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skills/latex-posters/SKILL.md
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skills/latex-posters/SKILL.md
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---
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name: latex-posters
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description: "Create professional research posters in LaTeX using beamerposter, tikzposter, or baposter. Support for conference presentations, academic posters, and scientific communication. Includes layout design, color schemes, multi-column formats, figure integration, and poster-specific best practices for visual communication."
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allowed-tools: [Read, Write, Edit, Bash]
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---
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# LaTeX Research Posters
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## Overview
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Research posters are a critical medium for scientific communication at conferences, symposia, and academic events. This skill provides comprehensive guidance for creating professional, visually appealing research posters using LaTeX packages. Generate publication-quality posters with proper layout, typography, color schemes, and visual hierarchy.
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## When to Use This Skill
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This skill should be used when:
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- Creating research posters for conferences, symposia, or poster sessions
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- Designing academic posters for university events or thesis defenses
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- Preparing visual summaries of research for public engagement
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- Converting scientific papers into poster format
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- Creating template posters for research groups or departments
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- Designing posters that comply with specific conference size requirements (A0, A1, 36×48", etc.)
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- Building posters with complex multi-column layouts
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- Integrating figures, tables, equations, and citations in poster format
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## Visual Enhancement with Scientific Schematics
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**When creating documents with this skill, always consider adding scientific diagrams and schematics to enhance visual communication.**
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If your document does not already contain schematics or diagrams:
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- Use the **scientific-schematics** skill to generate AI-powered publication-quality diagrams
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- Simply describe your desired diagram in natural language
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- Nano Banana Pro will automatically generate, review, and refine the schematic
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**For new documents:** Scientific schematics should be generated by default to visually represent key concepts, workflows, architectures, or relationships described in the text.
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**How to generate schematics:**
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```bash
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python scripts/generate_schematic.py "your diagram description" -o figures/output.png
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```
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The AI will automatically:
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- Create publication-quality images with proper formatting
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- Review and refine through multiple iterations
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- Ensure accessibility (colorblind-friendly, high contrast)
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- Save outputs in the figures/ directory
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**When to add schematics:**
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- Research methodology flowcharts for poster content
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- Conceptual framework diagrams
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- Experimental design visualizations
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- Data analysis pipeline diagrams
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- System architecture diagrams
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- Biological pathway illustrations
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- Any complex concept that benefits from visualization
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For detailed guidance on creating schematics, refer to the scientific-schematics skill documentation.
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---
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## Core Capabilities
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### 1. LaTeX Poster Packages
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Support for three major LaTeX poster packages, each with distinct advantages. For detailed comparison and package-specific guidance, refer to `references/latex_poster_packages.md`.
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**beamerposter**:
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- Extension of the Beamer presentation class
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- Familiar syntax for Beamer users
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- Excellent theme support and customization
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- Best for: Traditional academic posters, institutional branding
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**tikzposter**:
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- Modern, flexible design with TikZ integration
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- Built-in color themes and layout templates
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- Extensive customization through TikZ commands
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- Best for: Colorful, modern designs, custom graphics
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**baposter**:
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- Box-based layout system
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- Automatic spacing and positioning
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- Professional-looking default styles
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- Best for: Multi-column layouts, consistent spacing
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### 2. Poster Layout and Structure
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Create effective poster layouts following visual communication principles. For comprehensive layout guidance, refer to `references/poster_layout_design.md`.
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**Common Poster Sections**:
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- **Header/Title**: Title, authors, affiliations, logos
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- **Introduction/Background**: Research context and motivation
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- **Methods/Approach**: Methodology and experimental design
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- **Results**: Key findings with figures and data visualizations
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- **Conclusions**: Main takeaways and implications
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- **References**: Key citations (typically abbreviated)
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- **Acknowledgments**: Funding, collaborators, institutions
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**Layout Strategies**:
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- **Column-based layouts**: 2-column, 3-column, or 4-column grids
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- **Block-based layouts**: Flexible arrangement of content blocks
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- **Z-pattern flow**: Guide readers through content logically
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- **Visual hierarchy**: Use size, color, and spacing to emphasize key points
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### 3. Design Principles for Research Posters
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Apply evidence-based design principles for maximum impact. For detailed design guidance, refer to `references/poster_design_principles.md`.
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**Typography**:
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- Title: 72-120pt for visibility from distance
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- Section headers: 48-72pt
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- Body text: 24-36pt minimum for readability from 4-6 feet
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- Use sans-serif fonts (Arial, Helvetica, Calibri) for clarity
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- Limit to 2-3 font families maximum
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**Color and Contrast**:
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- Use high-contrast color schemes for readability
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- Institutional color palettes for branding
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- Color-blind friendly palettes (avoid red-green combinations)
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- White space is active space—don't overcrowd
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**Visual Elements**:
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- High-resolution figures (300 DPI minimum for print)
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- Large, clear labels on all figures
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- Consistent figure styling throughout
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- Strategic use of icons and graphics
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- Balance text with visual content (40-50% visual recommended)
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**Content Guidelines**:
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- **Less is more**: 300-800 words total recommended
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- Bullet points over paragraphs for scannability
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- Clear, concise messaging
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- Self-explanatory figures with minimal text explanation
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- QR codes for supplementary materials or online resources
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### 4. Standard Poster Sizes
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Support for international and conference-specific poster dimensions:
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**International Standards**:
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- A0 (841 × 1189 mm / 33.1 × 46.8 inches) - Most common European standard
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- A1 (594 × 841 mm / 23.4 × 33.1 inches) - Smaller format
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- A2 (420 × 594 mm / 16.5 × 23.4 inches) - Compact posters
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**North American Standards**:
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- 36 × 48 inches (914 × 1219 mm) - Common US conference size
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- 42 × 56 inches (1067 × 1422 mm) - Large format
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- 48 × 72 inches (1219 × 1829 mm) - Extra large
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**Orientation**:
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- Portrait (vertical) - Most common, traditional
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- Landscape (horizontal) - Better for wide content, timelines
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### 5. Package-Specific Templates
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Provide ready-to-use templates for each major package. Templates available in `assets/` directory.
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**beamerposter Templates**:
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- `beamerposter_classic.tex` - Traditional academic style
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- `beamerposter_modern.tex` - Clean, minimal design
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- `beamerposter_colorful.tex` - Vibrant theme with blocks
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**tikzposter Templates**:
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- `tikzposter_default.tex` - Standard tikzposter layout
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- `tikzposter_rays.tex` - Modern design with ray theme
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- `tikzposter_wave.tex` - Professional wave-style theme
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**baposter Templates**:
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- `baposter_portrait.tex` - Classic portrait layout
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- `baposter_landscape.tex` - Landscape multi-column
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- `baposter_minimal.tex` - Minimalist design
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### 6. Figure and Image Integration
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Optimize visual content for poster presentations:
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**Best Practices**:
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- Use vector graphics (PDF, SVG) when possible for scalability
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- Raster images: minimum 300 DPI at final print size
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- Consistent image styling (borders, captions, sizes)
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- Group related figures together
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- Use subfigures for comparisons
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**LaTeX Figure Commands**:
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```latex
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% Include graphics package
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\usepackage{graphicx}
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% Simple figure
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\includegraphics[width=0.8\linewidth]{figure.pdf}
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% Figure with caption in tikzposter
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\block{Results}{
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\begin{tikzfigure}
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\includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{results.png}
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\end{tikzfigure}
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}
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% Multiple subfigures
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\usepackage{subcaption}
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\begin{figure}
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\begin{subfigure}{0.48\linewidth}
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\includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{fig1.pdf}
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\caption{Condition A}
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\end{subfigure}
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\begin{subfigure}{0.48\linewidth}
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\includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{fig2.pdf}
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\caption{Condition B}
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\end{subfigure}
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\end{figure}
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```
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### 7. Color Schemes and Themes
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Provide professional color palettes for various contexts:
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**Academic Institution Colors**:
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- Match university or department branding
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- Use official color codes (RGB, CMYK, or LaTeX color definitions)
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**Scientific Color Palettes** (color-blind friendly):
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- Viridis: Professional gradient from purple to yellow
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- ColorBrewer: Research-tested palettes for data visualization
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- IBM Color Blind Safe: Accessible corporate palette
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**Package-Specific Theme Selection**:
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**beamerposter**:
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```latex
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\usetheme{Berlin}
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\usecolortheme{beaver}
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```
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**tikzposter**:
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```latex
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\usetheme{Rays}
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\usecolorstyle{Denmark}
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```
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**baposter**:
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```latex
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\begin{poster}{
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background=plain,
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bgColorOne=white,
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headerColorOne=blue!70,
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textborder=rounded
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}
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```
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### 8. Typography and Text Formatting
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Ensure readability and visual appeal:
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**Font Selection**:
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```latex
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% Sans-serif fonts recommended for posters
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\usepackage{helvet} % Helvetica
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\usepackage{avant} % Avant Garde
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\usepackage{sfmath} % Sans-serif math fonts
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% Set default to sans-serif
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\renewcommand{\familydefault}{\sfdefault}
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```
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**Text Sizing**:
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```latex
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% Adjust text sizes for visibility
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\setbeamerfont{title}{size=\VeryHuge}
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\setbeamerfont{author}{size=\Large}
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\setbeamerfont{institute}{size=\normalsize}
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```
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**Emphasis and Highlighting**:
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- Use bold for key terms: `\textbf{important}`
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- Color highlights sparingly: `\textcolor{blue}{highlight}`
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- Boxes for critical information
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- Avoid italics (harder to read from distance)
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### 9. QR Codes and Interactive Elements
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Enhance poster interactivity for modern conferences:
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**QR Code Integration**:
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```latex
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\usepackage{qrcode}
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% Link to paper, code repository, or supplementary materials
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\qrcode[height=2cm]{https://github.com/username/project}
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% QR code with caption
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\begin{center}
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\qrcode[height=3cm]{https://doi.org/10.1234/paper}\\
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\small Scan for full paper
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\end{center}
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```
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**Digital Enhancements**:
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- Link to GitHub repositories for code
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- Link to video presentations or demos
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- Link to interactive web visualizations
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- Link to supplementary data or appendices
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### 10. Compilation and Output
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Generate high-quality PDF output for printing or digital display:
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**Compilation Commands**:
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```bash
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# Basic compilation
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pdflatex poster.tex
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# With bibliography
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pdflatex poster.tex
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bibtex poster
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pdflatex poster.tex
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pdflatex poster.tex
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# For beamer-based posters
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lualatex poster.tex # Better font support
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xelatex poster.tex # Unicode and modern fonts
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```
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**Ensuring Full Page Coverage**:
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Posters should use the entire page without excessive margins. Configure packages correctly:
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**beamerposter - Full Page Setup**:
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```latex
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\documentclass[final,t]{beamer}
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\usepackage[size=a0,scale=1.4,orientation=portrait]{beamerposter}
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% Remove default beamer margins
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\setbeamersize{text margin left=0mm, text margin right=0mm}
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% Use geometry for precise control
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\usepackage[margin=10mm]{geometry} % 10mm margins all around
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% Remove navigation symbols
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\setbeamertemplate{navigation symbols}{}
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% Remove footline and headline if not needed
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\setbeamertemplate{footline}{}
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\setbeamertemplate{headline}{}
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```
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**tikzposter - Full Page Setup**:
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```latex
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\documentclass[
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25pt, % Font scaling
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a0paper, % Paper size
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portrait, % Orientation
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margin=10mm, % Outer margins (minimal)
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innermargin=15mm, % Space inside blocks
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blockverticalspace=15mm, % Space between blocks
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colspace=15mm, % Space between columns
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subcolspace=8mm % Space between subcolumns
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]{tikzposter}
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% This ensures content fills the page
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```
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**baposter - Full Page Setup**:
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```latex
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\documentclass[a0paper,portrait,fontscale=0.285]{baposter}
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\begin{poster}{
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grid=false,
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columns=3,
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colspacing=1.5em, % Space between columns
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eyecatcher=true,
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background=plain,
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bgColorOne=white,
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borderColor=blue!50,
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headerheight=0.12\textheight, % 12% for header
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textborder=roundedleft,
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headerborder=closed,
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boxheaderheight=2em % Consistent box header heights
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}
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% Content here
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\end{poster}
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```
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**Common Issues and Fixes**:
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**Problem**: Large white margins around poster
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```latex
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% Fix for beamerposter
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\setbeamersize{text margin left=5mm, text margin right=5mm}
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% Fix for tikzposter
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\documentclass[..., margin=5mm, innermargin=10mm]{tikzposter}
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% Fix for baposter - adjust in document class
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\documentclass[a0paper, margin=5mm]{baposter}
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```
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**Problem**: Content doesn't fill vertical space
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```latex
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% Use \vfill between sections to distribute space
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\block{Introduction}{...}
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\vfill
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\block{Methods}{...}
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\vfill
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\block{Results}{...}
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% Or manually adjust block spacing
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\vspace{1cm} % Add space between specific blocks
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```
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**Problem**: Poster extends beyond page boundaries
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```latex
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% Check total width calculation
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% For 3 columns with spacing:
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% Total = 3×columnwidth + 2×colspace + 2×margins
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% Ensure this equals \paperwidth
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% Debug by adding visible page boundary
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\usepackage{eso-pic}
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\AddToShipoutPictureBG{
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\AtPageLowerLeft{
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\put(0,0){\framebox(\LenToUnit{\paperwidth},\LenToUnit{\paperheight}){}}
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}
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}
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```
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**Print Preparation**:
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- Generate PDF/X-1a for professional printing
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- Embed all fonts
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- Convert colors to CMYK if required
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- Check resolution of all images (minimum 300 DPI)
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- Add bleed area if required by printer (usually 3-5mm)
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- Verify page size matches requirements exactly
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**Digital Display**:
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- RGB color space for screen display
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- Optimize file size for email/web
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- Test readability on different screens
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### 11. PDF Review and Quality Control
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**CRITICAL**: Always review the generated PDF before printing or presenting. Use this systematic checklist:
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**Step 1: Page Size Verification**
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```bash
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# Check PDF dimensions (should match poster size exactly)
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pdfinfo poster.pdf | grep "Page size"
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# Expected outputs:
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# A0: 2384 x 3370 points (841 x 1189 mm)
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# 36x48": 2592 x 3456 points
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# A1: 1684 x 2384 points (594 x 841 mm)
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```
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**Step 2: Visual Inspection Checklist**
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Open PDF at 100% zoom and check:
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**Layout and Spacing**:
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- [ ] Content fills entire page (no large white margins)
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- [ ] Consistent spacing between columns
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- [ ] Consistent spacing between blocks/sections
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- [ ] All elements aligned properly (use ruler tool)
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- [ ] No overlapping text or figures
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- [ ] White space evenly distributed
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**Typography**:
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- [ ] Title clearly visible and large (72pt+)
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- [ ] Section headers readable (48-72pt)
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||||
- [ ] Body text readable at 100% zoom (24-36pt minimum)
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||||
- [ ] No text cutoff or running off edges
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||||
- [ ] Consistent font usage throughout
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||||
- [ ] All special characters render correctly (symbols, Greek letters)
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**Visual Elements**:
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- [ ] All figures display correctly
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||||
- [ ] No pixelated or blurry images
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||||
- [ ] Figure captions present and readable
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- [ ] Colors render as expected (not washed out or too dark)
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- [ ] Logos display clearly
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||||
- [ ] QR codes visible and scannable
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||||
|
||||
**Content Completeness**:
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- [ ] Title and authors complete
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- [ ] All sections present (Intro, Methods, Results, Conclusions)
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- [ ] References included
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- [ ] Contact information visible
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- [ ] Acknowledgments (if applicable)
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- [ ] No placeholder text remaining (Lorem ipsum, TODO, etc.)
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**Technical Quality**:
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- [ ] No LaTeX compilation warnings in important areas
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||||
- [ ] All citations resolved (no [?] marks)
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- [ ] All cross-references working
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- [ ] Page boundaries correct (no content cut off)
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||||
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||||
**Step 3: Reduced-Scale Print Test**
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**Essential Pre-Printing Test**:
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```bash
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||||
# Create reduced-size test print (25% of final size)
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||||
# This simulates viewing full poster from ~8-10 feet
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||||
|
||||
# For A0 poster, print on A4 paper (24.7% scale)
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||||
# For 36x48" poster, print on letter paper (~25% scale)
|
||||
```
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||||
|
||||
**Print Test Checklist**:
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||||
- [ ] Title readable from 6 feet away
|
||||
- [ ] Section headers readable from 4 feet away
|
||||
- [ ] Body text readable from 2 feet away
|
||||
- [ ] Figures clear and understandable
|
||||
- [ ] Colors printed accurately
|
||||
- [ ] No obvious design flaws
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 4: Digital Quality Checks**
|
||||
|
||||
**Font Embedding Verification**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Check that all fonts are embedded (required for printing)
|
||||
pdffonts poster.pdf
|
||||
|
||||
# All fonts should show "yes" in "emb" column
|
||||
# If any show "no", recompile with:
|
||||
pdflatex -dEmbedAllFonts=true poster.tex
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Image Resolution Check**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Extract image information
|
||||
pdfimages -list poster.pdf
|
||||
|
||||
# Check that all images are at least 300 DPI
|
||||
# Formula: DPI = pixels / (inches in poster)
|
||||
# For A0 width (33.1"): 300 DPI = 9930 pixels minimum
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**File Size Optimization**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# For email/web, compress if needed (>50MB)
|
||||
gs -sDEVICE=pdfwrite -dCompatibilityLevel=1.4 \
|
||||
-dPDFSETTINGS=/printer -dNOPAUSE -dQUIET -dBATCH \
|
||||
-sOutputFile=poster_compressed.pdf poster.pdf
|
||||
|
||||
# For printing, keep original (no compression)
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 5: Accessibility Check**
|
||||
|
||||
**Color Contrast Verification**:
|
||||
- [ ] Text-background contrast ratio ≥ 4.5:1 (WCAG AA)
|
||||
- [ ] Important elements contrast ratio ≥ 7:1 (WCAG AAA)
|
||||
- Test online: https://webaim.org/resources/contrastchecker/
|
||||
|
||||
**Color Blindness Simulation**:
|
||||
- [ ] View PDF through color blindness simulator
|
||||
- [ ] Information not lost with red-green simulation
|
||||
- [ ] Use Coblis (color-blindness.com) or similar tool
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 6: Content Proofreading**
|
||||
|
||||
**Systematic Review**:
|
||||
- [ ] Spell-check all text
|
||||
- [ ] Verify all author names and affiliations
|
||||
- [ ] Check all numbers and statistics for accuracy
|
||||
- [ ] Confirm all citations are correct
|
||||
- [ ] Review figure labels and captions
|
||||
- [ ] Check for typos in headers and titles
|
||||
|
||||
**Peer Review**:
|
||||
- [ ] Ask colleague to review poster
|
||||
- [ ] 30-second test: Can they identify main message?
|
||||
- [ ] 5-minute review: Do they understand conclusions?
|
||||
- [ ] Note any confusing elements
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 7: Technical Validation**
|
||||
|
||||
**LaTeX Compilation Log Review**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Check for warnings in .log file
|
||||
grep -i "warning\|error\|overfull\|underfull" poster.log
|
||||
|
||||
# Common issues to fix:
|
||||
# - Overfull hbox: Text extending beyond margins
|
||||
# - Underfull hbox: Excessive spacing
|
||||
# - Missing references: Citations not resolved
|
||||
# - Missing figures: Image files not found
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Fix Common Warnings**:
|
||||
```latex
|
||||
% Overfull hbox (text too wide)
|
||||
\usepackage{microtype} % Better spacing
|
||||
\sloppy % Allow slightly looser spacing
|
||||
\hyphenation{long-word} % Manual hyphenation
|
||||
|
||||
% Missing fonts
|
||||
\usepackage[T1]{fontenc} % Better font encoding
|
||||
|
||||
% Image not found
|
||||
% Ensure paths are correct and files exist
|
||||
\graphicspath{{./figures/}{./images/}}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 8: Final Pre-Print Checklist**
|
||||
|
||||
**Before Sending to Printer**:
|
||||
- [ ] PDF size exactly matches requirements (check with pdfinfo)
|
||||
- [ ] All fonts embedded (check with pdffonts)
|
||||
- [ ] Color mode correct (RGB for screen, CMYK for print if required)
|
||||
- [ ] Bleed area added if required (usually 3-5mm)
|
||||
- [ ] Crop marks visible if required
|
||||
- [ ] Test print completed and reviewed
|
||||
- [ ] File naming clear: [LastName]_[Conference]_Poster.pdf
|
||||
- [ ] Backup copy saved
|
||||
|
||||
**Printing Specifications to Confirm**:
|
||||
- [ ] Paper type (matte vs. glossy)
|
||||
- [ ] Printing method (inkjet, large format, fabric)
|
||||
- [ ] Color profile (provided to printer if required)
|
||||
- [ ] Delivery deadline and shipping address
|
||||
- [ ] Tube or flat packaging preference
|
||||
|
||||
**Digital Presentation Checklist**:
|
||||
- [ ] PDF size optimized (<10MB for email)
|
||||
- [ ] Tested on multiple PDF viewers (Adobe, Preview, etc.)
|
||||
- [ ] Displays correctly on different screens
|
||||
- [ ] QR codes tested and functional
|
||||
- [ ] Alternative formats prepared (PNG for social media)
|
||||
|
||||
**Review Script** (Available in `scripts/review_poster.sh`):
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
#!/bin/bash
|
||||
# Automated poster PDF review script
|
||||
|
||||
echo "Poster PDF Quality Check"
|
||||
echo "======================="
|
||||
|
||||
# Check file exists
|
||||
if [ ! -f "$1" ]; then
|
||||
echo "Error: File not found"
|
||||
exit 1
|
||||
fi
|
||||
|
||||
echo "File: $1"
|
||||
echo ""
|
||||
|
||||
# Check page size
|
||||
echo "1. Page Dimensions:"
|
||||
pdfinfo "$1" | grep "Page size"
|
||||
echo ""
|
||||
|
||||
# Check fonts
|
||||
echo "2. Font Embedding:"
|
||||
pdffonts "$1" | head -20
|
||||
echo ""
|
||||
|
||||
# Check file size
|
||||
echo "3. File Size:"
|
||||
ls -lh "$1" | awk '{print $5}'
|
||||
echo ""
|
||||
|
||||
# Count pages (should be 1 for poster)
|
||||
echo "4. Page Count:"
|
||||
pdfinfo "$1" | grep "Pages"
|
||||
echo ""
|
||||
|
||||
echo "Manual checks required:"
|
||||
echo "- Visual inspection at 100% zoom"
|
||||
echo "- Reduced-scale print test (25%)"
|
||||
echo "- Color contrast verification"
|
||||
echo "- Proofreading for typos"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Common PDF Issues and Solutions**:
|
||||
|
||||
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|
||||
|-------|-------|----------|
|
||||
| Large white margins | Incorrect margin settings | Reduce margin in documentclass |
|
||||
| Content cut off | Exceeds page boundaries | Check total width/height calculations |
|
||||
| Blurry images | Low resolution (<300 DPI) | Replace with higher resolution images |
|
||||
| Missing fonts | Fonts not embedded | Compile with -dEmbedAllFonts=true |
|
||||
| Wrong page size | Incorrect paper size setting | Verify documentclass paper size |
|
||||
| Colors look wrong | RGB vs CMYK mismatch | Convert color space for print |
|
||||
| File too large (>50MB) | Uncompressed images | Optimize images or compress PDF |
|
||||
| QR codes don't work | Too small or low resolution | Minimum 2×2cm, high contrast |
|
||||
|
||||
### 11. Common Poster Content Patterns
|
||||
|
||||
Effective content organization for different research types:
|
||||
|
||||
**Experimental Research Poster**:
|
||||
1. Title and authors
|
||||
2. Introduction: Problem and hypothesis
|
||||
3. Methods: Experimental design (with diagram)
|
||||
4. Results: Key findings (2-4 main figures)
|
||||
5. Conclusions: Main takeaways (3-5 bullet points)
|
||||
6. Future work (optional)
|
||||
7. References and acknowledgments
|
||||
|
||||
**Computational/Modeling Poster**:
|
||||
1. Title and authors
|
||||
2. Motivation: Problem statement
|
||||
3. Approach: Algorithm or model (with flowchart)
|
||||
4. Implementation: Technical details
|
||||
5. Results: Performance metrics and comparisons
|
||||
6. Applications: Use cases
|
||||
7. Code availability (QR code to GitHub)
|
||||
8. References
|
||||
|
||||
**Review/Survey Poster**:
|
||||
1. Title and authors
|
||||
2. Scope: Topic overview
|
||||
3. Methods: Literature search strategy
|
||||
4. Key findings: Main themes (organized by category)
|
||||
5. Trends: Visualizations of publication patterns
|
||||
6. Gaps: Identified research needs
|
||||
7. Conclusions: Summary and implications
|
||||
8. References
|
||||
|
||||
### 12. Accessibility and Inclusive Design
|
||||
|
||||
Design posters that are accessible to diverse audiences:
|
||||
|
||||
**Color Blindness Considerations**:
|
||||
- Avoid red-green combinations (most common color blindness)
|
||||
- Use patterns or shapes in addition to color
|
||||
- Test with color-blindness simulators
|
||||
- Provide high contrast (WCAG AA standard: 4.5:1 minimum)
|
||||
|
||||
**Visual Impairment Accommodations**:
|
||||
- Large, clear fonts (minimum 24pt body text)
|
||||
- High contrast text and background
|
||||
- Clear visual hierarchy
|
||||
- Avoid complex textures or patterns in backgrounds
|
||||
|
||||
**Language and Content**:
|
||||
- Clear, concise language
|
||||
- Define acronyms and jargon
|
||||
- International audience considerations
|
||||
- Consider multilingual QR code options for global conferences
|
||||
|
||||
### 13. Poster Presentation Best Practices
|
||||
|
||||
Guidance beyond LaTeX for effective poster sessions:
|
||||
|
||||
**Content Strategy**:
|
||||
- Tell a story, don't just list facts
|
||||
- Focus on 1-3 main messages
|
||||
- Use visual abstract or graphical summary
|
||||
- Leave room for conversation (don't over-explain)
|
||||
|
||||
**Physical Presentation Tips**:
|
||||
- Bring printed handouts or business cards with QR code
|
||||
- Prepare 30-second, 2-minute, and 5-minute verbal summaries
|
||||
- Stand to the side, not blocking the poster
|
||||
- Engage viewers with open-ended questions
|
||||
|
||||
**Digital Backups**:
|
||||
- Save poster as PDF on mobile device
|
||||
- Prepare digital version for email sharing
|
||||
- Create social media-friendly image version
|
||||
- Have backup printed copy or digital display option
|
||||
|
||||
## Workflow for Poster Creation
|
||||
|
||||
### Stage 1: Planning and Content Development
|
||||
|
||||
1. **Determine poster requirements**:
|
||||
- Conference size specifications (A0, 36×48", etc.)
|
||||
- Orientation (portrait vs. landscape)
|
||||
- Submission deadlines and format requirements
|
||||
|
||||
2. **Develop content outline**:
|
||||
- Identify 1-3 core messages
|
||||
- Select key figures (typically 3-6 main visuals)
|
||||
- Draft concise text for each section (bullet points preferred)
|
||||
- Aim for 300-800 words total
|
||||
|
||||
3. **Choose LaTeX package**:
|
||||
- beamerposter: If familiar with Beamer, need institutional themes
|
||||
- tikzposter: For modern, colorful designs with flexibility
|
||||
- baposter: For structured, professional multi-column layouts
|
||||
|
||||
### Stage 2: Design and Layout
|
||||
|
||||
1. **Select or create template**:
|
||||
- Start with provided templates in `assets/`
|
||||
- Customize color scheme to match branding
|
||||
- Configure page size and orientation
|
||||
|
||||
2. **Design layout structure**:
|
||||
- Plan column structure (2, 3, or 4 columns)
|
||||
- Map content flow (typically left-to-right, top-to-bottom)
|
||||
- Allocate space for title (10-15%), content (70-80%), footer (5-10%)
|
||||
|
||||
3. **Set typography**:
|
||||
- Configure font sizes for different hierarchy levels
|
||||
- Ensure minimum 24pt body text
|
||||
- Test readability from 4-6 feet distance
|
||||
|
||||
### Stage 3: Content Integration
|
||||
|
||||
1. **Create poster header**:
|
||||
- Title (concise, descriptive, 10-15 words)
|
||||
- Authors and affiliations
|
||||
- Institution logos (high-resolution)
|
||||
- Conference logo if required
|
||||
|
||||
2. **Populate content sections**:
|
||||
- Keep text minimal and scannable
|
||||
- Use bullet points, not paragraphs
|
||||
- Write in active voice
|
||||
- Integrate figures with clear captions
|
||||
|
||||
3. **Add visual elements**:
|
||||
- High-resolution figures (300 DPI minimum)
|
||||
- Consistent styling across all figures
|
||||
- Color-coded elements for emphasis
|
||||
- QR codes for supplementary materials
|
||||
|
||||
4. **Include references**:
|
||||
- Cite key papers only (5-10 references typical)
|
||||
- Use abbreviated citation style
|
||||
- Consider QR code to full bibliography
|
||||
|
||||
### Stage 4: Refinement and Testing
|
||||
|
||||
1. **Review and iterate**:
|
||||
- Check for typos and errors
|
||||
- Verify all figures are high resolution
|
||||
- Ensure consistent formatting
|
||||
- Confirm color scheme works well together
|
||||
|
||||
2. **Test readability**:
|
||||
- Print at 25% scale and read from 2-3 feet (simulates poster from 8-12 feet)
|
||||
- Check color on different monitors
|
||||
- Verify QR codes function correctly
|
||||
- Ask colleague to review
|
||||
|
||||
3. **Optimize for printing**:
|
||||
- Embed all fonts in PDF
|
||||
- Verify image resolution
|
||||
- Check PDF size requirements
|
||||
- Include bleed area if required
|
||||
|
||||
### Stage 5: Compilation and Delivery
|
||||
|
||||
1. **Compile final PDF**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
pdflatex poster.tex
|
||||
# Or for better font support:
|
||||
lualatex poster.tex
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
2. **Verify output quality**:
|
||||
- Check all elements are visible and correctly positioned
|
||||
- Zoom to 100% and inspect figure quality
|
||||
- Verify colors match expectations
|
||||
- Confirm PDF opens correctly on different viewers
|
||||
|
||||
3. **Prepare for printing**:
|
||||
- Export as PDF/X-1a if required
|
||||
- Save backup copies
|
||||
- Get test print on regular paper first
|
||||
- Order professional printing 2-3 days before deadline
|
||||
|
||||
4. **Create supplementary materials**:
|
||||
- Save PNG/JPG version for social media
|
||||
- Create handout version (8.5×11" summary)
|
||||
- Prepare digital version for email sharing
|
||||
|
||||
## Integration with Other Skills
|
||||
|
||||
This skill works effectively with:
|
||||
- **Scientific Writing**: For developing poster content from papers
|
||||
- **Figure Creation**: For generating high-quality visualizations
|
||||
- **Literature Review**: For contextualizing research
|
||||
- **Data Analysis**: For creating result figures and charts
|
||||
|
||||
## Common Pitfalls to Avoid
|
||||
|
||||
**Design Mistakes**:
|
||||
- ❌ Too much text (over 1000 words)
|
||||
- ❌ Font sizes too small (under 24pt body text)
|
||||
- ❌ Low-contrast color combinations
|
||||
- ❌ Cluttered layout with no white space
|
||||
- ❌ Inconsistent styling across sections
|
||||
- ❌ Poor quality or pixelated images
|
||||
|
||||
**Content Mistakes**:
|
||||
- ❌ No clear narrative or message
|
||||
- ❌ Too many research questions or objectives
|
||||
- ❌ Overuse of jargon without definitions
|
||||
- ❌ Results without context or interpretation
|
||||
- ❌ Missing author contact information
|
||||
|
||||
**Technical Mistakes**:
|
||||
- ❌ Wrong poster dimensions for conference requirements
|
||||
- ❌ RGB colors sent to CMYK printer (color shift)
|
||||
- ❌ Fonts not embedded in PDF
|
||||
- ❌ File size too large for submission portal
|
||||
- ❌ QR codes too small or not tested
|
||||
|
||||
**Best Practices**:
|
||||
- ✅ Follow conference size specifications exactly
|
||||
- ✅ Test print at reduced scale before final printing
|
||||
- ✅ Use high-contrast, accessible color schemes
|
||||
- ✅ Keep text minimal and highly scannable
|
||||
- ✅ Include clear contact information and QR codes
|
||||
- ✅ Balance text and visuals (40-50% visual content)
|
||||
- ✅ Proofread carefully (errors are magnified on posters!)
|
||||
|
||||
## Package Installation
|
||||
|
||||
Ensure required LaTeX packages are installed:
|
||||
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# For TeX Live (Linux/Mac)
|
||||
tlmgr install beamerposter tikzposter baposter
|
||||
|
||||
# For MiKTeX (Windows)
|
||||
# Packages typically auto-install on first use
|
||||
|
||||
# Additional recommended packages
|
||||
tlmgr install qrcode graphics xcolor tcolorbox subcaption
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
## Scripts and Automation
|
||||
|
||||
Helper scripts available in `scripts/` directory:
|
||||
|
||||
- `compile_poster.sh`: Automated compilation with error handling
|
||||
- `generate_template.py`: Interactive template generator
|
||||
- `resize_images.py`: Batch image optimization for posters
|
||||
- `poster_checklist.py`: Pre-submission validation tool
|
||||
|
||||
## References
|
||||
|
||||
Comprehensive reference files for detailed guidance:
|
||||
|
||||
- `references/latex_poster_packages.md`: Detailed comparison of beamerposter, tikzposter, and baposter with examples
|
||||
- `references/poster_layout_design.md`: Layout principles, grid systems, and visual flow
|
||||
- `references/poster_design_principles.md`: Typography, color theory, visual hierarchy, and accessibility
|
||||
- `references/poster_content_guide.md`: Content organization, writing style, and section-specific guidance
|
||||
|
||||
## Templates
|
||||
|
||||
Ready-to-use poster templates in `assets/` directory:
|
||||
|
||||
- beamerposter templates (classic, modern, colorful)
|
||||
- tikzposter templates (default, rays, wave, envelope)
|
||||
- baposter templates (portrait, landscape, minimal)
|
||||
- Example posters from various scientific disciplines
|
||||
- Color scheme definitions and institutional templates
|
||||
|
||||
Load these templates and customize for your specific research and conference requirements.
|
||||
|
||||
Reference in New Issue
Block a user