Preparing & Presenting Your Research

Key Steps:

1. Plan and Gather Requirements

• Check conference or event guidelines (size, format, required sections) 
• Consult your mentor or faculty advisor for advice and approval 
• Consult with all coauthors for advice and approval 
• Review poster samples and templates for ideas 
   

2. Develop Content

• Identify your core message or key findings 
• Organize content into standard sections: 
  • Title: Concise and descriptive 
  • Authors and University Affiliations 
  • Abstract (if required): Brief summary of objectives, methods, and findings 
  • Introduction/Background: Context and significance of your research 
  • Research Question/Hypothesis: Clearly state what you are investigating 
  • Methods: Summarize procedures, can use a flow chart for clarity 
  • Results: Present main findings with visuals (charts, graphs, images) 
  • Conclusions/Discussion: Highlight significance, implications, and future directions 
  • References and Acknowledgments: Cite sources and thank contributors/funding 
     

3. Design the Poster

• Use clear headings, bullet points, and concise text5 
• Prioritize visuals over dense text—use graphs, diagrams, and images to communicate data 
• Maintain a logical flow and organized layout (left-to-right or top-to-bottom) 
• Choose readable fonts and appropriate colors for clarity and emphasis 
• Use software like PowerPoint or Illustrator 
   

4. Review and Revise

• Get feedback from mentors or peers 
• Check for clarity, visual appeal, and adherence to guidelines 
• Proofread for errors. 
   

5. Print and Prepare to Present

• Print the poster in the correct size and format 
• Practice your presentation—be ready to give a guided tour and answer questions