Research presentation: A comprehensive guide
Learn how to choose a topic, conduct research, create visuals, and deliver your presentation with confidence.
Raja Bothra
Building presentations
Table of contents
Hey there, fellow knowledge seekers!
Today, we're diving deep into the world of research presentations.
Whether you're a student gearing up for your undergraduate research showcase or a professional preparing for a crucial job interview, mastering the art of delivering an effective research presentation is a valuable skill.
What is a research presentation?
A research presentation is a means to communicate your findings, insights, and discoveries to an audience, be it in a classroom, at a conference, or in a boardroom. It's your opportunity to showcase your expertise and share the results of your hard work.
Purpose of a research presentation
Before we dive into the intricacies of creating a stellar research presentation, let's explore the underlying reasons that make these presentations indispensable. The purpose of a research presentation is not merely to present data but to serve as a powerful tool for communication and engagement.
Sharing knowledge
At its core, a research presentation is a conduit for sharing knowledge, disseminating your research findings, and illuminating the uncharted realms of your work. It's about taking the complex and making it comprehensible, even captivating.
Academic evaluation
In the realm of academia, research presentations play a pivotal role in the evaluation process. They are your platform to defend a dissertation or thesis with vigor and confidence. Moreover, they are your plea for research funding, where your passion and precision could tip the scales in your favor.
Professional communication
Beyond the academic sphere, research presentations find a home in the corporate world, such as job interview s. In these scenarios, your presentation serves as a bridge, connecting your ideas with potential employers. It's an opportunity to demonstrate not just your research skills but also your ability to communicate them effectively.
The bigger picture
Your research presentation is more than just slides and data; it's an embodiment of your dedication and expertise. It's a tool for persuading, inspiring, and inciting action. It's a gateway to engage, educate, and advocate, whether in academic circles, professional settings, or public platforms.
A universal canvas
Regardless of the context, the core objectives of a research presentation remain constant:
- Dissemination of information : Sharing insights and discoveries for the collective advancement of knowledge.
- Engagement : Creating a presentation that captivates and effectively conveys complex ideas.
- Feedback and discussion : Welcoming questions, feedback, and discussions that refine and expand your research.
- Peer review : Serving as part of the peer-review process in academia, where experts evaluate the quality and validity of your work.
- Educational : Actively contributing to education by disseminating valuable information about a particular topic or research area.
- Persuasion : In cases like grant applications, presentations aim to persuade the audience to support or fund the research project.
- Networking : An opportunity to connect with peers, professionals, and stakeholders interested in your field.
- Professional development : A chance to enhance your communication skills and professional development.
- Public awareness : Raising public awareness about significant issues or findings that have a direct impact on society.
Your research presentation is not merely a sequence of slides but a powerful tool for communication and connection. Whether you're in the academic realm, the corporate world, or the public sphere, your ability to convey your research clearly and engagingly is pivotal to your success. Remember, you're not just presenting data; you're sharing knowledge, engaging your audience, and advocating for a cause.
Different types of research presentation
Research presentations are as diverse as the research itself, and the choice of presentation format is crucial. It depends on factors like the audience, the research's nature, and the specific goals of the presentation. Let's explore the myriad forms research presentations can take:
1. Oral presentations
- Conference presentations : These formal presentations are typically held at academic conferences, where researchers present their findings to a specialized audience. It's a platform for in-depth discussions and peer feedback.
- Seminar presentations : Often conducted at universities or research institutions, these presentations delve deep into research topics, encouraging detailed discussions and expert insights.
- Lecture series : A series of lectures focused on a particular research topic, usually organized by universities. These sessions offer a comprehensive exploration of a subject.
2. Poster presentations
- Conference posters : Visual presentations of research findings displayed on large posters, commonly used at academic conferences. They provide a snapshot of research, making complex data more accessible.
- Academic fairs : Frequently used to showcase research projects at the undergraduate or high school level. These exhibitions make research engaging for students.
3. Online/webinar presentations
- Webinars : Online presentations where researchers share their work with a remote audience. These presentations often include interactive elements, like Q&A sessions.
- Online workshops : Hands-on, interactive presentations that teach research methodologies or specific skills. Ideal for engaging the audience in a virtual setting.
4. Thesis or dissertation defense: Researchers defend their doctoral or master's theses or dissertations before a committee. It involves explaining their research in-depth and responding to questions.
5. Ignite or pecha kucha presentations : These are fast-paced presentations where presenters use a fixed number of slides and limited time per slide to convey their research succinctly. It's a dynamic format that encourages clarity and conciseness.
6. Panel discussions: Researchers participate in a discussion alongside other experts, sharing their perspectives on a specific topic
or research area. These discussions provide a well-rounded view of the subject.
7. TED talks or public lectures: Researchers present their work to a general audience in an engaging and accessible manner. The focus is on making complex ideas understandable and captivating.
8. Corporate research presentations: Researchers may present their findings to colleagues, executives, or stakeholders in a business or industry setting. These presentations often have practical applications and implications for the company.
9. Pitch presentations: Researchers may need to pitch their research project to potential funders , collaborators, or sponsors. This format requires the ability to convey the research's value and potential impact effectively.
10. Media interviews: Researchers can present their work through interviews with journalists, on television, radio, podcasts, or in written articles. The challenge here is to convey complex ideas to a broad audience.
11. Educational workshops: These presentations occur in an educational context, where researchers teach others about a particular subject or research method. It's a way to transfer knowledge and skills effectively.
12. Research reports: These formal written reports communicate research findings and are presented in a document format. They are often used for thorough documentation and publication.
13. Interactive exhibits: Researchers create interactive exhibits at science centers or museums to engage the public with their research. It's about making research accessible and engaging to a wide audience.
14. Government or policy briefings: Researchers may present their work to policymakers, helping to inform decision-making. These presentations have a direct impact on policy and require clarity and relevance.
15. Peer review: In the academic realm, researchers present their work to a group of peers for constructive feedback before formal publication. It's an essential step in ensuring the quality and validity of research.
In the world of research presentations, adaptability is key. Researchers often need to tailor their content and style to suit the context and meet the expectations of their audience. Remember, the choice of presentation type should align with your goals and the nature of your research. Each format has its unique strengths and is a valuable tool for sharing knowledge, engaging your audience, and achieving your research objectives.
What should a research presentation include?
A research presentation is not just a random assortment of slides; it's a meticulously crafted narrative that informs, engages, and inspires. Regardless of the type of presentation you opt for, there are some indispensable components to consider:
Introduction: Your presentation journey begins with the introduction—a compelling opening act. This is where you introduce your topic, explain its significance, and clearly state your research question or hypothesis. Think of it as setting the stage for the story you're about to tell.
Background: The background section is your opportunity to equip your audience with the necessary context to grasp the intricacies of your research. This may encompass discussions on relevant theories, prior research, and fundamental concepts that lay the foundation for your work. It's about ensuring your audience starts on the same page.
Methodology: This section provides an insight into the "how" of your research. Share the methods you employed in conducting your research, such as data collection techniques, sampling procedures, and your chosen methods of analysis. It's a backstage pass to the mechanics of your study.
Results: With the methodology unveiled, it's time to present the star of the show—your findings. This section is where you shine a spotlight on your results, delivering them in a clear and concise manner. Visual aids, such as tables, graphs, and other visuals, can be invaluable allies in communicating your results effectively.
Discussion: As you transition from presenting results, you enter the realm of interpretation and discussion. Here, you dissect your findings, analyzing their implications and discussing their real-world significance. Don't forget to address the limitations of your study and suggest future research directions.
Conclusion: In the grand finale of your presentation, it's time to bring the pieces together. Summarize your main points, reiterate the importance of your research, and leave your audience with a lasting impression. A compelling conclusion can be the key to a memorable presentation.
Q&A session: Your presentation isn't just a monologue; it's a dialogue with your audience. Provide an opportunity for engagement and clarification through a Q&A session. Allow your audience to ask questions, offer feedback, and explore the nuances of your research.
Contact information: Consider including a slide with your contact information. This way, curious audience members can reach out to you with questions, feedback, or collaboration opportunities. It's a subtle but essential way to maintain the conversation beyond the presentation.
It's important to note that the specific content and length of your research presentation may vary based on your audience and time constraints. For instance, if your audience is general and diverse, dedicating more time to background and discussion can enhance comprehension. On the other hand, when presenting to experts in your field, you can streamline these sections and focus on the intricate details of your methodology and results.
How to structure an effective research presentation
Crafting an effective research presentation is akin to weaving a compelling narrative. It's about captivating your audience while imparting knowledge. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to structure a presentation that leaves a lasting impression:
Title slide : Your presentation begins with the title slide, your first impression. Include the title of your presentation, your name, affiliation, and the date. This slide sets the stage for your audience, providing essential information about what they are about to learn.
Introduction : The introduction is your opportunity to grab your audience's attention and set the stage for your presentation. Start with a hook, like a thought-provoking question, a surprising fact, or even a touch of humor if it fits naturally. Additionally, in the introduction, provide background and context for your research, clearly state your research question or objectives, and explain why your research is important or relevant.
Literature review : In this section, briefly summarize key research in your field related to your topic. Highlight gaps or areas where your research contributes. If relevant, mention theories or models that underpin your work, demonstrating your understanding of the existing body of knowledge.
Methodology : Explain the nuts and bolts of your research methods. Share the methods you used, whether they were surveys, experiments, case studies, or any other approach. Include details of data collection procedures, sample size, and data analysis techniques. If ethical considerations played a role, mention them here.
Data presentation : This is where you unveil your research findings using visuals like charts, graphs, and tables. Make sure to explain the significance of each visual and its relation to your research question, using clear and concise labels for data points. Highlight key results or trends that are critical to your narrative, making it easier for your audience to grasp the key takeaways.
Discussion : Interpret the data and discuss its implications. This section should explain how your findings relate to your research question or objectives. Address any limitations or potential sources of bias and offer insights into the broader implications and practical applications of your research. It's a critical part where you demonstrate your analytical skills and the value of your work.
Conclusion : In the grand finale of your presentation, summarize the main points and reiterate the significance of your research and its contribution to the field. Suggest potential areas for future research, inviting your audience to continue the journey and emphasizing the continuity of the research.
Q&A session : Now, it's time to engage your audience. Invite questions and be prepared to provide detailed answers and clarify any doubts. This interaction adds depth to your presentation and ensures your audience's comprehension.
References : Include a list of all the sources you cited during your presentation. This shows your commitment to sound research practices and allows your audience to delve deeper into the literature if they wish.
Acknowledgments (if necessary) : If your research received support from funding sources, collaborators, or institutions, acknowledge them at this point. Gratitude goes a long way in the academic community, and it's essential to recognize those who contributed to your work.
Additional Tips:
- Keep your presentation concise and focused to avoid overwhelming your audience with an excess of information.
- Use visual aids effectively, but remember, less is often more. Avoid overcrowding slides with excessive text or data.
- Practice your presentation multiple times to ensure a smooth delivery and stay within the allotted time.
- Engage with your audience throughout. Ask questions, encourage discussion, and make eye contact to maintain their interest.
- Speak clearly and confidently, avoiding jargon or overly technical language whenever possible.
- Adapt your style and level of detail to your audience's background and interests. The key to an effective research presentation lies in clear, organized, and engaging communication, ensuring your message not only informs but also captivates your audience.
Do’s and Don'ts of a Research Presentation
Delivering a successful research presentation is crucial for conveying your findings and insights effectively. Here are some do's and don'ts to keep in mind:
- Know your audience: Tailor your presentation to your audience's background and interests. Consider whether they are experts in the field or have limited prior knowledge.
- Structure your presentation: Organize your presentation with a clear structure. Start with an introduction, outline your methodology, present your results, and conclude with key takeaways and implications.
- Practice: Rehearse your presentation multiple times to ensure a smooth and confident delivery. Practice also helps you manage your time effectively.
- Use visuals: Incorporate visuals like graphs, charts, and images to make complex data more accessible. Visual aids should be clear, concise, and relevant.
- Engage your audience: Use stories, anecdotes, or questions to capture your audience's attention and keep them engaged. Encourage questions and discussions.
- Speak clearly and slowly: Enunciate your words clearly and avoid speaking too fast. This makes it easier for your audience to follow your presentation.
- Keep slides simple: Limit the amount of information on each slide. Use bullet points, not paragraphs. Avoid excessive animations and transitions.
- Cite sources: Acknowledge and cite the work of others when presenting their ideas or research. This shows academic integrity.
- Anticipate questions: Be prepared to answer questions about your research. It demonstrates your expertise and thorough understanding of the topic.
- Time management: Stick to your allotted time. Respect your audience's time by not going over the time limit.
Don'ts:
- Don't overload slides: Avoid cluttered or text-heavy slides. They can overwhelm your audience and distract from your key points.
- Don't read directly from slides: Your slides should support your presentation, not replace it. Avoid reading verbatim from your slides.
- Don't rush: Speaking too quickly can make it hard for the audience to follow your presentation. Speak at a measured pace.
- Don't assume prior knowledge: Don't assume that your audience is familiar with your topic. Provide sufficient background information to ensure understanding.
- Don't wing it: Winging a research presentation can lead to disorganization and confusion. Preparation is key to a successful presentation.
- Don't get defensive: If someone challenges your research, remain composed and open to constructive criticism. Avoid becoming defensive or confrontational.
- Don't neglect visual design: Poorly designed visuals can detract from your presentation. Pay attention to design principles for your slides.
- Don't oversimplify or overcomplicate: Strike a balance between simplifying complex ideas and providing enough detail for your audience to grasp the topic.
- Don't use jargon unnecessarily: Avoid overusing technical jargon or acronyms. If you must use them, explain them for the benefit of non-experts.
- Don't monopolize the Q&A: Give all audience members an opportunity to ask questions. Don't allow one or two people to dominate the Q&A session.
Summarizing key takeaways
- Purpose of research presentation : Research presentations are essential for sharing knowledge, academic evaluation, professional communication, and more.
- Types of research presentations : They come in various formats, like oral, poster, webinars, and more, and should match your goals.
- Content of a research presentation : Typically includes an introduction, background, methodology, results, discussion, conclusion, Q&A, references, and acknowledgments (if needed).
- Structuring an effective presentation : Organize your presentation logically, use visuals, practice, engage your audience, and speak clearly.
- Do's : Do tailor to your audience, structure well, and use visuals.
- Don'ts : Don't overload slides, rush, assume prior knowledge, or neglect design.
FAQ's about research Presentation
1. how can i create a research presentation that stands out.
When creating your research presentation, consider using prezent, powerpoint presentation or other presentation software to help you prepare a visually appealing presentation. Utilizing presentation templates can provide you with a professional and organized look. Try to include appropriate graphics that enhance your content and help you avoid using too much text. Remember that the purpose of your presentation is to present your research in a way that your audience can follow, so use different fonts, but make sure to keep font size and style consistent for headings and content.
2. How many slides should I have in my research presentation?
A rule of thumb for creating a research presentation is to aim for approximately one to five minutes per slide. For a 15-minute presentation, you might have around 15 to 75 slides. However, the number of slides can vary depending on your content. Avoid using too much detail, and keep it simple to maintain your audience's engagement.
3. Should I use a handout as part of my research presentation?
You don't need to provide a handout as part of your research presentation, but it can be a helpful addition. Including a handout can help your audience take notes and refer back to important things you've discussed. Be sure to include your name and contact details on the handout so that your audience knows how to reach you.
4. What should I do when giving an in-person research presentation?
When giving an in-person presentation, it's essential to use a projector and present your research paper slowly and clearly. Make sure the audience can see the content from a few feet away, and use sans-serif fonts, such as Arial, for better contrast and readability. Remember not to read word for word from your presentation slides; instead, use them as a guide. Also, be prepared to answer questions as you go and engage with your audience.
5. How can I make my research presentation suitable for a symposium in the social sciences, for example?
To make your research presentation suitable for a symposium in the social sciences or any specific field, first, decide whether your audience needs a more technical or general overview of your work. Adapt the content and the appropriate graphics accordingly. Use a table of contents to help guide your presentation, and present your research in a manner that aligns with the expectations of the audience in your field. Make sure your presentation design and content are tailored to your audience and the nature of the symposium.
Create your research presentation with prezent
Creating a compelling research presentation is an essential skill for academics and professionals alike. Prezent, a powerful communication success platform, offers an innovative solution for crafting engaging and brand-compliant research presentations. With Prezent, you can save valuable time and streamline your presentation creation process. The platform's AI presentation tool combines audience preferences, personalized fingerprints, and a presentation builder to help you deliver impactful research findings.
One of the standout features of Prezent is its emphasis on brand-approved design. The platform allows you to maintain consistency with your corporate brand and marketing team's guidelines. You can access over 35,000 slides in your company's approved design, ensuring that your research presentation is always on-brand.
To further enhance your research presentation experience, Prezent offers professional services such as overnight services and dedicated presentation specialists. These services can help you refine your content, convert meeting notes into polished presentations, and brainstorm design ideas. With a strong commitment to enterprise-grade security, Prezent ensures the safety of your data through independent third-party assurance.
Ready to supercharge your research presentations? Try our free trial or book a demo today with Prezent!
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Home Blog Presentation Ideas How to Create and Deliver a Research Presentation
How to Create and Deliver a Research Presentation
Every research endeavor ends up with the communication of its findings. Graduate-level research culminates in a thesis defense , while many academic and scientific disciplines are published in peer-reviewed journals. In a business context, PowerPoint research presentation is the default format for reporting the findings to stakeholders.
Condensing months of work into a few slides can prove to be challenging. It requires particular skills to create and deliver a research presentation that promotes informed decisions and drives long-term projects forward.
Table of Contents
What is a Research Presentation
Key slides for creating a research presentation, tips when delivering a research presentation, how to present sources in a research presentation, recommended templates to create a research presentation.
A research presentation is the communication of research findings, typically delivered to an audience of peers, colleagues, students, or professionals. In the academe, it is meant to showcase the importance of the research paper , state the findings and the analysis of those findings, and seek feedback that could further the research.
The presentation of research becomes even more critical in the business world as the insights derived from it are the basis of strategic decisions of organizations. Information from this type of report can aid companies in maximizing the sales and profit of their business. Major projects such as research and development (R&D) in a new field, the launch of a new product or service, or even corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives will require the presentation of research findings to prove their feasibility.
Market research and technical research are examples of business-type research presentations you will commonly encounter.
In this article, we’ve compiled all the essential tips, including some examples and templates, to get you started with creating and delivering a stellar research presentation tailored specifically for the business context.
Various research suggests that the average attention span of adults during presentations is around 20 minutes, with a notable drop in an engagement at the 10-minute mark . Beyond that, you might see your audience doing other things.
How can you avoid such a mistake? The answer lies in the adage “keep it simple, stupid” or KISS. We don’t mean dumbing down your content but rather presenting it in a way that is easily digestible and accessible to your audience. One way you can do this is by organizing your research presentation using a clear structure.
Here are the slides you should prioritize when creating your research presentation PowerPoint.
1. Title Page
The title page is the first thing your audience will see during your presentation, so put extra effort into it to make an impression. Of course, writing presentation titles and title pages will vary depending on the type of presentation you are to deliver. In the case of a research presentation, you want a formal and academic-sounding one. It should include:
- The full title of the report
- The date of the report
- The name of the researchers or department in charge of the report
- The name of the organization for which the presentation is intended
When writing the title of your research presentation, it should reflect the topic and objective of the report. Focus only on the subject and avoid adding redundant phrases like “A research on” or “A study on.” However, you may use phrases like “Market Analysis” or “Feasibility Study” because they help identify the purpose of the presentation. Doing so also serves a long-term purpose for the filing and later retrieving of the document.
Here’s a sample title page for a hypothetical market research presentation from Gillette .
2. Executive Summary Slide
The executive summary marks the beginning of the body of the presentation, briefly summarizing the key discussion points of the research. Specifically, the summary may state the following:
- The purpose of the investigation and its significance within the organization’s goals
- The methods used for the investigation
- The major findings of the investigation
- The conclusions and recommendations after the investigation
Although the executive summary encompasses the entry of the research presentation, it should not dive into all the details of the work on which the findings, conclusions, and recommendations were based. Creating the executive summary requires a focus on clarity and brevity, especially when translating it to a PowerPoint document where space is limited.
Each point should be presented in a clear and visually engaging manner to capture the audience’s attention and set the stage for the rest of the presentation. Use visuals, bullet points, and minimal text to convey information efficiently.
3. Introduction/ Project Description Slides
In this section, your goal is to provide your audience with the information that will help them understand the details of the presentation. Provide a detailed description of the project, including its goals, objectives, scope, and methods for gathering and analyzing data.
You want to answer these fundamental questions:
- What specific questions are you trying to answer, problems you aim to solve, or opportunities you seek to explore?
- Why is this project important, and what prompted it?
- What are the boundaries of your research or initiative?
- How were the data gathered?
Important: The introduction should exclude specific findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
4. Data Presentation and Analyses Slides
This is the longest section of a research presentation, as you’ll present the data you’ve gathered and provide a thorough analysis of that data to draw meaningful conclusions. The format and components of this section can vary widely, tailored to the specific nature of your research.
For example, if you are doing market research, you may include the market potential estimate, competitor analysis, and pricing analysis. These elements will help your organization determine the actual viability of a market opportunity.
Visual aids like charts, graphs, tables, and diagrams are potent tools to convey your key findings effectively. These materials may be numbered and sequenced (Figure 1, Figure 2, and so forth), accompanied by text to make sense of the insights.
5. Conclusions
The conclusion of a research presentation is where you pull together the ideas derived from your data presentation and analyses in light of the purpose of the research. For example, if the objective is to assess the market of a new product, the conclusion should determine the requirements of the market in question and tell whether there is a product-market fit.
Designing your conclusion slide should be straightforward and focused on conveying the key takeaways from your research. Keep the text concise and to the point. Present it in bullet points or numbered lists to make the content easily scannable.
6. Recommendations
The findings of your research might reveal elements that may not align with your initial vision or expectations. These deviations are addressed in the recommendations section of your presentation, which outlines the best course of action based on the result of the research.
What emerging markets should we target next? Do we need to rethink our pricing strategies? Which professionals should we hire for this special project? — these are some of the questions that may arise when coming up with this part of the research.
Recommendations may be combined with the conclusion, but presenting them separately to reinforce their urgency. In the end, the decision-makers in the organization or your clients will make the final call on whether to accept or decline the recommendations.
7. Questions Slide
Members of your audience are not involved in carrying out your research activity, which means there’s a lot they don’t know about its details. By offering an opportunity for questions, you can invite them to bridge that gap, seek clarification, and engage in a dialogue that enhances their understanding.
If your research is more business-oriented, facilitating a question and answer after your presentation becomes imperative as it’s your final appeal to encourage buy-in for your recommendations.
A simple “Ask us anything” slide can indicate that you are ready to accept questions.
If you need a quick method to create a research presentation, check out our AI presentation maker . A tool in which you add the topic, curate the outline, select a design, and let AI do the work for you. Alternatively, check our tutorial on how to convert a research paper to presentation using AI .
1. Focus on the Most Important Findings
The truth about presenting research findings is that your audience doesn’t need to know everything. Instead, they should receive a distilled, clear, and meaningful overview that focuses on the most critical aspects.
You will likely have to squeeze in the oral presentation of your research into a 10 to 20-minute presentation, so you have to make the most out of the time given to you. In the presentation, don’t soak in the less important elements like historical backgrounds. Decision-makers might even ask you to skip these portions and focus on sharing the findings.
2. Do Not Read Word-per-word
Reading word-for-word from your presentation slides intensifies the danger of losing your audience’s interest. Its effect can be detrimental, especially if the purpose of your research presentation is to gain approval from the audience. So, how can you avoid this mistake?
- Make a conscious design decision to keep the text on your slides minimal. Your slides should serve as visual cues to guide your presentation.
- Structure your presentation as a narrative or story. Stories are more engaging and memorable than dry, factual information.
- Prepare speaker notes with the key points of your research. Glance at it when needed.
- Engage with the audience by maintaining eye contact and asking rhetorical questions.
3. Don’t Go Without Handouts
Handouts are paper copies of your presentation slides that you distribute to your audience. They typically contain the summary of your key points, but they may also provide supplementary information supporting data presented through tables and graphs.
The purpose of distributing presentation handouts is to easily retain the key points you presented as they become good references in the future. Distributing handouts in advance allows your audience to review the material and come prepared with questions or points for discussion during the presentation. Also, check our article about how to create handouts for a presentation .
4. Actively Listen
An equally important skill that a presenter must possess aside from speaking is the ability to listen. We are not just talking about listening to what the audience is saying but also considering their reactions and nonverbal cues. If you sense disinterest or confusion, you can adapt your approach on the fly to re-engage them.
For example, if some members of your audience are exchanging glances, they may be skeptical of the research findings you are presenting. This is the best time to reassure them of the validity of your data and provide a concise overview of how it came to be. You may also encourage them to seek clarification.
5. Be Confident
Anxiety can strike before a presentation – it’s a common reaction whenever someone has to speak in front of others. If you can’t eliminate your stress, try to manage it.
People hate public speaking not because they simply hate it. Most of the time, it arises from one’s belief in themselves. You don’t have to take our word for it. Take Maslow’s theory that says a threat to one’s self-esteem is a source of distress among an individual.
Now, how can you master this feeling? You’ve spent a lot of time on your research, so there is no question about your topic knowledge. Perhaps you just need to rehearse your research presentation. If you know what you will say and how to say it, you will gain confidence in presenting your work.
All sources you use in creating your research presentation should be given proper credit. The APA Style is the most widely used citation style in formal research.
In-text citation
Add references within the text of your presentation slide by giving the author’s last name, year of publication, and page number (if applicable) in parentheses after direct quotations or paraphrased materials. As in:
The alarming rate at which global temperatures rise directly impacts biodiversity (Smith, 2020, p. 27).
If the author’s name and year of publication are mentioned in the text, add only the page number in parentheses after the quotations or paraphrased materials. As in:
According to Smith (2020), the alarming rate at which global temperatures rise directly impacts biodiversity (p. 27).
Image citation
All images from the web, including photos, graphs, and tables, used in your slides should be credited using the format below.
Creator’s Last Name, First Name. “Title of Image.” Website Name, Day Mo. Year, URL. Accessed Day Mo. Year.
Work cited page
A work cited page or reference list should follow after the last slide of your presentation. The list should be alphabetized by the author’s last name and initials followed by the year of publication, the title of the book or article, the place of publication, and the publisher. As in:
Smith, J. A. (2020). Climate Change and Biodiversity: A Comprehensive Study. New York, NY: ABC Publications.
When citing a document from a website, add the source URL after the title of the book or article instead of the place of publication and the publisher. As in:
Smith, J. A. (2020). Climate Change and Biodiversity: A Comprehensive Study. Retrieved from https://www.smith.com/climate-change-and-biodiversity.
1. Research Project Presentation PowerPoint Template
A slide deck containing 18 different slides intended to take off the weight of how to make a research presentation. With tons of visual aids, presenters can reference existing research on similar projects to this one – or link another research presentation example – provide an accurate data analysis, disclose the methodology used, and much more.
Use This Template
2. Research Presentation Scientific Method Diagram PowerPoint Template
Whenever you intend to raise questions, expose the methodology you used for your research, or even suggest a scientific method approach for future analysis, this circular wheel diagram is a perfect fit for any presentation study.
Customize all of its elements to suit the demands of your presentation in just minutes.
3. Thesis Research Presentation PowerPoint Template
If your research presentation project belongs to academia, then this is the slide deck to pair that presentation. With a formal aesthetic and minimalistic style, this research presentation template focuses only on exposing your information as clearly as possible.
Use its included bar charts and graphs to introduce data, change the background of each slide to suit the topic of your presentation, and customize each of its elements to meet the requirements of your project with ease.
4. Animated Research Cards PowerPoint Template
Visualize ideas and their connection points with the help of this research card template for PowerPoint. This slide deck, for example, can help speakers talk about alternative concepts to what they are currently managing and its possible outcomes, among different other usages this versatile PPT template has. Zoom Animation effects make a smooth transition between cards (or ideas).
5. Research Presentation Slide Deck for PowerPoint
With a distinctive professional style, this research presentation PPT template helps business professionals and academics alike to introduce the findings of their work to team members or investors.
By accessing this template, you get the following slides:
- Introduction
- Problem Statement
- Research Questions
- Conceptual Research Framework (Concepts, Theories, Actors, & Constructs)
- Study design and methods
- Population & Sampling
- Data Collection
- Data Analysis
Check it out today and craft a powerful research presentation out of it!
A successful research presentation in business is not just about presenting data; it’s about persuasion to take meaningful action. It’s the bridge that connects your research efforts to the strategic initiatives of your organization. To embark on this journey successfully, planning your presentation thoroughly is paramount, from designing your PowerPoint to the delivery.
Take a look and get inspiration from the sample research presentation slides above, put our tips to heart, and transform your research findings into a compelling call to action.
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- How to present a research paper in PPT: best practices
A research paper presentation is frequently used at conferences and other events where you have a chance to share the results of your research and receive feedback from colleagues. Although it may appear as simple as summarizing the findings, successful examples of research paper presentations show that there is a little bit more to it.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the basic outline and steps to create a good research paper presentation. We’ll also explain what to include and what not to include in your presentation of research paper and share some of the most effective tips you can use to take your slides to the next level.
Research paper PowerPoint presentation outline
Creating a PowerPoint presentation for a research paper involves organizing and summarizing your key findings, methodology, and conclusions in a way that encourages your audience to interact with your work and share their interest in it with others. Here’s a basic research paper outline PowerPoint you can follow:
1. Title (1 slide)
Typically, your title slide should contain the following information:
- Title of the research paper
- Affiliation or institution
- Date of presentation
2. Introduction (1-3 slides)
On this slide of your presentation, briefly introduce the research topic and its significance and state the research question or objective.
3. Research questions or hypothesis (1 slide)
This slide should emphasize the objectives of your research or present the hypothesis.
4. Literature review (1 slide)
Your literature review has to provide context for your research by summarizing relevant literature. Additionally, it should highlight gaps or areas where your research contributes.
5. Methodology and data collection (1-2 slides)
This slide of your research paper PowerPoint has to explain the research design, methods, and procedures. It must also Include details about participants, materials, and data collection and emphasize special equipment you have used in your work.
6. Results (3-5 slides)
On this slide, you must present the results of your data analysis and discuss any trends, patterns, or significant findings. Moreover, you should use charts, graphs, and tables to illustrate data and highlight something novel in your results (if applicable).
7. Conclusion (1 slide)
Your conclusion slide has to summarize the main findings and their implications, as well as discuss the broader impact of your research. Usually, a single statement is enough.
8. Recommendations (1 slide)
If applicable, provide recommendations for future research or actions on this slide.
9. References (1-2 slides)
The references slide is where you list all the sources cited in your research paper.
10. Acknowledgments (1 slide)
On this presentation slide, acknowledge any individuals, organizations, or funding sources that contributed to your research.
11. Appendix (1 slide)
If applicable, include any supplementary materials, such as additional data or detailed charts, in your appendix slide.
The above outline is just a general guideline, so make sure to adjust it based on your specific research paper and the time allotted for the presentation.
Steps to creating a memorable research paper presentation
Creating a PowerPoint presentation for a research paper involves several critical steps needed to convey your findings and engage your audience effectively, and these steps are as follows:
Step 1. Understand your audience:
- Identify the audience for your presentation.
- Tailor your content and level of detail to match the audience’s background and knowledge.
Step 2. Define your key messages:
- Clearly articulate the main messages or findings of your research.
- Identify the key points you want your audience to remember.
Step 3. Design your research paper PPT presentation:
- Use a clean and professional design that complements your research topic.
- Choose readable fonts, consistent formatting, and a limited color palette.
- Opt for PowerPoint presentation services if slide design is not your strong side.
Step 4. Put content on slides:
- Follow the outline above to structure your presentation effectively; include key sections and topics.
- Organize your content logically, following the flow of your research paper.
Step 5. Final check:
- Proofread your slides for typos, errors, and inconsistencies.
- Ensure all visuals are clear, high-quality, and properly labeled.
Step 6. Save and share:
- Save your presentation and ensure compatibility with the equipment you’ll be using.
- If necessary, share a copy of your presentation with the audience.
By following these steps, you can create a well-organized and visually appealing research paper presentation PowerPoint that effectively conveys your research findings to the audience.
What to include and what not to include in your presentation
In addition to the must-know PowerPoint presentation recommendations, which we’ll cover later in this article, consider the following do’s and don’ts when you’re putting together your research paper presentation:
- Focus on the topic.
- Be brief and to the point.
- Attract the audience’s attention and highlight interesting details.
- Use only relevant visuals (maps, charts, pictures, graphs, etc.).
- Use numbers and bullet points to structure the content.
- Make clear statements regarding the essence and results of your research.
Don’ts:
- Don’t write down the whole outline of your paper and nothing else.
- Don’t put long, full sentences on your slides; split them into smaller ones.
- Don’t use distracting patterns, colors, pictures, and other visuals on your slides; the simpler, the better.
- Don’t use too complicated graphs or charts; only the ones that are easy to understand.
- Now that we’ve discussed the basics, let’s move on to the top tips for making a powerful presentation of your research paper.
8 tips on how to make research paper presentation that achieves its goals
You’ve probably been to a presentation where the presenter reads word for word from their PowerPoint outline. Or where the presentation is cluttered, chaotic, or contains too much data. The simple tips below will help you summarize a 10 to 15-page paper for a 15 to 20-minute talk and succeed, so read on!
Tip #1: Less is more
You want to provide enough information to make your audience want to know more. Including details but not too many and avoiding technical jargon, formulas, and long sentences are always good ways to achieve this.
Tip #2: Be professional
Avoid using too many colors, font changes, distracting backgrounds, animations, etc. Bullet points with a few words to highlight the important information are preferable to lengthy paragraphs. Additionally, include slide numbers on all PowerPoint slides except for the title slide, and make sure it is followed by a table of contents, offering a brief overview of the entire research paper.
Tip #3: Strive for balance
PowerPoint slides have limited space, so use it carefully. Typically, one to two points per slide or 5 lines for 5 words in a sentence are enough to present your ideas.
Tip #4: Use proper fonts and text size
The font you use should be easy to read and consistent throughout the slides. You can go with Arial, Times New Roman, Calibri, or a combination of these three. An ideal text size is 32 points, while a heading size is 44.
Tip #5: Concentrate on the visual side
A PowerPoint presentation is one of the best tools for presenting information visually. Use graphs instead of tables and topic-relevant illustrations instead of walls of text. Keep your visuals as clean and professional as the content of your presentation.
Tip #6: Practice your delivery
Always go through your presentation when you’re done to ensure a smooth and confident delivery and time yourself to stay within the allotted limit.
Tip #7: Get ready for questions
Anticipate potential questions from your audience and prepare thoughtful responses. Also, be ready to engage in discussions about your research.
Tip #8: Don’t be afraid to utilize professional help
If the mere thought of designing a presentation overwhelms you or you’re pressed for time, consider leveraging professional PowerPoint redesign services . A dedicated design team can transform your content or old presentation into effective slides, ensuring your message is communicated clearly and captivates your audience. This way, you can focus on refining your delivery and preparing for the presentation.
Lastly, remember that even experienced presenters get nervous before delivering research paper PowerPoint presentations in front of the audience. You cannot know everything; some things can be beyond your control, which is completely fine. You are at the event not only to share what you know but also to learn from others. So, no matter what, dress appropriately, look straight into the audience’s eyes, try to speak and move naturally, present your information enthusiastically, and have fun!
If you need help with slide design, get in touch with our dedicated design team and let qualified professionals turn your research findings into a visually appealing, polished presentation that leaves a lasting impression on your audience. Our experienced designers specialize in creating engaging layouts, incorporating compelling graphics, and ensuring a cohesive visual narrative that complements content on any subject.
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