20.109(F10):Guidelines for oral presentations

Scientific data is communicated in many ways. Data can be shared informally through email with a collaborator or in lab group meetings. Data can also be formally communicated as publications in peer-reviewed journals or as hour-long seminars at international meetings. Successful scientific careers require both written and oral presentations, and scientific reputations are based on BOTH. It is important to know that every presentation, no matter how informal, will build or hurt your reputation. That's the reason you can find such detailed and numerous guidelines for giving scientific job talks--the list captures what commonly annoys search committees and what leads to rejection letters for candidates.

Seminars, group meetings, ten-minute talks, and journal clubs are all ways scientists share data orally. While the content, length and purpose of each talk varies, they share certain common elements, including organization, clarity, and proper attribution for the work.

The oral presentations you will give in this class will be ten-minute talks. Your talks will include an introduction to the topic, a presentation of data, a summary and a time to answer questions from your classmates. Realistically, only two or three ideas can be effectively conveyed in so short a time, and even that will require that you carefully plan what you will say and then practice saying it. You will not be allowed to talk for more than ten minutes.

In addition to the advice below, you should also consult with Atissa Banuazizi.

Things to remember about giving your talk

 * A 10’ talk is NOT a 30’ talk given very fast
 * It will help if you memorize at least the first few sentences of your talk
 * Think of ways to transition from one slide to the next (“In the next slide I’ll show you some data that identifies the protein detected”)
 * Figure out how to work the lights, slide projector, curtains etc before you begin.
 * Keep the lights as bright as possible. If you have to turn the lights off for some image to be properly seen, then remember to turn the lights back on. People can and do fall asleep during dark seminars
 * Laser pointers or sticks should be used to direct attention to images on the screen. Be sure to always use a pointer with a specific purpose in mind, rather than constantly gesturing in the general vicinity of your slide; otherwise, the audience will not know what's important. Don’t aim your laser pointer at anyone since it can damage a person’s eyes.

How to deal with nerves

 * Consider it excitement and turn it into enthusiasm
 * Remember that even the most experienced speakers get nervous right before a talk
 * Speak in a louder voice
 * Don’t speak in a monotone
 * Do practice your talk, which will help eliminate crutch words such as “so,” “um,” and “like”

Format
REHEARSE YOUR TALK SEVERAL TIMES

Find examples of short talks here and here