. Instead of titling the slide “Results,” try “CTNND1 is central to metastasis” or “False-positive rates are highly sample specific.” Use this landmark signpost to ensure that all the content on that slide is related exactly to the heading and only the heading. Think of the slide heading as the introductory or concluding sentence of a paragraph and the slide content the rest of the paragraph that supports the main point of the paragraph. An audience member should be able to follow along with you in the “paragraph” and come to the same conclusion sentence as your header at the end of the slide.

Rule 4: Include only essential points

While you are speaking, audience members’ eyes and minds will be wandering over your slide. If you have a comment, detail, or figure on a slide, have a plan to explicitly identify and talk about it. If you don’t think it’s important enough to spend time on, then don’t have it on your slide. This is especially important when faculty are present. I often tell students that thesis committee members are like cats: If you put a shiny bauble in front of them, they’ll go after it. Be sure to only put the shiny baubles on slides that you want them to focus on. Putting together a thesis meeting for only faculty is really an exercise in herding cats (if you have cats, you know this is no easy feat). Clear and concise slide design will go a long way in helping you corral those easily distracted faculty members.

Rule 5: Give credit, where credit is due

An exception to Rule 4 is to include proper citations or references to work on your slide. When adding citations, names of other researchers, or other types of credit, use a consistent style and method for adding this information to your slides. Your audience will then be able to easily partition this information from the other content. A common mistake people make is to think “I’ll add that reference later,” but I highly recommend you put the proper reference on the slide at the time you make it, before you forget where it came from. Finally, in certain kinds of presentations, credits can make it clear who did the work. For the faculty members heading labs, it is an effective way to connect your audience with the personnel in the lab who did the work, which is a great career booster for that person. For graduate students, it is an effective way to delineate your contribution to the work, especially in meetings where the goal is to establish your credentials for meeting the rigors of a PhD checkpoint.

Rule 6: Use graphics effectively

As a rule, you should almost never have slides that only contain text. Build your slides around good visualizations. It is a visual presentation after all, and as they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. However, on the flip side, don’t muddy the point of the slide by putting too many complex graphics on a single slide. A multipanel figure that you might include in a manuscript should often be broken into 1 panel per slide (see Rule 1 ). One way to ensure that you use the graphics effectively is to make a point to introduce the figure and its elements to the audience verbally, especially for data figures. For example, you might say the following: “This graph here shows the measured false-positive rate for an experiment and each point is a replicate of the experiment, the graph demonstrates …” If you have put too much on one slide to present in 1 minute (see Rule 2 ), then the complexity or number of the visualizations is too much for just one slide.

Rule 7: Design to avoid cognitive overload

The type of slide elements, the number of them, and how you present them all impact the ability for the audience to intake, organize, and remember the content. For example, a frequent mistake in slide design is to include full sentences, but reading and verbal processing use the same cognitive channels—therefore, an audience member can either read the slide, listen to you, or do some part of both (each poorly), as a result of cognitive overload [ 4 ]. The visual channel is separate, allowing images/videos to be processed with auditory information without cognitive overload [ 6 ] (Rule 6). As presentations are an exercise in listening, and not reading, do what you can to optimize the ability of the audience to listen. Use words sparingly as “guide posts” to you and the audience about major points of the slide. In fact, you can add short text fragments, redundant with the verbal component of the presentation, which has been shown to improve retention [ 7 ] (see Fig 1 for an example of redundant text that avoids cognitive overload). Be careful in the selection of a slide template to minimize accidentally adding elements that the audience must process, but are unimportant. David JP Phillips argues (and effectively demonstrates in his TEDx talk [ 5 ]) that the human brain can easily interpret 6 elements and more than that requires a 500% increase in human cognition load—so keep the total number of elements on the slide to 6 or less. Finally, in addition to the use of short text, white space, and the effective use of graphics/images, you can improve ease of cognitive processing further by considering color choices and font type and size. Here are a few suggestions for improving the experience for your audience, highlighting the importance of these elements for some specific groups:

Use high contrast colors and simple backgrounds with low to no color—for persons with dyslexia or visual impairment.
Use sans serif fonts and large font sizes (including figure legends), avoid italics, underlining (use bold font instead for emphasis), and all capital letters—for persons with dyslexia or visual impairment [ 8 ].
Use color combinations and palettes that can be understood by those with different forms of color blindness [ 9 ]. There are excellent tools available to identify colors to use and ways to simulate your presentation or figures as they might be seen by a person with color blindness (easily found by a web search).
In this increasing world of virtual presentation tools, consider practicing your talk with a closed captioning system capture your words. Use this to identify how to improve your speaking pace, volume, and annunciation to improve understanding by all members of your audience, but especially those with a hearing impairment.

Rule 8: Design the slide so that a distracted person gets the main takeaway

It is very difficult to stay focused on a presentation, especially if it is long or if it is part of a longer series of talks at a conference. Audience members may get distracted by an important email, or they may start dreaming of lunch. So, it’s important to look at your slide and ask “If they heard nothing I said, will they understand the key concept of this slide?” The other rules are set up to help with this, including clarity of the single point of the slide (Rule 1), titling it with a major conclusion (Rule 3), and the use of figures (Rule 6) and short text redundant to your verbal description (Rule 7). However, with each slide, step back and ask whether its main conclusion is conveyed, even if someone didn’t hear your accompanying dialog. Importantly, ask if the information on the slide is at the right level of abstraction. For example, do you have too many details about the experiment, which hides the conclusion of the experiment (i.e., breaking Rule 1)? If you are worried about not having enough details, keep a slide at the end of your slide deck (after your conclusions and acknowledgments) with the more detailed information that you can refer to during a question and answer period.

Rule 9: Iteratively improve slide design through practice

Well-designed slides that follow the first 8 rules are intended to help you deliver the message you intend and in the amount of time you intend to deliver it in. The best way to ensure that you nailed slide design for your presentation is to practice, typically a lot. The most important aspects of practicing a new presentation, with an eye toward slide design, are the following 2 key points: (1) practice to ensure that you hit, each time through, the most important points (for example, the text guide posts you left yourself and the title of the slide); and (2) practice to ensure that as you conclude the end of one slide, it leads directly to the next slide. Slide transitions, what you say as you end one slide and begin the next, are important to keeping the flow of the “story.” Practice is when I discover that the order of my presentation is poor or that I left myself too few guideposts to remember what was coming next. Additionally, during practice, the most frequent things I have to improve relate to Rule 2 (the slide takes too long to present, usually because I broke Rule 1, and I’m delivering too much information for one slide), Rule 4 (I have a nonessential detail on the slide), and Rule 5 (I forgot to give a key reference). The very best type of practice is in front of an audience (for example, your lab or peers), where, with fresh perspectives, they can help you identify places for improving slide content, design, and connections across the entirety of your talk.

Rule 10: Design to mitigate the impact of technical disasters

The real presentation almost never goes as we planned in our heads or during our practice. Maybe the speaker before you went over time and now you need to adjust. Maybe the computer the organizer is having you use won’t show your video. Maybe your internet is poor on the day you are giving a virtual presentation at a conference. Technical problems are routinely part of the practice of sharing your work through presentations. Hence, you can design your slides to limit the impact certain kinds of technical disasters create and also prepare alternate approaches. Here are just a few examples of the preparation you can do that will take you a long way toward avoiding a complete fiasco:

Save your presentation as a PDF—if the version of Keynote or PowerPoint on a host computer cause issues, you still have a functional copy that has a higher guarantee of compatibility.
In using videos, create a backup slide with screen shots of key results. For example, if I have a video of cell migration, I’ll be sure to have a copy of the start and end of the video, in case the video doesn’t play. Even if the video worked, you can pause on this backup slide and take the time to highlight the key results in words if someone could not see or understand the video.
Avoid animations, such as figures or text that flash/fly-in/etc. Surveys suggest that no one likes movement in presentations [ 3 , 4 ]. There is likely a cognitive underpinning to the almost universal distaste of pointless animations that relates to the idea proposed by Kosslyn and colleagues that animations are salient perceptual units that captures direct attention [ 4 ]. Although perceptual salience can be used to draw attention to and improve retention of specific points, if you use this approach for unnecessary/unimportant things (like animation of your bullet point text, fly-ins of figures, etc.), then you will distract your audience from the important content. Finally, animations cause additional processing burdens for people with visual impairments [ 10 ] and create opportunities for technical disasters if the software on the host system is not compatible with your planned animation.

Conclusions

These rules are just a start in creating more engaging presentations that increase audience retention of your material. However, there are wonderful resources on continuing on the journey of becoming an amazing public speaker, which includes understanding the psychology and neuroscience behind human perception and learning. For example, as highlighted in Rule 7, David JP Phillips has a wonderful TEDx talk on the subject [ 5 ], and “PowerPoint presentation flaws and failures: A psychological analysis,” by Kosslyn and colleagues is deeply detailed about a number of aspects of human cognition and presentation style [ 4 ]. There are many books on the topic, including the popular “Presentation Zen” by Garr Reynolds [ 11 ]. Finally, although briefly touched on here, the visualization of data is an entire topic of its own that is worth perfecting for both written and oral presentations of work, with fantastic resources like Edward Tufte’s “The Visual Display of Quantitative Information” [ 12 ] or the article “Visualization of Biomedical Data” by O’Donoghue and colleagues [ 13 ].

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank the countless presenters, colleagues, students, and mentors from which I have learned a great deal from on effective presentations. Also, a thank you to the wonderful resources published by organizations on how to increase inclusivity. A special thanks to Dr. Jason Papin and Dr. Michael Guertin on early feedback of this editorial.

Funding Statement

The author received no specific funding for this work.

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Open Access

Ten simple rules for effective presentation slides

* E-mail: [email protected]

Affiliation Biomedical Engineering and the Center for Public Health Genomics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America

Kristen M. Naegle

Published: December 2, 2021

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009554
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Citation: Naegle KM (2021) Ten simple rules for effective presentation slides. PLoS Comput Biol 17(12): e1009554. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009554

Copyright: © 2021 Kristen M. Naegle. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Funding: The author received no specific funding for this work.

Competing interests: The author has declared no competing interests exist.

Introduction

Rule 1: Include only one idea per slide

PPT PowerPoint slide
PNG larger image
TIFF original image

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009554.g001

Rule 2: Spend only 1 minute per slide

Rule 3: Make use of your heading

Rule 4: Include only essential points

Rule 5: Give credit, where credit is due

Rule 6: Use graphics effectively

Rule 7: Design to avoid cognitive overload

Use high contrast colors and simple backgrounds with low to no color—for persons with dyslexia or visual impairment.
Use sans serif fonts and large font sizes (including figure legends), avoid italics, underlining (use bold font instead for emphasis), and all capital letters—for persons with dyslexia or visual impairment [ 8 ].
Use color combinations and palettes that can be understood by those with different forms of color blindness [ 9 ]. There are excellent tools available to identify colors to use and ways to simulate your presentation or figures as they might be seen by a person with color blindness (easily found by a web search).
In this increasing world of virtual presentation tools, consider practicing your talk with a closed captioning system capture your words. Use this to identify how to improve your speaking pace, volume, and annunciation to improve understanding by all members of your audience, but especially those with a hearing impairment.

Rule 8: Design the slide so that a distracted person gets the main takeaway

Rule 9: Iteratively improve slide design through practice

Rule 10: Design to mitigate the impact of technical disasters

Save your presentation as a PDF—if the version of Keynote or PowerPoint on a host computer cause issues, you still have a functional copy that has a higher guarantee of compatibility.
In using videos, create a backup slide with screen shots of key results. For example, if I have a video of cell migration, I’ll be sure to have a copy of the start and end of the video, in case the video doesn’t play. Even if the video worked, you can pause on this backup slide and take the time to highlight the key results in words if someone could not see or understand the video.
Avoid animations, such as figures or text that flash/fly-in/etc. Surveys suggest that no one likes movement in presentations [ 3 , 4 ]. There is likely a cognitive underpinning to the almost universal distaste of pointless animations that relates to the idea proposed by Kosslyn and colleagues that animations are salient perceptual units that captures direct attention [ 4 ]. Although perceptual salience can be used to draw attention to and improve retention of specific points, if you use this approach for unnecessary/unimportant things (like animation of your bullet point text, fly-ins of figures, etc.), then you will distract your audience from the important content. Finally, animations cause additional processing burdens for people with visual impairments [ 10 ] and create opportunities for technical disasters if the software on the host system is not compatible with your planned animation.

Conclusions

Acknowledgments

View Article
PubMed/NCBI
Google Scholar
3. Teaching VUC for Making Better PowerPoint Presentations. n.d. Available from: https://cft.vanderbilt.edu/guides-sub-pages/making-better-powerpoint-presentations/#baddeley .
8. Creating a dyslexia friendly workplace. Dyslexia friendly style guide. nd. Available from: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/advice/employers/creating-a-dyslexia-friendly-workplace/dyslexia-friendly-style-guide .
9. Cravit R. How to Use Color Blind Friendly Palettes to Make Your Charts Accessible. 2019. Available from: https://venngage.com/blog/color-blind-friendly-palette/ .
10. Making your conference presentation more accessible to blind and partially sighted people. n.d. Available from: https://vocaleyes.co.uk/services/resources/guidelines-for-making-your-conference-presentation-more-accessible-to-blind-and-partially-sighted-people/ .
11. Reynolds G. Presentation Zen: Simple Ideas on Presentation Design and Delivery. 2nd ed. New Riders Pub; 2011.
12. Tufte ER. The Visual Display of Quantitative Information. 2nd ed. Graphics Press; 2001.

Home Blog Business Conference Presentation Slides: A Guide for Success

Conference Presentation Slides: A Guide for Success

cover for conference presentation slides guide

In our experience, a common error when preparing a conference presentation is using designs that heavily rely on bullet points and massive chunks of text. A potential reason behind this slide design mistake is aiming to include as much information as possible in just one slide. In the end, slides become a sort of teleprompter for the speaker, and the audience recalls boredom instead of an informative experience.

As part of our mission to help presenters deliver their message effectively, we have summarized what makes a good conference presentation slide, as well as tips on how to design a successful conference slide.

Table of Contents

What is a conference presentation

Common mistakes presenters make when creating conference presentation slides, how can a well-crafted conference presentation help your professional life, how to start a conference presentation, how to end a conference presentation, tailoring your message to different audiences, visualizing data effectively, engaging with your audience, designing for impact, mastering slide transitions and animation, handling time constraints, incorporating multimedia elements, post-presentation engagement, crisis management during presentations, sustainability and green presentations, measuring presentation success, 13 tips to create stellar conference presentations, final thoughts.

The Britannica Dictionary defines conferences as

A formal meeting in which many people gather in order to talk about ideas or problems related to a particular topic (such as medicine or business), usually for several days.

We can then define conference presentations as the combination of a speaker, a slide deck , and the required hardware to introduce an idea or topic in a conference setting. Some characteristics differentiate conference presentations from other formats.

Time-restricted

Conference presentations are bounded by a 15-30 minute time limit, which the event’s moderators establish. These restrictions are applied to allow a crowded agenda to be met on time, and it is common to count with over 10 speakers on the same day.

To that time limit, we have to add the time required for switching between speakers, which implies loading a new slide deck to the streaming platform, microphone testing, lighting effects, etc. Say it is around 10-15 minutes extra, so depending on the number of speakers per day during the event, the time available to deliver a presentation, plus the questions & answers time.

Delivery format

Conferences can be delivered in live event format or via webinars. Since this article is mainly intended to live event conferences, we will only mention that the requirements for webinars are as follows:

Voice-over or, best, speaker layover the presentation slides so the speaker interacts with the audience.
Quality graphics.
Not abusing the amount of information to introduce per slide.

On the other hand, live event conferences will differ depending on the category under which they fall. Academic conferences have a structure in which there’s a previous poster session; then speakers start delivering their talks, then after 4-5 speakers, we have a coffee break. Those pauses help the AV crew to check the equipment, and they also become an opportunity for researchers to expand their network contacts.

Business conferences are usually more dynamic. Some presenters opt not to use slide decks, giving a powerful speech instead, as they feel much more comfortable that way. Other speakers at business conferences adopt videos to summarize their ideas and then proceed to speak.

Overall, the format guidelines are sent to speakers before the event. Adapt your presentation style to meet the requirements of moderators so you can maximize the effect of your message.

The audience

Unlike other presentation settings, conferences gather a knowledgeable audience on the discussed topics. It is imperative to consider this, as tone, delivery format, information to include, and more depend on this sole factor. Moreover, the audience will participate in your presentation at the last minute, as it is a common practice to hold a Q&A session.

Mistake #1 – Massive chunks of text

Do you intend your audience to read your slides instead of being seduced by your presentation? Presenters often add large amounts of text to each slide since they need help deciding which data to exclude. Another excuse for this practice is so the audience remembers the content exposed.

Research indicates images are much better retained than words, a phenomenon known as the Picture Superiority Effect ; therefore, opt to avoid this tendency and work into creating compelling graphics.

Mistake #2 – Not creating contrast between data and graphics

Have you tried to read a slide from 4 rows behind the presenter and not get a single number? This can happen if the presenter is not careful to work with the appropriate contrast between the color of the typeface and the background. Particularly if serif fonts are used.

Using WebAIM tool to check color contrast

Use online tools such as WebAIM’s Contrast Checker to make your slides legible for your audience. Creating an overlay with a white or black transparent tint can also help when you place text above images.

Mistake #3 – Not rehearsing the presentation

This is a sin in conference presentations, as when you don’t practice the content you intend to deliver, you don’t have a measure of how much time it is actually going to take.

Locating the rehearsing timing options in PowerPoint

PowerPoint’s rehearse timing feature can help a great deal, as you can record yourself practising the presentation and observe areas for improvement. Remember, conference presentations are time-limited , don’t disrespect fellow speakers by overlapping their scheduled slot or, worse, have moderators trim your presentation after several warnings.

Mistake #4 – Lacking hierarchy for the presented content

Looking at a slide and not knowing where the main point is discouraging for the audience, especially if you introduce several pieces of content under the same slide. Instead, opt to create a hierarchy that comprehends both text and images. It helps to arrange the content according to your narrative, and we’ll see more on this later on.

Consider your conference presentation as your introduction card in the professional world. Maybe you have a broad network of colleagues, but be certain there are plenty of people out there that have yet to learn about who you are and the work you produce.

Conferences help businesspeople and academics alike to introduce the results of months of research on a specific topic in front of a knowledgeable audience. It is different from a product launch as you don’t need to present a “completed product” but rather your views or advances, in other words, your contribution with valuable insights to the field.

Putting dedication into your conference presentation, from the slide deck design to presentation skills , is definitely worth the effort. The audience can get valuable references from the quality of work you are able to produce, often leading to potential partnerships. In business conferences, securing an investor deal can happen after a powerful presentation that drives the audience to perceive your work as the very best thing that’s about to be launched. It is all about how your body language reflects your intent, how well-explained the concepts are, and the emotional impact you can drive from it.

There are multiple ways on how to start a presentation for a conference, but overall, we can recap a good approach as follows.

Present a fact

Nothing grabs the interest of an audience quicker than introducing an interesting fact during the first 30 seconds of your presentation. The said fact has to be pivotal to the content your conference presentation will discuss later on, but as an ice-breaker, it is a strategy worth applying from time to time.

Ask a question

The main point when starting a conference presentation is to make an impact on the audience. We cannot think of a better way to engage with the audience than to ask them a question relevant to your work or research. It grabs the viewer’s interest for the potential feedback you shall give to those answers received.

Use powerful graphics

The value of visual presentations cannot be neglected in conferences. Sometimes an image makes a bigger impact than a lengthy speech, hence why you should consider starting your conference presentation with a photo or visual element that speaks for itself.

an example of combining powerful graphics with facts for conference presentation slides

For more tips and insights on how to start a presentation , we invite you to check this article.

Just as important as starting the presentation, the closure you give to your conference presentation matters a lot. This is the opportunity in which you can add your personal experience on the topic and reflect upon it with the audience or smoothly transition between the presentation and your Q&A session.

Below are some quick tips on how to end a presentation for a conference event.

End the presentation with a quote

Give your audience something to ruminate about with the help of a quote tailored to the topic you were discussing. There are plenty of resources for finding suitable quotes, and a great method for this is to design your penultimate slide with an image or black background plus a quote. Follow this with a final “thank you” slide.

Consider a video

If we say a video whose length is shorter than 1 minute, this is a fantastic resource to summarize the intent of your conference presentation.

If you get the two-minute warning and you feel far off from finishing your presentation, first, don’t fret. Try to give a good closure when presenting in a conference without rushing information, as the audience wouldn’t get any concept clear that way. Mention that the information you presented will be available for further reading at the event’s platform site or your company’s digital business card , and proceed to your closure phase for the presentation.

It is better to miss some of the components of the conference than to get kicked out after several warnings for exceeding the allotted time.

Tailoring your conference presentation to suit your audience is crucial to delivering an impactful talk. Different audiences have varying levels of expertise, interests, and expectations. By customizing your content, tone, and examples, you can enhance the relevance and engagement of your presentation.

Understanding Audience Backgrounds and Expectations

Before crafting your presentation, research your audience’s backgrounds and interests. Are they professionals in your field, students, or a mix of both? Are they familiar with the topic, or must you provide more context? Understanding these factors will help you pitch your content correctly and avoid overwhelming or boring your audience.

Adapting Language and Tone for Relevance

Use language that resonates with your audience. Avoid jargon or technical terms that might confuse those unfamiliar with your field. Conversely, don’t oversimplify if your audience consists of experts. Adjust your tone to match the event’s formality and your listeners’ preferences.

Customizing Examples and Case Studies

Incorporate case studies, examples, and anecdotes that your audience can relate to. If you’re speaking to professionals, use real-world scenarios from their industry. For a more general audience, choose examples that are universally relatable. This personal touch makes your content relatable and memorable.

Effectively presenting data is essential for conveying complex information to your audience. Visualizations can help simplify intricate concepts and make your points more digestible.

Choosing the Right Data Representation

Select the appropriate type of graph or chart to illustrate your data. Bar graphs, pie charts, line charts, and scatter plots each serve specific purposes. Choose the one that best supports your message and ensures clarity.

Designing Graphs and Charts for Clarity

Ensure your graphs and charts are easily read. Use clear labels, appropriate color contrasts, and consistent scales. Avoid clutter and simplify the design to highlight the most important data points.

Incorporating Annotations and Explanations

Add annotations or callouts to your graphs to emphasize key findings. Explain the significance of each data point to guide your audience’s understanding. Utilize visual cues, such as arrows and labels, to direct attention.

Engaging your audience is a fundamental skill for a successful presentation for conference. Captivate their attention, encourage participation, and foster a positive connection.

Establishing Eye Contact and Body Language

Maintain eye contact with different audience parts to create a sense of connection. Effective body language, such as confident posture and expressive gestures, enhances your presence on stage.

Encouraging Participation and Interaction

Involve your audience through questions, polls, or interactive activities. Encourage them to share their thoughts or experiences related to your topic. This engagement fosters a more dynamic and memorable presentation.

Using Humor and Engaging Stories

Incorporate humor and relatable anecdotes to make your presentation more enjoyable. Well-timed jokes or personal stories can create a rapport with your audience and make your content more memorable.

The design of your conference presentation slides plays a crucial role in capturing and retaining your audience’s attention. Thoughtful design can amplify your message and reinforce key points. Take a look at these suggestions to boost the performance of your conference presentation slides, or create an entire slide deck in minutes by using SlideModel’s AI Presentation Maker from text .

Creating Memorable Opening Slides

Craft an opening slide that piques the audience’s curiosity and sets the tone for your presentation. Use an engaging visual, thought-provoking quote, or intriguing question to grab their attention from the start.

Using Visual Hierarchy for Emphasis

Employ visual hierarchy to guide your audience’s focus. Highlight key points with larger fonts, bold colors, or strategic placement. Organize information logically to enhance comprehension.

Designing a Powerful Closing Slide

End your presentation with a compelling closing slide that reinforces your main message. Summarize your key points, offer a memorable takeaway, or invite the audience to take action. Use visuals that resonate and leave a lasting impression.

Slide transitions and animations can enhance the flow of your presentation and emphasize important content. However, their use requires careful consideration to avoid distractions or confusion.

Enhancing Flow with Transitions

Select slide transitions that smoothly guide the audience from one point to the next. Avoid overly flashy transitions that detract from your content. Choose options that enhance, rather than disrupt, the presentation’s rhythm.

Using Animation to Highlight Points

Animate elements on your slides to draw attention to specific information. Animate text, images, or graphs to appear as you discuss them, helping the audience follow your narrative more effectively.

Avoiding Overuse of Effects

While animation can be engaging, avoid excessive use that might overwhelm or distract the audience. Maintain a balance between animated elements and static content for a polished presentation.

Effective time management is crucial for delivering a concise and impactful conference presentation within the allocated time frame.

Structuring for Short vs. Long Presentations

Adapt your content and pacing based on the duration of your presentation. Clearly outline the main points for shorter talks, and delve into more depth for longer sessions. Ensure your message aligns with the time available.

Prioritizing Key Information

Identify the core information you want your audience to take away. Focus on conveying these essential points, and be prepared to trim or elaborate on supporting details based on the available time.

Practicing Time Management

Rehearse your presentation while timing yourself to ensure you stay within the allocated time. Adjust your delivery speed to match your time limit, allowing for smooth transitions and adequate Q&A time.

Multimedia elements, such as videos, audio clips, and live demonstrations, can enrich your presentation and provide a dynamic experience for your audience.

Integrating Videos and Audio Clips

Use videos and audio clips strategically to reinforce your points or provide real-world examples. Ensure that the multimedia content is of high quality and directly supports your narrative.

Showcasing Live Demonstrations

Live demonstrations can engage the audience by showcasing practical applications of your topic. Practice the demonstration beforehand to ensure it runs smoothly and aligns with your message.

Using Hyperlinks for Additional Resources

Incorporate hyperlinks into your presentation to direct the audience to additional resources, references, or related content. This allows interested attendees to explore the topic further after the presentation.

Engaging with your audience after your presentation can extend the impact of your talk and foster valuable connections.

Leveraging Post-Presentation Materials

Make your presentation slides and related materials available to attendees after the event. Share them through email, a website, or a conference platform, allowing interested individuals to review the content.

Sharing Slides and Handouts

Provide downloadable versions of your slides and any handouts you used during the presentation. This helps attendees revisit key points and share the information with colleagues.

Networking and Following Up

Utilize networking opportunities during and after the conference to connect with attendees who are interested in your topic. Exchange contact information and follow up with personalized messages to continue the conversation.

Preparing for unexpected challenges during your presenting at a conference can help you maintain professionalism and composure, ensuring a seamless delivery.

Dealing with Technical Glitches

Technical issues can occur, from projector malfunctions to software crashes. Stay calm and have a backup plan, such as having your slides available on multiple devices or using printed handouts.

Handling Unexpected Interruptions

Interruptions, such as questions from the audience or unforeseen disruptions, are a normal part of live presentations. Address them politely, stay adaptable, and seamlessly return to your prepared content.

Staying Calm and Professional

Maintain a composed demeanor regardless of unexpected situations. Your ability to handle challenges gracefully reflects your professionalism and dedication to delivering a successful presentation.

Creating environmentally friendly presentations demonstrates your commitment to sustainability and responsible practices.

Designing Eco-Friendly Slides

Minimize the use of resources by designing slides with efficient layouts, avoiding unnecessary graphics or animations, and using eco-friendly color schemes.

Reducing Paper and Material Waste

Promote a paperless approach by encouraging attendees to access digital materials rather than printing handouts. If print materials are necessary, consider using recycled paper.

Promoting Sustainable Practices

Advocate for sustainability during your presentation by discussing relevant initiatives, practices, or innovations that align with environmentally conscious values.

Measuring the success of your conference presentation goes beyond the applause and immediate feedback. It involves assessing the impact of your presentation on your audience, goals, and growth as a presenter.

Collecting Audience Feedback

After presenting at a conference, gather feedback from attendees. Provide feedback forms or online surveys to capture their thoughts on the content, delivery, and visuals. Analyzing their feedback can reveal areas for improvement and give insights into audience preferences.

Evaluating Key Performance Metrics

Consider objective metrics such as audience engagement, participation, and post-presentation interactions. Did attendees ask questions? Did your content spark discussions? Tracking these metrics can help you gauge the effectiveness of your presentation in conveying your message.

Continuous Improvement Strategies

Use the feedback and insights gathered to enhance your future presentations. Identify strengths to build upon and weaknesses to address. Continuously refine your presentation skills , design choices, and content to create even more impactful presentations in the future.

Tip #1 – Exhibit a single idea per slide

Just one slide per concept, avoiding large text blocks. If you can compile the idea with an image, it’s better that way.

Research shows that people’s attention span is limited ; therefore, redirect your efforts in what concerns presentation slides so your ideas become crystal clear for the spectators.

Tip #2 – Avoid jargon whenever possible

Using complex terms does not directly imply you fully understand the concept you are about to discuss. In spite of your work being presented to a knowledgeable audience, avoid jargon as much as possible because you run the risk of people not understanding what you are saying.

Instead, opt to rehearse your presentation in front of a not-knowledgeable audience to measure the jargon volume you are adding to it. Technical terms are obviously expected in a conference situation, but archaic terms or purely jargon can be easily trimmed this way.

Tip #3 – Replace bulleted listings with structured layouts or diagrams

Bullet points are attention grabbers for the audience. People tend to instantly check what’s written in them, in contrast to waiting for you to introduce the point itself.

Using bullet points as a way to expose elements of your presentation should be restricted. Opt for limiting the bullet points to non-avoidable facts to list or crucial information.

Tip #4 – Customize presentation templates

Using presentation templates is a great idea to save time in design decisions. These pre-made slide decks are entirely customizable; however, many users fall into using them as they come, exposing themselves to design inconsistencies (especially with images) or that another presenter had the same idea (it is extremely rare, but it can happen).

Learning how to properly change color themes in PowerPoint is an advantageous asset. We also recommend you use your own images or royalty-free images selected by you rather than sticking to the ones included in a template.

Tip #5 – Displaying charts

Graphs and charts comprise around 80% of the information in most business and academic conferences. Since data visualization is important, avoid common pitfalls such as using 3D effects in bar charts. Depending on the audience’s point of view, those 3D effects can make the data hard to read or get an accurate interpretation of what it represents.

using 2D graphics to show relevant data in conference presentation slides

Tip #6 – Using images in the background

Use some of the images you were planning to expose as background for the slides – again, not all of them but relevant slides.

Be careful when placing text above the slides if they have a background image, as accessibility problems may arise due to contrast. Instead, apply an extra color layer above the image with reduced opacity – black or white, depending on the image and text requirements. This makes the text more legible for the audience, and you can use your images without any inconvenience.

Tip #7 – Embrace negative space

Negative space is a concept seen in design situations. If we consider positive space as the designed area, meaning the objects, shapes, etc., that are “your design,” negative space can be defined as the surrounding area. If we work on a white canvas, negative space is the remaining white area surrounding your design.

The main advantage of using negative space appropriately is to let your designs breathe. Stuffing charts, images and text makes it hard to get a proper understanding of what’s going on in the slide. Apply the “less is more” motto to your conference presentation slides, and embrace negative space as your new design asset.

Tip #8 – Use correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation

You would be surprised to see how many typos can be seen in slides at professional gatherings. Whereas typos can often pass by as a humor-relief moment, grammatical or awful spelling mistakes make you look unprofessional.

Take 5 extra minutes before submitting your slide deck to proofread the grammar, spelling, and punctuation. If in doubt, browse dictionaries for complex technical words.

Tip #10 – Use an appropriate presentation style

The format of the conference will undoubtedly require its own presentation style. By this we mean that it is different from delivering a conference presentation in front of a live audience as a webinar conference. The interaction with the audience is different, the demands for the Q&A session will be different, and also during webinars the audience is closely looking at your slides.

Tip #11 – Control your speaking tone

Another huge mistake when delivering a conference presentation is to speak with a monotonous tone. The message you transmit to your attendees is that you simply do not care about your work. If you believe you fall into this category, get feedback from others: try pitching to them, and afterward, consider how you talk.

Practicing breathing exercises can help to articulate your speech skills, especially if anxiety hinders your presentation performance.

Tip #12 – On eye contact and note reading

In order to connect with your audience, it is imperative to make eye contact. Not stare, but look at your spectators from time to time as the talk is directed at them.

If you struggle on this point, a good tip we can provide is to act like you’re looking at your viewers. Pick a good point a few centimeters above your viewer and direct your speech there. They will believe you are communicating directly with them. Shift your head slightly on the upcoming slide or bullet and choose a new location.

Regarding note reading, while it is an acceptable practice to check your notes, do not make the entire talk a lecture in which you simply read your notes to the audience. This goes hand-by-hand with the speaking tone in terms of demonstrating interest in the work you do. Practice as often as you need before the event to avoid constantly reading your notes. Reading a paragraph or two is okay, but not the entire presentation.

Tip #13 – Be ready for the Q&A session

Despite it being a requirement in most conference events, not all presenters get ready for the Q&A session. It is a part of the conference presentation itself, so you should pace your speech to give enough time for the audience to ask 1-3 questions and get a proper answer.

Don’t be lengthy or overbearing in replying to each question, as you may run out of time. It is preferable to give a general opinion and then reach the interested person with your contact information to discuss the topic in detail.

Observing what others do at conference events is good practice for learning a tip or two for improving your own work. As we have seen throughout this article, conference presentation slides have specific requirements to become a tool in your presentation rather than a mixture of information without order.

Employ these tips and suggestions to craft your upcoming conference presentation without any hurdles. Best of luck!

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10 Rules for Paper Presentation in Conference

Are you gearing up for a conference presentation? If so, then navigating the world of academic conferences can be a daunting task, but fear not, as we unveil the key to a stellar performance: 10 rules for paper presentation in conference.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential principles that will not only boost your confidence but also ensure your research leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re a seasoned presenter or new to the conference scene, these rules are your roadmap to success.

From crafting compelling visuals to mastering the art of engaging your audience, we’ve got you covered. Join us on this journey as we unravel the secrets to delivering a conference presentation that captivates, educates, and inspires.

What Does the Paper Presentation Mean?

Paper presentation is a vital aspect of academic and professional communication. It serves as a means to spread research findings, innovative ideas, and valuable insights to a diverse audience. These conference paper presentations play a crucial role in conference on arts and education by exchanging knowledge and scholarly discourses.

A Brief Overview of the Concept of Paper Presentation

Effective paper presentations require clear articulation of research objectives, methodologies, and results. Engaging visuals, concise messaging, and audience interaction are crucial elements in conveying complex information. Presenters must also navigate challenges such as time constraints, technical issues, and audience questions gracefully to ensure a successful delivery.

Conference paper presentations often serve as a platform to showcase expertise, establish professional networks, and garner feedback for future research endeavors. Whether in an academic setting or an industry conference, mastering the art of paper presentation is a skill that can significantly impact one’s career and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in various fields.

Types of Paper Presentations

Paper presentations come in various formats, each tailored to specific goals and audiences. These diverse types of presentations are vital in academic and professional settings, serving as vehicles for sharing research findings, ideas, and insights. Here’s a brief overview of some common types:

Oral Presentations

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Poster Presentations

In this format, presenters use posters to visually represent their research. Poster sessions offer a more informal setting for one-on-one discussions and are common at academic conferences. They provide a chance to showcase research in a concise and visually engaging manner.

Panel Discussions

Panel presentations involve a group of experts discussing a specific topic or issue. Each panelist shares insights, providing multiple perspectives and fostering in-depth exploration of the subject. Panel discussions are valuable for presenting a well-rounded view of complex topics.

Lightning Talks

Lightning talks are brief, typically 5-10 minute presentations designed to provide quick overviews of research projects or ideas. They are concise and often used to introduce a topic or concept swiftly, making them ideal for conveying key points in a short timeframe.

Symposia are organized sessions that bring together multiple presenters to address a broader theme or research area. They usually consist of several related presentations and discussions, offering attendees a comprehensive exploration of the symposium’s overarching topic.

Workshops are interactive sessions where presenters engage the audience in hands-on activities, skill-building exercises, or collaborative problem-solving. They offer a more immersive learning experience, allowing participants to actively engage with the material presented.

Presenting your research at conferences is a vital opportunity, and the ’10 Rules for Paper Presentation in Conference’ can help you excel. These rules cover key aspects to make your presentations more effective and impactful.

1. Know Your Audience

Understanding your audience’s background, interests, and expertise allows you to tailor your presentation to their specific needs. It enables you to choose the most relevant examples, terminology, and delivery style that will resonate with your audience, fostering a deeper connection and engagement.

2. Craft a Clear Message

A well-structured presentation in a conference with a clear message not only helps your audience follow your research effortlessly but also ensures that they leave with a strong understanding of your key findings. Use a logical flow and a narrative structure that guides them from the problem to the solution, making it easy to absorb complex information.

3. Engage with Compelling Visuals

Utilizing compelling visuals, such as charts, graphs, and images, not only enhances comprehension but also keeps your audience engaged and interested. Well-designed visuals can simplify complex concepts and make your presentation more memorable.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice

Thorough rehearsal is essential to boost your confidence, minimize anxiety, and ensure a polished delivery. It allows you to refine your timing, pacing, and transitions, making your presentation smooth and engaging. Practice in front of peers or mentors to receive constructive feedback.

5. Manage Your Time Wisely

Staying within your allotted presentation time is vital to maintain audience interest and accommodate questions and discussions. Allocate time for each section of your presentation, including a buffer for potential delays, to ensure a smooth and controlled delivery.

6. Dress and Act Professionally

Professional attire and confident body language create a positive impression, helping you establish credibility and captivate your audience. Maintain eye contact, use gestures purposefully, and exhibit enthusiasm for your topic.

7. Connect with Your Audience

Engaging with your audience through eye contact, relatable anecdotes, and interactive elements fosters a stronger connection and enhances understanding. Encourage questions and participation to create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.

8. Handle Questions with Grace

Effective handling of questions, whether expected or unexpected, demonstrates your expertise and keeps the audience engaged. Be polite, concise, and confident in your responses, and use questions as an opportunity to further emphasize your key points.

9. Rehearse the Q&A Session

Preparation for the Q&A segment is essential. Anticipate potential questions and practice your responses to ensure a smooth and informative discussion. Prepare concise and insightful answers that provide added value to your presentation.

10. Seek Feedback and Continuous Improvement

Gathering feedback from peers and mentors is essential for refining your presentation skills. Act on constructive criticism to improve your future presentations, ensuring that each one is better than the last and aligns more closely with your goals and audience expectations.

With these 10 rules, you can confidently navigate the world of conference presentations, captivate your audience, and make a significant impact with your research.

Why Is Paper Presentation Important at A Conference?

They serve as a vital medium for knowledge dissemination, allowing researchers to share their findings, insights, and innovations with a diverse and knowledgeable audience. This dissemination fosters the exchange of ideas and facilitates collaboration, potentially leading to advancements in various fields of study.

Why is Paper Presentation Importants at a Conferences

Paper presentations offer a platform for constructive critique and feedback, enabling presenters to refine their research and ideas. Engaging with fellow experts and peers during the Q&A sessions and discussions promotes critical thinking and enhances the quality of research work.

Conference paper presentations contribute significantly to one’s professional development. They provide opportunities to showcase expertise, gain recognition, and establish a presence in a particular field. Additionally, the networking opportunities that conferences offer can lead to valuable collaborations and career-enhancing connections.

The importance of paper presentations at conferences lies in their role as a conduit for the dissemination of knowledge, a forum for constructive engagement, and a catalyst for professional growth and recognition within the academic and professional communities.

Bottom Line

The ’10 Rules for Paper Presentation in Conference’ offer essential guidance for successful presentations. These rules help you connect with your audience, communicate your research effectively, and leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a seasoned presenter or new to conferences, these rules serve as valuable tools for success.

Paper presentations are key in sharing knowledge, receiving feedback, and building your professional network. They bridge the gap between researchers and their audience, fostering collaboration and idea exchange.

So, as you prepare for your next conference, keep these rules in mind. They will empower you to deliver impactful presentations, connect with your audience, and make a meaningful contribution to your field.

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The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Conference Papers

What this handout is about.

This handout outlines strategies for writing and presenting papers for academic conferences.

What’s special about conference papers?

Conference papers can be an effective way to try out new ideas, introduce your work to colleagues, and hone your research questions. Presenting at a conference is a great opportunity for gaining valuable feedback from a community of scholars and for increasing your professional stature in your field.

A conference paper is often both a written document and an oral presentation. You may be asked to submit a copy of your paper to a commentator before you present at the conference. Thus, your paper should follow the conventions for academic papers and oral presentations.

Preparing to write your conference paper

There are several factors to consider as you get started on your conference paper.

Determine the structure and style

How will you structure your presentation? This is an important question, because your presentation format will shape your written document. Some possibilities for your session include:

A visual presentation, including software such as PowerPoint or Prezi
A paper that you read aloud
A roundtable discussion

Presentations can be a combination of these styles. For example, you might read a paper aloud while displaying images. Following your paper, you might participate in an informal conversation with your fellow presenters.

You will also need to know how long your paper should be. Presentations are usually 15-20 minutes. A general rule of thumb is that one double-spaced page takes 2-2.5 minutes to read out loud. Thus an 8-10 page, double-spaced paper is often a good fit for a 15-20 minute presentation. Adhere to the time limit. Make sure that your written paper conforms to the presentation constraints.

Consider the conventions of the conference and the structure of your session

It is important to meet the expectations of your conference audience. Have you been to an academic conference previously? How were presentations structured? What kinds of presentations did you find most effective? What do you know about the particular conference you are planning to attend? Some professional organizations have their own rules and suggestions for writing and presenting for their conferences. Make sure to find out what they are and stick to them.

If you proposed a panel with other scholars, then you should already have a good idea of your panel’s expectations. However, if you submitted your paper individually and the conference organizers placed it on a panel with other papers, you will need additional information.

Will there be a commentator? Commentators, also called respondents or discussants, can be great additions to panels, since their job is to pull the papers together and pose questions. If there will be a commentator, be sure to know when they would like to have a copy of your paper. Observe this deadline.

You may also want to find out what your fellow presenters will be talking about. Will you circulate your papers among the other panelists prior to the conference? Will your papers address common themes? Will you discuss intersections with each other’s work after your individual presentations? How collaborative do you want your panel to be?

Analyze your audience

Knowing your audience is critical for any writing assignment, but conference papers are special because you will be physically interacting with them. Take a look at our handout on audience . Anticipating the needs of your listeners will help you write a conference paper that connects your specific research to their broader concerns in a compelling way.

What are the concerns of the conference?

You can identify these by revisiting the call for proposals and reviewing the mission statement or theme of the conference. What key words or concepts are repeated? How does your work relate to these larger research questions? If you choose to orient your paper toward one of these themes, make sure there is a genuine relationship. Superficial use of key terms can weaken your paper.

What are the primary concerns of the field?

How do you bridge the gap between your research and your field’s broader concerns? Finding these linkages is part of the brainstorming process. See our handout on brainstorming . If you are presenting at a conference that is within your primary field, you should be familiar with leading concerns and questions. If you will be attending an interdisciplinary conference or a conference outside of your field, or if you simply need to refresh your knowledge of what’s current in your discipline, you can:

Read recently published journals and books, including recent publications by the conference’s featured speakers
Talk to people who have been to the conference
Pay attention to questions about theory and method. What questions come up in the literature? What foundational texts should you be familiar with?
Review the initial research questions that inspired your project. Think about the big questions in the secondary literature of your field.
Try a free-writing exercise. Imagine that you are explaining your project to someone who is in your department, but is unfamiliar with your specific topic. What can you assume they already know? Where will you need to start in your explanation? How will you establish common ground?

Contextualizing your narrow research question within larger trends in the field will help you connect with your audience. You might be really excited about a previously unknown nineteenth-century poet. But will your topic engage others? You don’t want people to leave your presentation, thinking, “What was the point of that?” By carefully analyzing your audience and considering the concerns of the conference and the field, you can present a paper that will have your listeners thinking, “Wow! Why haven’t I heard about that obscure poet before? She is really important for understanding developments in Romantic poetry in the 1800s!”

Writing your conference paper

I have a really great research paper/manuscript/dissertation chapter on this same topic. Should I cut and paste?

Be careful here. Time constraints and the needs of your audience may require a tightly focused and limited message. To create a paper tailored to the conference, you might want to set everything aside and create a brand new document. Don’t worry—you will still have that paper, manuscript, or chapter if you need it. But you will also benefit from taking a fresh look at your research.

Citing sources

Since your conference paper will be part of an oral presentation, there are special considerations for citations. You should observe the conventions of your discipline with regard to including citations in your written paper. However, you will also need to incorporate verbal cues to set your evidence and quotations off from your text when presenting. For example, you can say: “As Nietzsche said, quote, ‘And if you gaze for long into an abyss, the abyss also gazes into you,’ end quote.” If you use multiple quotations in your paper, think about omitting the terms “quote” and “end quote,” as these can become repetitive. Instead, signal quotations through the inflection of your voice or with strategic pauses.

Organizing the paper

There are numerous ways to effectively organize your conference paper, but remember to have a focused message that fits the time constraints and meets the needs of your audience. You can begin by connecting your research to the audience’s concerns, then share a few examples/case studies from your research, and then, in conclusion, broaden the discussion back out to general issues in the field.

Don’t overwhelm or confuse your audience

You should limit the information that you present. Don’t attempt to summarize your entire dissertation in 10 pages. Instead, try selecting main points and provide examples to support those points. Alternatively, you might focus on one main idea or case study and use 2-4 examples to explain it.

Check for clarity in the text

One way to anticipate how your ideas will sound is to read your paper out loud. Reading out loud is an excellent proofreading technique and is a great way to check the clarity of your ideas; you are likely to hear problems that you didn’t notice in just scanning your draft. Help listeners understand your ideas by making sure that subjects and verbs are clear and by avoiding unnecessarily complex sentences.

Include verbal cues in the text

Make liberal use of transitional phrases like however, therefore, and thus, as well as signpost words like first, next, etc.

If you have 5 main points, say so at the beginning and list those 5 ideas. Refer back to this structure frequently as you transition between sections (“Now, I will discuss my fourth point, the importance of plasma”).

Use a phrase like “I argue” to announce your thesis statement. Be sure that there is only one of these phrases—otherwise your audience will be confused about your central message.

Refer back to the structure, and signal moments where you are transitioning to a new topic: “I just talked about x, now I’m going to talk about y.”

I’ve written my conference paper, now what?

Now that you’ve drafted your conference paper, it’s time for the most important part—delivering it before an audience of scholars in your field! Remember that writing the paper is only one half of what a conference paper entails. It is both a written text and a presentation.

With preparation, your presentation will be a success. Here are a few tips for an effective presentation. You can also see our handout on speeches .

Cues to yourself

Include helpful hints in your personal copy of the paper. You can remind yourself to pause, look up and make eye contact with your audience, or employ body language to enhance your message. If you are using a slideshow, you can indicate when to change slides. Increasing the font size to 14-16 pt. can make your paper easier to read.

Practice, practice, practice

When you practice, time yourself. Are you reading too fast? Are you enunciating clearly? Do you know how to pronounce all of the words in your paper? Record your talk and critically listen to yourself. Practice in front of friends and colleagues.

If you are using technology, familiarize yourself with it. Check and double-check your images. Remember, they are part of your presentation and should be proofread just like your paper. Print a backup copy of your images and paper, and bring copies of your materials in multiple formats, just in case. Be sure to check with the conference organizers about available technology.

Professionalism

The written text is only one aspect of the overall conference paper. The other is your presentation. This means that your audience will evaluate both your work and you! So remember to convey the appropriate level of professionalism.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Adler, Abby. 2010. “Talking the Talk: Tips on Giving a Successful Conference Presentation.” Psychological Science Agenda 24 (4).

Kerber, Linda K. 2008. “Conference Rules: How to Present a Scholarly Paper.” The Chronicle of Higher Education , March 21, 2008. https://www.chronicle.com/article/Conference-Rules-How-to/45734 .

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Guidelines for Presenters

This page contains information for scholars presenting papers at IAMCR Annual Conferences. Please remember these are suggested guidelines intended to be helpful on a voluntary basis; they are not strict rules and practices may vary among the various sections and working groups.

IAMCR does not have association-wide guidelines regarding paper style or length. If you have questions regarding style or length, you are encouraged to contact the heads of the section or working group where you will be presenting.

The majority of IAMCR scholarly presentations take place in Paper Presentation Sessions. However, we encourage alternative formats to facilitate scholarly exchange. For more information on the different types of sessions at IAMCR conferences, please see the Types of submissions for IAMCR conferences. You may also wish to consult the page on submission review processes and criteria .

Academic Standards for Presenters

IAMCR strives to hold high academic standards for its conference, while also encouraging both established and new scholars to present new ideas and new works. Individual scholars are encouraged to attend sessions organized by different Sections and Working Groups to help build and grow ideas and make connections with other scholars.

Individuals may submit 1 paper per Section or Working Group as lead author, and a maximum of 2 papers to a single IAMCR conference in general. Presenters are expected to bring fully developed work to the conference. Prior to the conference, it is expected that a completed paper will be submitted to Section, Working Group, Session Chairs, and/or Discussants. This is especially important for panels with discussants. A developed work typically includes an introduction with a problem statement, a review of relevant literature, analysis, conclusion, and references.

Preparing a Paper Presentation

Most paper presentations are 10-12 minutes in length, although some sessions—such as high intensity sessions—have presentations 5-7 minutes in length. Session chairs should inform presenters of the session type and length of presentations. Because presentation time is limited, scholars should not expect to read their papers in full. Instead presenters are encouraged to talk about their work (i.e. work from an outline) and describe it, with the aim of encouraging audience members to seek a copy to read or to have a discussion with the presenter after the session.

If a presenter wishes to read from a short presentation script, here are some rough guidelines. For presenters reading scripts: 300 words of typed text takes about 2 minutes to read. Also, presenters should look up every so often to make eye contact with the audience and especially with the session chair who will be giving time signals during the presenter’s allotted time.

For individuals whose native language is not one of the three official IAMCR languages, or who are programmed into a panel where they will not be presenting in their native language, it can be helpful to prepare a short abstract written in one of the official languages, to communicate the key ideas of the presentation. It can also be useful to employ a PowerPoint presentation to present the key ideas in the language best understood by most of the anticipated audience, emphasizing research questions, methods used, summary of main findings, and discussion (See also the Scholarly Review Committee’s Note on Language ).

Things to Remember

Going over the time limit only prevents further discussion (it cuts into the session's time, which cannot be extended), and is disrespectful to the other presenters and the audience.
Session chairs are encouraged to be strict with time. Presenters will be interrupted and stopped by the session chair if they do not keep to their allotted time.
Technology should be used appropriately: technology should enhance a presentation, not be the presentation. Presenters should account for the setup of technology in the presentation time limit, or should set up before the session begins.
Presenters should usually avoid telling the audience too much biographical information - this cuts into the time allotted to the presentation and the content of the paper. Also, it is understood that presentations are based upon larger works (full papers, book projects, dissertations, etc.) and that they will not capture all of the nuances of the author's ideas. It is therefore unnecessary for presenters to inform the audience of how difficult it is to condense ideas into 12-15 minutes, since most audience members are also scholars and already understand that preparing a presentation is a difficult task. There are many opportunities for authors to talk about their work after the session with interested individuals.
It is often helpful for presenters to have hard copies of their papers available to distribute to interested audience members.

Preparing a Poster Presentation

An effective poster presentation functions in a similar fashion to a traditional paper presentation: it serves to promote scholars' work and stimulate scholarly discussion. A poster should concisely present the major points of the author's research and should also provide information on how one might contact the author. Because a poster session will contain many poster presentations, it is important for scholars to have a poster that is easy to read, and that can facilitate discussion about the research project.

A poster should take approximately 5 minutes for a viewer to read. The amount of text should be limited, and the language on the poster should be simplified and clear. Photographs, charts, graphs, and tables should be used when possible. The font of the poster should be larger - it should be legible from about 4-6 feet away (usually, this is a font size of 18-24 in a font such as Arial or Helvetica).

Posters should contain the major components of an article. Conventional sections in a poster include an abstract, introduction (which will include objectives & hypotheses), methodology, results, conclusion, and contact information.

Although it is tempting to put more information on a poster, too much information can become confusing for viewers and distract them from further inquiry into the research project.
Presenters are responsible for providing their own push-pins.

Commitment to Present (No Show/Cancellation Standards)

If a paper proposal is accepted for presentation to an IAMCR conference, the author (or at least one of the authors for a multi-authored paper) is expected to attend.

It is understood that the availability of travel funding is not always known to scholars before annual deadlines for IAMCR proposal submissions, which are typically in February. For this reason, scholars who submit a proposal and have it accepted sometimes cannot or do not attend the conference.

Nevertheless, on submitting papers to IAMCR, authors must agree that if their paper is accepted for presentation, but they are unable to attend the conference, they will immediately inform the heads of the respective Section or Working Group. Failure to do so can result in being barred from participation in future IAMCR conferences.

Presenters who do not appear to present their paper and do not inform the heads of the section or working group can cause considerable disarray, lowering the quality of panel sessions and conferences as a whole and impacting negatively on their relationships with other scholars.

Papers accepted for presentation at IAMCR conference are accepted for presentation by their authors. If the authors are unable to attend, IAMCR's policy is that the papers will NOT be presented. We do not allow papers to be presented by anyone who is not the author.

The pages in this section of the website contain some resources for IAMCR participants and for heads of sections and working groups as they prepare for the conference.

Session Types at IAMCR Conferences describes the two main types of sessions (Paper Presentation Session and Basic Panel Session) as well as a number of alternative session types that heads or participants might want to employ.
Submission Review describes the different types of review processes used by IAMCR's sections and working groups as well as the criteria that are most often used to evaluate proposals.
Guidelines for Presenters provides some suggested guidelines for scholars presenting papers at IAMCR conferences. These are suggested guidelines intended to be helpful on a voluntary basis; they are not strict rules and practices may vary among the various sections and working groups.
Tips for Session Chairs & Discussants offers ideas for how session chairs and discussants can ensure that sessions run smoothly, highlight scholarship, and encourage discussion.

APA Style 7th Edition: Citing Your Sources

Basics of APA Formatting
In Text Quick View
Block Quotes
Books & eBooks
Thesis/Dissertation
Audiovisual
Conference Presentations

Standard Format

Formatting rules, various examples.

Social Media
Legal References
Reports and Gray Literature
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism
Additional Resources
Reference Page

Adapted from American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000

Date should match the date(s) of the full conference
Conference Proceedings published in journal or book should follow the same format for a journal or edited book chapter

See Ch. 10 pp. 313-352 of APA Manual for more examples and formatting rules

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Last Updated: Apr 22, 2024 9:37 AM
URL: https://libguides.usc.edu/APA7th

Getting Started
Best Practices

9 Presentation Rules to Resonate

September 17, 2020

What are the best presentation rules, you may ask. In her book, Resonate, Nancy Durante talks about how to give compelling presentations. She provides rules for elevating a presentation through storytelling.

When I think about the people I find to be compelling and excellent presenters, the common thread is that they are all effective storytellers.

Read my book review of Nancy Duarte's book, slide:ology

slide:ology Book Review

You’re initial response could be, I sell air conditioners. It’s about facts not a fluffy fictional story about traipsing through the woods.

Hold on – these presentation rules are not about creating a fictionalized version of the important information and message you are conveying.

Remember there are a number of ways to tell a story. Think about a successful sales pitch or an impassioned plea for a cause or even a really good stand-up comedy show.

They all involve a good story. But the stories vary according to the context of the presentation.

A good story is about resonating with your audience. Durante provides nine presentation rules every public speaker should use to successfully resonate with the audience and evoke change or action.

Resonance causes change.

Changing your stance from that of the hero to one of wise storyteller will connect the audience to your idea, and an audience connected to your idea will change.

For many of us, when we present, we make it about ourselves. How often is your first slide or first words to the audience an introduction about who you are.

If you think about it, most people in your audience already know who you are. They’ve read your bio on the program guide or on your website (or wherever else you have a bio posted).

Focusing on yourself is a waste of precious time – yours and the audience.

Yours because it is less time to convey your message.
Yours because by the time you are done introducing yourself, you’ve already lost the audience’s interest.
The audience’s because they are not getting the valuable information you came to share.

It is even worse if you’ve already been introduced by a moderator and you're just repeating what was already said.

Instead focus on the purpose of the presentation and your overall message. Whenever you are speaking to an audience consider yourself as a mentor and not the center of attention. Avoid breaking this presentation rule. You can always talk about yourself later in the presentation.

Incorporating story into presentations has an exponential effect on outcomes.

Once a presentation is put into a story form, it has structure, creates an imbalance the audience wants to see resolved, and identifies a clear gap that the audience can fill.

If you are used to focusing on facts and figures, it can be hard to think there is a story to be told. However, this presentation rule can be a game changer as it can help you hone in on what is important to convey.

When you start considering this approach, think in terms of the traditional story arc – beginning, middle, and end. How can your message or story begin, what is important to convey in the middle, and how should it end?

Think about alternative ways you can convey facts and figures. Does it have to be a pie chart or a data table? Can you draw ideas from data visualization methods? What is the single most important fact or figure and what kind of story can you build around it?

If a presenter knows the audience’s resonant frequency and tunes to that, the audience will move.

When an audience gathers, they have given you their time, which is a precious slice of their lives. It’s your job to have them feel that the time they spent with you brought value to their lives.

Remember the presentation isn’t about you; it is about what value you can bring to the people who are there to listen to you. Once you make the flip in perception, you are able to tune into/connect with the audience in a way that can’t happen if you are only focused on yourself.

When you speak as if you actually know the individuals in the audience, it takes the experience for you and the audience to a different level. The attendees will walk away thinking you were reading their mind and you will feel as if you’ve given value to those who listened.

Take a moment to consider the potential impact of this presentation rule.

How do you get to know your audience? Ask the program coordinator/planner about who is being invited. If this is for a conference, get a good idea of the people attending from the description of the conference as well as talking with your contact person.

Every audience will persist in a state of rest unless compelled to change.

Make sure the benefit is clear to [the audience]. You’re persuading them to change, and there has to be something in it for them, their organization, or mankind to make it worthwhile.

Changing someone’s perspective is never easy or automatic. You have to be able to convey, with the utmost clarity, your message, why it is important, and the benefits of adopting it.

Sometimes speakers get stuck on just the big picture. However, most people are not big picture thinkers or are unable to see a perspective from the 30,000 foot view. Staying at this level disconnects you from the majority of the audience.

Other speakers get too bogged down in the details of an idea like exact processes and procedures for the suggested change. This becomes information overload and boring for those attending.

You also run the risk of several participants taking the ‘but wait, my situation is just a little bit different and that won’t work for me/us’ stance and creating more resistance. When you're bogged down in the details it is very hard to address the differences of those attending.

This presentation rule promotes that the best approach is start with the big picture and then address specific questions or pain points the audience may have. You won’t address everything, but you should be able to address the most common.

Also, remember to stay focused on the overall message and how it will help those attending.

Use the big idea to filter out all frequencies other than the resonant frequency.

Keep a stranglehold on the one big idea you need to convey and be relentless about building content that supports that one idea.

Staying focused on your one idea or message is the key presentation rule to staying connected to your audience and ensuring you are moving them to take action.

With most big ideas there are many ways to address it or achieve an outcome. Resist the temptation to include all possible avenues or actions the audience can make. This makes you look unorganized, unprofessional, and less than an expert.

You may worry that the audience sees you as one dimensional because you are not presenting multiple ideas or actions. The opposite is true. The audience will see you as focused, clear, and articulate. They will understand your message and it is easier for you to move them to change and take action.

Structure is greater than the sum of its parts.

Solid structure causes ideas to flow logically and helps the audience see how the points connect to each other.

You’ve probably heard the saying death by PowerPoint. More often than not this occurs because the presentation had no structure and the person presenting mostly dumped idea after idea, fact after fact, onto the slide deck and then just read what is on the slides.

If you don’t apply any of the other presentation rules covered here, use this one always .

A presentation without structure is not a presentation. It just a bunch of ideas and thoughts dumped together. An effective structure allows you to apply the story line arc, focus on your big idea, and identify specific actions the audience can take.

There are a variety of tools you can use to create structure in your presentation. Some of the most common are outlines, storyboarding, mind mapping, and card sorting (one idea on each index card).

Memorable moments are repeated and retransmitted so they cover longer distances.

Captivate your audience by planning a moment in your presentation that gives them something they’ll always remember.

When you attend an event, presentation, or workshop nothing is better than those ‘aha’ moments. Those times when we see a better way or solution or a clearer path to what we need or want to achieve.

For those types of moments, we also tend to think about big name speakers who are talking about huge life changes. Those are not the only times where aha moments can occur or the people who can create them. They can happen with any presenter and audience.

This happens when you really connect with your audience and they clearly see how your idea or message connects to them and how it can make their situation better.

While all of the presentation rules are related and intertwined, this rule relates closely to Rule 3. If you know your audience, you can create memorable, aha moments.

This is because you know and understand their pain points and struggles. You can structure your main message around these and clearly show how your message can eliminate or minimize the pain points or struggles.

Audience interest is directly proportionate to the presenter’s preparation.

Successful people plan and prepare. To be successful in any profession requires discipline and mastery of skills. Applying that same discipline to the skill of communication will attach the audience to your idea and improve your professional trajectory.

Think about a speaker you admire. A person, when presenting, makes it seem effortless and spontaneous and unrehearsed. I can assure you that a ton of preparation and practice went into that speech or presentation. No one who is great presenter was born with that ability. These are learned skills, and anyone can acquire them.

One of my biggest pet peeves are speakers who ignore the presentation rule.

I used to work with a colleague who never prepared for a presentation. He would throw together a horribly designed slide deck and then fumble and stumble his way through it. He never came across as an expert or professional. And I was always amazed how he never connected the dots between his bad presentations and the lack of enthusiasm about his ideas.

I, too, have been known to brush off practicing. BUT, and that is a very large but, I would only do this if I was incredibly familiar with the content and developed a carefully thought out slide deck. If I am honest, though, after those moments were over, I always wished I practiced more.

Your imagination can create a reality. ~James Cameron

You have the opportunity to shape the future through your imagination. Imagining a future where your idea has been implemented will keep you inspired to communicate your idea passionately.

For any of us to move another person to change, we have to have passion for the message or idea we are conveying. To be able to show passion, we need to be able to see or visualize the outcome and benefit. Without that clear picture in your mind’s eye, it is very difficult for you to truly embrace that message or idea.

How do you create a picture or visualization? Create a compelling story with an outcome that shows the benefit (refer back to Rule 2). Telling a compelling story automatically creates a visual for both you and your audience to grasp.

Another way is to write out or talk aloud that future you are imagining. The more detailed you make it, the clearer it is to you. And then easier for you to communicate it to the audience. There are many visualization techniques so you can find one that works best for you.

Even though Nancy Durante used the label of presentation rules, they are really guideposts as you build your presentation skills. In alignment with her overall theme of the book, Resonate, each of these will lead you to being a better presenter both in the structure of your presentation and more importantly, in how you connect to your audience with your message.

Audience engagement versus audience interaction: What’s the difference and why it matters

The first 10 minutes: how to keep your audience hooked, which to choose: live versus pre-recorded masterclass/webinar, 5 proven strategies to gain coaching clients with webinars and masterclasses.

Jennifer Sharkey is known as the Virtual Presentation Specialist. Being passionate about seeing people shine and be heard, she leans into her 20+ years of public speaking experience and uses what she has learned from presenting, both in-person and virtually, to small groups all the way up to 5000 people. Jennifer draws from her experience as an associate professor, academic librarian, and coach to help holistic coaches master virtual presentations to grow their business. Her unique immersive program provides practical strategies and methods to build confidence, engage audiences, and generate authenticity and authority.

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11 Tips for presenting at a conference

How to deliver an effective conference presentation (and beat those presenting nerves).

Presenting at a conference is a core part of scientific communication for any researcher or academic. Finding the right conference with the right audience and successfully communicating your latest findings is a great way to enhance your career prospects and, in turn, learn about the newest developments in your research field.

Before we jump in, an important note on fake conferences. There has been a growth in the number of predatory conferences in recent years, so before you register to attend and present your work at any conference, familiarise yourself with ways to tell a predatory conference from a legitimate one .

Developing a conference presentation is no different to developing any other presentation – you need to be well prepared, consistent throughout and ensure you’re able to resonate with your audience.

One of the biggest challenges in giving a good presentation is managing your nerves. Even the most experienced and respected speakers and performers get a bundle of nerves before they start, so you’re in good company. The good news is that the techniques of an effective presenter can be practised. So how can this be accomplished? Here are 11 tips that will help you give an effective conference presentation.

1. Don’t touch that slide deck just yet

The first thing you need to know about creating an effective conference presentation is not to dive head first into your slides.

It’s hard to beat the feeling of getting an email letting you know that the proposal you worked tirelessly on for a conference has been accepted. Finding out that your work has been well received by a committee can mean a huge amount, especially when you’re driven by your passion for it, like the majority of researchers out there.

So it’s super easy to just start adding slide after slide to your presentation. When I first presented at a conference, we ended up with 40 slides for a 15-minute presentation. And I was lucky enough to be working with some more experienced researchers that reeled in my confusing and inconsistent slides.

Once we started again and made a clear outline first. I simply sketched it out, slide by slide and got back into a flow, but this time it was in a much more controlled manner. Take your time and make a strong outline to keep you on track. Use this checklist to keep you on the right road.

2. Build your presentation within time constraints

Ensuring your timing is right is so important when presenting at a conference. If you have ten minutes to present, prepare ten minutes of material . No more. If you don’t practice your timing, you may not get a chance to highlight your findings and recommendations – the most important part.

In my experience conference organisers are usually quite clear about how much time you have allocated. The best presenters know exactly how much time they have to work with, then they tailor their presentation to fit the time and keep an eye on the time throughout.

And if you are running out of time, stop. Jump past a couple of slides if you need to make one last point.

3. Use visuals to illuminate, not obscure

Images are key elements to any presentation. Whether it’s a pie chart to show percentages, or a strong image to convey a point, visuals can be much more effective than words. They help reinforce or complement the ideas or points you’re trying to get across. Your audience may be able to understand your message a little easier when it’s presented with visuals that relate to it.

But remember to keep your visuals clean and simple. Some of the worst conference presentations I’ve seen are ones with complex imagery that forces the audience to try and figure out how the image and the speaker’s point are related.

4. Aim for simplicity and consistency

Don’t be afraid of using some text and bullet points if you need to make a point that isn’t easy to communicate visually, or if you’re discussing steps or sequences.

But use them to communicate your point to the audience, not as a prompt for what you want to say. That’s what your speaker notes are for. You want your audience to listen to you instead of reading from your slides, so less is more in terms of the text on the slides.

Inconsistency in slides is a subtle thing but can take away from a presentation very easily. While slides with different colours may look nice, they may be distracting to your audience. Use a consistent template with the same fonts to make it easier for your audience to follow along. And remember, your audience will view your conference presentation from a distance, so use large clear fonts and as few words as possible in your slides.

5. Know your research audience

One of the most common mistakes I have seen being made by conference presenters is presenting a roomful of people with information they already have . A great way to make this mistake is spending the majority of your presentation going over the existing literature and giving background information on your work.

Just like when you’re in the audience at a conference, researchers are there to learn about your new and exciting research, not to hear a summary of old work. The worst speakers assume that the audience doesn’t know anything and need educating.

Before you begin speaking to a group, find out what they already know and where they are up to with your topic. It’s not easy to get details on all delegates but you will know the plenary sessions and whoever you have networked with before this. Most conferences use mobile apps now, and these are a great way to get an insight to exactly who is attending the conference and what their speciality topics are from the programme.

This can give you a good idea of how much background you need to give so that your key presentation points will make sense. A good rule of thumb is that if you’re giving a 15-minute presentation, by the 6th minute you should be discussing your data or case study.

6. Rehearse your presentation

I shouldn’t even need to include this on the list, but so many people fail to do enough of this. Rehearsing is crucial to making you feel comfortable with every word you are going to say. Rehearse your paper aloud in private and in front of a friend. This can feel a bit embarrassing, but reading it through in your head never corresponds to the time it takes to read it aloud in public. The more times you say the words aloud, the more you will be familiar with it. And if you are familiar with what you’re saying, your confidence in your conference presentation will increase.

When I’m practising for a conference presenting slot, I rehearse out loud in my bedroom. It feels strange but it works. If you’re feeling self-conscious about this (or don’t want your housemates to overhear) you could play some music at the same time.

Another strategy that works well is recording yourself . This lets you see where you’re doing well and where you need to improve. And if being recorded makes you feel under pressure, this helps mimic the actual feelings you’ll have while presenting in front of a real live audience. So you’ll get a good idea for how you will perform on the day.

After I’ve recorded myself, I usually ask a friend or colleague to listen and be critical of my efforts. Getting grilled beforehand really helps ease any presenting nerves or anxiety you will get if you’re unlucky enough to get grilled after your presentation.

7. Prepare, prepare, prepare

Preparation for anything is key, especially for conference presentations. You’ve prepared enough to find the right conference , and to submit a proposal worthy of acceptance, now you need to prepare to present it.

Know your slides inside out. You should use them as a guide for your presentation, not an autocue.

Think about your clothing. Wear something that makes you feel comfortable when facing your audience. If you’re not sure what clothes are appropriate, check the dress code with the organisers or with colleagues.

Conference session rooms can get stuffy, so if you’re someone who sweats when they’re nervous, choose clothing that won’t show it. And don’t wear something that’s awkward and restrictive, even if you think it will project a confident image. If you’re not comfortable, you won’t look or feel confident.

Try to get a good night’s sleep before your presentation; everything looks better and more manageable when you’re well rested.

8. Back up your backup

A good way to think about your presentation technology requirements is this: any tech you want to use can and will fail. It’s not beyond the realms of possibility for your memory card or flash drive not to work when the big moment comes. Or for your laptop to decide to reboot. Or for the conference’s presentation facilities to fail.

Arm yourself with a back-up plan so you aren’t left stranded if things go awry. As well as following the conference instructions to submit your presentation online or at their drop-off desk, copy your slides to an online deck service and upload a copy of your presentation to Dropbox . Then email yourself any links you need so they’re within arms reach if you need them. Take no chances.

And if you have any specific audio-visual requirements, make them known to the conference organiser well in advance. If they don’t ask, tell them anyway. Never assume that they’ll just know . Not all conference venues can accommodate the latest technology.

9. Get to know the presenting space

One thing presenters often forget to do before starting a presentation is sussing out the room they’ll be speaking in. If you get the opportunity, get down to the room where you’ll be presenting ahead of time and check it out. This will save you from the last-minute panic of running across an unfamiliar campus. Trying to find the room you’re supposed to be in.

Most rooms will be kitted out with everything you need to present. But there’s no harm in making sure all the equipment you need is there and works. Take no risks and you’ll eliminate nasty last-minute surprises.

Get comfortable with the presentation area, walk around it until you feel familiar with the environment in the room. This will save you the shock of unexpectedly being faced with a large/tiny room. Bring your set of notes with you, and make sure you can read them in the lighting conditions in the room. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need – if there are open windows that are bothering you, ask for them to be closed.

10. Use body language to your advantage

Body language has an important role in presentations, especially at academic conferences. There are usually a lot of facts and findings to be highlighted in a conference presentation, and you need to use all the presenting tools available to you to remain interesting and effective throughout. Your gestures, tone of voice and positivity can be seen through your body language. And may determine how engaged your audience is.

When you’re speaking, a few body language tips can help improve your rapport with your audience. For your audience to engage, it’s important that they can see you. And that you look at them and make eye contact. Try to spread your gaze, rather than staring at one person. And avoid focusing intently on your laptop screen, your notes, or the floor. This can give the impression that you’re nervous or uninterested, and can also prevent you from projecting your voice clearly.

If possible, don’t stand behind a lectern or hold any notes. Instead, keep a straight, relaxed, open posture, and feel free to be comfortable with the full stage. And move around the stage a little as you speak.

The great presenters use gestures to emphasise their points and to highlight their visual material to guide the audience’s attention. When you see a speaker rooted rigidly to the spot and without positive body language the presentation loses a lot of its emphasis. Avoid other distracting movements, such as repeatedly putting your hands in and out of your pockets, jingling coins in your pocket, or fiddling with pens, clothing, or props such as laser pointers.

11. Encourage questions and discussion

If you manage your time well, you’ll have sufficient time left for questions. Or an open discussion after your conference presentation. Expect questions, but don’t worry if there aren’t any. If your audience is reluctant to ask questions, a good session chair will usually pose a question. Presentation questions are a good thing . They give you a chance to elaborate on something that wasn’t clear. Or address the topic that everyone wants to know but you forgot to include.

Answering questions can be nerve-wracking because of the fear that you might not be able to answer them. But when the audience is asking questions, it’s generally out of genuine interest. Don’t trip you up, so see it as a good opportunity to explore how you can expand your work.

Though the majority of questions in a conference Q&A session are fairly benign, like me, you could find yourself at the end of a grilling (perhaps from someone who’s research you’ve had the temerity to challenge) after you present at a conference. If you think this might happen to you, it’s worth doing some reading on how to respond to destructive criticism from peers.

And if you’re feeling nervous about facing tough questions. Here’s something that might help: if you’re attending with someone you know (and trust), ask them to ask you a question. Some people even like to agree in advance what the question will be. This can simply help get the ball rolling and boost your confidence.

And finally, a trick I learnt from an experienced researcher is to keep a notebook and pen handy. And to make notes of the good questions to reflect on later.

Presenting skills are for life

Once you’ve mastered the tips above, you’ll be all set to give a great conference presentation. And the more you do, the easier they’ll get. Until you’ll reach a point when you can’t remember how nervous they used to make you.

One final note on audience size: never take it personally. Some of the best papers out there were presented to small audiences. Nobody ever asks how many people were in the audience. And you don’t have to state it on your academic CV. No matter what size the audience, a great presentation is a great presentation.

Brian Campbell

Brian is a data-driven marketeer, and responsible for helping people find Ex Ordo. He works part-time as a lecturer at the National University of Ireland, Galway, and loves quizzing his students on the latest business trends and insights. Brian enjoys hanging out with his little nephews, and playing and watching sports. He also likes to keep a keen eye on the scholarly research space, and has co-organised an academic conference to boot.

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Beyond the Podium: Understanding the differences in conference and academic presentations

Conferences can be captivating as it where knowledge meets presentation skills. They serve as dynamic platforms where scholars, researchers, and professionals interact to share insights, exchange ideas, and foster collaboration. The importance of conferences lies in their ability to nurture intellectual growth, stimulate discussions, and propel academic advancements. Let’s uncover the intricacies of various conference presentations to help you shine in the academic spotlight.

The Multi-faceted Nature of Conference

Conference is a broad term that encompasses various professional/ academic events. As we delve deeper into such events, we encounter different types of conferences, each serving a specific purpose. Common types of conferences include Business Conferences, Academic Conferences, Educational Conferences, Scientific Conferences, Social/ Cultural Conferences, Peace Conferences, Trade Conferences, Press or News Conferences, and Authors’ Conferences.

In addition to the different types of conferences, there are several types of conference presentations. Understanding them is important to make the right presentation for a conference before submitting your abstract.

Types of Conference Presentations

Here are the commonly used formats for conference presentations:

1. Oral Presentation

Oral presentations are the standard form of presentation where the speaker(s) share details about their research questions , methodology , findings, applications, etc. It lasts between 15-30 minutes. Oral presentations can be further divided into four subtypes:

1.1. Student Presentation:

These presentations emphasize on students work and offer them an opportunity to share their work with the academic community.

1.2. Panel Discussion:

Panel discussions are delivered by a panel of speakers who share different aspects of the presentations. Furthermore, such events are generally more open and characterized by engaging discussions.

2. Poster Presentation

Poster presentations are less formal platforms to share your work in a visual format. Presenters summarize their work in a visually appealing poster and display them for the attendees to understand.

Both oral and poster presentations serve as integral components of conferences, catering to different learning preferences and promoting the exchange of knowledge among researchers and professionals in diverse fields.

However, based on the difference in the content, and the intended audience, conference presentations can be divided as:

1. Academic Presentations

Academic presentations at conferences are the bedrock of knowledge dissemination. They showcase research findings, theories, and contribute to the collective intellectual discourse.

General Elements : Title and Authorship, Introduction , Objectives/ Hypothesis, Methodology, Results, Discussion, Conclusion, and Recommendations
Who Presents: Researchers, Scholars, Academics, Graduate Students, and Professionals
For Whom: Peers, Fellow Researchers, Scholars, Academics, Professionals, Reviewers, and Critics

2. Research Presentations

Research presentations delve into the specifics of a study, highlighting methodologies, results, and implications. Additionally, they bridge the gap between theory and practical application, offering a comprehensive view of the research process.

General Elements: Title Slide, Introduction, Objectives/ Hypothesis , Literature Review , Research Design and Methodology, Results, Discussion, Conclusion, and Recommendations
Who Presents: Researchers or Scholars who conducted the study, Primary Author(s), Principal Investigator, Graduate Students, and Collaborators
For Whom: Peers and Colleagues, Academic Community, Reviewers and Assessors, Industry Professionals, Policy Makers and Practitioners, and Funding Agencies

3. Grant Proposal Presentations

These presentations aim to convince funding bodies about the significance and viability of a proposed project. However, they require a blend of persuasive communication and a clear articulation of the project’s objectives and potential impact.

General Elements: Introduction, Background and Rationale , Objectives and Goals, Methods and Approach, Timeline, Budget, Evaluation and Metrics, Sustainability and Long-term Impact, Collaborations and Partnerships, Team Qualifications and Expertise, Plan of Action, and Challenges and Mitigation Strategies
Who Presents: Principal Investigator, Co-Investigators or Collaborators, Project Team Members, Institutional Representatives, Community or Stakeholder Representatives, and Advisors or Mentors (for Students)
For Whom: Granting Organization Representatives, Review Committee or Panel, Advisory Board, Potential Collaborators or Partners, Community Stakeholders, Internal Team or Collaborators, and Public or Lay Audience (Rarely)

4. Thesis Presentations

Thesis presentations mark the culmination of academic endeavors. They involve presenting the key findings and contributions of a research project undertaken for a degree, providing an opportunity for peers and experts to evaluate the work.

General Elements: Title Slide, Author’s Name and Affiliation, Date of the Presentation, Introduction, Background and Context, Research Objectives and Hypotheses, Methodology, Results, Discussion , Contribution to the Field, Limitations, Conclusion, Recommendations for Future Research, and References
Who Presents: Thesis Candidate (Student), Thesis Committee, and Thesis Advisor (Supervisor)
For Whom: Instructors and Evaluators, Peers and Classmates, Academic Community, and Reviewers

Understanding different types of presentations in conferences can empower researchers to make appropriate presentations that meets the requirement of the conference. However, to make your presentations more interactive, here is a downloadable guide with specific tips for conference presentations .

Making each presentation type distinct involves tailoring your approach based on the purpose, audience, and format of the presentation. To maximize your conference experience, consider participating in interactive sessions and networking with the other participants . Engage with your peers, ask questions, and embrace the collaborative spirit that conferences embody.

The diverse array of conference presentations creates a vibrant tapestry of knowledge sharing. Each format offers a unique avenue for researchers and professionals to showcase their work and connect with a broader audience. So, whether you find yourself behind a podium or beside a poster board, remember that the power of conferences lies in the collective exchange of ideas, where each presenter and attendee contributes to the saga of knowledge and discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Creating a successful conference presentation involves careful planning, organization, and effective communication. Here are steps to guide you through the process: 1. Understand Your Audience 2. Define Your Objectives 3. Understand the conference type 4. Create a Clear Structure 5. Craft Engaging Content 6. Practice Time Management 7. Prepare for Q&A

An academic presentation is a formal communication of research findings, scholarly work, or educational content delivered to an audience within an academic or professional setting. These presentations occur in various formats, such as lectures, seminars, workshops, or conference sessions, and they serve the purpose of sharing knowledge, insights, and research outcomes with peers, students, or other members of the academic community. Academic presentations can cover a wide range of topics, including research methodologies, experimental results, literature reviews, theoretical frameworks, and educational practices.

A conference presentation is a formal communication delivered at a conference, seminar, symposium, or similar academic or professional gathering. These presentations serve as a means for researchers, scholars, professionals, and experts to share their work, findings, and insights with a wider audience. Conference presentations cover a diverse range of topics, including research studies, case analyses, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications within various fields. They play a crucial role in the advancement of academic and professional fields by facilitating the exchange of ideas, fostering collaboration, and showcasing the latest research and developments in a given area of study.

Learning is a process and does not end. You keep on wanting to know more. I have learnt a lot .

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8 Ground Rules for Great Meetings

Roger Schwarz

Focus on behaviors, not procedures.

If you want your team to be effective, you need meeting ground rules — and you need agreement about how to use them. Many teams that have ground rules don’t regularly use them. But having rules in place that you consistently enforce can significantly improve how your team solves problems and makes decisions.

Roger Schwarz is an organizational psychologist, speaker, leadership team consultant, and president and CEO of Roger Schwarz & Associates . He is the author of Smart Leaders, Smarter Teams: How You and Your Team Get Unstuck to Get Results . LeadSmarter

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The Profession

Conference Rules: Everything You Need to Know about Presenting a Scholarly Paper in Public

Linda K. Kerber | May 1, 2008

Editor's Note: The following essay originally appeared in the "First Person" column of the Careers section of the Chronicle of Higher Education of March 21, 2008. In view of the helpful advice contained in it that would be of use to our readers, we are reprinting the essay in Perspectives on History, with the kind permission of the author and by the courtesy of the Chronicle. A second essay, which offers advice to panel chairs on introducing speakers and moderating a session, will be reprinted in a subsequent issue of Perspectives on History.

Are you nervous? Good. You should be. Anxiety means you are taking the enterprise seriously and your adrenaline is flowing. Without adrenaline you will be a boring speaker.

But too much anxiety will get in the way of what you have to do; too much adrenaline, and you will not think straight.

The purpose of the following rules on presenting a paper at a scholarly conference is to enable you to embrace your anxieties and put them to work—both for you and, just as important, for the arguments you have to make and the stories you have to tell.

Dorothy Kenyon, a great feminist and civil-rights activist who spent much of her time speaking in public, once observed that a public talk must "always seem to be improvised, but it must never be improvised." If you want to hold your audience, you must plan ahead, and plan carefully.

Rule No. 1: Observe time limits scrupulously. The usual rule of thumb is that a typewritten page holds 250 words. It should take a minimum of two minutes to say 250 words out loud. If you have 20 minutes to speak, your paper can be no longer than 10 to 12 pages. Begin with a paper that is 10 pages long.

Another time limit is the date on which you are supposed to deliver the paper to the scholar who will comment on it at the conference. Sending in that paper on time is a courtesy that gives the commentator time to read and reflect on your paper. Your own selfish interest dictates that you want the most thoughtful comments you can get, not comments that have been thrown together. You will be greatly embarrassed should an annoyed commentator begin by announcing, as some have done, that the paper arrived too late to formulate any substantive thoughts about it.

Rule No. 2: Write for your real audience. A paper written for the ears to hear must be substantially different from a paper written for the eyes to read.

That principle is undermined by the practice of giving the paper in advance to a commentator, who will be the first to read it and will then stand up in public and criticize it. The temptation is to write for the commentator. Ignore that temptation.

Instead write for the people who will be listening. Go through your final draft, looking for dependent clauses. Turn complex sentences into simple, declarative statements. Although a sentence linked by semicolons, or constructed with one or more dependent clauses, may be perfectly clear on paper, it is very hard to understand when it floats into the air. The listener cannot hang on to the subject until the object heaves into view three clauses later.

Use quotations and examples judiciously. Listeners have difficulty absorbing abstraction after abstraction; they need to be grounded in lived experience. Think about the ratio between example and argument as your paper develops.

Devote a sentence or two to explaining—briefly—the research base that sustains your arguments. A reader will see footnotes but listeners cannot. Establish your authority.

Rule No. 3: Rehearse your talk. Jay Fliegelman, the late Stanford University literary scholar, discerned that some of Thomas Jefferson's own copies of the Declaration of Independence are mysteriously marked as though for a singer, with indications of where the reader is to take a breath. The next time you are at a conference, notice how often speakers run out of breath before the end of a sentence, undermining the force of what they are trying to convey.

Plan ahead so that you do not run out of breath. The first step is what I mentioned under Rule No. 2: writing clear, declarative sentences.

The second, very important step is to read your paper out loud to yourself, listening to yourself speak and noticing when you run out of breath. Watch yourself in the mirror if you can stand it. Take a deep breath at the beginning of each long sentence or group of short sentences. (You will hear yourself breathe, but remember that your audience won't.) If you do not have enough breath to finish a sentence strongly, break it up into smaller pieces. Read it out loud again.

Then mark your copy to remind yourself when to take a deep breath. If Thomas Jefferson could do that, so can you.

Now read your copy aloud to someone else. Find a friend before whom you do not fear looking like a fool.

Print out your paper in large type (try 14-point or even 16-point) so that you do not need to squint to see it when you are standing at a podium. Find a room approximately the size of the room you will use at the conference. Position your friend at the back of the room. Stand at the front with a lectern and read the paper out loud.

If you are following the rules about breathing, your friend should be able to hear you clearly. Your friend will also be able to tell you whether you are talking too fast — or, in the rare case, too slowly. Your friend may also be able to comment on whether the argument sounds persuasive; sometimes in all the revising and cutting, one leaves out a significant piece of evidence or step in the argument.

Note: None of those rules change if you are speaking into a microphone. All a microphone helps with is volume. It cannot give you breath.

Now rehearse one last time, making sure that your performance is smooth: No tripping over pronunciations, no wrong intonation.

If you are using technology—overhead projections, slides, video clips—practice your talk with it.

Rule No. 4: Stop fidgeting. The attention of your listeners should be on your words. Avoid anything that draws their attention away from your words. Among the classic distractions:

Your hands, waving around in the air. It is true that many of us normally use our hands to emphasize what we have to say. Some of us use our hands as accompaniment all the time. But conversation is different from performance. Except for an occasional gesture that you intend to make, hands are not part of your performance. They should be as invisible as possible, generally at your side or resting on the lectern. If necessary, grab the lectern and cling to it and do not budge. If you have uncontrollable urges to put your hands in your pockets, sew up your pockets.

Your hands, fiddling with paper clips or a pen. Never hold anything in your hands when you are speaking in public except when sliding a page of your talk out of the way. Note "sliding." See next paragraph.

The paper on which your words are written. Do not wave the paper around. Do not pick up each page of the paper and turn it over so that you end with a stack in the order in which you began. Slide the pages across so the audience won't see them and you end with a stack in reverse order. The advantage is that you also have two pages in front of you at all times and you can see where you are headed.

Your fingers. The only way to indicate a shift from your own words to quoted ones is by the tone of your voice, or by the simple word "said." Don't say, "quote … unquote." Never wiggle your fingers in the air in an attempt to indicate quotation marks.

Your head. Normally at conferences, you stand to read your paper. The advantage of standing at a lectern is that you do not need to move your head much to read the paper and then look out at the audience. The difference in movement is much greater when you are sitting down. (Try it.) When you are reading a paper aloud from a sitting position, it is almost impossible to have eye contact with the audience unless you interrupt the flow of what you are saying. You cannot take as deep a breath or project your voice as powerfully, as when you are standing. (Why do you think opera singers stand when they belt out an aria?)

Rule No. 5: Check out the room in advance. If there is no lectern, ask for one. If you are short, be sure you can be seen over it, or ask for a box. Be polite but insistent. Plead nearsightedness. Go in search of one in a nearby room. Do not give up, even if it feels like you are making a pest of yourself.

Make sure there is water at the podium. It's not a bad idea to bring your own bottle of water and plastic cup as insurance. (You will need a cup; you cannot "swig" from a bottle without distracting an audience.) If you are breathing properly you probably will not need water, but that's impossible to predict and depends a great deal on the room.

Test the technology you plan to use in the room ahead of time. Make sure you are comfortable with using it and are prepared to improvise should something go wrong, as it often will. If it does, the time spent making adjustments comes out of your total allocation. Moreover, watching you struggle creates an air of anxiety that infuses the room, distracts your audience, and makes you look inept.

Rule No. 6: Don't improvise too much. The better you know what you are going to say, the less dependent you will be on your written text, and the more your planned talk will give the impression of informality and improvisation. (See Kenyon Principle, above.) The more you improvise during a formal paper, the greater the dangers of rambling. Save your improvisational skill for the question period, when you will need it.

Be prepared for a "two-minute warning" from the moderator. Sometimes you may get it earlier than you expected through no fault of your own (for example, if one of the earlier speakers ran over time or if the entire panel got started late). At that point, you must cut to the chase. If you have ever played a musical instrument, think about sight-reading with a group of musicians, or accompanying a singer, in which you can omit any number of notes so long as you keep the beat steady and the major chords on time. At the two-minute warning, cut to your topic sentences and then to your well-crafted conclusion. Then stop.

Rule No. 7: Remember, you are among friends. At the beginning of the second act of Hair , the cast members come on the stage naked. In some productions, they run down the aisles, close to the audience. During the original production, a reporter asked the actors how they brought themselves to do that. One actor's response was that during the intermission they spent some time thinking "the people out there are our friends. They love us. I love them. They are terrific folks. It's OK to take your clothes off with your friends — like in a locker room. No problem."

To give a conference paper is to make yourself vulnerable; it's the intellectual equivalent of stripping naked. You are taking your ideas out to strangers, so you are vulnerable to their criticism. Of course you are anxious; you would be foolish not to be.

So spend an hour before the panel quietly, alone, not talking. Look over your marked-up paper. And think about the panelists and the audience as your friends. After all, despite the competition of other panels and other things the listeners could be doing, they have chosen to come hear you. They are obviously people of good taste and judgment; they are your friends. You are enthusiastically looking forward to meeting them.

Yes, in the aftermath, they may judge you, but put that aside. At the outset, they have come in good faith, and you owe them a welcome in good faith. They are entitled to your welcome. If you are frozen with anxiety, that's neither fair nor courteous to the people who have come to hear what you have to say.

When you walk out into the room, the thought in your head must be how happy you are to be there, what fabulous people are sitting out in the audience. That holds whether there are five people or 500. The good vibes will be catching.

—Linda K. Kerber, professor of history and lecturer in law at the University of Iowa, was president of the AHA in 2006.

Tags: Resources for Graduate Students Publishing Your Work

The American Historical Association welcomes comments in the discussion area below, at AHA Communities , and in letters to the editor . Please read our commenting and letters policy before submitting.

Please read our commenting and letters policy before submitting.

Conference Participant Guidelines

General guidelines.

These guidelines are for all APPAM conference participants ( presenters , chairs , and discussants ) to establish expectations. Poster guidelines can be found here . In order to encourage interdisciplinary discussion among conference participants and audience members, we want to encourage:

Interaction among session participants beforehand in order to maximize audience participation on the day of the session.
Distillation of the research, by the discussant(s), to identify its unique contribution to policy.
Identification of relationships among the research presented, either by the presenters themselves or by the discussants.
Give and take among participants—especially between researchers and practitioners.
Creation of an environment to enhance understanding of issues and the attendant research informing them.

Here are some helpful best practices to a great presentation!

As you prepare for your session at the conference, please keep the following points in mind:

APPAM members like to talk and react. Members include many experts; session participants consistently praise APPAM conferences for the exceptional amount of professional interaction that occurs. Much of this interaction happens within or is stimulated by the session discussions. With this in mind, please allow a full 20 minutes for audience questions and commentary. This 20-minute period is separate from the time normally accorded to panelists responding to the discussant's comments.
Presentations should last no longer than 15 minutes in panels with three presenters or 12 minutes if there are four presenters. The discussant should be granted roughly as much time as a presenter. Multiple discussants should divide this allotted time among themselves.
If they are to provide useful insight to authors and serve as stimulants for audience follow-on, discussants must receive papers no later than two weeks prior to the conference. This will allow for adequate time for discussants to read the session papers. Presenters will receive instructions on how to upload papers to APPAM.org and are urged to do so by the deadline provided so discussants have enough time to read the papers and prepare comments before the conference.
An excellent panel session is one in which the presenters focus on the more important issues in their research, and collectively, with the aid of the discussant(s), highlight connections among the presented papers. The conference should be an opportunity for professional development in which presenters and session audiences interact to enhance understanding of the issues. Your cooperation with the guidelines in this memorandum will help create an environment for this to occur.

Dates to Remember

August 30 - All changes to submissions, including authors, titles, and abstracts, must be complete.

September 27 - All presenters must be registered for the conference. Any presenter not registered by this date is subject to removal from the program.

October 25 - All papers must be uploaded to submission system through the Speaker Center received via email. Please contact Tristanne Staudt if you have not received this link.

November 7 - 9 - APPAM Fall Research Conference in Denver, Colorado.

Session Formats

Below are guidelines for well- timed sessions; these sample sessions run from 10:15 – 11:45 am.

If you have any questions, please contact [email protected] .

Below are specific guidelines for presenters, chairs, and discussants.

Guidelines for presenters.

You received an email with contact information for all the people taking part in your session (other presenters, chair and discussant(s)). Please reach out to your chair and let them know the status of your paper and when you plan on uploading it for the discussant. If your paper is not ready to be posted publicly, you can share it with the discussant privately but you must share it with them by the submission deadline to give them adequate time to prepare comments.

The following format is suggested as it has been found to work well within the 12-15 minute time frame you are allotted for your presentation.

Here's a helpful Best Practices Guide to presenting at APPAM!

Organization.

Begin with a one-minute overview summary of the paper that includes the central question addressed and the major conclusions. To the extent possible, these conclusions should include policy implications.

Explanation

Follow with the reasons listeners ought to accept the paper's conclusions: the underlying theory, description of the evidence, methodological defense of the evidence, and connection to (and improvement upon) the existing literature. This manner of exposition differs from that of a journal article but it is more appropriate to a conference format. Speaking is a more effective way to get an explanation across than reading.

Presentation Technology

It is highly encouraged to utilize PowerPoint to prepare and display presentations. APPAM will provide LCD projectors and screens in all meeting rooms for use during conference sessions. Presenters will need to provide their own computers. The Program Committee urges all conference participants to ensure that use of this technology does not interrupt or delay a session. With a strict 90 minutes for panel sessions, even a minor delay can greatly hamper the success of a panel. Remember that there will be less than 15 minutes available for setting up computer equipment prior to the start of most sessions. All presenters on a session may wish to put their presentations on a single computer or flash drive to simplify matters during the panel.

Contents and Format of Presentation Slides

Try to economize on the number of slides in a presentation. Slides should be readable from at least 30 feet (some of the presentation rooms are quite large, some are small), and should be displayed long enough for viewers actually to comprehend the message they are supposed to convey. A good rule of thumb is one substantive slide (a key exhibit, not an outline page) for every two minutes of presentation (or no more than 6 or 7 total slides per presentation). Slides should serve as an aid but should not be read from directly.

Published Book Display

All presenters are invited to have their published book exhibited at the conference. To take advantage of this offer, please provide the title, author and publisher information on this form . The form can be emailed directly to Association Book Exhibit who will contact the publisher directly. Every effort will be made to display titles but this is ultimately the deicison of the publisher. Authors are also able to personally provide copies of the books for display.

For more information on this display, please contact Association Book Exhibit at [email protected]

Guidelines for Chairs

The chair can be critical to the success of a session. The principal challenge for a chair is to enforce time allotments. A presenter that runs over his or her allotted time is using time that belongs to another presenter or to the audience. APPAM asks chairs to do the following:

Monitor paper progress before the meetings and encourage timely distribution of session papers to all discussant(s).
Ensure that presenters upload papers to APPAM.org for discussants to read in advance of the conference. If they have not, please bring this to the attention of the APPAM office.
Convene the panel, either by email or conference call, in advance to make introductions and develop some rapport.
You are encouraged to consider an alternative format if the panelists agree; for example, having a discussant summarize all the papers at the beginning of the session. These alternative formats can help facilitate audience participation and discussion.
Start the session on time and state the ground rules at the beginning of the discussion, including timing and commitment to discussion. Note that observing stated time limits shows respect for other presenters and for the audience.
Introduce all participants at the beginning of the session.
Monitor the clock. Presenters who appear to be off-track for completion on time should be cautioned mid-presentation. APPAM will supply chairs with four signs that read, "5 minutes" "2 minutes", "1 minute", and "Stop" to help alert presenters to their timing.
Chairs should sit in the front row of the audience, facing the presenters, rather than at the head table, while the presentations are in progress.
Do not ask the panelists to respond to the discussant(s) comments. Instead, move quickly to an open discussion that involves the audience.
Be prepared to initiate the question period if the audience is not engaged and ensure that questions and statements from the audience are short and to the point.

Guidelines for Discussants

Discussants play a critical role in determining the quality of audience participation in the session. Discussants should be aware of the above time limits. Please allow yourself at least two weeks to read the papers for the sessions and formulate comments tying the papers together before the conference. If the presenter(s) have not uploaded their paper(s) or sent them to you privately by the paper submission deadline, please let the APPAM office know at [email protected] .

The bulk of the time in the session should be spent encouraging audience participation. Discussants should also keep the following in mind:

Discussants are asked to make integrative comments rather than paper-by-paper critiques. In many cases, very specific or detailed critics can be shared with paper authors outside of the session. Your comments should be no more than 12 minutes – 15 minutes long.
If there are two discussants for a session, please contact the other discussant and determine how you will split the responsibility of reading/providing commentary for the papers in your session.
Discussant remarks about each paper should deal with the major issues that enhance or undermine the paper' contributions, reserving minor issues for direct communication with the authors.
Discussants are encouraged to help shape the audience participation in the session by identifying key points worthy of further analysis and discussion.
Does the research inform policy in the most timely and useful way? If not, what could be to done to improve the contribution of research to policy?
Are methods used in the research and analysis properly aligned to the nature of current policy problems?
Do we need to rethink the roots of the policy problems we are researching? Are we missing research opportunities because we have become too comfortable with our research designs and communities?
How can we use the expertise of those in public management, and those who study the political process, to inform our research?
Are there emerging policy problems for which we are not producing useful research, but for which we could direct new research?
Are there limitations of information, data and research designs that prevent their research from being used by policymakers?
What common challenges have researchers encountered when studying the issue?
How can we address these challenges in future research?

Presentation Rules

Important information…please read carefully , all speakers are required to provide a verbal or written disclosure announcement to the audience at the beginning of their presentation. speakers must make a disclosure even if they do not have any. the disclosure should also include a statement if the presentation includes an off-label discussion(s)., ***macintosh® presentation software will not be accepted***.

All presentations must use “windows based” Microsoft PowerPoint® Software and be Windows 10® & Office 2016® Compatible.

To avoid font and graphic distortion on the day of your presentation it is very important that all Microsoft PowerPoint slides are saved properly. Please be sure to do the following prior to emailing your final presentation to [email protected] or uploading your presentation to the MPRC virtual conference portal: OFFICE 2016

1.) Open your presentation

2.) Click the “FILE” tab and then click “OPTIONS”

3.) At the bottom, under “Preserve fidelity when sharing this presentation” select the , “Embed fonts in the file” check box.

7.) Click “OK” OFFICE 2007

1.) Open your presentation

2.) Click the “OFFICE BUTTON” located on the top left-hand corner of the screen

3.) Click the “POWERPOINT OPTIONS” button at the bottom/center of the information box

4.) Click “SAVE” on the left-hand side

5.) Click to place a check mark in the box next to “Embed Fonts in the file”

6.) Click to select the “Embed all characters (best for editing by other people)” option

7.) Click “OK”

After saving your PowerPoint slides as directed above please be sure to name your presentation using the following format: (Doe,J_PPT) and email your final slide deck to [email protected]. You will also be asked to upload your PowerPoint presentation to the MPRC virtual conference portal approximately 2 weeks prior to the conference. All virtual presentations will be conducted via Zoom. There will be representatives available to assist with any technical problems that may occur.
All presentations begin and end at the scheduled times. The format of the conference will allow up to a 15 minute presentation. There will be 3 minutes allowed for Q & A after the presentation.
A “5 minute” reminder will be visible for the speaker to see at the appropriate time. This reminder indicates that 5 minutes are left for the presentation, with an additional 5 minutes for questions. This will allow 5 minutes to transition to the next speaker.
The presentation schedule will not be released until a week before the conference. One week prior to the conference all attendees will be able to view the presentation schedule on this website.
Evaluation forms will be available at the end of the conference.
Residents participating in the conference are expected to join other resident’s presentations.

Other Information

The host residency program is sponsoring the conference on a voluntary basis. They are sponsoring the conference because they are dedicated to post graduate pharmacy education. They are not professional meeting planners. The host residency program will be trying very hard to make the conference a success, but sometimes there can be glitches. They will work very hard to correct any problems if they occur.

my research
contributions and comments

rules for conference presentations

Having just returned from a conference where the presentations were a little mixed – to say the least – I was reminded of the reality that conference presentations are not the same as the conference paper . The paper is the basis for the presentation, but the actual standing up and talking is something else again, something with its own conventions, opportunities and pitfalls.

The pitfalls in conference presentations are numerous – and I’ve just seen most of them. People reading their paper not looking at the audience. People with too much information packed on slides which the audience has to try to read while listening at the same time. People reading their slides verbatim, adding nothing to them. People with too many slides. People who assume that everyone in the audience is able to follow a really complex argument without any guidance. People who assume the audience is as familiar with the extant literatures and/or a specialised vocabulary as they are. People who go way over time and make it really hard for every other presenter in the session – and eat up the time for questions.

My audience experience reminded me that I’d once read Anthony Weston’s* rules for oral arguments. He wasn’t writing specifically about conferences, but about any situation where you are required to present a case in public. He was thinking about a range of situations from presenting in class to arguing a case in front of an official body to an electoral (or keynote) speech. But I think that his rules are pretty apt for conferences.

Here’s his six golden rules.

Rule One: Reach out to your audience. Weston suggests that you have to show some enthusiasm for the topic, be respectful of the audience, be patient with them, never talk down to them. After all, he says, you are asking for a hearing, and the audience doesn’t have to give that to you. You have to do what’s required in order to get and keep their attention.

Rule Two: Be fully present. Being there means not reading something that people can read for themselves, but engaging with the audience. This is achieved by making eye contact, speaking with expression and energy – walking around even. Even if you do read, you can still do these things. Weston reminds us that oral presentations are a face-to-face experience and that people will be dissatisfied if that’s not what they get.

Rule Three: Signpost your argument. When people read, they can go back over the bits they don’t understand, or choose to skip over things that are difficult. Weston argues that an audience can’t do this and so they need more signposting than in a written paper – the speaker stating what the argument to come is going to be, repeating the various steps of the argument, summarising what’s just been said. He also points to the importance of the speaker making sure that they allow the audience time to follow what’s being said, to make notes if that’s what they want to do, and to make the transition from one point in the argument to another. Weston suggests that speakers need to start by saying something like – my basic argument is – and conclude with something like – I’ve argued that…

Rule Four: Offer something positive. Weston proposes that just presenting an audience with critique leaves them feeling depressed and that the speaker needs to moderate the negativity and offer some direction forward. He doesn’t mean spin by this. I think in academic presentations this rule means making sure that the implications of the argument – the so what and now what of the presentation – are made clear at the end. There shouldn’t be the slightest opportunity for the audience to be left wondering why they needed to know what it is you have said.

Rule Five: Use visual aids sparingly I’d probably say sensibly and sensitively here rather than sparingly. But Weston has clearly suffered from conference Powerpoint overdose and he argues that if it is used it needs to be engaging. He argues for variety in presentations rather than reliance on one medium – using a range of techniques such as inserting a short reading from a text, a bit of audience participation, the use of handouts. Above all, he says, don’t let the slide-show substitute for you.

Rule Six: End in style. Weston says this means keeping to time and not petering out. Having a snappy ending that reinforces the major point you are making is the way to go, he suggests.

I must say that I’d be pretty pleased if more of the presenters I’ve just seen had known and taken Weston’s maxims to heart. I’d have got more from the sessions and therefore from the whole conference.

So I’ve been thinking that in future maybe these six rules could be sent out with the acceptance letters that go to all conference presenters, with all due acknowledgments to Weston, of course. Speakers would know then what’s expected and what’s good practice.

So come on conference organisers – how about it!!

Weston, A (2009) A rulebook for arguments . (4th edition) Cambridge: Hackett Publishing Company

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9 responses to rules for conference presentations.

Excellent reminder for all of us who present ……people have paid money to be there and have every right to be ” inspired ” to think about your content …they may not agree but you have to make a thought process happen . It is also great fun and for some us is a bit addictive !!! Good reminder Thanks

Useful six rules – always amazes me when people think it’s OK to ‘read’ a conference paper.

When I gave my first ‘paper’ at a conference, I didn’t know (and was too stupid to ask anyone) what the difference was between the paper and the presentation. I instinctively knew I shouldn’t read. I am a professional actor, and would be talking about theatre practice, so I essentially wrote and learned a ‘soliloquy’, and ‘performed’ it, as I had done may times as a ‘public speaker’. It went well, but it meant that in characterising myself as an academic ‘outsider’, and not realising that the paper and the presentation were two different things, I ‘wrote’ only the presentation. There was no paper! Which was pretty silly, especially when calls came around for the publication of some of the papers for the conference, and I had nothing to show for my work.

The idea of the presentation as soliloquy is pretty interesting. I wonder if it’s an unhelpful or helpful analogy.. ??(rather than the reality of your experience which I’m sure entertained which is more than many can say)

Great post. I feel like a number of academics don’t place much value on aesthetics, whether it be storytelling, visual design, or personal presentation. A sizable group of people seem to think that the quality of their work will speak for itself, regardless of its aesthetic polish.

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I’m heading toward my first international conference, to which I’m submitting a 7,000-word paper and giving a 20-minute (2,000-word) presentation. I’m intrigued by the difference being promoted here between the two, and by how liberally that difference might be interpreted. Is it legit to think of the talk as something other than a truncated and somewhat deformalised version of the paper? Is it acceptable for it to instead be a kind of ‘companion piece’, further to or complementary to the paper? Is there a danger of convenors thinking, “Hang on, this isn’t the paper we “bought”.’ Any advice most welcome.

Yes absolutely. You need to do the rationale for the paper, the focus, the methods the findings and the implications… In other words the argument in about six slides. You can highlight the relevant bits in your paper that do these or use notes on slides. It’s ok to read these if it’s your first presentation. Rehearse it so you know you fit in the time allowed… Good luck.

Thanks for that. cheers, tc

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Ultimate List of Ground Rules for Effective Meetings

Have you ever attended a meeting when the presenter deviated from the agenda, when time seemed to stand still because of a lack of participation, or when a team fell into an argument over video chat? Chances are, we have all experienced one or more of these scenarios and don’t have any desire to participate in such meetings in the future.

If you are the organizer of a meeting, how can you ensure these or other similarly cringeworthy distractions don’t happen on your watch? The answer comes down to rules. By setting ground rules for effective meetings and getting participants to buy into them, you’ll sidestep these obstacles and promote an environment that encourages brevity, cooperation, and effective outcomes.

Davinci is the leader in providing professional meeting room spaces for any need, and we have some advice to give on setting ground rules for effective meetings. We’ve seen it all and know first-hand what works and what doesn’t.

After we talk about why ground rules should be required when meeting at work, we’ll list specific ground rules for:

• All meetings in general

• In-person meetings

• Virtual meetings

• Team meetings

• Company-wide meetings

• Customer and client meetings

• Meetings over meals

Finally, you’ll find out why using a Davinci meeting room rental will go a long way in helping you masterfully pull off a respectable meeting.

Why Ground Rules Are Required When Meeting

Ground rules should be required for every meeting. There are many reasons for this. Some help stem the tide of inappropriate behavior that stymies the purpose of a meeting, while some fuel proper engagement that produces productive work.

Here are some examples of inappropriate behavior that rules can resolve:

• Showing up late or not showing up at all

• Deviating from the agenda

• Dominating the discussion

• Having side conversations

• Being distracted by personal devices

• A lack of collaborating, contributing, or cooperating

Here are some examples of proper engagement that rules can encourage:

• Being prepared with necessary information

• Listening without interruption

• Communicating relevant comments clearly and regularly

• Committing to solve a problem

• Respecting others’ time

Ultimately, the main reason ground rules are required comes down to one thing—being able to have a productive, effective, successful meeting.

General Ground Rules for All Meetings

For every meeting, no matter the type, there are some general ground rules that must be established and enforced. Otherwise, chances are high that your goals for the meeting won’t be met and you (and your attendees) will leave feeling frustrated.

Here’s a list of six general ground rules for effective meetings:

1. Send out invitations with a place and time listed, along with the agenda. It allows people to schedule their time accordingly and plan their own contributions for the topics at hand.

2. Get everyone to agree on ground rules before beginning the meeting because this sets the expectations and a positive tone.

3. Start and end according to the invitation’s schedule. There’s no excuse for wasting the time of employees, clients, or customers. If there is more to discuss than you have time for, curb the conversation for now and schedule another meeting.

4. Give full attention for the duration of the meeting. Consider banning the use of personal devices so that all focus can be where it should be.

5. Contribute opinions, ideas, suggestions, and questions to further the conversation and dive deeper into problems and solutions.

6. Listen to and respect others when they’re talking. Don’t interrupt, disregard, or diminish what is said.

Whether you’re in a conference room, restaurant, or online, these general rules apply. Following them will show everyone they are vital and valued.

Ground Rules for In-Person Meetings

Before you even consider calling an in-person meeting, be sure you even need one. There is great value in meeting together in one room and working off of each other’s energy. But these days, most communication and collaboration can be accomplished over text, email, telephone, or virtually.

There are a few specific ground rules for in-person meetings. They cover creating and sending a meeting invite, preparing documentation, and setting up presentation equipment. We also want to once again recommend limiting the use of personal electronic devices.

Here’s a bit more detail on each of these ground rules for in-person meetings.

Create and Send a Meeting Invite

Be very intentional when giving the details in a meeting invitation. Doing so will encourage attendance, diminish confusion, and set proper expectations for the purpose of the meeting and why it’s necessary.

Here are a few important guidelines to follow when creating and sending a meeting invite:

• Invite only necessary people who are relevant to the topic being covered. Overcrowding a meeting means there is less focus on the job at hand and productivity goes way down.

• Pick a time to meet that works for as many people as possible. First thing in the morning tends to get the most involvement out of people. Meetings scheduled after lunch or toward the end of the day tend to get lower energy and engagement.

• Choose the right meeting room to comfortably accommodate the type of meeting you are having (training, deposition, sales pitch, etc.) and the number of attendees.

Prepare Documentation

In addition to an agenda, be sure you have helpful (and correct) documentation organized and on hand. You don’t want to appear unprepared, scattered, sloppy, or incompetent.

Set Up Presentation Equipment

Give yourself plenty of time before a meeting to familiarize yourself with all the tech components you’ll be using in your presentation. Get everything set up and ready to go. Then test it—twice. There is often an audible groan whenever a presenter has a technical difficulty and the audience needs to either wait for it to be fixed or sit through a presentation without any valuable information that should be shown.

Ground Rules for Virtual Meetings

Virtual meetings have become de rigueur of late. Everyone had to adapt to this new technology and paradigm shift so quickly that any sort of ground rule was hard to establish. It’s been long enough now that there is no excuse for having, or putting up with, bad virtual meeting manners.

Here are several solid ground rules for virtual meetings:

1. Join on time (or early).

2. Use headphones or a headset.

3. Mute yourself whenever you’re not speaking on the current topic.

4. Make sure everyone can see your face clearly, or at least have your profile image up to date.

5. Dress appropriately so you can be taken seriously.

6. Check your background for distractions.

7. Don’t eat.

8. Stay seated.

9. Be patient.

10. End the meeting on time.

Ground Rules for Team Meetings

When leading a discussion with a small group, there are a few ground rules for team meetings to keep in mind.

First, if a team member can’t attend, send them the agenda and all of the documentation for them to review. Ask them to submit questions or comments, and inform them about the discussions that were had in the meeting.

Second, all team members need to contribute their own thoughts and unique perspectives on the topic or problem. There will be no side conversations.

Third, when a conflict arises, the source of it will be addressed and there will be no veering off track. Accountability is vital, failure is acceptable, and respect will be given to all parties.

Fourth, there will be a mutual resolution and firm commitment to move forward.

Ground Rules for Company-Wide Meetings

When it comes to company-wide meetings, most of the same rules still apply, but there are a few others to consider:

• Be sure you have a good reason to pull everyone together for a meeting. Reserve such meetings for big announcements, pertinent training, or celebratory events.

• At least several weeks in advance, book a meeting space large enough to accommodate the audience. Consider the parking/public transportation situation and the availability of administrative services, audio and visual aids, and catering (if desired).

• Whoever wants to speak or present must reserve a time in advance so they can be placed on the schedule.

• Questions or comments are not allowed until the allotted time. This can be after each speaker or at the end of the meeting. No interruptions will be tolerated.

Ground Rules for Customer and Client Meetings

Holding a meeting with current or potential customers or clients is a bit different from holding one just for the team. These meetings are meant to impress and should be carried out as such. You need to come across as the authority in your niche, showcase your work, and appeal to your guests. You want them to leave feeling confident in what you have to offer.

To accomplish all this, here is perhaps the best advice we can give— remember to use their names, be prepared, and end on time.

Additionally, follow these very helpful ground rules for customer and client meetings.

Hold the Meeting in a Professional Setting

For your daily work, it doesn’t matter if you work in a shared office in a less desirable part of town or out of your garage. But when it’s time to meet the people you do business for, you need to let your customers and clients know you are successful and can deftly handle their business.

Some business owners may choose to have their meetings at the local coffee shop, but that atmosphere can be full of disruptions and distractions. Instead, choose to meet in a professionally equipped office located at a prestigious address. With a friendly lobby greeter, the tech equipment you need, and a clean and comfortable setting, you’ll come across as the confident and successful business person you are.

Have Food and Drinks Brought In

A surefire way to make a good impression and energize a room is to have food and drinks at the ready. There are some very real benefits of having a meeting catered:

• Increased productivity because people’s energy will be high instead of running on empty.

• Reduced risk of food issues as pro caterers are permitted and licensed to know how to handle food properly and accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Less stress about setup and cleanup, which ensures your focus stays on your most important tasks.

• An enjoyable and impressive atmosphere that leaves your guests knowing you are capable and profitable.

Ground Rules for Meetings Over Meals

On occasion, having a meeting over a meal is a fun and special way to come together for solving a problem or celebrating a special occasion.

Just remember these three ground rules for meetings over meals:

1. Choose the right restaurant. Try and find out what type of food your guests prefer and be mindful of any allergies or restrictions. It’s a good idea to test out the restaurant ahead of time to check for quality of food, service, and ambiance. Always make a reservation well ahead of time and perhaps ask for a private booth or room. Consider leaving a credit card on file with the host to avoid the awkward moment of having the bill delivered to both you and your guest.

2. Use your table manners. Freshen up on correct cutlery usage. Be aware of your alcohol consumption so you don’t make the wrong impression or lose control of your inhibitions. Don’t be rude to your guests, the host, the waitstaff, or other restaurant patrons.

3. Stay away from sensitive subjects. You don’t need to talk business the entire time. Feel free to let the conversation flow naturally. Ask questions about family, travels, and hobbies but stay away from sensitive topics like politics and religion.

Use Davinci Meeting Rooms

When you’re ready to schedule a meeting, don’t let the opportunity of making a good impression pass you by. Follow these ground rules for effective meetings, and you’ll be seen as a trusted professional and leader.

For a polished location that is equipped with everything from a prestigious address and a welcoming lobby greeter to the latest presentation equipment and optional catering services, choose to rent a Davinci meeting space.

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Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)

The 4 Rules of Unconferences: Tapping Into Conference Participants’ Knowledge

This brings me to the four rules of an unconference. I bet with this free flowing format you didn’t think there were actual rules. No need to worry, these rules are easy to follow.

We’ve all been in that conference, you know the one, in which expert after expert stands up in front of the room, clicks through presentation slides and drones on and on about a particular topic. Yes, some of these speakers are entertaining, some are monotone, and most you do learn from, however, other than the few minutes of Q & A at the end of each presentation, there’s not much time to really discuss and explore the topics. This can really be a waste of valuable resources, since there are usually several meeting participants in attendance that have great first-hand knowledge to share, interesting and engaging questions to explore, and some even with expert knowledge that can shed light on the topics.

So the question becomes, how do we tap into all the knowledge, energy and experience of these conference participants? Planning an unconference is the most successful and proven way to enable a great participant-driven meeting. No, that’s not a typo, I meant to write unconference . At an unconference, the agenda is created by the attendees at the beginning of the meeting. Anyone who wants to initiate a discussion on a topic may claim a time and a space. Unconferences typically feature open discussions, rather than having a single speaker at the front of the room giving a talk. This format opens participants up to new ways of thinking and fresh ideas, spawns creativity, ignites passion, defines problems and taps into people’s problem-solving skills.

We will use this unconference format for the PRSA 2012 Leadership Assembly meeting , held Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012 , in San Francisco, Calif . I know what you’re probably thinking. This sounds chaotic and kind of scary. I’m used to order and having a solid agenda. We need to know what we are going to talk about! Rest assured that this is a normal reaction to this type of conference, and although it may seem chaotic, there is a method to this madness.

My team and I will act as unconference facilitators, which means we will do all the footwork necessary to make sure the leadership assembly goes off without a hitch. We have already hosted a handful of meetings to bring together a list of leadership assembly objectives and themes that we’d like the unconference participants to have in mind when coming up with breakout session topics. The objectives include growing and retaining PRSA’s membership, uncovering membership and growth development issues, and finding ways PRSA National can support membership. Proposed themes include advocacy, membership, advancing the profession, diversity and value proposition.

Now, along with content preparation we are also working on logistics, where people will sit, how the meetings will run, etc. So here’s how it’ll work: at the beginning of the meeting my team will introduce the purpose for the session and explain the self-organizing process called “ open space .” Then each individual in the group will help create the working agenda by posting issues and opportunities in bulletin board style. Each individual “convener” of a breakout session takes responsibility for naming the issue, posting it on the bulletin board and assigning it a space and time to meet. This individual will be responsible to attend, kick off the breakout session and take notes. Participants are encouraged to move freely between the sessions. If one session does not interest you, you are encouraged to leave and attend a different session that may be of more interest or that you have more to contribute to.

This brings me to the four rules of an unconference. I bet with this free flowing format you didn’t think there were actual rules. No need to worry, these rules are easy to follow.

Rule one, whoever shows up are the right people.
Rule two, whatever happens is the only thing that could have.
Rule three, whenever it starts is the right time.
The fourth and final rule is, it’s over when it’s over.

The beautiful thing about these rules is they give participants the freedom needed to come up with creative and engaging ideas and solutions. At the end of the unconference we will convene once again as a large group and report out key takeaways from each breakout session, giving all participants the ability to learn, not only from the sessions attended but also from other sessions. All participants will walk away with new tools and ideas to take back and implement into their Chapters immediately. Notes from each of the breakout sessions will be compiled, and soft copies will be available to all participants.

We believe this format will be a great way to shake things up, get people moving and get ideas flowing between PRSA Chapters. Not only will this be a good way to solve problems and share ideas, you will also get the chance to network. We hope you find this new way of meeting as exciting as we do, and look forward to hearing your comments, questions and ideas.

See you at the unconference!

Diane Gage Lofgren, APR, Fellow PRSA , is the Senior Vice President and Chief Communication Officer Brand Strategy, Communications & Public Relations at the Kaiser Foundation Hospitals and Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc.

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COMMENTS

Ten simple rules for effective presentation slides
The "presentation slide" is the building block of all academic presentations, whether they are journal clubs, thesis committee meetings, short conference talks, or hour-long seminars. A slide is a single page projected on a screen, usually built on the premise of a title, body, and figures or tables and includes both what is shown and what ...
Ten simple rules for effective presentation slides
The "presentation slide" is the building block of all academic presentations, whether they are journal clubs, thesis committee meetings, short conference talks, or hour-long seminars. A slide is a single page projected on a screen, usually built on the premise of a title, body, and figures or tables and includes both what is shown and what ...
PDF Speaker and Presentation Guidelines
Plan to use the conference laptops for your PowerPoint presentations (Conference laptops are PC-based; Apple platform may not be supported.) Microphone, projector, screen, and podium will be provided for the speaker. Commercialism Policy Promotion of any product or service within the presentation and/or through distribution of
Conference Presentation Slides: A Guide for Success
Some characteristics differentiate conference presentations from other formats. Time-restricted. Conference presentations are bounded by a 15-30 minute time limit, which the event's moderators establish. These restrictions are applied to allow a crowded agenda to be met on time, and it is common to count with over 10 speakers on the same day.
What It Takes to Give a Great Presentation
Here are a few tips for business professionals who want to move from being good speakers to great ones: be concise (the fewer words, the better); never use bullet points (photos and images paired ...
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Conference Papers
Presentations are usually 15-20 minutes. A general rule of thumb is that one double-spaced page takes 2-2.5 minutes to read out loud. Thus an 8-10 page, double-spaced paper is often a good fit for a 15-20 minute presentation. Adhere to the time limit. Make sure that your written paper conforms to the presentation constraints.
Guidelines for Presenters
Guidelines for Presenters provides some suggested guidelines for scholars presenting papers at IAMCR conferences. These are suggested guidelines intended to be helpful on a voluntary basis; they are not strict rules and practices may vary among the various sections and working groups. Tips for Session Chairs & Discussants offers ideas for how ...
Paper Presentation in an Academic Conference
The key to an effective conference presentation lies in being well-prepared. Here are a few tips that will make the process smoother for you: 1. Write your paper with the audience in mind: A conference paper should be different from a journal article. Remember that your paper is meant to be heard, not read.
The Seven Rules to Successful Presentations
Here are The Seven Rules to Successful Communication. They apply across the many layers of physical communication. Whether you are in a small meeting, at a job interview, or delivering a keynote speech at a large conference… and anything else in between. The core theory here being that the context should not determine your behaviour.
Conference Presentations
Paper from published conference proceedings available in print. Arem, G. L. (2006). The effects of teaching and playing experience on ability to diagnose a motor skill. In P. Brewer & Firmin, M. (Eds.), Ethnographic and qualitative research in education: Proceedings of the seventeenth annual conference (pp.1-20). Newcastle, UK: Cambridge ...
9 Presentation Rules to Resonate
If a presenter knows the audience's resonant frequency and tunes to that, the audience will move. Every audience will persist in a state of rest unless compelled to change. Use the big idea to filter out all frequencies other than the resonant frequency. Structure is greater than the sum of its parts.
11 Tips for Presenting at a Conference
Take your time and make a strong outline to keep you on track. Use this checklist to keep you on the right road. 2. Build your presentation within time constraints. Ensuring your timing is right is so important when presenting at a conference. If you have ten minutes to present, prepare ten minutes of material.
Types of Conference Presentations
Types of Conference Presentations. Here are the commonly used formats for conference presentations: 1. Oral Presentation. Oral presentations are the standard form of presentation where the speaker (s) share details about their research questions, methodology, findings, applications, etc. It lasts between 15-30 minutes.
8 Ground Rules for Great Meetings
8 Ground Rules for Great Meetings. If you want your team to be effective, you need meeting ground rules — and you need agreement about how to use them. Many teams that have ground rules don't ...
Conference Rules: Everything You Need to Know about Presenting a ...
The purpose of the following rules on presenting a paper at a scholarly conference is to enable you to embrace your anxieties and put them to work—both for you and, just as important, for the arguments you have to make and the stories you have to tell.
Conference Participant Guidelines
Below are guidelines for well- timed sessions; these sample sessions run from 10:15 - 11:45 am. Sessions with four papers should allow each 12 minutes for each paper presentation. Sessions with four speakers should allow each 12 minutes for each speaker. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].
Presentation Rules
All presentations begin and end at the scheduled times. The format of the conference will allow up to a 15 minute presentation. There will be 3 minutes allowed for Q & A after the presentation. A "5 minute" reminder will be visible for the speaker to see at the appropriate time.
Videoconference Etiquette: 26 Rules Everyone Should Follow
3. Designate someone ahead of time to take notes and vet any questions people have, since time is limited. (Most conference software allows participants to submit questions through chat.) 4. Call ...
Conference presentation references
The description is flexible (e.g., "[Conference session]," "[Paper presentation]," "[Poster session]," "[Keynote address]"). Provide the name of the conference or meeting and its location in the source element of the reference. If video of the conference presentation is available, include a link at the end of the reference.
rules for conference presentations
rules for conference presentations. Posted on April 26, 2012 by pat thomson. Having just returned from a conference where the presentations were a little mixed - to say the least - I was reminded of the reality that conference presentations are not the same as the conference paper. The paper is the basis for the presentation, but the actual ...
Ultimate List of Ground Rules for Effective Meetings
1. Send out invitations with a place and time listed, along with the agenda. It allows people to schedule their time accordingly and plan their own contributions for the topics at hand. 2. Get everyone to agree on ground rules before beginning the meeting because this sets the expectations and a positive tone. 3.
The 4 Rules of Unconferences: Tapping Into Conference ...
No need to worry, these rules are easy to follow. Rule one, whoever shows up are the right people. Rule two, whatever happens is the only thing that could have. Rule three, whenever it starts is the right time. The fourth and final rule is, it's over when it's over. The beautiful thing about these rules is they give participants the freedom ...