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skills/scientific-slides/references/beamer_guide.md
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skills/scientific-slides/references/beamer_guide.md
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skills/scientific-slides/references/data_visualization_slides.md
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skills/scientific-slides/references/data_visualization_slides.md
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# Data Visualization for Slides
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## Overview
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Effective data visualization in presentations differs fundamentally from journal figures. While publications prioritize comprehensive detail, presentation slides must emphasize clarity, impact, and immediate comprehension. This guide covers adapting figures for slides, choosing appropriate chart types, and avoiding common visualization mistakes.
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## Key Principles for Presentation Figures
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### 1. Simplify, Don't Replicate
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**The Core Difference**:
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- **Journal figures**: Dense, detailed, for careful study
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- **Presentation figures**: Clear, simplified, for quick understanding
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**Simplification Strategies**:
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**Remove Non-Essential Elements**:
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- ❌ Minor gridlines
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- ❌ Detailed legends (label directly instead)
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- ❌ Multiple panels (split into separate slides)
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- ❌ Secondary axes (rarely work in presentations)
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- ❌ Dense tick marks and minor labels
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**Focus on Key Message**:
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- Show only the data supporting your current point
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- Subset data if full dataset is overwhelming
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- Highlight the specific comparison you're discussing
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- Remove context that isn't immediately relevant
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**Example Transformation**:
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```
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Journal Figure:
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- 6 panels (A-F)
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- 4 experimental conditions per panel
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- 50+ data points visible
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- Complex statistical annotations
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- Small font labels
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Presentation Version:
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- 3 separate slides (1-2 panels each)
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- Focus on key comparison per slide
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- Large, clear data representation
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- One statistical result highlighted
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- Large, readable labels
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```
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### 2. Emphasize Visual Hierarchy
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**Guide Attention**:
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- Make key result visually dominant
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- De-emphasize background or comparison data
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- Use size, color, and position strategically
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**Techniques**:
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**Color Emphasis**:
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```
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Main Result: Bold, saturated color (e.g., blue)
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Comparison: Muted gray or desaturated color
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Background: Very light gray or white
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```
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**Size Emphasis**:
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```
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Key line/bar: Thicker (3-4pt)
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Reference lines: Thinner (1-2pt)
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Grid lines: Very thin (0.5pt) or remove
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```
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**Annotation**:
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```
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Add text callouts: "34% increase" with arrow
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Add shapes: Circle key region
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Add color highlights: Background shading for important area
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```
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### 3. Maximize Readability
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**Font Sizes for Presentations**:
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- **Axis labels**: 18-24pt minimum
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- **Tick labels**: 16-20pt minimum
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- **Title**: 24-32pt
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- **Legend**: 16-20pt (or label directly on plot)
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- **Annotations**: 18-24pt
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**The Distance Test**:
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- If your figure isn't readable at 2-3 feet from your laptop screen, it won't work in a presentation
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- Test by stepping back from screen
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- Better to split into multiple simpler figures
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**Line and Marker Sizes**:
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- **Lines**: 2-4pt thickness (thicker than journal figures)
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- **Markers**: 8-12pt size
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- **Error bars**: 1.5-2pt thickness
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- **Bars**: Adequate width with clear spacing
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### 4. Use Progressive Disclosure
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**Build Complex Figures Incrementally**:
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Instead of showing complete figure at once:
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1. **Baseline**: Show axes and basic setup
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2. **Data Group 1**: Add first dataset
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3. **Data Group 2**: Add comparison dataset
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4. **Highlight**: Emphasize key difference
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5. **Interpretation**: Add annotation with finding
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**Benefits**:
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- Controls audience attention
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- Prevents information overload
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- Guides interpretation
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- Emphasizes narrative structure
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**Implementation**:
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- PowerPoint: Use animation to reveal layers
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- Beamer: Use `\pause` or overlays
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- Static: Create sequence of slides building the figure
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## Chart Types and When to Use Them
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### Bar Charts
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**Best For**:
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- Comparing discrete categories
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- Showing counts or frequencies
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- Highlighting differences between groups
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**Presentation Optimization**:
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```
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✅ DO:
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- Large, clear bars with adequate spacing
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- Horizontal bars for long category names
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- Direct labeling on bars (not legend)
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- Order by value (highest to lowest) unless natural order exists
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- Start y-axis at zero for accurate visual comparison
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❌ DON'T:
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- Too many categories (max 8-10)
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- 3D bars (distorts perception)
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- Multiple grouped comparisons (split to separate slides)
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- Decorative patterns or gradients
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```
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**Example Enhancement**:
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```
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Before: 12 categories, small fonts, legend
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After: Top 6 categories only, large fonts, direct labels, key bar highlighted
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```
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### Line Graphs
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**Best For**:
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- Trends over time
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- Continuous data relationships
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- Comparing trajectories
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**Presentation Optimization**:
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```
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✅ DO:
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- Thick lines (2-4pt)
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- Distinct colors AND line styles (solid, dashed, dotted)
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- Direct line labeling (at end of lines, not legend)
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- Highlight key line with color/thickness
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- Minimal gridlines or none
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- Clear markers at data points
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❌ DON'T:
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- More than 4-5 lines per plot
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- Similar colors (ensure high contrast)
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- Small markers or thin lines
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- Cluttered with excess gridlines
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```
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**Time Series Tips**:
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- Mark key events or interventions with vertical lines
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- Annotate important time points
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- Use shaded regions for different phases
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### Scatter Plots
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**Best For**:
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- Relationships between two variables
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- Correlations
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- Distributions
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- Outliers
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**Presentation Optimization**:
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```
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✅ DO:
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- Large, distinct markers (8-12pt)
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- Color code groups clearly
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- Show trendline if discussing correlation
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- Annotate key points (outliers, examples)
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- Report R² or p-value directly on plot
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❌ DON'T:
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- Overplot (too many overlapping points)
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- Small markers
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- Multiple marker types that look similar
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- Missing scale information
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```
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**Overplotting Solutions**:
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- Transparency (alpha) for overlapping points
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- Hexbin or density plots for very large datasets
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- Random jitter for discrete data
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- Marginal distributions on axes
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### Box Plots / Violin Plots
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**Best For**:
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- Distribution comparisons
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- Showing variability and outliers
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- Multiple group comparisons
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**Presentation Optimization**:
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```
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✅ DO:
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- Large, clear boxes
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- Color code groups
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- Add individual data points if n is small (< 30)
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- Annotate median or mean values
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- Explain components (quartiles, whiskers) first time shown
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❌ DON'T:
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- Assume audience knows box plot conventions
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- Use without brief explanation
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- Too many groups (max 6-8)
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- Omit axis labels and units
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```
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**First Use**:
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If your audience may be unfamiliar, briefly explain: "Box shows middle 50% of data, line is median, whiskers show range"
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### Heatmaps
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**Best For**:
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- Matrix data
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- Gene expression or correlation patterns
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- Large datasets with patterns
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**Presentation Optimization**:
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```
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✅ DO:
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- Large cells (readable grid)
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- Clear, intuitive color scale (diverging or sequential)
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- Label rows and columns with large fonts
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- Show color scale legend prominently
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- Cluster or order meaningfully
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- Highlight key region with border
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❌ DON'T:
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- Too many rows/columns (200×200 matrix unreadable)
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- Poor color scales (rainbow, red-green)
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- Missing dendrograms if claiming clusters
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- Tiny labels
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```
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**Simplification**:
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- Show subset of most interesting rows/columns
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- Zoom to relevant region
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- Split large heatmap across multiple slides
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### Network Diagrams
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**Best For**:
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- Relationships and connections
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- Pathways and networks
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- Hierarchical structures
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**Presentation Optimization**:
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```
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✅ DO:
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- Large nodes and labels
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- Clear edge directionality (arrows)
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- Color or size code importance
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- Highlight path of interest
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- Simplify to essential connections
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- Use layout that minimizes crossing edges
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❌ DON'T:
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- Show entire complex network at once
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- Hairball diagrams (too many connections)
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- Small labels on nodes
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- Unclear what nodes and edges represent
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```
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**Build Strategy**:
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1. Show simplified structure
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2. Add key nodes progressively
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3. Highlight path or subnetwork of interest
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4. Annotate with functional interpretation
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### Statistical Plots
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**Kaplan-Meier Survival Curves**:
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```
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✅ Optimize:
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- Thick lines (3-4pt)
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- Show confidence intervals as shaded regions
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- Mark censored observations clearly
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- Report hazard ratio and p-value on plot
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- Extend axes to show full follow-up
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```
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**Forest Plots**:
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```
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✅ Optimize:
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- Large markers (diamonds or squares)
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- Clear confidence interval bars
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- Large font for study names
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- Highlight overall estimate
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- Show line of no effect prominently
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```
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**ROC Curves**:
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```
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✅ Optimize:
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- Thick curve line
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- Show diagonal reference line (AUC = 0.5)
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- Report AUC with confidence interval on plot
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- Mark optimal threshold if discussing cutpoint
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- Compare ≤ 3 curves per plot
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```
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## Color in Data Visualizations
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### Sequential Color Scales
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**When to Use**: Ordered data (low to high)
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**Good Palettes**:
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- Blues: Light blue → Dark blue
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- Greens: Light green → Dark green
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- Grays: Light gray → Black
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- Viridis: Yellow → Purple (perceptually uniform)
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**Avoid**:
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- Rainbow scales (non-uniform perception)
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- Red-green scales (color blindness)
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### Diverging Color Scales
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**When to Use**: Data with meaningful midpoint (e.g., +/− change, correlation from -1 to +1)
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**Good Palettes**:
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- Blue → White → Red
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- Purple → White → Orange
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- Blue → Gray → Orange
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**Key Principle**: Midpoint should be visually neutral (white or light gray)
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### Categorical Colors
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**When to Use**: Distinct groups with no order
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**Good Practices**:
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- Maximum 5-7 colors for clarity
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- High contrast between adjacent categories
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- Color-blind safe combinations
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- Consistent color mapping across slides
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**Example Set**:
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```
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Blue (#0173B2)
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Orange (#DE8F05)
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Green (#029E73)
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Purple (#CC78BC)
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Red (#CA3542)
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```
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### Highlight Colors
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**Strategy**: Use color to direct attention
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```
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Main Result: Bright, saturated color (e.g., blue)
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Comparison: Neutral (gray) or muted color
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Background: Very light gray or white
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```
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**Example Application**:
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- Bar chart: Key bar in blue, others in light gray
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- Line plot: Main line in bold blue, reference lines in thin gray
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- Scatter: Group of interest in color, others faded
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## Common Visualization Mistakes
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### Mistake 1: Overwhelming Complexity
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**Problem**: Showing too much data at once
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**Example**:
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- Figure with 12 panels
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- Each panel has 6 experimental conditions
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- Tiny fonts and dense layout
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- Audience has 10 seconds to process
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**Solution**:
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- Split into 3-4 slides
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- One comparison per slide
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- Focus on key result
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- Build understanding progressively
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### Mistake 2: Illegible Labels
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**Problem**: Text too small to read
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**Common Issues**:
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- 8-10pt axis labels (need ≥18pt)
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- Tiny legend text
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- Subscripts and superscripts disappear
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- Fine-print p-values
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**Solution**:
|
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- Recreate figures for presentation (don't use journal versions directly)
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- Test readability from distance
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- Remove or enlarge small text
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- Put detailed statistics in notes
|
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|
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### Mistake 3: Chart Junk
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**Problem**: Unnecessary decorative elements
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**Examples**:
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- 3D effects on 2D data
|
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- Excessive gridlines
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- Distracting backgrounds
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- Decorative borders or shadows
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- Animation for decoration only
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**Solution**:
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- Remove all non-data ink
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- Maximize data-ink ratio
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- Clean, minimal design
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- Let data be the focus
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### Mistake 4: Misleading Scales
|
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**Problem**: Visual representation distorts data
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|
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**Examples**:
|
||||
- Bar charts not starting at zero
|
||||
- Truncated y-axes exaggerating differences
|
||||
- Inconsistent scales between panels
|
||||
- Log scales without clear labeling
|
||||
|
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**Solution**:
|
||||
- Bar charts: Always start at zero
|
||||
- Line charts: Can truncate, but make clear
|
||||
- Label log scales explicitly
|
||||
- Maintain consistent scales for comparisons
|
||||
|
||||
### Mistake 5: Poor Color Choices
|
||||
|
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**Problem**: Colors reduce clarity or accessibility
|
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|
||||
**Examples**:
|
||||
- Red-green for color-blind audience
|
||||
- Low contrast (yellow on white)
|
||||
- Too many colors
|
||||
- Inconsistent color meaning
|
||||
|
||||
**Solution**:
|
||||
- Use color-blind safe palettes
|
||||
- Test contrast (minimum 4.5:1)
|
||||
- Limit to 5-7 colors maximum
|
||||
- Consistent meaning across slides
|
||||
|
||||
### Mistake 6: Missing Context
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Audience can't interpret visualization
|
||||
|
||||
**Missing Elements**:
|
||||
- Axis labels or units
|
||||
- Sample sizes (n)
|
||||
- Error bar meaning (SEM vs SD vs CI)
|
||||
- Statistical significance indicators
|
||||
- Scale or reference points
|
||||
|
||||
**Solution**:
|
||||
- Label everything clearly
|
||||
- Define abbreviations
|
||||
- Report key statistics on plot
|
||||
- Provide reference for comparison
|
||||
|
||||
### Mistake 7: Inefficient Chart Type
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Wrong visualization for data type
|
||||
|
||||
**Examples**:
|
||||
- Pie chart for >5 categories (use bar chart)
|
||||
- 3D pie chart (especially bad)
|
||||
- Dual y-axes (confusing)
|
||||
- Line plot for discrete categories (use bar chart)
|
||||
|
||||
**Solution**:
|
||||
- Match chart type to data type
|
||||
- Consider what comparison you're showing
|
||||
- Choose format that makes pattern obvious
|
||||
- Test if message is immediately clear
|
||||
|
||||
## Progressive Disclosure Techniques
|
||||
|
||||
### Building a Complex Figure
|
||||
|
||||
**Scenario**: Showing multi-panel experimental result
|
||||
|
||||
**Approach 1: Sequential Panels**
|
||||
```
|
||||
Slide 1: Panel A only (baseline condition)
|
||||
Slide 2: Panels A+B (add treatment effect)
|
||||
Slide 3: Panels A+B+C (add time course)
|
||||
Slide 4: All panels with interpretation overlay
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Approach 2: Layered Data**
|
||||
```
|
||||
Slide 1: Axes and experimental design schematic
|
||||
Slide 2: Add control group data
|
||||
Slide 3: Add treatment group data
|
||||
Slide 4: Highlight difference, show statistics
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Approach 3: Zoom and Context**
|
||||
```
|
||||
Slide 1: Full dataset overview
|
||||
Slide 2: Zoom to interesting region
|
||||
Slide 3: Highlight specific points in zoomed view
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Animation vs. Multiple Slides
|
||||
|
||||
**Use Animation** (PowerPoint/Beamer overlays):
|
||||
- Building bullet points
|
||||
- Adding layers to same plot
|
||||
- Highlighting different regions sequentially
|
||||
- Smooth transitions within a concept
|
||||
|
||||
**Use Separate Slides**:
|
||||
- Different data or experiments
|
||||
- Major conceptual shifts
|
||||
- Want to return to previous view
|
||||
- Need to control timing flexibly
|
||||
|
||||
## Figure Preparation Workflow
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 1: Start with High-Quality Source
|
||||
|
||||
**For Generated Figures**:
|
||||
- Export at high resolution (300 DPI minimum)
|
||||
- Vector formats preferred (PDF, SVG)
|
||||
- Large size (can scale down, not up)
|
||||
- Clean, professional appearance
|
||||
|
||||
**For Published Figures**:
|
||||
- Request high-resolution versions from authors/publishers
|
||||
- Recreate if source not available
|
||||
- Check reuse permissions
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 2: Simplify for Presentation
|
||||
|
||||
**Edit in Graphics Software**:
|
||||
- Remove non-essential panels
|
||||
- Enlarge fonts and labels
|
||||
- Increase line widths and marker sizes
|
||||
- Remove or simplify legends
|
||||
- Add direct labels
|
||||
- Remove excess gridlines
|
||||
|
||||
**Tools**:
|
||||
- Adobe Illustrator (vector editing)
|
||||
- Inkscape (free vector editing)
|
||||
- PowerPoint/Keynote (basic editing)
|
||||
- Python/R (programmatic recreation)
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 3: Optimize for Projection
|
||||
|
||||
**Check**:
|
||||
- ✅ Readable from 10 feet away
|
||||
- ✅ High contrast between elements
|
||||
- ✅ Large enough to fill significant slide area
|
||||
- ✅ Maintains quality when projected
|
||||
- ✅ Works in various lighting conditions
|
||||
|
||||
**Test**:
|
||||
- View on different screens
|
||||
- Project if possible before talk
|
||||
- Print at small scale (simulates distance)
|
||||
- Check in grayscale (color-blind simulation)
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 4: Add Context and Annotations
|
||||
|
||||
**Enhancements**:
|
||||
- Arrows pointing to key features
|
||||
- Text boxes with key findings ("p < 0.001")
|
||||
- Circles or rectangles highlighting regions
|
||||
- Color coding matched to verbal description
|
||||
- Reference lines or benchmarks
|
||||
|
||||
**Verbal Integration**:
|
||||
- Plan what you'll say about each element
|
||||
- Use "Notice that..." or "Here you can see..."
|
||||
- Point to specific features during talk
|
||||
- Explain axes and scales first time shown
|
||||
|
||||
## Recreating Journal Figures for Presentations
|
||||
|
||||
### When to Recreate
|
||||
|
||||
**Recreate When**:
|
||||
- Original has small fonts
|
||||
- Too many panels for one slide
|
||||
- Multiple comparisons to parse
|
||||
- Colors not accessible
|
||||
- Data available to you
|
||||
|
||||
**Reuse When**:
|
||||
- Already simple and clear
|
||||
- Appropriate font sizes
|
||||
- Single focused message
|
||||
- High resolution available
|
||||
- Remaking not feasible
|
||||
|
||||
### Recreation Tools
|
||||
|
||||
**Python (matplotlib, seaborn)**:
|
||||
```python
|
||||
import matplotlib.pyplot as plt
|
||||
import seaborn as sns
|
||||
|
||||
# Set presentation-friendly defaults
|
||||
plt.rcParams['font.size'] = 18
|
||||
plt.rcParams['axes.linewidth'] = 2
|
||||
plt.rcParams['lines.linewidth'] = 3
|
||||
plt.rcParams['figure.figsize'] = (10, 6)
|
||||
|
||||
# Create plot with large, clear elements
|
||||
# Export as high-res PNG or PDF
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**R (ggplot2)**:
|
||||
```r
|
||||
library(ggplot2)
|
||||
|
||||
# Presentation theme
|
||||
theme_presentation <- theme_minimal() +
|
||||
theme(
|
||||
text = element_text(size = 18),
|
||||
axis.text = element_text(size = 16),
|
||||
axis.title = element_text(size = 20),
|
||||
legend.text = element_text(size = 16)
|
||||
)
|
||||
|
||||
# Apply to plots
|
||||
ggplot(data, aes(x, y)) + geom_point(size=4) + theme_presentation
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**GraphPad Prism**:
|
||||
- Increase font sizes in Format Axes
|
||||
- Thicken lines in Format Graph
|
||||
- Enlarge symbols
|
||||
- Export as high-resolution image
|
||||
|
||||
**Excel/PowerPoint**:
|
||||
- Select chart, Format → Text Options → Size (increase to 18-24pt)
|
||||
- Format → Line → Width (increase to 2-3pt)
|
||||
- Format → Marker → Size (increase to 10-12pt)
|
||||
|
||||
## Summary Checklist
|
||||
|
||||
Before including a figure in your presentation:
|
||||
|
||||
**Clarity**:
|
||||
- [ ] One clear message per figure
|
||||
- [ ] Immediately understandable (< 5 seconds)
|
||||
- [ ] Appropriate chart type for data
|
||||
- [ ] Simplified from journal version (if applicable)
|
||||
|
||||
**Readability**:
|
||||
- [ ] Font sizes ≥18pt for labels
|
||||
- [ ] Thick lines (2-4pt) and large markers (8-12pt)
|
||||
- [ ] High contrast colors
|
||||
- [ ] Readable from back of room
|
||||
|
||||
**Design**:
|
||||
- [ ] Minimal chart junk (removed gridlines, simplify)
|
||||
- [ ] Axes clearly labeled with units
|
||||
- [ ] Color-blind friendly palette
|
||||
- [ ] Consistent style with other figures
|
||||
|
||||
**Context**:
|
||||
- [ ] Sample sizes indicated (n)
|
||||
- [ ] Statistical results shown (p-values, CI)
|
||||
- [ ] Error bars defined (SE, SD, or CI?)
|
||||
- [ ] Key finding annotated or highlighted
|
||||
|
||||
**Technical Quality**:
|
||||
- [ ] High resolution (300 DPI minimum)
|
||||
- [ ] Vector format preferred
|
||||
- [ ] Properly sized for slide
|
||||
- [ ] Quality maintained when projected
|
||||
|
||||
**Progressive Disclosure** (if complex):
|
||||
- [ ] Plan for building figure incrementally
|
||||
- [ ] Each step adds one new element
|
||||
- [ ] Final version shows complete picture
|
||||
- [ ] Animation or separate slides prepared
|
||||
642
skills/scientific-slides/references/presentation_structure.md
Normal file
642
skills/scientific-slides/references/presentation_structure.md
Normal file
@@ -0,0 +1,642 @@
|
||||
# Presentation Structure Guide
|
||||
|
||||
## Overview
|
||||
|
||||
Effective scientific presentations follow a clear narrative structure that guides the audience through your research story. This guide provides structure templates for different talk lengths and contexts, helping you organize content for maximum impact and clarity.
|
||||
|
||||
## Core Narrative Structure
|
||||
|
||||
All scientific presentations should follow a story arc that engages, informs, and persuades:
|
||||
|
||||
1. **Hook**: Grab attention immediately (30 seconds - 1 minute)
|
||||
2. **Context**: Establish the research area and importance (5-10% of talk)
|
||||
3. **Problem/Gap**: Identify what's unknown or problematic (5-10% of talk)
|
||||
4. **Approach**: Explain your solution or method (15-25% of talk)
|
||||
5. **Results**: Present key findings (40-50% of talk)
|
||||
6. **Implications**: Discuss meaning and impact (15-20% of talk)
|
||||
7. **Closure**: Memorable conclusion and call to action (1-2 minutes)
|
||||
|
||||
This arc mirrors the scientific method while maintaining narrative flow that keeps audiences engaged.
|
||||
|
||||
## Slide Count Guidelines
|
||||
|
||||
**General Rule**: Approximately 1 slide per minute, with adjustments based on content complexity.
|
||||
|
||||
| Talk Duration | Total Slides | Title/Intro | Methods | Results | Discussion | Conclusion |
|
||||
|---------------|--------------|-------------|---------|---------|------------|------------|
|
||||
| 5 minutes (lightning) | 5-7 | 1-2 | 0-1 | 2-3 | 1 | 1 |
|
||||
| 10 minutes (short) | 10-12 | 2 | 1-2 | 4-5 | 2-3 | 1 |
|
||||
| 15 minutes (conference) | 15-18 | 2-3 | 2-3 | 6-8 | 3-4 | 1-2 |
|
||||
| 20 minutes (extended) | 20-24 | 3 | 3-4 | 8-10 | 4-5 | 2 |
|
||||
| 30 minutes (seminar) | 25-30 | 3-4 | 5-6 | 10-12 | 6-8 | 2 |
|
||||
| 45 minutes (keynote) | 35-45 | 4-5 | 8-10 | 15-20 | 8-10 | 2-3 |
|
||||
| 60 minutes (lecture) | 45-60 | 5-6 | 10-12 | 20-25 | 10-12 | 3-4 |
|
||||
|
||||
**Adjustments**:
|
||||
- **Complex data**: Reduce slide count (spend more time per slide)
|
||||
- **Simple concepts**: Can increase slide count slightly
|
||||
- **Heavy animations**: Count as multiple slides if building incrementally
|
||||
- **Q&A included**: Reduce content slides by 20-30%
|
||||
|
||||
## Structure by Talk Length
|
||||
|
||||
### 5-Minute Lightning Talk
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**: Communicate one key idea quickly and memorably.
|
||||
|
||||
**Structure** (5-7 slides):
|
||||
1. **Title slide** (15 seconds): Title, name, affiliation
|
||||
2. **The Problem** (45 seconds): One compelling problem statement with visual
|
||||
3. **Your Solution** (60 seconds): Core approach or finding (1 slide or 2 if showing before/after)
|
||||
4. **Key Result** (90 seconds): Single most important finding with clear visualization
|
||||
5. **Impact** (45 seconds): Why it matters, one key implication
|
||||
6. **Closing** (30 seconds): Memorable takeaway, contact info
|
||||
|
||||
**Tips**:
|
||||
- Focus on ONE message only
|
||||
- Maximize visuals, minimize text
|
||||
- Practice exact timing
|
||||
- No methods details (mention in one sentence)
|
||||
- Prepare for "tell me more" conversations after
|
||||
|
||||
### 10-Minute Conference Talk
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**: Present a complete research story with key findings.
|
||||
|
||||
**Structure** (10-12 slides):
|
||||
1. **Title slide** (30 seconds)
|
||||
2. **Hook + Context** (60 seconds): Compelling opening that establishes importance
|
||||
3. **Problem Statement** (60 seconds): Knowledge gap or challenge
|
||||
4. **Approach Overview** (60-90 seconds): High-level methods (1-2 slides)
|
||||
5. **Key Results** (4-5 minutes): Main findings (4-5 slides)
|
||||
- Result 1: Primary finding
|
||||
- Result 2: Supporting evidence
|
||||
- Result 3: Additional validation or application
|
||||
- (Optional) Result 4: Extension or implication
|
||||
6. **Interpretation** (90 seconds): What it means (1-2 slides)
|
||||
7. **Conclusions** (45 seconds): Main takeaways
|
||||
8. **Acknowledgments** (15 seconds): Funding, collaborators
|
||||
|
||||
**Tips**:
|
||||
- Spend 40-50% of time on results
|
||||
- Use build animations to control information flow
|
||||
- Practice transitions between sections
|
||||
- Leave 2-3 minutes for questions if Q&A is included
|
||||
- Have 1-2 backup slides with extra data
|
||||
|
||||
### 15-Minute Conference Talk (Standard)
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**: Comprehensive presentation of a research project with detailed results.
|
||||
|
||||
**Structure** (15-18 slides):
|
||||
1. **Title slide** (30 seconds)
|
||||
2. **Opening Hook** (45 seconds): Attention-grabbing problem or statistic
|
||||
3. **Background/Context** (90 seconds): Why this research area matters (1-2 slides)
|
||||
4. **Knowledge Gap** (60 seconds): What's unknown or problematic
|
||||
5. **Research Question/Hypothesis** (45 seconds): Clear statement of objectives
|
||||
6. **Methods Overview** (2-3 minutes): Experimental design (2-3 slides)
|
||||
- Study design/participants
|
||||
- Key procedures or techniques
|
||||
- Analysis approach
|
||||
7. **Results** (6-7 minutes): Detailed findings (6-8 slides)
|
||||
- Opening: Sample characteristics or validation
|
||||
- Main finding 1: Primary outcome with statistics
|
||||
- Main finding 2: Secondary outcome or subgroup
|
||||
- Main finding 3: Mechanism or extension
|
||||
- (Optional) Additional analyses or sensitivity tests
|
||||
8. **Discussion** (2-3 minutes): Interpretation and context (3-4 slides)
|
||||
- Relationship to prior work
|
||||
- Mechanisms or explanations
|
||||
- Limitations
|
||||
- Implications
|
||||
9. **Conclusions** (60 seconds): Key takeaways (1-2 slides)
|
||||
10. **Acknowledgments + Questions** (30 seconds)
|
||||
|
||||
**Tips**:
|
||||
- Budget time for each section and practice with timer
|
||||
- Use section dividers or progress indicators
|
||||
- Spend most time on results (40-45%)
|
||||
- Anticipate likely questions and prepare backup slides
|
||||
- Have a "Plan B" for running over (know which slides to skip)
|
||||
|
||||
### 20-Minute Extended Talk
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**: In-depth presentation with room for multiple studies or detailed methodology.
|
||||
|
||||
**Structure** (20-24 slides):
|
||||
|
||||
Similar to 15-minute talk but with:
|
||||
- More detailed methods (3-4 slides with diagrams)
|
||||
- Additional result categories or subanalyses
|
||||
- More extensive discussion of prior work
|
||||
- Deeper dive into one or two key findings
|
||||
- More context on limitations and future directions
|
||||
|
||||
**Distribution**:
|
||||
- Introduction: 3 minutes (3 slides)
|
||||
- Methods: 4 minutes (3-4 slides)
|
||||
- Results: 9 minutes (8-10 slides)
|
||||
- Discussion: 3 minutes (4-5 slides)
|
||||
- Conclusion: 1 minute (2 slides)
|
||||
|
||||
### 30-Minute Seminar
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**: Comprehensive research presentation with methodological depth.
|
||||
|
||||
**Structure** (25-30 slides):
|
||||
1. **Opening** (2-3 minutes): Title, hook, outline (3-4 slides)
|
||||
2. **Background** (4-5 minutes): Detailed context and prior work (4-5 slides)
|
||||
3. **Research Questions** (1 minute): Clear objectives (1 slide)
|
||||
4. **Methods** (5-6 minutes): Detailed methodology (5-6 slides)
|
||||
- Study design with rationale
|
||||
- Participants/materials
|
||||
- Procedures (possibly multiple slides)
|
||||
- Analysis plan
|
||||
- Validation or pilot data
|
||||
5. **Results** (10-12 minutes): Comprehensive findings (10-12 slides)
|
||||
- Demographics/baseline
|
||||
- Primary analyses (multiple slides)
|
||||
- Secondary analyses
|
||||
- Subgroup analyses
|
||||
- Sensitivity analyses
|
||||
- Summary visualization
|
||||
6. **Discussion** (5-6 minutes): Interpretation and implications (6-8 slides)
|
||||
- Summary of findings
|
||||
- Comparison to literature (multiple references)
|
||||
- Mechanisms
|
||||
- Strengths and limitations (detailed)
|
||||
- Clinical/practical implications
|
||||
- Future directions
|
||||
7. **Conclusions** (1-2 minutes): Key messages (2 slides)
|
||||
8. **Acknowledgments/Questions** (1 minute)
|
||||
|
||||
**Tips**:
|
||||
- Include an outline slide showing talk structure
|
||||
- Use section headers to maintain orientation
|
||||
- Can include animations and builds for complex concepts
|
||||
- More detailed methods are expected
|
||||
- Address potential objections proactively
|
||||
- Leave 5-10 minutes for Q&A
|
||||
|
||||
### 45-Minute Keynote or Invited Talk
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**: Comprehensive overview of a research program or major project with broader context.
|
||||
|
||||
**Structure** (35-45 slides):
|
||||
1. **Opening** (3-5 minutes): Hook, personal connection, outline (4-5 slides)
|
||||
2. **Big Picture** (5-7 minutes): Field overview and importance (5-7 slides)
|
||||
3. **Prior Work** (3-5 minutes): Literature review and gaps (4-5 slides)
|
||||
4. **Your Research Program** (25-30 minutes):
|
||||
- Study 1: Question, methods, results (8-10 slides)
|
||||
- Transition: What we learned and what remained unknown
|
||||
- Study 2: Question, methods, results (8-10 slides)
|
||||
- (Optional) Study 3: Extensions or applications (5-7 slides)
|
||||
5. **Synthesis** (5-7 minutes): What it all means (5-7 slides)
|
||||
- Integrated findings
|
||||
- Theoretical implications
|
||||
- Practical applications
|
||||
- Limitations
|
||||
6. **Future Directions** (2-3 minutes): Where the field is going (2-3 slides)
|
||||
7. **Conclusions** (2 minutes): Key messages (2 slides)
|
||||
8. **Acknowledgments** (1 minute)
|
||||
|
||||
**Tips**:
|
||||
- Tell a story arc across multiple studies
|
||||
- Show evolution of thinking
|
||||
- Include more personal elements and humor
|
||||
- Can discuss failed experiments or pivots
|
||||
- More philosophical and forward-looking
|
||||
- Engage audience with rhetorical questions
|
||||
- Leave 10-15 minutes for discussion
|
||||
|
||||
### 60-Minute Lecture or Tutorial
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**: Educational presentation teaching a concept, method, or field overview.
|
||||
|
||||
**Structure** (45-60 slides):
|
||||
1. **Introduction** (5 minutes): Topic importance, learning objectives (5-6 slides)
|
||||
2. **Foundations** (10-12 minutes): Essential background (10-12 slides)
|
||||
3. **Core Content - Part 1** (15-18 minutes): First major topic (15-20 slides)
|
||||
4. **Core Content - Part 2** (15-18 minutes): Second major topic (15-20 slides)
|
||||
5. **Applications** (5-7 minutes): Real-world examples (5-7 slides)
|
||||
6. **Summary** (3-5 minutes): Key takeaways, resources (3-4 slides)
|
||||
7. **Questions/Discussion** (Remaining time)
|
||||
|
||||
**Tips**:
|
||||
- Include checkpoints: "Are there questions so far?"
|
||||
- Use examples and analogies liberally
|
||||
- Build complexity gradually
|
||||
- Include interactive elements if possible
|
||||
- Provide resources for further learning
|
||||
- Repeat key concepts at transitions
|
||||
- Use consistent visual templates for concept types
|
||||
|
||||
## Opening Strategies
|
||||
|
||||
### The Hook (First 30-60 seconds)
|
||||
|
||||
Your opening sets the tone and captures attention. Effective hooks:
|
||||
|
||||
**1. Surprising Statistic**
|
||||
- "Every year, X million people experience Y, yet only Z% receive effective treatment."
|
||||
- Works well for applied research with societal impact
|
||||
|
||||
**2. Provocative Question**
|
||||
- "What if I told you that everything we thought about X is wrong?"
|
||||
- Engages audience immediately, creates curiosity
|
||||
|
||||
**3. Personal Story**
|
||||
- "Five years ago, I encountered a patient/problem that changed how I think about..."
|
||||
- Humanizes research, creates emotional connection
|
||||
|
||||
**4. Visual Puzzle**
|
||||
- Start with an intriguing image or data visualization
|
||||
- "Look at this pattern. What could explain it?"
|
||||
|
||||
**5. Contrasting Paradigms**
|
||||
- "The traditional view says X, but new evidence suggests Y."
|
||||
- Sets up tension and your contribution
|
||||
|
||||
**6. Scope and Scale**
|
||||
- "This problem affects X people, costs Y dollars, and has been unsolved for Z years."
|
||||
- Establishes immediate importance
|
||||
|
||||
### Title Slide Essentials
|
||||
|
||||
Your title slide should include:
|
||||
- **Clear, specific title** (not generic)
|
||||
- **Your name and credentials**
|
||||
- **Affiliation(s) with logos**
|
||||
- **Date and venue** (conference name)
|
||||
- **Optional**: QR code to paper, slides, or resources
|
||||
- **Optional**: Compelling background image related to research
|
||||
|
||||
**Title Crafting**:
|
||||
- Be specific: "Machine Learning Predicts Alzheimer's Risk from Retinal Images"
|
||||
- Not vague: "Applications of AI in Healthcare"
|
||||
- Include key method and outcome
|
||||
- Maximum 15 words
|
||||
- Avoid jargon if presenting to broader audience
|
||||
|
||||
### Outline Slides
|
||||
|
||||
For talks >20 minutes, include a brief outline slide:
|
||||
- Shows 3-5 main sections
|
||||
- Provides roadmap for audience
|
||||
- Can return to outline as section dividers
|
||||
- Keep simple and visual (not just bullet list)
|
||||
|
||||
Example outline approach:
|
||||
```
|
||||
[Icon] Background → [Icon] Methods → [Icon] Results → [Icon] Implications
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
## Closing Strategies
|
||||
|
||||
### Effective Conclusions
|
||||
|
||||
The last 1-2 minutes are most remembered. Strong conclusions:
|
||||
|
||||
**1. Key Takeaways Format**
|
||||
- 3-5 bullet points summarizing main messages
|
||||
- Each should be a complete, memorable sentence
|
||||
- Not just "Results": make claims
|
||||
|
||||
**2. Call-Back Hook**
|
||||
- Reference your opening hook or question
|
||||
- "Remember that surprising statistic? Our findings suggest..."
|
||||
- Creates narrative closure
|
||||
|
||||
**3. Practical Implications**
|
||||
- "What does this mean for clinicians/researchers/policy?"
|
||||
- Action-oriented takeaways
|
||||
- Bridges science to application
|
||||
|
||||
**4. Visual Summary**
|
||||
- Single powerful figure integrating all findings
|
||||
- Conceptual model showing relationships
|
||||
- Before/after comparison
|
||||
|
||||
**5. Future Outlook**
|
||||
- "These findings open doors to..."
|
||||
- 1-2 specific next steps
|
||||
- Inspiration for audience's own work
|
||||
|
||||
### Acknowledgments Slide
|
||||
|
||||
Essential elements:
|
||||
- **Funding sources** (with grant numbers)
|
||||
- **Key collaborators** (with photos if space)
|
||||
- **Institution/lab** (with logo)
|
||||
- **Study participants** (appropriate mention)
|
||||
- Keep brief (15-30 seconds max)
|
||||
- Optional: Include contact info and QR codes here
|
||||
|
||||
### Final Slide
|
||||
|
||||
Your final slide stays visible during Q&A. Include:
|
||||
- **"Thank you" or "Questions?"**
|
||||
- **Your contact information** (email, Twitter/X)
|
||||
- **QR code to paper, preprint, or slides**
|
||||
- **Lab website or GitHub**
|
||||
- **Key visual from your research** (not just text)
|
||||
|
||||
Avoid ending with "References" or dense acknowledgments—these don't facilitate discussion.
|
||||
|
||||
## Transition Techniques
|
||||
|
||||
Smooth transitions maintain narrative flow and audience orientation.
|
||||
|
||||
### Between Major Sections
|
||||
|
||||
**Explicit Transition Slides**:
|
||||
- Use consistent visual style (color, icon, position)
|
||||
- Single word or short phrase: "Methods" "Results" "Implications"
|
||||
- Optional: Return to outline with current section highlighted
|
||||
|
||||
**Verbal Transitions**:
|
||||
- "Now that we've established X, let's examine how we studied Y..."
|
||||
- "With that background, I'll turn to our key findings..."
|
||||
- "This raises the question: How did we measure this?"
|
||||
|
||||
### Between Related Slides
|
||||
|
||||
**Visual Continuity**:
|
||||
- Repeat key element (figure, title format) across slides
|
||||
- Use consistent color coding
|
||||
- Progressive builds of same figure
|
||||
|
||||
**Verbal Bridges**:
|
||||
- "Building on this finding..."
|
||||
- "To test this further..."
|
||||
- "This pattern was consistent across..."
|
||||
|
||||
### Signposting Language
|
||||
|
||||
Help audience track progress through talk:
|
||||
- "First, I'll show... Second... Finally..."
|
||||
- "There are three key findings to discuss..."
|
||||
- "Now, let's turn to the most surprising result..."
|
||||
- "Coming back to our original question..."
|
||||
|
||||
## Pacing and Timing
|
||||
|
||||
### Time Budgeting
|
||||
|
||||
**Plan timing for each slide**:
|
||||
- Simple title/transition slides: 15-30 seconds
|
||||
- Text content slides: 45-90 seconds
|
||||
- Complex figures: 2-3 minutes
|
||||
- Key results: 2-4 minutes each
|
||||
|
||||
**Common Timing Mistakes**:
|
||||
- ❌ Spending too long on introduction (>15% of talk)
|
||||
- ❌ Rushing through results (should be 40-50%)
|
||||
- ❌ Not leaving time for questions
|
||||
- ❌ Going over time (extremely unprofessional)
|
||||
|
||||
### Practice Strategies
|
||||
|
||||
**Full Run-Throughs** (Do 3-5 times):
|
||||
1. **First run**: Rough timing, identify problem areas
|
||||
2. **Second run**: Practice transitions, smooth language
|
||||
3. **Third run**: Final timing with backup plans
|
||||
4. **Recording**: Video yourself, watch for tics/filler words
|
||||
5. **Audience practice**: Present to colleagues for feedback
|
||||
|
||||
**Section Practice**:
|
||||
- Practice complex result slides multiple times
|
||||
- Rehearse opening and closing until flawless
|
||||
- Prepare ad-libs for common questions
|
||||
|
||||
**Timing Techniques**:
|
||||
- Note target time at bottom of key slides
|
||||
- Set phone/watch to vibrate at checkpoints
|
||||
- Have Plan B: know which slides to skip if running over
|
||||
- Practice with live timer visible
|
||||
|
||||
### Managing Time During Talk
|
||||
|
||||
**If Running Ahead** (rarely a problem):
|
||||
- Expand on key points naturally
|
||||
- Take questions mid-talk if appropriate
|
||||
- Provide more context or examples
|
||||
- Slow down slightly (but don't add filler)
|
||||
|
||||
**If Running Behind**:
|
||||
- Skip backup slides or extra examples (prepare these in advance)
|
||||
- Summarize rather than detail on secondary points
|
||||
- Never rush through conclusions—skip earlier content instead
|
||||
- NEVER say "I'll go quickly through these" (just skip them)
|
||||
|
||||
**Time Checkpoints**:
|
||||
- 25% through talk = 25% through time
|
||||
- 50% through talk = 50% through time
|
||||
- After results = should have 5-10 minutes left
|
||||
- Start conclusions with 2-3 minutes remaining
|
||||
|
||||
## Audience Engagement
|
||||
|
||||
### Reading the Room
|
||||
|
||||
**Visual Cues**:
|
||||
- **Engaged**: Leaning forward, nodding, taking notes
|
||||
- **Lost**: Confused expressions, checking phones
|
||||
- **Bored**: Leaning back, glazed eyes, fidgeting
|
||||
|
||||
**Adjustments**:
|
||||
- If losing audience: Speed up, add humor, show compelling visual
|
||||
- If audience confused: Slow down, ask "Does this make sense?", re-explain
|
||||
- If highly engaged: Can add more detail, encourage questions
|
||||
|
||||
### Interactive Elements
|
||||
|
||||
For seminars and longer talks:
|
||||
|
||||
**Rhetorical Questions**:
|
||||
- "Why do you think this pattern occurred?"
|
||||
- "What would you predict happens next?"
|
||||
- Pauses for thought (don't immediately answer)
|
||||
|
||||
**Quick Polls** (if appropriate):
|
||||
- "Raise your hand if you've encountered X..."
|
||||
- "How many think the result will be A vs. B?"
|
||||
- Brief, not disruptive
|
||||
|
||||
**Checkpoint Questions**:
|
||||
- "Before I continue, are there questions about the methods?"
|
||||
- "Is everyone comfortable with this concept?"
|
||||
- For longer talks or tutorials
|
||||
|
||||
### Body Language and Delivery
|
||||
|
||||
**Effective Practices**:
|
||||
- ✅ Stand to side of screen, facing audience
|
||||
- ✅ Use pointer deliberately for specific elements
|
||||
- ✅ Make eye contact with different sections of room
|
||||
- ✅ Gesture naturally to emphasize points
|
||||
- ✅ Vary voice pitch and pace
|
||||
- ✅ Pause after important points
|
||||
|
||||
**Avoid**:
|
||||
- ❌ Reading slides verbatim
|
||||
- ❌ Turning back to audience
|
||||
- ❌ Standing in front of projection
|
||||
- ❌ Fidgeting with pointer/objects
|
||||
- ❌ Pacing repetitively
|
||||
- ❌ Monotone delivery
|
||||
|
||||
## Special Considerations
|
||||
|
||||
### Virtual Presentations
|
||||
|
||||
**Technical Setup**:
|
||||
- Test screen sharing, audio, and video beforehand
|
||||
- Use presenter mode if available (see notes)
|
||||
- Ensure good lighting and camera angle
|
||||
- Minimize background distractions
|
||||
|
||||
**Engagement Challenges**:
|
||||
- Can't read audience body language as well
|
||||
- More explicit engagement needed
|
||||
- Use polls, chat, reactions if platform allows
|
||||
- Encourage unmuting for questions
|
||||
|
||||
**Pacing**:
|
||||
- Slightly slower pace (harder to interrupt virtually)
|
||||
- More explicit transitions and signposting
|
||||
- Build in planned pauses for questions
|
||||
- Monitor chat for questions during talk
|
||||
|
||||
### Handling Questions
|
||||
|
||||
**During Talk**:
|
||||
- For short talks: "Please hold questions until the end"
|
||||
- For seminars: "Feel free to interrupt with questions"
|
||||
- If interrupted: "Great question, let me finish this point and come back to it"
|
||||
|
||||
**Q&A Session**:
|
||||
- **Listen fully** before answering
|
||||
- **Repeat or rephrase** question for whole audience
|
||||
- **Answer concisely** (30-90 seconds max)
|
||||
- **Be honest** if you don't know: "That's a great question I don't have data on yet"
|
||||
- **Redirect if off-topic**: "That's interesting but beyond scope. Happy to discuss after."
|
||||
- **Have backup slides** with extra data/analyses ready
|
||||
|
||||
**Difficult Questions**:
|
||||
- **Hostile**: Stay calm, acknowledge concern, stick to data
|
||||
- **Confusing**: Ask for clarification: "Could you rephrase that?"
|
||||
- **Out of scope**: "I focused on X, but your question about Y is important for future work"
|
||||
|
||||
### Technical Difficulties
|
||||
|
||||
**Preparation**:
|
||||
- Have backup: PDF on laptop, cloud, and USB drive
|
||||
- Test connections and adapters beforehand
|
||||
- Know how to reset display if needed
|
||||
- Have printout of slides as absolute backup
|
||||
|
||||
**During Talk**:
|
||||
- Stay calm and professional
|
||||
- Fill time with verbal explanation while fixing
|
||||
- Skip problem slide if necessary
|
||||
- Apologize briefly but don't dwell on it
|
||||
|
||||
## Adapting to Different Venues
|
||||
|
||||
### Conference Presentation
|
||||
|
||||
**Context**:
|
||||
- Concurrent sessions, some audience may arrive late
|
||||
- Audience has seen many talks that day
|
||||
- Strict time limits
|
||||
- May be recorded
|
||||
|
||||
**Adaptations**:
|
||||
- Strong hook to capture attention
|
||||
- Clear, focused message (not trying to show everything)
|
||||
- Adhere exactly to time limits
|
||||
- Compelling visuals (tired audiences need visual interest)
|
||||
- Provide URL or QR code for more information
|
||||
|
||||
### Department Seminar
|
||||
|
||||
**Context**:
|
||||
- Familiar audience with domain knowledge
|
||||
- More relaxed atmosphere
|
||||
- Can go deeper into methods
|
||||
- Questions encouraged throughout
|
||||
|
||||
**Adaptations**:
|
||||
- Can use more technical language
|
||||
- Show more methodological details
|
||||
- Discuss failed experiments or challenges
|
||||
- Engage in back-and-forth discussion
|
||||
- Less formal style acceptable
|
||||
|
||||
### Thesis Defense
|
||||
|
||||
**Context**:
|
||||
- Committee has read dissertation
|
||||
- Evaluating your mastery of field
|
||||
- Formal assessment situation
|
||||
- Extended Q&A expected
|
||||
|
||||
**Adaptations**:
|
||||
- Comprehensive coverage required
|
||||
- Show depth of knowledge
|
||||
- Address limitations proactively
|
||||
- Demonstrate independent thinking
|
||||
- More formal, professional tone
|
||||
- Prepare extensively for questions
|
||||
|
||||
### Grant Pitch or Industry Talk
|
||||
|
||||
**Context**:
|
||||
- Audience evaluating feasibility and impact
|
||||
- Emphasis on applications and outcomes
|
||||
- May include non-scientists
|
||||
- Shorter attention for technical details
|
||||
|
||||
**Adaptations**:
|
||||
- Lead with impact and significance
|
||||
- Minimal methods details (what, not how)
|
||||
- Show preliminary data and proof of concept
|
||||
- Emphasize feasibility and timeline
|
||||
- Clear, simple language
|
||||
- Strong business case or societal benefit
|
||||
|
||||
## Summary Checklist
|
||||
|
||||
Before finalizing your presentation structure:
|
||||
|
||||
**Overall Structure**:
|
||||
- [ ] Clear narrative arc (hook → context → problem → solution → results → impact)
|
||||
- [ ] Appropriate slide count for time available (~1 slide/minute)
|
||||
- [ ] 40-50% of time allocated to results
|
||||
- [ ] Strong opening and closing
|
||||
- [ ] Smooth transitions between sections
|
||||
|
||||
**Timing**:
|
||||
- [ ] Practiced full talk at least 3 times
|
||||
- [ ] Timing noted for key sections
|
||||
- [ ] Plan B for running over (slides to skip)
|
||||
- [ ] Buffer time for questions (if applicable)
|
||||
|
||||
**Engagement**:
|
||||
- [ ] Opening hook captures attention
|
||||
- [ ] Clear signposting throughout
|
||||
- [ ] Conclusion provides memorable takeaways
|
||||
- [ ] Final slide facilitates discussion
|
||||
|
||||
**Technical**:
|
||||
- [ ] Slides numbered (for question reference)
|
||||
- [ ] Backup slides prepared for anticipated questions
|
||||
- [ ] Contact info and QR codes on final slide
|
||||
- [ ] Multiple copies of presentation saved
|
||||
|
||||
**Practice**:
|
||||
- [ ] Comfortable with content (minimal note reliance)
|
||||
- [ ] Transitions smooth and natural
|
||||
- [ ] Prepared for likely questions
|
||||
- [ ] Tested with live audience if possible
|
||||
849
skills/scientific-slides/references/slide_design_principles.md
Normal file
849
skills/scientific-slides/references/slide_design_principles.md
Normal file
@@ -0,0 +1,849 @@
|
||||
# Slide Design Principles for Scientific Presentations
|
||||
|
||||
## Overview
|
||||
|
||||
Effective slide design enhances comprehension, maintains audience attention, and ensures your scientific message is communicated clearly. This guide covers visual hierarchy, typography, color theory, layout principles, and accessibility considerations for creating professional scientific presentations.
|
||||
|
||||
## Core Design Principles
|
||||
|
||||
### 1. Simplicity and Clarity
|
||||
|
||||
**The Fundamental Rule**: Each slide should communicate ONE main idea.
|
||||
|
||||
**Why It Matters**:
|
||||
- Audiences can only process limited information at once
|
||||
- Complexity causes cognitive overload
|
||||
- Simple slides are remembered; busy slides are forgotten
|
||||
|
||||
**Application**:
|
||||
- ✅ One message per slide
|
||||
- ✅ Minimal text (audiences read OR listen, not both simultaneously)
|
||||
- ✅ Clear visual focus
|
||||
- ✅ Generous white space
|
||||
- ❌ Avoid cramming multiple concepts onto one slide
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Comparison**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
BAD: Single slide with:
|
||||
- 3 different graphs
|
||||
- 8 bullet points
|
||||
- 2 tables
|
||||
- Dense caption text
|
||||
|
||||
GOOD: Three separate slides:
|
||||
- Slide 1: First graph with 2-3 key points
|
||||
- Slide 2: Second graph with interpretation
|
||||
- Slide 3: Summary table with highlighted finding
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### 2. Visual Hierarchy
|
||||
|
||||
Guide attention to the most important elements through size, color, and position.
|
||||
|
||||
**Hierarchy Levels**:
|
||||
1. **Primary**: Main message or key data (largest, highest contrast)
|
||||
2. **Secondary**: Supporting information (medium size)
|
||||
3. **Tertiary**: Details and labels (smaller, lower contrast)
|
||||
|
||||
**Techniques**:
|
||||
|
||||
**Size**:
|
||||
- Title: Largest (36-54pt)
|
||||
- Key findings: Large (24-32pt)
|
||||
- Supporting text: Medium (18-24pt)
|
||||
- Labels and notes: Smallest but legible (14-18pt)
|
||||
|
||||
**Color**:
|
||||
- High contrast for key elements
|
||||
- Accent colors for emphasis
|
||||
- Muted colors for background or secondary info
|
||||
|
||||
**Position**:
|
||||
- Top-left or top-center: Primary content (Western reading pattern)
|
||||
- Center: Focal point for key visuals
|
||||
- Bottom or sides: Supporting details
|
||||
|
||||
**Weight**:
|
||||
- Bold for emphasis on key terms
|
||||
- Regular weight for body text
|
||||
- Light weight for de-emphasized content
|
||||
|
||||
### 3. Consistency
|
||||
|
||||
Maintain visual consistency throughout the presentation.
|
||||
|
||||
**Elements to Keep Consistent**:
|
||||
- **Fonts**: Same font family for all slides
|
||||
- **Colors**: Defined color palette (3-5 colors)
|
||||
- **Layouts**: Similar slides use same structure
|
||||
- **Spacing**: Margins and padding uniform
|
||||
- **Style**: Figure formats, bullet styles, numbering
|
||||
|
||||
**Benefits**:
|
||||
- Professional appearance
|
||||
- Reduced cognitive load (audiences learn your visual language)
|
||||
- Focus on content, not adjusting to new formats
|
||||
- Easy to identify information types
|
||||
|
||||
**Template Approach**:
|
||||
- Create master slide with standard elements
|
||||
- Design 3-5 layout variants (title, content, figure, section divider)
|
||||
- Apply consistently throughout
|
||||
|
||||
## Typography
|
||||
|
||||
### Font Selection
|
||||
|
||||
**Recommended Font Types**:
|
||||
|
||||
**Sans-Serif Fonts** (Highly Recommended):
|
||||
- **Arial**: Universal, highly legible
|
||||
- **Helvetica**: Clean, professional
|
||||
- **Calibri**: Modern default, works well
|
||||
- **Gill Sans**: Elegant sans-serif
|
||||
- **Futura**: Geometric, modern
|
||||
- **Avenir**: Friendly, professional
|
||||
|
||||
**Serif Fonts** (Use Sparingly):
|
||||
- Generally harder to read on screens
|
||||
- Acceptable for titles in some contexts
|
||||
- Avoid for body text in presentations
|
||||
|
||||
**Avoid**:
|
||||
- ❌ Script or handwriting fonts (illegible from distance)
|
||||
- ❌ Decorative fonts (distracting)
|
||||
- ❌ Condensed fonts (hard to read)
|
||||
- ❌ Multiple font families (>2 looks unprofessional)
|
||||
|
||||
### Font Sizes
|
||||
|
||||
**Minimum Readable Sizes**:
|
||||
- **Title slide title**: 44-54pt
|
||||
- **Section headers**: 36-44pt
|
||||
- **Slide titles**: 32-40pt
|
||||
- **Body text**: 24-28pt (absolute minimum 18pt)
|
||||
- **Figure labels**: 18-24pt
|
||||
- **Captions and citations**: 14-16pt (use sparingly)
|
||||
|
||||
**The Room Test**:
|
||||
- Can text be read from the back of the room?
|
||||
- Rule: Body text should be readable at 6× screen height distance
|
||||
- When in doubt: go larger
|
||||
|
||||
**Size Relationships**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Title: 40pt
|
||||
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
|
||||
Subheading: 28pt
|
||||
─────────────
|
||||
Body text: 24pt
|
||||
Regular content for audience
|
||||
|
||||
Caption: 16pt
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Text Formatting
|
||||
|
||||
**Best Practices**:
|
||||
|
||||
**Line Length**:
|
||||
- Maximum 50-60 characters per line
|
||||
- Break long sentences into multiple lines
|
||||
- Use phrases, not full sentences when possible
|
||||
|
||||
**Line Spacing**:
|
||||
- 1.2-1.5× line height for readability
|
||||
- More spacing for dense content
|
||||
- Consistent spacing throughout
|
||||
|
||||
**Alignment**:
|
||||
- **Left-aligned**: Best for body text (natural reading)
|
||||
- **Center-aligned**: Titles, short phrases, key messages
|
||||
- **Right-aligned**: Rarely used (occasionally for design balance)
|
||||
- **Justified**: Avoid (creates awkward spacing)
|
||||
|
||||
**Emphasis**:
|
||||
- ✅ **Bold** for key terms (use sparingly)
|
||||
- ✅ Color for emphasis (consistent meaning)
|
||||
- ✅ Size increase for importance
|
||||
- ❌ Avoid italics (hard to read from distance)
|
||||
- ❌ Avoid underline (confused with hyperlinks)
|
||||
- ❌ AVOID ALL CAPS FOR BODY TEXT (READS AS SHOUTING)
|
||||
|
||||
### The 6×6 Rule
|
||||
|
||||
**Guideline**: Maximum 6 bullets per slide, maximum 6 words per bullet.
|
||||
|
||||
**Rationale**:
|
||||
- More text = audience reads instead of listens
|
||||
- Bullet points are prompts, not sentences
|
||||
- You provide the explanation verbally
|
||||
|
||||
**Better Approach**:
|
||||
- 3-4 bullets optimal
|
||||
- 4-8 words per bullet
|
||||
- Use fragments, not complete sentences
|
||||
- Consider replacing text with visuals
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Transformation**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
TOO MUCH TEXT:
|
||||
• Our study examined the relationship between dietary interventions
|
||||
and cardiovascular outcomes in 1,500 participants over 5 years
|
||||
• We found that participants in the intervention group showed
|
||||
significantly reduced risk compared to controls
|
||||
• The effect size was larger than previous studies and persisted
|
||||
at long-term follow-up
|
||||
|
||||
BETTER:
|
||||
• 5-year dietary intervention study
|
||||
• 27% reduced cardiovascular risk
|
||||
• Largest effect to date
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
## Color Theory
|
||||
|
||||
### Color Palettes for Scientific Presentations
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose-Driven Color Selection**:
|
||||
|
||||
**Professional/Academic** (Conservative):
|
||||
- Navy blue (#1C3D5A), gray (#4A5568), white (#FFFFFF)
|
||||
- Accent: Orange (#E67E22) or green (#27AE60)
|
||||
- Use: Faculty seminars, grant presentations, institutional talks
|
||||
|
||||
**Modern/Engaging** (Energetic):
|
||||
- Teal (#0A9396), coral (#EE6C4D), cream (#F4F1DE)
|
||||
- Accent: Burgundy (#780000)
|
||||
- Use: Conference talks, public engagement, TED-style talks
|
||||
|
||||
**High Contrast** (Maximum Legibility):
|
||||
- Black text (#000000) on white (#FFFFFF)
|
||||
- Dark blue (#003366) on white
|
||||
- White on dark gray (#2D3748)
|
||||
- Use: Large venues, virtual presentations, accessibility priority
|
||||
|
||||
**Data Visualization** (Color-blind Safe):
|
||||
- Blue (#0173B2), orange (#DE8F05), green (#029E73), red (#CC78BC)
|
||||
- Based on Wong/IBM palettes
|
||||
- Use: Figures with categorical data, bar charts, line plots
|
||||
|
||||
### Color Psychology in Science
|
||||
|
||||
**Blue**:
|
||||
- Associations: Trust, stability, professionalism, intelligence
|
||||
- Use: Backgrounds, institutional presentations, technology topics
|
||||
- Caution: Can feel cold; balance with warmer accents
|
||||
|
||||
**Green**:
|
||||
- Associations: Growth, health, nature, sustainability
|
||||
- Use: Biology, environmental science, health outcomes
|
||||
- Caution: Avoid red-green combinations (color blindness)
|
||||
|
||||
**Red/Orange**:
|
||||
- Associations: Energy, urgency, warning, importance
|
||||
- Use: Highlighting critical findings, emphasis, calls to action
|
||||
- Caution: Don't overuse; loses impact
|
||||
|
||||
**Purple**:
|
||||
- Associations: Innovation, creativity, wisdom
|
||||
- Use: Neuroscience, novel methods, creative research
|
||||
- Caution: Can appear less serious in some contexts
|
||||
|
||||
**Gray**:
|
||||
- Associations: Neutrality, professionalism, sophistication
|
||||
- Use: Backgrounds, de-emphasized content, grounding
|
||||
- Caution: Can feel dull if overused
|
||||
|
||||
### Color Contrast and Accessibility
|
||||
|
||||
**WCAG Standards** (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines):
|
||||
- **Level AA**: 4.5:1 contrast ratio for normal text
|
||||
- **Level AAA**: 7:1 contrast ratio (preferred for presentations)
|
||||
|
||||
**High Contrast Combinations**:
|
||||
- ✅ Black on white (21:1)
|
||||
- ✅ Dark blue (#003366) on white (12.6:1)
|
||||
- ✅ White on dark gray (#2D3748) (11.8:1)
|
||||
- ✅ Dark text (#333333) on cream (#F4F1DE) (9.7:1)
|
||||
|
||||
**Low Contrast Combinations** (Avoid):
|
||||
- ❌ Light gray on white
|
||||
- ❌ Yellow on white
|
||||
- ❌ Pastel colors on white backgrounds
|
||||
- ❌ Red on black (difficult to read)
|
||||
|
||||
**Testing Contrast**:
|
||||
- Use online tools (e.g., WebAIM Contrast Checker)
|
||||
- Print slide in grayscale (should remain legible)
|
||||
- View from distance (simulate audience perspective)
|
||||
|
||||
### Color Blindness Considerations
|
||||
|
||||
**Prevalence**: ~8% of men, ~0.5% of women have color vision deficiency
|
||||
|
||||
**Most Common**: Red-green color blindness (protanopia/deuteranopia)
|
||||
|
||||
**Safe Practices**:
|
||||
- ✅ Use blue/orange instead of red/green
|
||||
- ✅ Add patterns or shapes in addition to color
|
||||
- ✅ Use color AND other differentiators (shape, size, position)
|
||||
- ✅ Test with color blindness simulator
|
||||
|
||||
**Color-Blind Safe Palettes**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Primary: Blue (#0173B2)
|
||||
Contrast: Orange (#DE8F05) [NOT green]
|
||||
Additional: Magenta (#CC78BC), Teal (#029E73)
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Figure Design**:
|
||||
- Don't rely solely on red vs. green lines
|
||||
- Use different line styles (solid, dashed, dotted)
|
||||
- Use symbols (circle, square, triangle) for scatter plots
|
||||
- Label directly on plot rather than color legend only
|
||||
|
||||
## Layout and Composition
|
||||
|
||||
### The Rule of Thirds
|
||||
|
||||
Divide slide into 3×3 grid; place key elements at intersections or along lines.
|
||||
|
||||
**Application**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
+-------+-------+-------+
|
||||
| ┃ | ┃ | ┃ |
|
||||
|---●---|---●---|---●---| ← Key focal points (●)
|
||||
| ┃ | ┃ | ┃ |
|
||||
|---●---|---●---|---●---|
|
||||
| ┃ | ┃ | ┃ |
|
||||
|---●---|---●---|---●---|
|
||||
| ┃ | ┃ | ┃ |
|
||||
+-------+-------+-------+
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Benefits**:
|
||||
- More visually interesting than centered layouts
|
||||
- Natural eye flow
|
||||
- Professional appearance
|
||||
- Guides attention strategically
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Usage**:
|
||||
- Place key figure at right third
|
||||
- Text summary on left two-thirds
|
||||
- Title at top third line
|
||||
- Logo at bottom-right intersection
|
||||
|
||||
### White Space
|
||||
|
||||
**Definition**: Empty space around and between elements.
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**:
|
||||
- Gives content room to "breathe"
|
||||
- Increases focus on important elements
|
||||
- Prevents overwhelming the audience
|
||||
- Projects professionalism and confidence
|
||||
|
||||
**Guidelines**:
|
||||
- Margins: Minimum 5-10% of slide on all sides
|
||||
- Element spacing: Clear separation between unrelated items
|
||||
- Text padding: Space around text blocks
|
||||
- Don't fill every pixel: Empty space is valuable
|
||||
|
||||
**Common Mistakes**:
|
||||
- Cramming too much on one slide
|
||||
- Extending content to edges
|
||||
- No space between elements
|
||||
- Fear of "wasting" space
|
||||
|
||||
### Layout Patterns
|
||||
|
||||
**Title + Content**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
┌─────────────────────────┐
|
||||
│ Slide Title │
|
||||
├─────────────────────────┤
|
||||
│ │
|
||||
│ Content Area │
|
||||
│ (text, figure, │
|
||||
│ or combination) │
|
||||
│ │
|
||||
└─────────────────────────┘
|
||||
```
|
||||
Use: Standard slide type, most common
|
||||
|
||||
**Two Column**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
┌─────────────────────────┐
|
||||
│ Slide Title │
|
||||
├───────────┬─────────────┤
|
||||
│ │ │
|
||||
│ Text │ Figure │
|
||||
│ Column │ Column │
|
||||
│ │ │
|
||||
└───────────┴─────────────┘
|
||||
```
|
||||
Use: Comparing items, text + figure
|
||||
|
||||
**Full-Slide Figure**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
┌─────────────────────────┐
|
||||
│ │
|
||||
│ │
|
||||
│ Large Figure or │
|
||||
│ Image │
|
||||
│ │
|
||||
│ │
|
||||
└─────────────────────────┘
|
||||
```
|
||||
Use: Key results, impactful visuals
|
||||
|
||||
**Text Overlay**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
┌─────────────────────────┐
|
||||
│ ┌─────────────┐ │
|
||||
│ │ Text Box │ │
|
||||
│ └─────────────┘ │
|
||||
│ Background Image │
|
||||
│ │
|
||||
└─────────────────────────┘
|
||||
```
|
||||
Use: Title slide, section dividers
|
||||
|
||||
**Grid Layout**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
┌─────────────────────────┐
|
||||
│ Title │
|
||||
├─────────┬───────┬───────┤
|
||||
│ Item 1 │ Item 2│ Item 3│
|
||||
├─────────┼───────┼───────┤
|
||||
│ Item 4 │ Item 5│ Item 6│
|
||||
└─────────┴───────┴───────┘
|
||||
```
|
||||
Use: Multiple related items, comparisons
|
||||
|
||||
### Alignment
|
||||
|
||||
**Principle**: Align elements to create visual order and relationships.
|
||||
|
||||
**Types**:
|
||||
|
||||
**Edge Alignment**:
|
||||
- Align left edges of text blocks
|
||||
- Align right edges of figures
|
||||
- Align top edges of items in row
|
||||
|
||||
**Center Alignment**:
|
||||
- Center title on slide
|
||||
- Center key messages
|
||||
- Center lone figures
|
||||
|
||||
**Grid Alignment**:
|
||||
- Use invisible grid
|
||||
- Snap elements to grid lines
|
||||
- Maintains consistency across slides
|
||||
|
||||
**Visual Impact**:
|
||||
- Aligned elements look intentional and professional
|
||||
- Misaligned elements appear careless
|
||||
- Small misalignments are very noticeable
|
||||
|
||||
## Background Design
|
||||
|
||||
### Background Colors
|
||||
|
||||
**Best Practices**:
|
||||
|
||||
**Light Backgrounds** (Most Common):
|
||||
- White or off-white (#FFFFFF, #F8F9FA)
|
||||
- Very light gray (#F5F5F5)
|
||||
- Cream/beige (#FAF8F3)
|
||||
|
||||
**Advantages**:
|
||||
- Maximum contrast for dark text
|
||||
- Works in any lighting
|
||||
- Professional and clean
|
||||
- Easier on projectors
|
||||
|
||||
**Dark Backgrounds**:
|
||||
- Dark gray (#2D3748)
|
||||
- Navy blue (#1A202C)
|
||||
- Black (#000000)
|
||||
|
||||
**Advantages**:
|
||||
- Modern, sophisticated
|
||||
- Good for dark venues
|
||||
- Reduces eye strain in dark rooms
|
||||
- Makes colors pop
|
||||
|
||||
**Disadvantages**:
|
||||
- Requires light-colored text
|
||||
- Can be difficult in bright rooms
|
||||
- Some projectors handle poorly
|
||||
|
||||
**Gradient Backgrounds**:
|
||||
- ✅ Subtle gradients acceptable (light to lighter)
|
||||
- ❌ Avoid busy or high-contrast gradients
|
||||
- ❌ Don't distract from content
|
||||
|
||||
**Image Backgrounds**:
|
||||
- Use only for title/section slides
|
||||
- Ensure sufficient contrast with text
|
||||
- Add semi-transparent overlay if needed
|
||||
- Avoid busy or cluttered images
|
||||
|
||||
### Borders and Frames
|
||||
|
||||
**Minimal Approach** (Recommended):
|
||||
- No borders on most slides
|
||||
- Let white space define boundaries
|
||||
- Clean, modern appearance
|
||||
|
||||
**Selective Borders**:
|
||||
- Around key figures for emphasis
|
||||
- Separating distinct sections
|
||||
- Highlighting callout boxes
|
||||
- Simple, thin lines only
|
||||
|
||||
**Avoid**:
|
||||
- Decorative borders
|
||||
- Thick, colorful frames
|
||||
- Clipart-style elements
|
||||
- 3D effects and shadows
|
||||
|
||||
## Visual Elements
|
||||
|
||||
### Icons and Graphics
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**:
|
||||
- Visual anchors for concepts
|
||||
- Break up text-heavy slides
|
||||
- Quick recognition of section types
|
||||
- Add visual interest
|
||||
|
||||
**Best Practices**:
|
||||
- ✅ Consistent style (all outline or all filled)
|
||||
- ✅ Simple, recognizable designs
|
||||
- ✅ Appropriate size (not too large or small)
|
||||
- ✅ Limited color palette matching theme
|
||||
- ❌ Avoid clipart or cartoonish graphics (unless appropriate)
|
||||
- ❌ Don't use for decoration only (should convey meaning)
|
||||
|
||||
**Sources**:
|
||||
- Font Awesome
|
||||
- Noun Project
|
||||
- Material Design Icons
|
||||
- Custom scientific illustrations
|
||||
|
||||
### Bullets and Lists
|
||||
|
||||
**Bullet Styles**:
|
||||
- **Simple shapes**: Circle (•), square (■), dash (−)
|
||||
- **Avoid**: Complex symbols, changing bullet styles within list
|
||||
- **Hierarchy**: Different bullets for different levels
|
||||
|
||||
**List Best Practices**:
|
||||
- Maximum 4-6 items per list
|
||||
- Parallel structure (all start with verb, or all nouns, etc.)
|
||||
- Use fragments, not complete sentences
|
||||
- Adequate spacing between items (1.5-2× line height)
|
||||
|
||||
**Alternative to Bullets**:
|
||||
- **Numbered lists**: When order matters
|
||||
- **Icons**: Visual representation of each point
|
||||
- **Progressive builds**: Reveal one point at a time
|
||||
- **Separate slides**: One concept per slide
|
||||
|
||||
### Shapes and Dividers
|
||||
|
||||
**Uses**:
|
||||
- Background rectangles to highlight content
|
||||
- Arrows showing relationships or flow
|
||||
- Circles for emphasis or grouping
|
||||
- Lines separating sections
|
||||
|
||||
**Guidelines**:
|
||||
- Keep shapes simple (rectangles, circles, lines)
|
||||
- Use brand colors
|
||||
- Maintain consistency
|
||||
- Avoid 3D effects
|
||||
- Don't overuse
|
||||
|
||||
## Animation and Builds
|
||||
|
||||
### When to Use Animation
|
||||
|
||||
**Appropriate Uses**:
|
||||
- **Progressive disclosure**: Reveal bullet points one at a time
|
||||
- **Build complex figures**: Add layers incrementally
|
||||
- **Show process**: Illustrate sequential steps
|
||||
- **Emphasize transitions**: Highlight connections
|
||||
- **Control pacing**: Prevent audience from reading ahead
|
||||
|
||||
**Inappropriate Uses**:
|
||||
- ❌ Decoration or entertainment
|
||||
- ❌ Every slide transition
|
||||
- ❌ Multiple animations per slide
|
||||
- ❌ Distracting effects (spin, bounce, etc.)
|
||||
|
||||
### Types of Animations
|
||||
|
||||
**Entrance**:
|
||||
- **Appear**: Instant (good for fast-paced talks)
|
||||
- **Fade**: Subtle, professional
|
||||
- **Wipe**: Directional reveal
|
||||
- Avoid: Fly in, bounce, spiral, etc.
|
||||
|
||||
**Exit**:
|
||||
- Rarely needed
|
||||
- Use to remove intermediary steps
|
||||
- Keep simple (fade or disappear)
|
||||
|
||||
**Emphasis**:
|
||||
- Color change for highlighting
|
||||
- Bold/underline to draw attention
|
||||
- Grow slightly for importance
|
||||
- Use very sparingly
|
||||
|
||||
**Builds**:
|
||||
- Reveal bullet points progressively
|
||||
- Add elements to complex figure
|
||||
- Show before/after states
|
||||
- Demonstrate process steps
|
||||
|
||||
**Best Practices**:
|
||||
- Fast transitions (0.2-0.3 seconds)
|
||||
- Consistent animation type throughout
|
||||
- Click to advance (not automatic timing)
|
||||
- Builds should add clarity, not complexity
|
||||
|
||||
## Common Design Mistakes
|
||||
|
||||
### Content Mistakes
|
||||
|
||||
**Too Much Text**:
|
||||
- Problem: Audience reads instead of listening
|
||||
- Fix: Use key phrases, not paragraphs; move details to notes
|
||||
|
||||
**Too Many Concepts per Slide**:
|
||||
- Problem: Cognitive overload, unclear focus
|
||||
- Fix: One idea per slide; split complex slides into multiple
|
||||
|
||||
**Inconsistent Formatting**:
|
||||
- Problem: Looks unprofessional, distracting
|
||||
- Fix: Use templates, maintain style guide
|
||||
|
||||
**Poor Contrast**:
|
||||
- Problem: Illegible from distance
|
||||
- Fix: Test at actual presentation size, use high-contrast combinations
|
||||
|
||||
**Tiny Fonts**:
|
||||
- Problem: Unreadable for audience
|
||||
- Fix: Minimum 18pt, preferably 24pt+ for body text
|
||||
|
||||
### Visual Mistakes
|
||||
|
||||
**Cluttered Slides**:
|
||||
- Problem: No clear focal point, overwhelming
|
||||
- Fix: Embrace white space, remove non-essential elements
|
||||
|
||||
**Low-Quality Images**:
|
||||
- Problem: Pixelated or blurry figures
|
||||
- Fix: Use high-resolution images (300 DPI minimum)
|
||||
|
||||
**Distracting Backgrounds**:
|
||||
- Problem: Competes with content
|
||||
- Fix: Simple, solid colors or subtle gradients
|
||||
|
||||
**Overuse of Effects**:
|
||||
- Problem: Looks amateurish, distracting
|
||||
- Fix: Minimal or no shadows, gradients, 3D effects
|
||||
|
||||
**Misaligned Elements**:
|
||||
- Problem: Appears careless
|
||||
- Fix: Use alignment tools, grids, and guides
|
||||
|
||||
### Color Mistakes
|
||||
|
||||
**Insufficient Contrast**:
|
||||
- Problem: Hard to read
|
||||
- Fix: Test with contrast checker, use dark on light or light on dark
|
||||
|
||||
**Too Many Colors**:
|
||||
- Problem: Chaotic, unprofessional
|
||||
- Fix: Limit to 3-5 colors total
|
||||
|
||||
**Red-Green Combinations**:
|
||||
- Problem: Invisible to color-blind audience members
|
||||
- Fix: Use blue-orange or add patterns/shapes
|
||||
|
||||
**Clashing Colors**:
|
||||
- Problem: Visually jarring
|
||||
- Fix: Use color palette tools, test combinations
|
||||
|
||||
## Accessibility
|
||||
|
||||
### Designing for All Audiences
|
||||
|
||||
**Visual Impairments**:
|
||||
- High contrast text (minimum 4.5:1, preferably 7:1)
|
||||
- Large fonts (minimum 18pt, prefer 24pt+)
|
||||
- Simple, clear fonts
|
||||
- No reliance on color alone to convey meaning
|
||||
|
||||
**Color Blindness**:
|
||||
- Avoid red-green combinations
|
||||
- Use patterns, shapes, or labels in addition to color
|
||||
- Test with color blindness simulator
|
||||
- Provide alternative visual cues
|
||||
|
||||
**Cognitive Considerations**:
|
||||
- Simple, uncluttered layouts
|
||||
- One concept per slide
|
||||
- Clear visual hierarchy
|
||||
- Consistent navigation and structure
|
||||
|
||||
**Presentation Environment**:
|
||||
- Works in various lighting conditions
|
||||
- Visible from distance (back of large room)
|
||||
- Readable on different screens (laptop, projector, phone)
|
||||
- Printable in grayscale if needed
|
||||
|
||||
### Alternative Text and Descriptions
|
||||
|
||||
**For Figures**:
|
||||
- Provide verbal description during talk
|
||||
- Include detailed caption in notes
|
||||
- Describe key patterns: "Notice the increasing trend..."
|
||||
|
||||
**For Complex Visuals**:
|
||||
- Break into components
|
||||
- Use progressive builds
|
||||
- Provide interpretive context
|
||||
|
||||
## Design Workflow
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 1: Define Visual Identity
|
||||
|
||||
Before creating slides:
|
||||
1. **Color palette**: Choose 3-5 colors
|
||||
2. **Fonts**: Select 1-2 font families
|
||||
3. **Style**: Decide on overall aesthetic (minimal, bold, traditional)
|
||||
4. **Templates**: Create master slides for different types
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 2: Create Master Templates
|
||||
|
||||
Design 4-6 slide layouts:
|
||||
1. **Title slide**: Name, title, affiliation
|
||||
2. **Section divider**: Major transitions
|
||||
3. **Content slide**: Standard text/bullets
|
||||
4. **Figure slide**: Large visual focus
|
||||
5. **Two-column**: Text + figure side-by-side
|
||||
6. **Closing**: Questions, contact, acknowledgments
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 3: Apply Consistently
|
||||
|
||||
For each slide:
|
||||
- Choose appropriate template
|
||||
- Add content (text or visuals)
|
||||
- Ensure alignment and spacing
|
||||
- Check font sizes and contrast
|
||||
- Verify consistency with other slides
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 4: Review and Refine
|
||||
|
||||
Review checklist:
|
||||
- [ ] Every slide has clear focus
|
||||
- [ ] Text is minimal and readable
|
||||
- [ ] Visual hierarchy is clear
|
||||
- [ ] Colors are consistent and accessible
|
||||
- [ ] Alignment is precise
|
||||
- [ ] White space is adequate
|
||||
- [ ] Animations are purposeful
|
||||
- [ ] Overall flow is smooth
|
||||
|
||||
## Tools and Resources
|
||||
|
||||
### Design Software
|
||||
|
||||
**PowerPoint**:
|
||||
- Master slides for templates
|
||||
- Alignment guides and gridlines
|
||||
- Design Ideas feature for inspiration
|
||||
- Morph transition for smooth animations
|
||||
|
||||
**Keynote** (Mac):
|
||||
- Beautiful default templates
|
||||
- Smooth animations
|
||||
- Magic Move for object transitions
|
||||
|
||||
**Google Slides**:
|
||||
- Collaborative editing
|
||||
- Cloud-based access
|
||||
- Simple, clean interface
|
||||
|
||||
**LaTeX Beamer**:
|
||||
- Consistent, professional appearance
|
||||
- Excellent for equations and code
|
||||
- Version control friendly
|
||||
- Reproducible designs
|
||||
|
||||
### Design Resources
|
||||
|
||||
**Color Tools**:
|
||||
- Coolors.co: Palette generator
|
||||
- Adobe Color: Color scheme creator
|
||||
- WebAIM Contrast Checker: Accessibility testing
|
||||
- Coblis: Color blindness simulator
|
||||
|
||||
**Icon Sources**:
|
||||
- Font Awesome: General icons
|
||||
- Noun Project: Specific concepts
|
||||
- BioIcons: Science-specific graphics
|
||||
- Flaticon: Large collection
|
||||
|
||||
**Inspiration**:
|
||||
- Scientific presentation examples in your field
|
||||
- TED talks for delivery style
|
||||
- Conference websites for design trends
|
||||
- Design portfolios (Behance, Dribbble)
|
||||
|
||||
## Summary Checklist
|
||||
|
||||
Before finalizing your slide design:
|
||||
|
||||
**Typography**:
|
||||
- [ ] Font size ≥18pt minimum, preferably 24pt+ for body
|
||||
- [ ] Maximum 6 bullets per slide, 6 words per bullet
|
||||
- [ ] Sans-serif fonts used throughout
|
||||
- [ ] Consistent font family (1-2 max)
|
||||
|
||||
**Color**:
|
||||
- [ ] High contrast text-background (4.5:1 minimum)
|
||||
- [ ] Limited color palette (3-5 colors)
|
||||
- [ ] Color-blind safe combinations
|
||||
- [ ] Consistent color use throughout
|
||||
|
||||
**Layout**:
|
||||
- [ ] One main idea per slide
|
||||
- [ ] Generous white space (don't fill every pixel)
|
||||
- [ ] Elements aligned precisely
|
||||
- [ ] Consistent layouts for similar content
|
||||
|
||||
**Visual Elements**:
|
||||
- [ ] High-resolution images (300 DPI)
|
||||
- [ ] Consistent icon/graphic style
|
||||
- [ ] Minimal decorative elements
|
||||
- [ ] Clear visual hierarchy
|
||||
|
||||
**Accessibility**:
|
||||
- [ ] Readable from back of room
|
||||
- [ ] Works in various lighting conditions
|
||||
- [ ] No reliance on color alone
|
||||
- [ ] Clear without audio (for recorded talks)
|
||||
|
||||
**Professional Polish**:
|
||||
- [ ] Consistent template throughout
|
||||
- [ ] No typos or formatting errors
|
||||
- [ ] Smooth animations (if any)
|
||||
- [ ] Clean, uncluttered appearance
|
||||
687
skills/scientific-slides/references/talk_types_guide.md
Normal file
687
skills/scientific-slides/references/talk_types_guide.md
Normal file
@@ -0,0 +1,687 @@
|
||||
# Scientific Talk Types Guide
|
||||
|
||||
## Overview
|
||||
|
||||
Different presentation contexts require different approaches, structures, and emphasis. This guide provides detailed guidance for common scientific talk types: conference presentations, academic seminars, thesis defenses, grant pitches, and journal club presentations.
|
||||
|
||||
## Conference Talks
|
||||
|
||||
### Context and Expectations
|
||||
|
||||
**Typical Characteristics**:
|
||||
- **Duration**: 10-20 minutes (15 minutes most common)
|
||||
- **Audience**: Mix of specialists and non-specialists in your field
|
||||
- **Setting**: Concurrent sessions, audience may arrive late
|
||||
- **Goal**: Communicate key findings, generate interest, network
|
||||
- **Format**: Often followed by 2-5 minutes of questions
|
||||
|
||||
**Challenges**:
|
||||
- Limited time for comprehensive coverage
|
||||
- Competing with other interesting talks
|
||||
- Audience fatigue (many talks in one day)
|
||||
- May be recorded or photographed
|
||||
- Need to make strong impression quickly
|
||||
|
||||
### Structure for 15-Minute Conference Talk
|
||||
|
||||
**Recommended Slide Count**: 15-18 slides
|
||||
|
||||
**Time Allocation**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Introduction (2-3 minutes, 2-3 slides):
|
||||
- Title + hook (30 seconds)
|
||||
- Background and significance (90 seconds)
|
||||
- Research question (60 seconds)
|
||||
|
||||
Methods (2-3 minutes, 2-3 slides):
|
||||
- Study design overview
|
||||
- Key methodological approach
|
||||
- Analysis strategy
|
||||
|
||||
Results (6-7 minutes, 6-8 slides):
|
||||
- Primary finding (2-3 minutes, 2-3 slides)
|
||||
- Secondary finding (2 minutes, 2 slides)
|
||||
- Additional validation (2 minutes, 2-3 slides)
|
||||
|
||||
Discussion (2-3 minutes, 3-4 slides):
|
||||
- Interpretation
|
||||
- Comparison to prior work
|
||||
- Implications
|
||||
- Limitations
|
||||
|
||||
Conclusion (1 minute, 1-2 slides):
|
||||
- Key takeaways
|
||||
- Acknowledgments
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Conference Talk Best Practices
|
||||
|
||||
**Opening**:
|
||||
- ✅ Start with attention-grabbing hook (surprising fact, compelling image)
|
||||
- ✅ Clearly state why this work matters
|
||||
- ✅ Preview main finding early ("spoiler alert" acceptable)
|
||||
- ❌ Don't spend >2 minutes on background
|
||||
- ❌ Don't start with "I'm honored to be here..."
|
||||
|
||||
**Content**:
|
||||
- ✅ Focus on 1-2 key findings (not everything from paper)
|
||||
- ✅ Use compelling visuals
|
||||
- ✅ Show data, not just conclusions
|
||||
- ✅ Explain implications clearly
|
||||
- ❌ Don't go into excessive methodological detail
|
||||
- ❌ Don't include every analysis from paper
|
||||
- ❌ Don't use small fonts or busy slides
|
||||
|
||||
**Delivery**:
|
||||
- ✅ Practice to ensure exact timing
|
||||
- ✅ Make eye contact with audience
|
||||
- ✅ Show enthusiasm for your work
|
||||
- ✅ End with clear, memorable conclusion
|
||||
- ❌ Don't run over time (extremely unprofessional)
|
||||
- ❌ Don't rush through slides at end
|
||||
- ❌ Don't read slides verbatim
|
||||
|
||||
**Q&A Strategy**:
|
||||
- Prepare backup slides with extra data
|
||||
- Anticipate likely questions
|
||||
- Keep answers concise (30-60 seconds)
|
||||
- Direct skeptics to poster or paper for details
|
||||
- Have business cards or contact info ready
|
||||
|
||||
### Lightning Talks (5-7 Minutes)
|
||||
|
||||
**Ultra-Focused Structure**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Slide 1: Title (15 seconds)
|
||||
Slide 2: The Problem (45 seconds)
|
||||
Slide 3: Your Approach (60 seconds)
|
||||
Slide 4-5: Key Result (2-3 minutes)
|
||||
Slide 6: Impact/Implications (45 seconds)
|
||||
Slide 7: Conclusion + Contact (30 seconds)
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Key Principles**:
|
||||
- ONE main message only
|
||||
- Maximize visuals, minimize text
|
||||
- No methods details (just mention approach)
|
||||
- Practice exact timing rigorously
|
||||
- Make memorable impression
|
||||
- Goal: Generate "tell me more" conversations
|
||||
|
||||
### Poster Spotlight Talks (3 Minutes)
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**: Drive traffic to poster session
|
||||
|
||||
**Structure**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
1 slide: Title + Context (30 seconds)
|
||||
2 slides: Problem + Approach (60 seconds)
|
||||
2 slides: Most Interesting Result (60 seconds)
|
||||
1 slide: "Visit my poster at #42" (30 seconds)
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Tips**:
|
||||
- Show teaser, not full story
|
||||
- Include poster number prominently
|
||||
- Use QR code for details
|
||||
- Explicitly invite audience: "Come ask me about..."
|
||||
|
||||
## Academic Seminars
|
||||
|
||||
### Context and Expectations
|
||||
|
||||
**Typical Characteristics**:
|
||||
- **Duration**: 45-60 minutes
|
||||
- **Audience**: Department faculty, students, postdocs
|
||||
- **Setting**: Single presentation, full attention
|
||||
- **Goal**: Deep dive into research, get feedback, show expertise
|
||||
- **Format**: Extended Q&A (10-15 minutes), interruptions welcome
|
||||
|
||||
**Challenges**:
|
||||
- Maintaining engagement for longer duration
|
||||
- Balancing depth and accessibility
|
||||
- Handling interruptions smoothly
|
||||
- Demonstrating mastery of broader field
|
||||
- Satisfying both experts and non-experts
|
||||
|
||||
### Structure for 50-Minute Seminar
|
||||
|
||||
**Recommended Slide Count**: 40-50 slides
|
||||
|
||||
**Time Allocation**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Introduction (8-10 minutes, 8-10 slides):
|
||||
- Personal introduction (1 minute)
|
||||
- Big picture context (3-4 minutes)
|
||||
- Literature review (3-4 minutes)
|
||||
- Research questions (1-2 minutes)
|
||||
- Roadmap/outline (1 minute)
|
||||
|
||||
Methods (8-10 minutes, 8-10 slides):
|
||||
- Study design with rationale (2-3 minutes)
|
||||
- Participants/materials (2 minutes)
|
||||
- Procedures (3-4 minutes)
|
||||
- Analysis approach (2 minutes)
|
||||
|
||||
Results (18-22 minutes, 16-20 slides):
|
||||
- Overview/demographics (2 minutes)
|
||||
- Main finding 1 (6-8 minutes)
|
||||
- Main finding 2 (6-8 minutes)
|
||||
- Additional analyses (4-6 minutes)
|
||||
- Summary slide (1 minute)
|
||||
|
||||
Discussion (10-12 minutes, 8-10 slides):
|
||||
- Summary of findings (2 minutes)
|
||||
- Relation to literature (3-4 minutes)
|
||||
- Mechanisms/explanations (2-3 minutes)
|
||||
- Limitations (2 minutes)
|
||||
- Implications (2 minutes)
|
||||
|
||||
Conclusion (2-3 minutes, 2-3 slides):
|
||||
- Key messages (1 minute)
|
||||
- Future directions (1-2 minutes)
|
||||
- Acknowledgments (30 seconds)
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Seminar Best Practices
|
||||
|
||||
**Opening**:
|
||||
- ✅ Establish credibility and context
|
||||
- ✅ Make personal connection to research
|
||||
- ✅ Show enthusiasm and passion
|
||||
- ✅ Provide roadmap of talk structure
|
||||
- ❌ Don't assume all background knowledge
|
||||
- ❌ Don't be overly formal or stiff
|
||||
|
||||
**Content**:
|
||||
- ✅ Go deeper into methods than conference talk
|
||||
- ✅ Show multiple related findings or studies
|
||||
- ✅ Discuss failed experiments and pivots (shows thinking)
|
||||
- ✅ Present ongoing/unpublished work
|
||||
- ✅ Connect to broader theoretical questions
|
||||
- ❌ Don't present every detail of every analysis
|
||||
- ❌ Don't ignore alternative explanations
|
||||
- ❌ Don't oversell findings
|
||||
|
||||
**Engagement**:
|
||||
- ✅ Welcome interruptions: "Please feel free to ask questions"
|
||||
- ✅ Use checkpoint questions: "Does this make sense?"
|
||||
- ✅ Engage with questioners genuinely
|
||||
- ✅ Admit what you don't know
|
||||
- ✅ Ask audience for input on challenges
|
||||
- ❌ Don't be defensive about criticism
|
||||
- ❌ Don't dismiss questions as "off topic"
|
||||
- ❌ Don't monopolize Q&A time
|
||||
|
||||
**Pacing**:
|
||||
- Build in natural pause points
|
||||
- Don't rush (you have time)
|
||||
- Vary delivery speed and tone
|
||||
- Use humor appropriately
|
||||
- Monitor audience engagement
|
||||
|
||||
### Job Talk Considerations
|
||||
|
||||
**Additional Expectations**:
|
||||
- Show research program trajectory (past → present → future)
|
||||
- Demonstrate independent thinking
|
||||
- Show you can mentor students
|
||||
- Explain funding strategy
|
||||
- Fit with department emphasized
|
||||
- Teaching philosophy may be discussed
|
||||
|
||||
**Structure Adaptation**:
|
||||
- Add "Future Directions" section (5 minutes, 3-4 slides)
|
||||
- Show multiple projects if relevant
|
||||
- Discuss collaborative opportunities
|
||||
- Mention grant applications/funding
|
||||
|
||||
## Thesis and Dissertation Defenses
|
||||
|
||||
### Context and Expectations
|
||||
|
||||
**Typical Characteristics**:
|
||||
- **Duration**: 30-60 minutes (varies by institution)
|
||||
- **Audience**: Committee, colleagues, family
|
||||
- **Setting**: Formal examination
|
||||
- **Goal**: Demonstrate mastery, defend research decisions
|
||||
- **Format**: Extended Q&A (30-90 minutes), private or public
|
||||
|
||||
**Unique Aspects**:
|
||||
- Committee has read dissertation
|
||||
- Questioning can be extensive and critical
|
||||
- Evaluation of student's independence and expertise
|
||||
- May include private committee discussion
|
||||
- Career milestone, significant pressure
|
||||
|
||||
### Structure for 45-Minute Defense
|
||||
|
||||
**Recommended Slide Count**: 40-50 slides
|
||||
|
||||
**Time Allocation**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Introduction (5 minutes, 5-6 slides):
|
||||
- Research context and motivation
|
||||
- Central thesis question
|
||||
- Overview of studies/chapters
|
||||
- Roadmap
|
||||
|
||||
Literature Review (5 minutes, 4-5 slides):
|
||||
- Theoretical framework
|
||||
- Key prior findings
|
||||
- Knowledge gaps
|
||||
- Your contribution
|
||||
|
||||
Study 1 (8-10 minutes, 10-12 slides):
|
||||
- Research question
|
||||
- Methods
|
||||
- Results
|
||||
- Interim conclusions
|
||||
|
||||
Study 2 (8-10 minutes, 10-12 slides):
|
||||
- Research question
|
||||
- Methods
|
||||
- Results
|
||||
- Interim conclusions
|
||||
|
||||
Study 3 (optional) (8-10 minutes, 10-12 slides):
|
||||
- Research question
|
||||
- Methods
|
||||
- Results
|
||||
- Interim conclusions
|
||||
|
||||
General Discussion (8-10 minutes, 8-10 slides):
|
||||
- Synthesis across studies
|
||||
- Theoretical implications
|
||||
- Practical applications
|
||||
- Limitations (comprehensive)
|
||||
- Future research directions
|
||||
|
||||
Conclusions (2-3 minutes, 2-3 slides):
|
||||
- Main contributions
|
||||
- Final thoughts
|
||||
- Acknowledgments
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Defense Best Practices
|
||||
|
||||
**Preparation**:
|
||||
- ✅ Practice extensively (5+ times)
|
||||
- ✅ Anticipate every possible question
|
||||
- ✅ Prepare backup slides with extra analyses
|
||||
- ✅ Review key literature thoroughly
|
||||
- ✅ Understand limitations deeply
|
||||
- ✅ Practice Q&A with colleagues
|
||||
- ❌ Don't assume committee remembers all details
|
||||
- ❌ Don't leave preparation to last minute
|
||||
|
||||
**Content**:
|
||||
- ✅ Comprehensive coverage of all studies
|
||||
- ✅ Clear connection between studies
|
||||
- ✅ Address limitations proactively
|
||||
- ✅ Show theoretical contribution
|
||||
- ✅ Demonstrate independent thinking
|
||||
- ✅ Acknowledge contributions of others
|
||||
- ❌ Don't minimize limitations
|
||||
- ❌ Don't oversell findings
|
||||
- ❌ Don't ignore null results
|
||||
|
||||
**Q&A Approach**:
|
||||
- ✅ Listen carefully to full question
|
||||
- ✅ Pause before answering (shows thoughtfulness)
|
||||
- ✅ Admit when you don't know
|
||||
- ✅ Engage with criticism constructively
|
||||
- ✅ Refer to specific slides or dissertation sections
|
||||
- ✅ Thank questioner for insights
|
||||
- ❌ Don't be defensive or argumentative
|
||||
- ❌ Don't dismiss concerns
|
||||
- ❌ Don't ramble in answers
|
||||
|
||||
**Handling Difficult Questions**:
|
||||
- **Critique of methods**: Acknowledge limitation, explain rationale, note in future work
|
||||
- **Alternative interpretations**: "That's an interesting perspective. I focused on X because... but Y is worth exploring"
|
||||
- **Why didn't you do X?**: "That would be valuable. Due to [constraint], I prioritized... Future work should examine that"
|
||||
- **Contradiction in results**: "You're right that seems inconsistent. One possible explanation is..."
|
||||
|
||||
## Grant Pitches and Funding Presentations
|
||||
|
||||
### Context and Expectations
|
||||
|
||||
**Typical Characteristics**:
|
||||
- **Duration**: 10-20 minutes (varies widely)
|
||||
- **Audience**: Funding panel, non-specialists, decision-makers
|
||||
- **Setting**: Evaluative, competitive
|
||||
- **Goal**: Secure funding, demonstrate feasibility and impact
|
||||
- **Format**: Presentation + Q&A focused on logistics and impact
|
||||
|
||||
**Evaluation Criteria**:
|
||||
- Significance and innovation
|
||||
- Approach and feasibility
|
||||
- Investigator qualifications
|
||||
- Environment and resources
|
||||
- Budget justification
|
||||
|
||||
### Structure for 15-Minute Grant Pitch
|
||||
|
||||
**Recommended Slide Count**: 12-15 slides
|
||||
|
||||
**Time Allocation**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Significance (3-4 minutes, 3-4 slides):
|
||||
- Problem statement with impact (90 seconds)
|
||||
- Current state and limitations (90 seconds)
|
||||
- Opportunity and innovation (60-90 seconds)
|
||||
|
||||
Approach (5-6 minutes, 5-6 slides):
|
||||
- Overall strategy (60 seconds)
|
||||
- Aim 1: Approach and expected outcomes (90 seconds)
|
||||
- Aim 2: Approach and expected outcomes (90 seconds)
|
||||
- Aim 3: Approach and expected outcomes (optional, 90 seconds)
|
||||
- Timeline and milestones (60 seconds)
|
||||
|
||||
Impact and Feasibility (4-5 minutes, 3-4 slides):
|
||||
- Preliminary data (2 minutes)
|
||||
- Expected impact (1 minute)
|
||||
- Team and resources (1 minute)
|
||||
- Alternative strategies for risks (60 seconds)
|
||||
|
||||
Conclusion (1 minute, 1 slide):
|
||||
- Summary of innovation and impact
|
||||
- Budget highlight (if appropriate)
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Grant Pitch Best Practices
|
||||
|
||||
**Significance**:
|
||||
- ✅ Lead with impact (lives saved, costs reduced, knowledge gained)
|
||||
- ✅ Use compelling statistics and real-world examples
|
||||
- ✅ Clearly state innovation (what's new?)
|
||||
- ✅ Connect to funder's mission and priorities
|
||||
- ❌ Don't assume audience knows why it matters
|
||||
- ❌ Don't be vague about expected outcomes
|
||||
|
||||
**Approach**:
|
||||
- ✅ Show feasibility (you can actually do this)
|
||||
- ✅ Present clear, logical aims
|
||||
- ✅ Show preliminary data demonstrating proof-of-concept
|
||||
- ✅ Explain why your approach will work
|
||||
- ✅ Address potential challenges proactively
|
||||
- ❌ Don't be overly technical
|
||||
- ❌ Don't ignore obvious challenges
|
||||
- ❌ Don't propose unrealistic timelines
|
||||
|
||||
**Team and Resources**:
|
||||
- ✅ Highlight key personnel expertise
|
||||
- ✅ Show institutional support
|
||||
- ✅ Mention prior funding success
|
||||
- ✅ Demonstrate appropriate resources available
|
||||
- ❌ Don't undersell your qualifications
|
||||
- ❌ Don't propose work beyond your expertise without collaborators
|
||||
|
||||
**Q&A Focus**:
|
||||
- Expect questions about:
|
||||
- Budget justification
|
||||
- Timeline and milestones
|
||||
- What if Aim 1 fails?
|
||||
- How is this different from X's work?
|
||||
- How will you sustain this beyond grant period?
|
||||
- Dissemination and translation plans
|
||||
|
||||
## Journal Club Presentations
|
||||
|
||||
### Context and Expectations
|
||||
|
||||
**Typical Characteristics**:
|
||||
- **Duration**: 20-45 minutes
|
||||
- **Audience**: Lab members, colleagues, students
|
||||
- **Setting**: Educational, critical discussion
|
||||
- **Goal**: Understand paper, critique methods, discuss implications
|
||||
- **Format**: Heavy Q&A, interactive discussion
|
||||
|
||||
**Unique Aspects**:
|
||||
- Presenting others' work, not your own
|
||||
- Critical analysis expected
|
||||
- Audience may have read paper
|
||||
- Educational component important
|
||||
- Discussion more important than presentation
|
||||
|
||||
### Structure for 30-Minute Journal Club
|
||||
|
||||
**Recommended Slide Count**: 15-20 slides
|
||||
|
||||
**Time Allocation**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Context (2-3 minutes, 2-3 slides):
|
||||
- Paper citation and authors
|
||||
- Why you chose this paper
|
||||
- Background and significance
|
||||
|
||||
Introduction (3-4 minutes, 2-3 slides):
|
||||
- Research question
|
||||
- Prior work and gaps
|
||||
- Hypotheses
|
||||
|
||||
Methods (5-7 minutes, 4-6 slides):
|
||||
- Study design
|
||||
- Participants/materials
|
||||
- Procedures
|
||||
- Analysis approach
|
||||
- Your assessment of methods
|
||||
|
||||
Results (8-10 minutes, 5-7 slides):
|
||||
- Main findings
|
||||
- Key figures explained
|
||||
- Statistical results
|
||||
- Your interpretation
|
||||
|
||||
Discussion (5-7 minutes, 3-4 slides):
|
||||
- Authors' interpretation
|
||||
- Strengths of study
|
||||
- Limitations and concerns
|
||||
- Implications for field
|
||||
- Future directions
|
||||
|
||||
Critical Analysis (3-5 minutes, 1-2 slides):
|
||||
- What did we learn?
|
||||
- What questions remain?
|
||||
- How does this change our thinking?
|
||||
- Relevance to our work
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Journal Club Best Practices
|
||||
|
||||
**Preparation**:
|
||||
- ✅ Read paper multiple times
|
||||
- ✅ Read key cited references
|
||||
- ✅ Look up unfamiliar methods or concepts
|
||||
- ✅ Check other papers from same group
|
||||
- ✅ Prepare critical questions for discussion
|
||||
- ❌ Don't just summarize without analysis
|
||||
|
||||
**Presentation**:
|
||||
- ✅ Explain paper clearly (not everyone may have read it)
|
||||
- ✅ Highlight key figures and data
|
||||
- ✅ Point out strengths and innovations
|
||||
- ✅ Identify limitations or concerns
|
||||
- ✅ Be fair but critical
|
||||
- ✅ Connect to group's research interests
|
||||
- ❌ Don't just read the paper aloud
|
||||
- ❌ Don't be overly harsh or dismissive
|
||||
- ❌ Don't skip methods (often most important)
|
||||
|
||||
**Critical Analysis**:
|
||||
- ✅ Question methodological choices
|
||||
- ✅ Consider alternative interpretations
|
||||
- ✅ Identify what's missing
|
||||
- ✅ Discuss implications thoughtfully
|
||||
- ✅ Suggest follow-up experiments
|
||||
- ❌ Don't accept everything at face value
|
||||
- ❌ Don't nitpick minor issues while missing major flaws
|
||||
- ❌ Don't let personal biases dominate
|
||||
|
||||
**Discussion Facilitation**:
|
||||
- Pose open-ended questions
|
||||
- "What do you think about their interpretation of Figure 3?"
|
||||
- "Is this the right control experiment?"
|
||||
- "How would you design the follow-up study?"
|
||||
- Encourage quiet members to contribute
|
||||
- Keep discussion focused and productive
|
||||
|
||||
## Industry and Investor Presentations
|
||||
|
||||
### Context and Expectations
|
||||
|
||||
**Typical Characteristics**:
|
||||
- **Duration**: 10-30 minutes (often shorter)
|
||||
- **Audience**: Non-scientists, business decision-makers
|
||||
- **Setting**: High stakes, evaluative
|
||||
- **Goal**: Secure investment, partnership, or approval
|
||||
- **Format**: Emphasis on business case and timeline
|
||||
|
||||
**Key Differences from Academic Talks**:
|
||||
- Emphasis on applications, not mechanisms
|
||||
- Market size and competition important
|
||||
- Intellectual property considerations
|
||||
- Return on investment focus
|
||||
- Less technical detail expected
|
||||
|
||||
### Structure for 20-Minute Industry Pitch
|
||||
|
||||
**Time Allocation**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Problem and Market (3-4 minutes):
|
||||
- Unmet need or problem
|
||||
- Market size and opportunity
|
||||
- Current solutions and limitations
|
||||
|
||||
Solution (4-5 minutes):
|
||||
- Your technology or approach
|
||||
- Key innovations
|
||||
- Proof of concept data
|
||||
- Advantages over alternatives
|
||||
|
||||
Development Plan (5-6 minutes):
|
||||
- Current status (TRL/stage)
|
||||
- Development roadmap
|
||||
- Key milestones and timeline
|
||||
- Regulatory pathway (if applicable)
|
||||
|
||||
Business Case (4-5 minutes):
|
||||
- Target customers/users
|
||||
- Revenue model
|
||||
- Competitive landscape
|
||||
- Intellectual property status
|
||||
- Team and partnerships
|
||||
|
||||
Funding Ask (2-3 minutes):
|
||||
- Investment needed
|
||||
- Use of funds
|
||||
- Expected outcomes
|
||||
- Exit strategy or ROI
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Industry Pitch Best Practices
|
||||
|
||||
**Language**:
|
||||
- ✅ Simple, clear language (no jargon)
|
||||
- ✅ Focus on benefits and outcomes
|
||||
- ✅ Use business metrics (TAM, SAM, SOM)
|
||||
- ✅ Emphasize competitive advantages
|
||||
- ❌ Don't use academic terminology
|
||||
- ❌ Don't focus on mechanistic details
|
||||
- ❌ Don't ignore commercial viability
|
||||
|
||||
**Emphasis**:
|
||||
- Lead with problem and market opportunity
|
||||
- Show proof of concept clearly
|
||||
- Demonstrate clear path to commercialization
|
||||
- Highlight team's ability to execute
|
||||
- Be realistic about risks and challenges
|
||||
|
||||
## Teaching and Tutorial Presentations
|
||||
|
||||
### Context and Expectations
|
||||
|
||||
**Typical Characteristics**:
|
||||
- **Duration**: 45-90 minutes
|
||||
- **Audience**: Students, learners, varied expertise
|
||||
- **Setting**: Educational, classroom or workshop
|
||||
- **Goal**: Teach concepts, methods, or skills
|
||||
- **Format**: Interactive, may include exercises
|
||||
|
||||
**Structure for 60-Minute Tutorial**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Introduction (5 minutes):
|
||||
- Learning objectives
|
||||
- Why this topic matters
|
||||
- Prerequisites and assumptions
|
||||
|
||||
Foundations (10-15 minutes):
|
||||
- Essential background
|
||||
- Key concepts defined
|
||||
- Simple examples
|
||||
|
||||
Core Content - Part 1 (15-20 minutes):
|
||||
- Main topic area 1
|
||||
- Detailed explanation
|
||||
- Examples and demonstrations
|
||||
|
||||
Core Content - Part 2 (15-20 minutes):
|
||||
- Main topic area 2
|
||||
- Detailed explanation
|
||||
- Examples and demonstrations
|
||||
|
||||
Practice/Application (10-15 minutes):
|
||||
- Hands-on exercise or case study
|
||||
- Q&A and discussion
|
||||
- Common pitfalls
|
||||
|
||||
Summary (5 minutes):
|
||||
- Key takeaways
|
||||
- Resources for further learning
|
||||
- Next steps
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Tutorial Best Practices
|
||||
|
||||
**Content**:
|
||||
- ✅ Build complexity gradually
|
||||
- ✅ Use many examples
|
||||
- ✅ Repeat key concepts
|
||||
- ✅ Check understanding frequently
|
||||
- ✅ Provide resources and references
|
||||
- ❌ Don't assume prior knowledge
|
||||
- ❌ Don't move too quickly
|
||||
|
||||
**Engagement**:
|
||||
- ✅ Ask questions to audience
|
||||
- ✅ Include interactive elements
|
||||
- ✅ Use demonstrations
|
||||
- ✅ Encourage questions throughout
|
||||
- ✅ Provide practice opportunities
|
||||
- ❌ Don't lecture non-stop for 60 minutes
|
||||
|
||||
## Summary: Choosing the Right Approach
|
||||
|
||||
| Talk Type | Duration | Audience | Depth | Key Focus |
|
||||
|-----------|----------|----------|-------|-----------|
|
||||
| Lightning | 5-7 min | General | Minimal | One key finding |
|
||||
| Conference | 15 min | Specialists | Moderate | Main results |
|
||||
| Seminar | 45-60 min | Experts | Deep | Comprehensive |
|
||||
| Defense | 45-60 min | Committee | Complete | All studies |
|
||||
| Grant | 15-20 min | Mixed | Moderate | Impact & feasibility |
|
||||
| Journal Club | 30-45 min | Lab group | Critical | Methods & interpretation |
|
||||
| Industry | 15-30 min | Non-scientists | Applied | Business case |
|
||||
|
||||
### Adaptation Checklist
|
||||
|
||||
When preparing any talk, consider:
|
||||
|
||||
- [ ] Who is my audience? (Expertise level, background, expectations)
|
||||
- [ ] How much time do I have? (Strictly enforced or flexible?)
|
||||
- [ ] What is the goal? (Inform, persuade, teach, impress?)
|
||||
- [ ] What format is expected? (Formal vs. interactive, Q&A style)
|
||||
- [ ] What will happen afterward? (Q&A, discussion, evaluation, networking)
|
||||
- [ ] What are the logistics? (Room size, A/V setup, recording, remote?)
|
||||
|
||||
Adapt your structure, content depth, language, and delivery style accordingly.
|
||||
776
skills/scientific-slides/references/visual_review_workflow.md
Normal file
776
skills/scientific-slides/references/visual_review_workflow.md
Normal file
@@ -0,0 +1,776 @@
|
||||
# Visual Review Workflow for Presentations
|
||||
|
||||
## Overview
|
||||
|
||||
Visual review is a critical quality assurance step for presentations, allowing you to identify and fix layout issues, text overflow, element overlap, and design problems before presenting. This guide covers converting presentations to images, systematic visual inspection, common issues, and iterative improvement strategies.
|
||||
|
||||
## ⚠️ CRITICAL RULE: NEVER READ PDF PRESENTATIONS DIRECTLY
|
||||
|
||||
**MANDATORY: Always convert presentation PDFs to images FIRST, then review the images.**
|
||||
|
||||
### Why This Rule Exists
|
||||
|
||||
- **Buffer Overflow Prevention**: Presentation PDFs (especially multi-slide decks) cause "JSON message exceeded maximum buffer size" errors when read directly
|
||||
- **Visual Accuracy**: Images show exactly what the audience will see, including rendering issues
|
||||
- **Performance**: Image-based review is faster and more reliable than PDF text extraction
|
||||
- **Consistency**: Ensures uniform review process for all presentations
|
||||
|
||||
### The ONLY Correct Workflow for Presentations
|
||||
|
||||
1. ✅ Generate PDF from PowerPoint/Beamer source
|
||||
2. ✅ **Convert PDF to images** using pdftoppm or similar tool
|
||||
3. ✅ **Review the image files** systematically
|
||||
4. ✅ Document issues by slide number
|
||||
5. ✅ Fix issues in source files
|
||||
6. ✅ Regenerate PDF and repeat
|
||||
|
||||
### What NOT To Do
|
||||
|
||||
- ❌ NEVER use read_file tool on presentation PDFs
|
||||
- ❌ NEVER attempt to read PDF slides as text
|
||||
- ❌ NEVER skip the image conversion step
|
||||
- ❌ NEVER assume PDF is "small enough" to read directly
|
||||
|
||||
**If you're reviewing a presentation and haven't converted to images yet, STOP and convert first.**
|
||||
|
||||
## Why Visual Review Matters
|
||||
|
||||
### Common Problems Invisible in Source
|
||||
|
||||
**LaTeX Beamer Issues**:
|
||||
- Text overflow from text boxes
|
||||
- Overlapping elements (equations over images)
|
||||
- Poor line breaking
|
||||
- Figures extending beyond slide boundaries
|
||||
- Font size issues at actual resolution
|
||||
|
||||
**PowerPoint Issues**:
|
||||
- Text cut off by shapes or slide edges
|
||||
- Images overlapping with text
|
||||
- Inconsistent spacing between slides
|
||||
- Color rendering differences
|
||||
- Font substitution problems
|
||||
|
||||
**Projection Issues**:
|
||||
- Content visible on laptop but cut off when projected
|
||||
- Colors looking different on projector
|
||||
- Low contrast elements becoming invisible
|
||||
- Small details disappearing
|
||||
|
||||
### Benefits of Visual Review
|
||||
|
||||
- **Catch layout errors early**: Fix before printing or presenting
|
||||
- **Verify readability**: Ensure text is large enough and high contrast
|
||||
- **Check consistency**: Spot inconsistencies across slides
|
||||
- **Test accessibility**: Verify color contrast and clarity
|
||||
- **Validate design**: Ensure professional appearance
|
||||
|
||||
## Conversion: PDF to Images
|
||||
|
||||
### Method 1: Using pdftoppm (Recommended)
|
||||
|
||||
**Installation**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Ubuntu/Debian
|
||||
sudo apt-get install poppler-utils
|
||||
|
||||
# macOS
|
||||
brew install poppler
|
||||
|
||||
# Verify installation
|
||||
pdftoppm -v
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Basic Conversion**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Convert all slides to JPEG images
|
||||
pdftoppm -jpeg -r 150 presentation.pdf slide
|
||||
|
||||
# Creates: slide-1.jpg, slide-2.jpg, slide-3.jpg, ...
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**High-Resolution Conversion**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Higher quality for detailed inspection (300 DPI)
|
||||
pdftoppm -jpeg -r 300 presentation.pdf slide
|
||||
|
||||
# PNG format (lossless, larger files)
|
||||
pdftoppm -png -r 150 presentation.pdf slide
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Convert Specific Slides**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Slides 5-10 only
|
||||
pdftoppm -jpeg -r 150 -f 5 -l 10 presentation.pdf slide
|
||||
|
||||
# Single slide
|
||||
pdftoppm -jpeg -r 150 -f 3 -l 3 presentation.pdf slide
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Output Options**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Different output directory
|
||||
pdftoppm -jpeg -r 150 presentation.pdf review/slide
|
||||
|
||||
# Custom naming
|
||||
pdftoppm -jpeg -r 150 presentation.pdf output/presentation
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Method 2: Using PowerPoint Thumbnail Script
|
||||
|
||||
For PowerPoint presentations, use the pptx skill's thumbnail tool:
|
||||
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Create thumbnail grid
|
||||
python scripts/thumbnail.py presentation.pptx output --cols 4
|
||||
|
||||
# Individual slides
|
||||
python scripts/thumbnail.py presentation.pptx slides/slide --individual
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Advantages**:
|
||||
- Optimized for PowerPoint files
|
||||
- Can create overview grids
|
||||
- Handles .pptx format directly
|
||||
- Customizable layout
|
||||
|
||||
### Method 3: Using ImageMagick
|
||||
|
||||
**Installation**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Ubuntu/Debian
|
||||
sudo apt-get install imagemagick
|
||||
|
||||
# macOS
|
||||
brew install imagemagick
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Conversion**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Convert PDF to images
|
||||
convert -density 150 presentation.pdf slide.jpg
|
||||
|
||||
# Higher quality
|
||||
convert -density 300 presentation.pdf slide.jpg
|
||||
|
||||
# Specific format
|
||||
convert -density 150 presentation.pdf slide.png
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Method 4: Using Python (Programmatic)
|
||||
|
||||
```python
|
||||
from pdf2image import convert_from_path
|
||||
|
||||
# Convert PDF to images
|
||||
images = convert_from_path(
|
||||
'presentation.pdf',
|
||||
dpi=200,
|
||||
fmt='jpeg'
|
||||
)
|
||||
|
||||
# Save individual slides
|
||||
for i, image in enumerate(images, start=1):
|
||||
image.save(f'slide-{i:03d}.jpg', 'JPEG')
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Install pdf2image**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
pip install pdf2image
|
||||
# Also requires poppler
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
## Systematic Visual Inspection
|
||||
|
||||
### Inspection Workflow
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 1: Overview Pass**
|
||||
- View all slides quickly
|
||||
- Note overall consistency
|
||||
- Identify obviously problematic slides
|
||||
- Create list of slides needing detailed review
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 2: Detailed Inspection**
|
||||
- Review each flagged slide carefully
|
||||
- Check against issue checklist (below)
|
||||
- Document specific problems with slide numbers
|
||||
- Take notes on required fixes
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 3: Cross-Slide Comparison**
|
||||
- Check consistency across similar slides
|
||||
- Verify uniform spacing and alignment
|
||||
- Ensure consistent font sizes
|
||||
- Check color scheme consistency
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 4: Distance Test**
|
||||
- View images at reduced size (simulates projection)
|
||||
- Check readability from ~6 feet
|
||||
- Verify key elements are visible
|
||||
- Test if main message is clear
|
||||
|
||||
### Issue Checklist
|
||||
|
||||
Review each slide for these common problems:
|
||||
|
||||
#### Text Issues
|
||||
|
||||
**Overflow and Truncation**:
|
||||
- [ ] Text cut off at slide edges
|
||||
- [ ] Text extending beyond text boxes
|
||||
- [ ] Equations running into margins
|
||||
- [ ] Captions cut off at bottom
|
||||
- [ ] Bullet points extending beyond boundary
|
||||
|
||||
**Readability**:
|
||||
- [ ] Font size too small (minimum 18pt visible)
|
||||
- [ ] Poor contrast (text vs background)
|
||||
- [ ] Inadequate line spacing
|
||||
- [ ] Text too close to slide edge
|
||||
- [ ] Overlapping lines of text
|
||||
|
||||
#### Element Overlap
|
||||
|
||||
**Text Overlaps**:
|
||||
- [ ] Text overlapping with images
|
||||
- [ ] Text overlapping with shapes
|
||||
- [ ] Multiple text boxes overlapping
|
||||
- [ ] Labels overlapping with data points
|
||||
- [ ] Title overlapping with content
|
||||
|
||||
**Visual Element Overlaps**:
|
||||
- [ ] Images overlapping
|
||||
- [ ] Shapes overlapping inappropriately
|
||||
- [ ] Figures extending into margins
|
||||
- [ ] Legend overlapping with plot
|
||||
- [ ] Watermark obscuring content
|
||||
|
||||
#### Layout and Spacing
|
||||
|
||||
**Alignment Issues**:
|
||||
- [ ] Misaligned text boxes
|
||||
- [ ] Uneven margins
|
||||
- [ ] Inconsistent element positioning
|
||||
- [ ] Off-center titles
|
||||
- [ ] Unaligned bullet points
|
||||
|
||||
**Spacing Problems**:
|
||||
- [ ] Cramped content (insufficient white space)
|
||||
- [ ] Too much empty space (poor use of slide area)
|
||||
- [ ] Inconsistent spacing between elements
|
||||
- [ ] Uneven gaps in multi-column layouts
|
||||
- [ ] Poor distribution of content
|
||||
|
||||
#### Color and Contrast
|
||||
|
||||
**Visibility**:
|
||||
- [ ] Insufficient contrast (text vs background)
|
||||
- [ ] Colors too similar (hard to distinguish)
|
||||
- [ ] Text on busy backgrounds
|
||||
- [ ] Light text on light background
|
||||
- [ ] Dark text on dark background
|
||||
|
||||
**Consistency**:
|
||||
- [ ] Inconsistent color schemes between slides
|
||||
- [ ] Unexpected color changes
|
||||
- [ ] Clashing color combinations
|
||||
- [ ] Poor color choices for data visualization
|
||||
|
||||
#### Figures and Graphics
|
||||
|
||||
**Quality**:
|
||||
- [ ] Pixelated or blurry images
|
||||
- [ ] Low-resolution figures
|
||||
- [ ] Distorted aspect ratios
|
||||
- [ ] Poor quality screenshots
|
||||
- [ ] Jagged edges on graphics
|
||||
|
||||
**Layout**:
|
||||
- [ ] Figures too small to read
|
||||
- [ ] Axis labels too small
|
||||
- [ ] Legend text illegible
|
||||
- [ ] Complex figures without explanation
|
||||
- [ ] Figures not centered or aligned
|
||||
|
||||
#### Technical Issues
|
||||
|
||||
**Rendering**:
|
||||
- [ ] Missing fonts (substituted)
|
||||
- [ ] Special characters not displaying
|
||||
- [ ] Equations rendering incorrectly
|
||||
- [ ] Broken images or missing files
|
||||
- [ ] Incorrect colors (RGB vs CMYK)
|
||||
|
||||
**Consistency**:
|
||||
- [ ] Slide numbers incorrect or missing
|
||||
- [ ] Inconsistent footer/header
|
||||
- [ ] Navigation elements broken
|
||||
- [ ] Hyperlinks not working (if testing interactively)
|
||||
|
||||
## Documentation Template
|
||||
|
||||
### Issue Log Format
|
||||
|
||||
Create a spreadsheet or document tracking all issues:
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
Slide # | Issue Category | Description | Severity | Status
|
||||
--------|---------------|-------------|----------|--------
|
||||
3 | Text Overflow | Bullet point 4 extends beyond box | High | Fixed
|
||||
7 | Element Overlap | Figure overlaps with caption | High | Fixed
|
||||
12 | Font Size | Axis labels too small | Medium | Fixed
|
||||
15 | Alignment | Title not centered | Low | Fixed
|
||||
22 | Contrast | Yellow text on white background | High | Fixed
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Severity Levels**:
|
||||
- **Critical**: Makes slide unusable or unprofessional
|
||||
- **High**: Significantly impacts readability or appearance
|
||||
- **Medium**: Noticeable but doesn't prevent comprehension
|
||||
- **Low**: Minor cosmetic issues
|
||||
|
||||
### Example Issue Documentation
|
||||
|
||||
**Good Documentation**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Slide 8: Text Overflow Issue
|
||||
- Description: Last bullet point "...implementation details"
|
||||
extends ~0.5 inches beyond right margin of text box
|
||||
- Cause: Bullet text too long for available width
|
||||
- Fix: Reduce text to "...implementation" or increase box width
|
||||
- Verification: Check neighboring slides for similar issue
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Poor Documentation**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
Slide 8: text problem
|
||||
- Fix: make smaller
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
## Common Issues and Solutions
|
||||
|
||||
### Issue 1: Text Overflow
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Text extends beyond boundaries
|
||||
|
||||
**Identification**:
|
||||
- Visible text cut off at edge
|
||||
- Text running into margins
|
||||
- Partial characters visible
|
||||
|
||||
**Solutions**:
|
||||
|
||||
**LaTeX Beamer**:
|
||||
```latex
|
||||
% Reduce text
|
||||
\begin{frame}{Title}
|
||||
\begin{itemize}
|
||||
\item Shorten this long bullet point
|
||||
% or
|
||||
\item Use abbreviations or acronyms
|
||||
% or
|
||||
\item<alert@1> Split into multiple bullets
|
||||
\end{itemize}
|
||||
\end{frame}
|
||||
|
||||
% Adjust margins
|
||||
\newgeometry{margin=1.5cm}
|
||||
\begin{frame}
|
||||
Content with wider margins
|
||||
\end{frame}
|
||||
\restoregeometry
|
||||
|
||||
% Smaller font for specific element
|
||||
{\small
|
||||
Long text that needs to fit
|
||||
}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**PowerPoint**:
|
||||
- Reduce font size for that element
|
||||
- Shorten text content
|
||||
- Increase text box size
|
||||
- Use text box auto-fit options (cautiously)
|
||||
- Split into multiple slides
|
||||
|
||||
### Issue 2: Element Overlap
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Elements overlapping inappropriately
|
||||
|
||||
**Identification**:
|
||||
- Text obscured by images
|
||||
- Shapes covering text
|
||||
- Figures overlapping
|
||||
|
||||
**Solutions**:
|
||||
|
||||
**LaTeX Beamer**:
|
||||
```latex
|
||||
% Use columns for better separation
|
||||
\begin{columns}
|
||||
\begin{column}{0.5\textwidth}
|
||||
Text content
|
||||
\end{column}
|
||||
\begin{column}{0.5\textwidth}
|
||||
\includegraphics[width=\textwidth]{figure.pdf}
|
||||
\end{column}
|
||||
\end{columns}
|
||||
|
||||
% Add spacing
|
||||
\vspace{0.5cm}
|
||||
|
||||
% Adjust figure size
|
||||
\includegraphics[width=0.7\textwidth]{figure.pdf}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**PowerPoint**:
|
||||
- Use alignment guides to reposition
|
||||
- Reduce element sizes
|
||||
- Use two-column layout
|
||||
- Send elements backward/forward (layering)
|
||||
- Increase spacing between elements
|
||||
|
||||
### Issue 3: Poor Contrast
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Text difficult to read due to color choices
|
||||
|
||||
**Identification**:
|
||||
- Squinting required to read text
|
||||
- Text fades into background
|
||||
- Colors too similar
|
||||
|
||||
**Solutions**:
|
||||
|
||||
**LaTeX Beamer**:
|
||||
```latex
|
||||
% Increase contrast
|
||||
\setbeamercolor{frametitle}{fg=black,bg=white}
|
||||
\setbeamercolor{normal text}{fg=black,bg=white}
|
||||
|
||||
% Use darker colors
|
||||
\definecolor{darkblue}{RGB}{0,50,100}
|
||||
\setbeamercolor{structure}{fg=darkblue}
|
||||
|
||||
% Test in grayscale
|
||||
\usepackage{xcolor}
|
||||
\selectcolormodel{gray} % Temporarily for testing
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**PowerPoint**:
|
||||
- Choose high-contrast color combinations
|
||||
- Use dark text on light background or vice versa
|
||||
- Avoid pastels for text
|
||||
- Test with WebAIM contrast checker
|
||||
- Add text background box if needed
|
||||
|
||||
### Issue 4: Tiny Fonts
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Text too small to read from distance
|
||||
|
||||
**Identification**:
|
||||
- Can't read text from 3 feet away
|
||||
- Axis labels disappear when viewing normally
|
||||
- Captions illegible
|
||||
|
||||
**Solutions**:
|
||||
|
||||
**LaTeX Beamer**:
|
||||
```latex
|
||||
% Increase base font size
|
||||
\documentclass[14pt]{beamer} % Instead of 11pt default
|
||||
|
||||
% Recreate figures with larger fonts
|
||||
% In matplotlib:
|
||||
plt.rcParams['font.size'] = 18
|
||||
plt.rcParams['axes.labelsize'] = 20
|
||||
|
||||
% In R/ggplot2:
|
||||
theme_set(theme_minimal(base_size = 16))
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**PowerPoint**:
|
||||
- Minimum 18pt for body text, 24pt preferred
|
||||
- Recreate figures with larger labels
|
||||
- Use direct labeling instead of legends
|
||||
- Simplify complex figures
|
||||
- Split dense content across multiple slides
|
||||
|
||||
### Issue 5: Misalignment
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Elements not properly aligned
|
||||
|
||||
**Identification**:
|
||||
- Uneven margins
|
||||
- Titles at different positions
|
||||
- Irregular spacing
|
||||
|
||||
**Solutions**:
|
||||
|
||||
**LaTeX Beamer**:
|
||||
```latex
|
||||
% Use consistent templates
|
||||
\setbeamertemplate{frametitle}[default][center]
|
||||
|
||||
% Align columns at top
|
||||
\begin{columns}[T] % T = top alignment
|
||||
\begin{column}{0.5\textwidth}
|
||||
Content
|
||||
\end{column}
|
||||
\begin{column}{0.5\textwidth}
|
||||
Content
|
||||
\end{column}
|
||||
\end{columns}
|
||||
|
||||
% Center figures
|
||||
\begin{center}
|
||||
\includegraphics[width=0.8\textwidth]{figure.pdf}
|
||||
\end{center}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**PowerPoint**:
|
||||
- Use alignment tools (Align Left/Center/Right)
|
||||
- Enable gridlines and guides
|
||||
- Use snap to grid
|
||||
- Distribute objects evenly
|
||||
- Create master slides with consistent layouts
|
||||
|
||||
## Iterative Improvement Process
|
||||
|
||||
### Workflow Cycle
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
1. Generate PDF
|
||||
↓
|
||||
2. Convert to images
|
||||
↓
|
||||
3. Systematic visual inspection
|
||||
↓
|
||||
4. Document issues
|
||||
↓
|
||||
5. Prioritize fixes
|
||||
↓
|
||||
6. Apply corrections to source
|
||||
↓
|
||||
7. Regenerate PDF
|
||||
↓
|
||||
8. Re-inspect (go to step 2)
|
||||
↓
|
||||
9. Complete when no critical issues remain
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Prioritization Strategy
|
||||
|
||||
**Fix Immediately** (Block presentation):
|
||||
- Text overflow making content unreadable
|
||||
- Critical element overlaps obscuring data
|
||||
- Broken figures or missing content
|
||||
- Severely poor contrast
|
||||
|
||||
**Fix Before Presenting**:
|
||||
- Font sizes too small
|
||||
- Moderate alignment issues
|
||||
- Inconsistent spacing
|
||||
- Moderate contrast problems
|
||||
|
||||
**Fix If Time Permits**:
|
||||
- Minor misalignments
|
||||
- Small spacing inconsistencies
|
||||
- Cosmetic improvements
|
||||
- Non-critical color adjustments
|
||||
|
||||
### Stopping Criteria
|
||||
|
||||
**Minimum Standards**:
|
||||
- [ ] No text overflow or truncation
|
||||
- [ ] No element overlaps obscuring content
|
||||
- [ ] All text readable at minimum 18pt equivalent
|
||||
- [ ] Adequate contrast (4.5:1 ratio minimum)
|
||||
- [ ] Figures and images display correctly
|
||||
- [ ] Consistent slide structure
|
||||
|
||||
**Ideal Standards**:
|
||||
- [ ] Professional appearance throughout
|
||||
- [ ] Consistent alignment and spacing
|
||||
- [ ] High contrast (7:1 ratio)
|
||||
- [ ] Optimal font sizes (24pt+)
|
||||
- [ ] Polished visual design
|
||||
- [ ] Zero layout issues
|
||||
|
||||
## Automated Detection Strategies
|
||||
|
||||
### Python Script for Text Overflow Detection
|
||||
|
||||
```python
|
||||
from PIL import Image
|
||||
import numpy as np
|
||||
|
||||
def detect_edge_content(image_path, threshold=10):
|
||||
"""
|
||||
Detect if content extends too close to slide edges.
|
||||
Returns True if potential overflow detected.
|
||||
"""
|
||||
img = Image.open(image_path).convert('L') # Grayscale
|
||||
arr = np.array(img)
|
||||
|
||||
# Check edges (10 pixel border)
|
||||
left_edge = arr[:, :threshold]
|
||||
right_edge = arr[:, -threshold:]
|
||||
top_edge = arr[:threshold, :]
|
||||
bottom_edge = arr[-threshold:, :]
|
||||
|
||||
# Look for non-white pixels (content)
|
||||
white_threshold = 240
|
||||
|
||||
issues = []
|
||||
if np.any(left_edge < white_threshold):
|
||||
issues.append("Left edge")
|
||||
if np.any(right_edge < white_threshold):
|
||||
issues.append("Right edge")
|
||||
if np.any(top_edge < white_threshold):
|
||||
issues.append("Top edge")
|
||||
if np.any(bottom_edge < white_threshold):
|
||||
issues.append("Bottom edge")
|
||||
|
||||
return issues
|
||||
|
||||
# Usage
|
||||
for slide_num in range(1, 26):
|
||||
issues = detect_edge_content(f'slide-{slide_num}.jpg')
|
||||
if issues:
|
||||
print(f"Slide {slide_num}: Content near {', '.join(issues)}")
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Contrast Checking
|
||||
|
||||
```python
|
||||
from PIL import Image
|
||||
import numpy as np
|
||||
|
||||
def check_contrast(image_path):
|
||||
"""
|
||||
Estimate contrast ratio in image.
|
||||
Simple version: compare lightest and darkest regions.
|
||||
"""
|
||||
img = Image.open(image_path).convert('L')
|
||||
arr = np.array(img)
|
||||
|
||||
# Get brightness values
|
||||
bright = np.percentile(arr, 95)
|
||||
dark = np.percentile(arr, 5)
|
||||
|
||||
# Rough contrast ratio
|
||||
contrast = (bright + 0.05) / (dark + 0.05)
|
||||
|
||||
if contrast < 4.5:
|
||||
return f"Low contrast: {contrast:.1f}:1 (minimum 4.5:1)"
|
||||
return f"OK: {contrast:.1f}:1"
|
||||
|
||||
# Usage
|
||||
for slide_num in range(1, 26):
|
||||
result = check_contrast(f'slide-{slide_num}.jpg')
|
||||
print(f"Slide {slide_num}: {result}")
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
## Manual Review Best Practices
|
||||
|
||||
### Review Environment
|
||||
|
||||
**Setup**:
|
||||
- Large monitor or dual monitors
|
||||
- Good lighting (not too bright, not dark)
|
||||
- Distraction-free environment
|
||||
- Image viewer with zoom capability
|
||||
- Notepad or spreadsheet for tracking issues
|
||||
|
||||
**Viewing Options**:
|
||||
- View at 100% for detail inspection
|
||||
- View at 50% to simulate distance
|
||||
- View in sequence to check consistency
|
||||
- Compare similar slides side-by-side
|
||||
|
||||
### Review Tips
|
||||
|
||||
**Fresh Eyes**:
|
||||
- Take breaks every 15-20 slides
|
||||
- Review at different times of day
|
||||
- Get colleague to review
|
||||
- Come back next day for final check
|
||||
|
||||
**Systematic Approach**:
|
||||
- Review in order (slide 1 → end)
|
||||
- Focus on one issue type at a time
|
||||
- Use checklist to ensure thoroughness
|
||||
- Document as you go, not from memory
|
||||
|
||||
**Common Oversights**:
|
||||
- Backup slides (review these too!)
|
||||
- Title slide (first impression matters)
|
||||
- Acknowledgments slide (often forgotten)
|
||||
- Last slide (visible during Q&A)
|
||||
|
||||
## Tools and Resources
|
||||
|
||||
### Recommended Software
|
||||
|
||||
**PDF to Image Conversion**:
|
||||
- **pdftoppm** (poppler-utils): Fast, command-line
|
||||
- **ImageMagick**: Flexible, many options
|
||||
- **pdf2image** (Python): Programmatic control
|
||||
|
||||
**Image Viewing**:
|
||||
- **IrfanView** (Windows): Fast, many formats
|
||||
- **Preview** (macOS): Built-in, simple
|
||||
- **Eye of GNOME** (Linux): Lightweight
|
||||
- **XnView**: Cross-platform, batch operations
|
||||
|
||||
**Issue Tracking**:
|
||||
- **Spreadsheet** (Excel, Google Sheets): Simple, flexible
|
||||
- **Markdown file**: Version control friendly
|
||||
- **Issue tracker** (GitHub, Jira): If team collaboration
|
||||
- **Checklist app**: For mobile review
|
||||
|
||||
### Contrast Checkers
|
||||
|
||||
- **WebAIM Contrast Checker**: https://webaim.org/resources/contrastchecker/
|
||||
- **Colour Contrast Analyser**: Desktop application
|
||||
- **Chrome DevTools**: Built-in contrast checking
|
||||
|
||||
### Color Blindness Simulators
|
||||
|
||||
- **Coblis**: https://www.color-blindness.com/coblis-color-blindness-simulator/
|
||||
- **Color Oracle**: Free desktop application
|
||||
- **Photoshop/GIMP**: Built-in color blindness filters
|
||||
|
||||
## Summary Checklist
|
||||
|
||||
Before finalizing your presentation:
|
||||
|
||||
**Conversion**:
|
||||
- [ ] PDF converted to images at adequate resolution (150-300 DPI)
|
||||
- [ ] All slides converted (including backup slides)
|
||||
- [ ] Images saved in organized directory
|
||||
|
||||
**Visual Inspection**:
|
||||
- [ ] All slides reviewed systematically
|
||||
- [ ] Issue checklist completed for each slide
|
||||
- [ ] Problems documented with slide numbers
|
||||
- [ ] Severity assigned to each issue
|
||||
|
||||
**Issue Resolution**:
|
||||
- [ ] Critical issues fixed
|
||||
- [ ] High-priority issues addressed
|
||||
- [ ] Source files updated (not just PDF)
|
||||
- [ ] Regenerated and re-inspected
|
||||
|
||||
**Final Verification**:
|
||||
- [ ] No text overflow or truncation
|
||||
- [ ] No inappropriate element overlaps
|
||||
- [ ] Adequate contrast throughout
|
||||
- [ ] Consistent layout and spacing
|
||||
- [ ] Professional appearance
|
||||
- [ ] Ready for projection or distribution
|
||||
|
||||
**Testing**:
|
||||
- [ ] Tested on projector if possible
|
||||
- [ ] Viewed from back of room distance
|
||||
- [ ] Checked in various lighting conditions
|
||||
- [ ] Backup copy saved
|
||||
Reference in New Issue
Block a user