PREPARING THE ORAL
PRESENTATION OF THE POSTER
ORAL PRESENTATION OF POSTER
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Prepare a 2.5-5 minute “tour of the poster”, to present to
evaluators or other interested visitors.
Repeatedly rehearse your brief talk while timing it
Try it with a practice audience.
Emphasize the high points:
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Why is the issue important or interesting?
What do the results mean?
Be sure to briefly explain figures and graphs.
If it is running too long, leave out some details, for your visitor
to bring up, if interested in them.
A pointer is recommended. This will help your audience to
follow your talk.
Do not speak too fast. Make eye contact.
Articulate clearly in a conversational tone.
Be prepared to answer any detailed questions.
Suggestion: begin composing your talk by outlining your
presentation.
FOR IMPACT ON A NON-SPECIALIST
AUDIENCE:
Emphasize why the issue or question is
interesting or important (Why should I care?)
 Emphasize the upshot or possible implications of
your study (So what might all this mean?)
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HANDOUTS (OPTIONAL):
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It is a good idea to have copies (8.5” x 11" or 11" x
14") of your poster or a handout with the text of
your poster to pass out to attendees who request
it.
NETWORKING:
Be sure to visit some of the other posters and
talks.
 One of the greatest advantages of poster
presentations is the opportunity to network with
students and faculty interested in your topic.
 (Optional) Have index cards (or calling cards)
ready with your contact information to give to
interested faculty.
 (Optional) Have a notebook, cards, etc. ready to
collect contact information.
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