Presenting in the Sciences : A Guide

Some advice when communicating your research:

• Know your audience: What is their background and interests? Frame your talk so that it is relevant to them and at a level they understand. 
• Define your goals: What do you want people to take away from your presentation/paper?
• Broader impact: Start by making it clear why they should care about your research and how it can impact society, environment, public policy, health, etc. Lead and end with this information. 
• Tell a story: People are more likely to remember you and your work if it is part of a story. 
• Keep jargon at a minimum: If you use technical terms, provide a definition and examples to improve understanding. 
• Use visuals: Ensure that each slide has at least one visual and explain why you are using that visual. 
• Be enthusiastic: Don't let the audience think you are bored by your own research. 
• Engage the audience: Have the audience ask questions, provide comments, and offer solutions. 

Inspired by http://permanent.access.gpo.gov/gpo67556/c1419.pdf and http://ian.umces.edu/learn/science_communication/