From eebc1cd46e83995cba92dd85ea1a07ea12889007 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: dfty Date: Thu, 29 Jan 2026 22:15:16 +0800 Subject: [PATCH] Initial commit for latex-posters --- README.md | 417 ++++++ SKILL.md | 1602 ++++++++++++++++++++++++ assets/baposter_template.tex | 257 ++++ assets/beamerposter_template.tex | 244 ++++ assets/poster_quality_checklist.md | 358 ++++++ assets/tikzposter_template.tex | 251 ++++ references/latex_poster_packages.md | 745 +++++++++++ references/poster_content_guide.md | 748 +++++++++++ references/poster_design_principles.md | 806 ++++++++++++ references/poster_layout_design.md | 900 +++++++++++++ scripts/review_poster.sh | 214 ++++ 11 files changed, 6542 insertions(+) create mode 100644 README.md create mode 100644 SKILL.md create mode 100644 assets/baposter_template.tex create mode 100644 assets/beamerposter_template.tex create mode 100644 assets/poster_quality_checklist.md create mode 100644 assets/tikzposter_template.tex create mode 100644 references/latex_poster_packages.md create mode 100644 references/poster_content_guide.md create mode 100644 references/poster_design_principles.md create mode 100644 references/poster_layout_design.md create mode 100755 scripts/review_poster.sh diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..64ecc9d --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,417 @@ +# LaTeX Research Poster Generation Skill + +Create professional, publication-ready research posters for conferences and academic presentations using LaTeX. + +## Overview + +This skill provides comprehensive guidance for creating research posters with three major LaTeX packages: +- **beamerposter**: Traditional academic posters, familiar Beamer syntax +- **tikzposter**: Modern, colorful designs with TikZ integration +- **baposter**: Structured multi-column layouts with automatic positioning + +## Quick Start + +### 1. Choose a Template + +Browse templates in `assets/`: +- `beamerposter_template.tex` - Classic academic style +- `tikzposter_template.tex` - Modern, colorful design +- `baposter_template.tex` - Structured multi-column layout + +### 2. Customize Content + +Edit the template with your research: +- Title, authors, affiliations +- Introduction, methods, results, conclusions +- Replace placeholder figures with your images +- Update references and acknowledgments + +### 3. Configure for Full Page + +Posters should span the entire page with minimal margins: + +```latex +% beamerposter - full page setup +\documentclass[final,t]{beamer} +\usepackage[size=a0,scale=1.4,orientation=portrait]{beamerposter} +\setbeamersize{text margin left=5mm, text margin right=5mm} +\usepackage[margin=10mm]{geometry} + +% tikzposter - full page setup +\documentclass[25pt,a0paper,portrait,margin=10mm,innermargin=15mm]{tikzposter} + +% baposter - full page setup +\documentclass[a0paper,portrait,fontscale=0.285]{baposter} +``` + +### 4. Compile + +```bash +pdflatex poster.tex + +# Or for better font support: +lualatex poster.tex +xelatex poster.tex +``` + +### 5. Review PDF Quality + +**Essential before printing!** + +```bash +# Run automated checks +./scripts/review_poster.sh poster.pdf + +# Manual verification (see checklist below) +``` + +## Key Features + +### Full Page Coverage + +All templates configured to maximize content area: +- Minimal outer margins (5-15mm) +- Optimal spacing between columns (15-20mm) +- Proper block padding for readability +- No wasted white space + +### PDF Quality Control + +**Automated Checks** (`review_poster.sh`): +- Page size verification +- Font embedding check +- Image resolution analysis +- File size optimization + +**Manual Verification** (`assets/poster_quality_checklist.md`): +- Visual inspection at 100% zoom +- Reduced-scale print test (25%) +- Typography and spacing review +- Content completeness check + +### Design Principles + +All templates follow evidence-based poster design: +- **Typography**: 72pt+ title, 48-72pt headers, 24-36pt body text +- **Color**: High contrast (≥4.5:1), color-blind friendly palettes +- **Layout**: Clear visual hierarchy, logical flow +- **Content**: 300-800 words maximum, 40-50% visual content + +## Common Poster Sizes + +Templates support all standard sizes: + +| Size | Dimensions | Configuration | +|------|------------|---------------| +| A0 | 841 × 1189 mm | `size=a0` or `a0paper` | +| A1 | 594 × 841 mm | `size=a1` or `a1paper` | +| 36×48" | 914 × 1219 mm | Custom page size | +| 42×56" | 1067 × 1422 mm | Custom page size | + +## Documentation + +### Reference Guides + +**Comprehensive Documentation** (in `references/`): + +1. **`latex_poster_packages.md`** (746 lines) + - Detailed comparison of beamerposter, tikzposter, baposter + - Package-specific syntax and examples + - Strengths, limitations, best use cases + - Theme and color customization + - Compilation tips and troubleshooting + +2. **`poster_design_principles.md`** (807 lines) + - Visual hierarchy and white space + - Typography: font selection, sizing, readability + - Color theory: schemes, contrast, accessibility + - Color-blind friendly palettes + - Icons, graphics, and visual elements + - Common design mistakes to avoid + +3. **`poster_layout_design.md`** (650+ lines) + - Grid systems (2, 3, 4-column layouts) + - Visual flow and reading patterns + - Spatial organization strategies + - White space management + - Block and box design + - Layout patterns by research type + +4. **`poster_content_guide.md`** (900+ lines) + - Content strategy (3-5 minute rule) + - Word budgets by section + - Visual-to-text ratio (40-50% visual) + - Section-specific writing guidance + - Figure integration and captions + - From paper to poster adaptation + +### Tools and Assets + +**Scripts** (in `scripts/`): +- `review_poster.sh`: Automated PDF quality check + - Page size verification + - Font embedding check + - Image resolution analysis + - File size assessment + +**Checklists** (in `assets/`): +- `poster_quality_checklist.md`: Comprehensive pre-printing checklist + - Pre-compilation checks + - PDF quality verification + - Visual inspection items + - Accessibility checks + - Peer review guidelines + - Final printing checklist + +**Templates** (in `assets/`): +- `beamerposter_template.tex`: Full working template +- `tikzposter_template.tex`: Full working template +- `baposter_template.tex`: Full working template + +## Workflow + +### Recommended Poster Creation Process + +**1. Planning** (before LaTeX) +- Determine conference requirements (size, orientation) +- Identify 3-5 key results to highlight +- Create figures (300+ DPI) +- Draft 300-800 word content outline + +**2. Template Selection** +- Choose package based on needs: + - **beamerposter**: Traditional conferences, institutional branding + - **tikzposter**: Modern conferences, creative fields + - **baposter**: Multi-section posters, structured layouts + +**3. Content Integration** +- Copy template and customize +- Replace placeholder text +- Add figures and ensure high resolution +- Configure colors to match branding + +**4. Compilation & Review** +- Compile to PDF +- Run `review_poster.sh` for automated checks +- Review visually at 100% zoom +- Check against `poster_quality_checklist.md` + +**5. Test Print** +- **Critical step!** Print at 25% scale +- A0 → A4 paper, 36×48" → Letter paper +- View from 2-3 feet (simulates 8-12 feet for full poster) +- Verify readability and colors + +**6. Revisions** +- Fix any issues identified +- Proofread carefully (errors are magnified!) +- Get colleague feedback +- Final compilation + +**7. Printing** +- Verify page size: `pdfinfo poster.pdf` +- Check fonts embedded: `pdffonts poster.pdf` +- Send to professional printer 2-3 days before deadline +- Keep backup copy + +## Troubleshooting + +### Large White Margins + +**Problem**: Excessive white space around poster edges + +**Solution**: +```latex +% beamerposter +\setbeamersize{text margin left=5mm, text margin right=5mm} +\usepackage[margin=10mm]{geometry} + +% tikzposter +\documentclass[..., margin=5mm, innermargin=10mm]{tikzposter} + +% baposter +\documentclass[a0paper, margin=5mm]{baposter} +``` + +### Content Cut Off + +**Problem**: Text or figures extending beyond page + +**Solution**: +- Check total width: columns + spacing + margins = pagewidth +- Reduce column widths or spacing +- Debug with visible page boundary: +```latex +\usepackage{eso-pic} +\AddToShipoutPictureBG{ + \AtPageLowerLeft{ + \put(0,0){\framebox(\LenToUnit{\paperwidth},\LenToUnit{\paperheight}){}} + } +} +``` + +### Blurry Images + +**Problem**: Pixelated or low-quality figures + +**Solution**: +- Use vector graphics (PDF, SVG) when possible +- Raster images: minimum 300 DPI at final print size +- For A0 width (33.1"): 300 DPI = 9930 pixels minimum +- Check with: `pdfimages -list poster.pdf` + +### Fonts Not Embedded + +**Problem**: Printer rejects PDF due to missing fonts + +**Solution**: +```bash +# Recompile with embedded fonts +pdflatex -dEmbedAllFonts=true poster.tex + +# Verify embedding +pdffonts poster.pdf +# All fonts should show "yes" in "emb" column +``` + +### File Too Large + +**Problem**: PDF exceeds email size limit (>50MB) + +**Solution**: +```bash +# Compress for digital sharing +gs -sDEVICE=pdfwrite -dCompatibilityLevel=1.4 \ + -dPDFSETTINGS=/printer -dNOPAUSE -dQUIET -dBATCH \ + -sOutputFile=poster_compressed.pdf poster.pdf + +# Keep original uncompressed version for printing +``` + +## Common Mistakes to Avoid + +### Content +- ❌ Too much text (>1000 words) +- ❌ Font sizes too small (<24pt body text) +- ❌ No clear main message +- ✅ 300-800 words, 30pt+ body text, 1-3 key findings + +### Design +- ❌ Poor color contrast (<4.5:1) +- ❌ Red-green color combinations (color-blind issue) +- ❌ Cluttered layout with no white space +- ✅ High contrast, accessible colors, generous spacing + +### Technical +- ❌ Wrong poster dimensions +- ❌ Low resolution images (<300 DPI) +- ❌ Fonts not embedded +- ✅ Verify specs, high-res images, embedded fonts + +## Package Comparison + +Quick reference for choosing the right package: + +| Feature | beamerposter | tikzposter | baposter | +|---------|--------------|------------|----------| +| **Learning Curve** | Easy (Beamer users) | Moderate | Moderate | +| **Aesthetics** | Traditional | Modern | Professional | +| **Customization** | Moderate | High (TikZ) | Structured | +| **Compilation Speed** | Fast | Slower | Fast-Medium | +| **Best For** | Academic conferences | Creative designs | Multi-column layouts | + +**Recommendation**: +- First-time poster makers: **beamerposter** (familiar, simple) +- Modern conferences: **tikzposter** (beautiful, flexible) +- Complex layouts: **baposter** (automatic positioning) + +## Example Usage + +### In Scientific Writer CLI + +``` +> Create a research poster for NeurIPS conference on transformer attention + +The assistant will: +1. Ask about poster size and orientation +2. Generate complete LaTeX poster with your content +3. Configure for full page coverage +4. Provide compilation instructions +5. Run quality checks on generated PDF +``` + +### Manual Creation + +```bash +# 1. Copy template +cp assets/tikzposter_template.tex my_poster.tex + +# 2. Edit content +vim my_poster.tex + +# 3. Compile +pdflatex my_poster.tex + +# 4. Review +./scripts/review_poster.sh my_poster.pdf + +# 5. Test print at 25% scale +# (A0 on A4 paper) + +# 6. Final printing +``` + +## Tips for Success + +### Content Strategy +1. **One main message**: What's the one thing viewers should remember? +2. **3-5 key figures**: Visual content dominates +3. **300-800 words**: Less is more +4. **Bullet points**: More scannable than paragraphs + +### Design Strategy +1. **High contrast**: Dark on light or light on dark +2. **Large fonts**: 30pt+ body text for readability from distance +3. **White space**: 30-40% of poster should be empty +4. **Visual hierarchy**: Vary sizes significantly (title 3× body text) + +### Technical Strategy +1. **Test early**: Print at 25% scale before final printing +2. **Vector graphics**: Use PDF/SVG when possible +3. **Verify specs**: Check page size, fonts, resolution +4. **Get feedback**: Ask colleague to review before printing + +## Additional Resources + +### Online Tools +- **Color contrast checker**: https://webaim.org/resources/contrastchecker/ +- **Color blindness simulator**: https://www.color-blindness.com/coblis-color-blindness-simulator/ +- **Color palette generator**: https://coolors.co/ + +### LaTeX Packages +- `beamerposter`: Extends Beamer for poster-sized documents +- `tikzposter`: Modern poster creation with TikZ +- `baposter`: Box-based automatic poster layout +- `qrcode`: Generate QR codes in LaTeX +- `graphicx`: Include images +- `tcolorbox`: Colored boxes and frames + +### Further Reading +- All reference documents in `references/` directory +- Quality checklist in `assets/poster_quality_checklist.md` +- Package comparison in `references/latex_poster_packages.md` + +## Support + +For issues or questions: +- Review reference documentation in `references/` +- Check troubleshooting section above +- Run automated review: `./scripts/review_poster.sh` +- Use quality checklist: `assets/poster_quality_checklist.md` + +## Version + +LaTeX Poster Skill v1.0 +Compatible with: beamerposter, tikzposter, baposter +Last updated: January 2025 + diff --git a/SKILL.md b/SKILL.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5cd0575 --- /dev/null +++ b/SKILL.md @@ -0,0 +1,1602 @@ +--- +name: latex-posters +description: "Create professional research posters in LaTeX using beamerposter, tikzposter, or baposter. Support for conference presentations, academic posters, and scientific communication. Includes layout design, color schemes, multi-column formats, figure integration, and poster-specific best practices for visual communication." +allowed-tools: [Read, Write, Edit, Bash] +--- + +# LaTeX Research Posters + +## Overview + +Research posters are a critical medium for scientific communication at conferences, symposia, and academic events. This skill provides comprehensive guidance for creating professional, visually appealing research posters using LaTeX packages. Generate publication-quality posters with proper layout, typography, color schemes, and visual hierarchy. + +## When to Use This Skill + +This skill should be used when: +- Creating research posters for conferences, symposia, or poster sessions +- Designing academic posters for university events or thesis defenses +- Preparing visual summaries of research for public engagement +- Converting scientific papers into poster format +- Creating template posters for research groups or departments +- Designing posters that comply with specific conference size requirements (A0, A1, 36×48", etc.) +- Building posters with complex multi-column layouts +- Integrating figures, tables, equations, and citations in poster format + +## AI-Powered Visual Element Generation + +**STANDARD WORKFLOW: Generate ALL major visual elements using AI before creating the LaTeX poster.** + +This is the recommended approach for creating visually compelling posters: +1. Plan all visual elements needed (title, intro, methods, results, conclusions) +2. Generate each element using scientific-schematics or Nano Banana Pro +3. Assemble generated images in the LaTeX template +4. Add text content around the visuals + +**Target: 60-70% of poster area should be AI-generated visuals, 30-40% text.** + +--- + +### CRITICAL: Preventing Content Overflow + +**⚠️ POSTERS MUST NOT HAVE TEXT OR CONTENT CUT OFF AT EDGES.** + +**Common Overflow Problems:** +1. **Title/footer text extending beyond page boundaries** +2. **Too many sections crammed into available space** +3. **Figures placed too close to edges** +4. **Text blocks exceeding column widths** + +**Prevention Rules:** + +**1. Limit Content Sections (MAXIMUM 5-6 sections for A0):** +``` +✅ GOOD - 5 sections with room to breathe: + - Title/Header + - Introduction/Problem + - Methods + - Results (1-2 key findings) + - Conclusions + +❌ BAD - 8+ sections crammed together: + - Overview, Introduction, Background, Methods, + - Results 1, Results 2, Discussion, Conclusions, Future Work +``` + +**2. Set Safe Margins in LaTeX:** +```latex +% tikzposter - add generous margins +\documentclass[25pt, a0paper, portrait, margin=25mm]{tikzposter} + +% baposter - ensure content doesn't touch edges +\begin{poster}{ + columns=3, + colspacing=2em, % Space between columns + headerheight=0.1\textheight, % Smaller header + % Leave space at bottom +} +``` + +**3. Figure Sizing - Never 100% Width:** +```latex +% Leave margins around figures +\includegraphics[width=0.85\linewidth]{figure.png} % NOT 1.0\linewidth +``` + +**4. Check for Overflow Before Printing:** +```bash +# Compile and check PDF at 100% zoom +pdflatex poster.tex + +# Look for: +# - Text cut off at any edge +# - Content touching page boundaries +# - Overfull hbox warnings in .log file +grep -i "overfull" poster.log +``` + +**5. Word Count Limits:** +- **A0 poster**: 300-800 words MAXIMUM +- **Per section**: 50-100 words maximum +- **If you have more content**: Cut it or make a handout + +--- + +### CRITICAL: Poster-Size Font Requirements + +**⚠️ ALL text within AI-generated visualizations MUST be poster-readable.** + +When generating graphics for posters, you MUST include font size specifications in EVERY prompt. Poster graphics are viewed from 4-6 feet away, so text must be LARGE. + +**⚠️ COMMON PROBLEM: Content Overflow and Density** + +The #1 issue with AI-generated poster graphics is **TOO MUCH CONTENT**. This causes: +- Text overflow beyond boundaries +- Unreadable small fonts +- Cluttered, overwhelming visuals +- Poor white space usage + +**SOLUTION: Generate SIMPLE graphics with MINIMAL content.** + +**MANDATORY prompt requirements for EVERY poster graphic:** + +``` +POSTER FORMAT REQUIREMENTS (STRICTLY ENFORCE): +- ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM 3-4 elements per graphic (3 is ideal) +- ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM 10 words total in the entire graphic +- NO complex workflows with 5+ steps (split into 2-3 simple graphics instead) +- NO multi-level nested diagrams (flatten to single level) +- NO case studies with multiple sub-sections (one key point per case) +- ALL text GIANT BOLD (80pt+ for labels, 120pt+ for key numbers) +- High contrast ONLY (dark on white OR white on dark, NO gradients with text) +- MANDATORY 50% white space minimum (half the graphic should be empty) +- Thick lines only (5px+ minimum), large icons (200px+ minimum) +- ONE SINGLE MESSAGE per graphic (not 3 related messages) +``` + +**⚠️ BEFORE GENERATING: Review your prompt and count elements** +- If your description has 5+ items → STOP. Split into multiple graphics +- If your workflow has 5+ stages → STOP. Show only 3-4 high-level steps +- If your comparison has 4+ methods → STOP. Show only top 3 or Our vs Best Baseline + +**Content limits per graphic type (STRICT):** +| Graphic Type | Max Elements | Max Words | Reject If | Good Example | +|--------------|--------------|-----------|-----------|--------------| +| Flowchart | **3-4 boxes MAX** | **8 words** | 5+ stages, nested steps | "DISCOVER → VALIDATE → APPROVE" (3 words) | +| Key findings | **3 items MAX** | **9 words** | 4+ metrics, paragraphs | "95% ACCURATE" "2X FASTER" "FDA READY" (6 words) | +| Comparison chart | **3 bars MAX** | **6 words** | 4+ methods, legend text | "OURS: 95%" "BEST: 85%" (4 words) | +| Case study | **1 case, 3 elements** | **6 words** | Multiple cases, substories | Logo + "18 MONTHS" + "to discovery" (2 words) | +| Timeline | **3-4 points MAX** | **8 words** | Year-by-year detail | "2020 START" "2022 TRIAL" "2024 APPROVED" (6 words) | + +**Example - WRONG (7-stage workflow - TOO COMPLEX):** +```bash +# ❌ BAD - This creates tiny unreadable text like the drug discovery poster +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "Drug discovery workflow showing: Stage 1 Target Identification, Stage 2 Molecular Synthesis, Stage 3 Virtual Screening, Stage 4 AI Lead Optimization, Stage 5 Clinical Trial Design, Stage 6 FDA Approval. Include success metrics, timelines, and validation steps for each stage." -o figures/workflow.png +# Result: 7+ stages with tiny text, unreadable from 6 feet - POSTER FAILURE +``` + +**Example - CORRECT (simplified to 3 key stages):** +```bash +# ✅ GOOD - Same content, split into ONE simple high-level graphic +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ULTRA-SIMPLE 3-box workflow: 'DISCOVER' → 'VALIDATE' → 'APPROVE'. Each word in GIANT bold (120pt+). Thick arrows (10px). 60% white space. NO substeps, NO details. 3 words total. Readable from 10 feet." -o figures/workflow_overview.png +# Result: Clean, impactful, readable - can add detail graphics separately if needed +``` + +**Example - WRONG (complex case studies with multiple sections):** +```bash +# ❌ BAD - Creates cramped unreadable sections +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "Case studies: Insilico Medicine (drug candidate, discovery time, clinical trials), Recursion Pharma (platform, methodology, results), Exscientia (drug candidates, FDA status, timeline). Include company logos, metrics, and outcomes." -o figures/cases.png +# Result: 3 case studies with 4+ elements each = 12+ total elements, tiny text +``` + +**Example - CORRECT (one case study, one key metric):** +```bash +# ✅ GOOD - Show ONE case with ONE key number +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONE case study card: Company logo (large), '18 MONTHS' in GIANT text (150pt), 'to discovery' below (60pt). 3 elements total: logo + number + caption. 50% white space. Readable from 10 feet." -o figures/case_single.png +# Result: Clear, readable, impactful. Make 3 separate graphics if you need 3 cases. +``` + +**Example - WRONG (key findings too complex):** +```bash +# BAD - too many items, too much detail +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "Key findings showing 8 metrics: accuracy 95%, precision 92%, recall 94%, F1 0.93, AUC 0.97, training time 2.3 hours, inference 50ms, model size 145MB with comparison to 5 baseline methods" -o figures/findings.png +# Result: Cramped graphic with tiny numbers +``` + +**Example - CORRECT (key findings simple):** +```bash +# GOOD - only 3 key items, giant numbers +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. KEY FINDINGS with ONLY 3 large cards. Card 1: '95%' in GIANT text (120pt) with 'ACCURACY' below (48pt). Card 2: '2X' in GIANT text with 'FASTER' below. Card 3: checkmark icon with 'VALIDATED' in large text. 50% white space. High contrast colors. NO other text or details." -o figures/findings.png +# Result: Bold, readable impact statement +``` + +**Font size reference for poster prompts:** +| Element | Minimum Size | Prompt Keywords | +|---------|--------------|-----------------| +| Main numbers/metrics | 72pt+ | "huge", "very large", "giant", "poster-size" | +| Section titles | 60pt+ | "large bold", "prominent" | +| Labels/captions | 36pt+ | "readable from 6 feet", "clear labels" | +| Body text | 24pt+ | "poster-readable", "large text" | + +**Always include in prompts:** +- "POSTER FORMAT" or "for A0 poster" or "readable from 6 feet" +- "VERY LARGE TEXT" or "huge bold fonts" +- Specific text that should appear (so it's baked into the image) +- "minimal text, maximum impact" +- "high contrast" for readability +- "generous margins" and "no text near edges" + +--- + +### CRITICAL: AI-Generated Graphic Sizing + +**⚠️ Each AI-generated graphic should focus on ONE concept with MINIMAL content.** + +**Problem**: Generating complex diagrams with many elements leads to small text. + +**Solution**: Generate SIMPLE graphics with FEW elements and LARGE text. + +**Example - WRONG (too complex, text will be small):** +```bash +# BAD - too many elements in one graphic +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "Complete ML pipeline showing data collection, +preprocessing with 5 steps, feature engineering with 8 techniques, model training +with hyperparameter tuning, validation with cross-validation, and deployment with +monitoring. Include all labels and descriptions." -o figures/pipeline.png +``` + +**Example - CORRECT (simple, focused, large text):** +```bash +# GOOD - split into multiple simple graphics with large text + +# Graphic 1: High-level overview (3-4 elements max) +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0: Simple 4-step pipeline. +Four large boxes: DATA → PROCESS → MODEL → RESULTS. +GIANT labels (80pt+), thick arrows, lots of white space. +Only 4 words total. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/overview.png + +# Graphic 2: Key result (1 metric highlighted) +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0: Single key metric display. +Giant '95%' text (150pt+) with 'ACCURACY' below (60pt+). +Checkmark icon. Minimal design, high contrast. +Readable from 10 feet." -o figures/accuracy.png +``` + +**Rules for AI-generated poster graphics:** +| Rule | Limit | Reason | +|------|-------|--------| +| **Elements per graphic** | 3-5 maximum | More elements = smaller text | +| **Words per graphic** | 10-15 maximum | Minimal text = larger fonts | +| **Flowchart steps** | 4-5 maximum | Keeps labels readable | +| **Chart categories** | 3-4 maximum | Prevents crowding | +| **Nested levels** | 1-2 maximum | Avoids complexity | + +**Split complex content into multiple simple graphics:** +``` +Instead of 1 complex diagram with 12 elements: +→ Create 3 simple diagrams with 4 elements each +→ Each graphic can have LARGER text +→ Arrange in poster with clear visual flow +``` + +--- + +### Step 0: MANDATORY Pre-Generation Review (DO THIS FIRST) + +**⚠️ BEFORE generating ANY graphics, review your content plan:** + +**For EACH planned graphic, ask these questions:** +1. **Element count**: Can I describe this in 3-4 items or less? + - ❌ NO → Simplify or split into multiple graphics + - ✅ YES → Continue + +2. **Complexity check**: Is this a multi-stage workflow (5+ steps) or nested diagram? + - ❌ YES → Flatten to 3-4 high-level steps only + - ✅ NO → Continue + +3. **Word count**: Can I describe all text in 10 words or less? + - ❌ NO → Cut text, use single-word labels + - ✅ YES → Continue + +4. **Message clarity**: Does this graphic convey ONE clear message? + - ❌ NO → Split into multiple focused graphics + - ✅ YES → Continue to generation + +**Common patterns that ALWAYS fail (reject these):** +- "Show stages 1 through 7..." → Split into high-level overview (3 stages) + detail graphics +- "Multiple case studies..." → One case per graphic +- "Timeline from 2015 to 2024 with annual milestones..." → Show only 3-4 key years +- "Comparison of 6 methods..." → Show only top 3 or Our method vs Best baseline +- "Architecture with all layers and connections..." → High-level only (3-4 components) + +### Step 1: Plan Your Poster Elements + +After passing the pre-generation review, identify visual elements needed: + +1. **Title Block** - Stylized title with institutional branding (optional - can be LaTeX text) +2. **Introduction Graphic** - Conceptual overview (3 elements max) +3. **Methods Diagram** - High-level workflow (3-4 steps max) +4. **Results Figures** - Key findings (3 metrics max per figure, may need 2-3 separate figures) +5. **Conclusion Graphic** - Summary visual (3 takeaways max) +6. **Supplementary Icons** - Simple icons, QR codes, logos (minimal) + +### Step 2: Generate Each Element (After Pre-Generation Review) + +**⚠️ CRITICAL: Review Step 0 checklist before proceeding.** + +Use the appropriate tool for each element type: + +**For Schematics and Diagrams (scientific-schematics):** +```bash +# Create figures directory +mkdir -p figures + +# Drug discovery workflow - HIGH-LEVEL ONLY, 3 stages +# BAD: "Stage 1: Target ID, Stage 2: Molecular Synthesis, Stage 3: Virtual Screening, Stage 4: AI Lead Opt..." +# GOOD: Collapse to 3 mega-stages +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ULTRA-SIMPLE 3-box workflow: 'DISCOVER' (120pt bold) → 'VALIDATE' (120pt bold) → 'APPROVE' (120pt bold). Thick arrows (10px). 60% white space. ONLY these 3 words. NO substeps. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/workflow_simple.png + +# System architecture - MAXIMUM 3 components +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ULTRA-SIMPLE 3-component stack: 'DATA' box (120pt) → 'AI MODEL' box (120pt) → 'PREDICTION' box (120pt). Thick vertical arrows. 60% white space. 3 words only. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/architecture.png + +# Timeline - ONLY 3 key milestones (not year-by-year) +# BAD: "2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 with events" +# GOOD: Only 3 breakthrough moments +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. Timeline with ONLY 3 points: '2018' + icon, '2021' + icon, '2024' + icon. GIANT years (120pt). Large icons. 60% white space. NO connecting lines or details. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/timeline.png + +# Case study - ONE case, ONE key metric +# BAD: "3 case studies: Insilico (details), Recursion (details), Exscientia (details)" +# GOOD: ONE case with ONE number +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONE case study: Large logo + '18 MONTHS' (150pt bold) + 'to discovery' (60pt). 3 elements total. 60% white space. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/case1.png + +# If you need 3 cases → make 3 separate simple graphics (not one complex graphic) +``` + +**For Stylized Blocks and Graphics (Nano Banana Pro):** +```bash +# Title block - SIMPLE +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. Title block: 'ML FOR DRUG DISCOVERY' in HUGE bold text (120pt+). Dark blue background. ONE subtle icon. NO other text. 40% white space. Readable from 15 feet." -o figures/title_block.png + +# Introduction visual - SIMPLE, 3 elements only +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE problem visual with ONLY 3 icons: drug icon, arrow, target icon. ONE label per icon (80pt+). 50% white space. NO detailed text. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/intro_visual.png + +# Conclusion/summary - ONLY 3 items, GIANT numbers +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. KEY FINDINGS with EXACTLY 3 cards only. Card 1: '95%' (150pt font) with 'ACCURACY' (60pt). Card 2: '2X' (150pt) with 'FASTER' (60pt). Card 3: checkmark icon with 'READY' (60pt). 50% white space. NO other text. Readable from 10 feet." -o figures/conclusions_graphic.png + +# Background visual - SIMPLE, 3 icons only +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE visual with ONLY 3 large icons in a row: problem icon → challenge icon → impact icon. ONE word label each (80pt+). 50% white space. NO detailed text. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/background_visual.png +``` + +**For Data Visualizations - SIMPLE, 3 bars max:** +```bash +# SIMPLE chart with ONLY 3 bars, GIANT labels +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE bar chart with ONLY 3 bars: BASELINE (70%), EXISTING (85%), OURS (95%). GIANT percentage labels ON the bars (100pt+). NO axis labels, NO legend, NO gridlines. Our bar highlighted in different color. 40% white space. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/comparison_chart.png +``` + +### Step 2b: MANDATORY Post-Generation Review (Before Assembly) + +**⚠️ CRITICAL: Review EVERY generated graphic before adding to poster.** + +**For each generated figure, open at 25% zoom and check:** + +1. **✅ PASS criteria (all must be true):** + - Can read ALL text clearly at 25% zoom + - Count elements: 3-4 or fewer + - White space: 50%+ of image is empty + - Simple enough to understand in 2 seconds + - NOT a complex workflow with 5+ stages + - NOT multiple nested sections + +2. **❌ FAIL criteria (regenerate if ANY are true):** + - Text is small or hard to read at 25% zoom → REGENERATE with "150pt+" fonts + - More than 4 elements → REGENERATE with "ONLY 3 elements" + - Less than 50% white space → REGENERATE with "60% white space" + - Complex multi-stage workflow → SPLIT into 2-3 simple graphics + - Multiple case studies cramped together → SPLIT into separate graphics + - Takes more than 3 seconds to understand → SIMPLIFY and regenerate + +**Common failures and fixes:** +- "7-stage workflow with tiny text" → Regenerate as "3 high-level stages only" +- "3 case studies in one graphic" → Generate 3 separate simple graphics +- "Timeline with 8 years" → Regenerate with "ONLY 3 key milestones" +- "Comparison of 5 methods" → Regenerate with "ONLY Our method vs Best baseline (2 bars)" + +**DO NOT PROCEED to assembly if ANY graphic fails the checks above.** + +### Step 3: Assemble in LaTeX Template + +After all figures pass the post-generation review, include them in your poster template: + +**tikzposter example:** +```latex +\documentclass[25pt, a0paper, portrait]{tikzposter} + +\begin{document} + +\maketitle + +\begin{columns} +\column{0.5} + +\block{Introduction}{ + \centering + \includegraphics[width=0.85\linewidth]{figures/intro_visual.png} + + \vspace{0.5em} + Brief context text here (2-3 sentences max). +} + +\block{Methods}{ + \centering + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{figures/methods_flowchart.png} +} + +\column{0.5} + +\block{Results}{ + \begin{minipage}{0.48\linewidth} + \centering + \includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{figures/result_1.png} + \end{minipage} + \hfill + \begin{minipage}{0.48\linewidth} + \centering + \includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{figures/result_2.png} + \end{minipage} + + \vspace{0.5em} + Key findings in 3-4 bullet points. +} + +\block{Conclusions}{ + \centering + \includegraphics[width=0.8\linewidth]{figures/conclusions_graphic.png} +} + +\end{columns} + +\end{document} +``` + +**baposter example:** +```latex +\headerbox{Methods}{name=methods,column=0,row=0}{ + \centering + \includegraphics[width=0.95\linewidth]{figures/methods_flowchart.png} +} + +\headerbox{Results}{name=results,column=1,row=0}{ + \includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{figures/comparison_chart.png} + \vspace{0.3em} + + Key finding: Our method achieves 92% accuracy. +} +``` + +### Example: Complete Poster Generation Workflow + +**Full workflow with ALL quality checks:** + +```bash +# STEP 0: Pre-Generation Review (MANDATORY) +# Content plan: Drug discovery poster +# - Workflow: 7 stages → ❌ TOO MANY → Reduce to 3 mega-stages ✅ +# - 3 case studies → ❌ TOO MANY → One case per graphic (make 3 graphics) ✅ +# - Timeline 2018-2024 → ❌ TOO DETAILED → Only 3 key years ✅ + +# STEP 1: Create figures directory +mkdir -p figures + +# STEP 2: Generate ULTRA-SIMPLE graphics with strict limits + +# Workflow - HIGH-LEVEL ONLY (collapsed from 7 stages to 3) +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ULTRA-SIMPLE 3-box workflow: 'DISCOVER' → 'VALIDATE' → 'APPROVE'. Each word 120pt+ bold. Thick arrows (10px). 60% white space. ONLY 3 words total. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/workflow.png + +# Case study 1 - ONE case, ONE metric (will make 3 separate graphics) +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONE case: Company logo + '18 MONTHS' (150pt bold) + 'to drug discovery' (60pt). 3 elements only. 60% white space. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/case1.png + +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONE case: Company logo + '95% SUCCESS' (150pt bold) + 'in trials' (60pt). 3 elements only. 60% white space." -o figures/case2.png + +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONE case: Company logo + 'FDA APPROVED' (150pt bold) + '2024' (60pt). 3 elements only. 60% white space." -o figures/case3.png + +# Timeline - ONLY 3 key years (not 7 years) +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONLY 3 years: '2018' (150pt) + icon, '2021' (150pt) + icon, '2024' (150pt) + icon. Large icons. 60% white space. NO lines or details. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/timeline.png + +# Results - ONLY 2 bars (our method vs best baseline, not 5 methods) +python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. TWO bars only: 'BASELINE 70%' and 'OURS 95%' (highlighted). GIANT percentages (150pt) ON bars. NO axis, NO legend. 60% white space. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/results.png + +# STEP 2b: Post-Generation Review (MANDATORY) +# Open each figure at 25% zoom: +# ✅ workflow.png: 3 elements, text readable, 60% white - PASS +# ✅ case1.png: 3 elements, giant numbers, clean - PASS +# ✅ case2.png: 3 elements, giant numbers, clean - PASS +# ✅ case3.png: 3 elements, giant numbers, clean - PASS +# ✅ timeline.png: 3 elements, readable, simple - PASS +# ✅ results.png: 2 bars, giant percentages, clear - PASS +# ALL PASS → Proceed to assembly + +# STEP 3: Compile LaTeX poster +pdflatex poster.tex + +# STEP 4: PDF Overflow Check (see Section 11) +grep "Overfull" poster.log +# Open at 100% and check all 4 edges +``` + +**If ANY graphic fails Step 2b review:** +- Too many elements → Regenerate with "ONLY 3 elements" +- Small text → Regenerate with "150pt+" or "GIANT BOLD (150pt+)" +- Cluttered → Regenerate with "60% white space" and "ULTRA-SIMPLE" +- Complex workflow → SPLIT into multiple simple 3-element graphics + +### Visual Element Guidelines + +**⚠️ CRITICAL: Each graphic must have ONE message and MAXIMUM 3-4 elements.** + +**ABSOLUTE LIMITS - These are NOT guidelines, these are HARD LIMITS:** +- **MAXIMUM 3-4 elements** per graphic (3 is ideal) +- **MAXIMUM 10 words** total per graphic +- **MINIMUM 50% white space** (60% is better) +- **MINIMUM 120pt** for key numbers/metrics +- **MINIMUM 80pt** for labels + +**For each poster section - STRICT requirements:** + +| Section | Max Elements | Max Words | Example Prompt (REQUIRED PATTERN) | +|---------|--------------|-----------|-------------------------------------| +| **Introduction** | 3 icons | 6 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: ULTRA-SIMPLE 3 icons: [icon1] [icon2] [icon3]. ONE WORD labels (100pt bold). 60% white space. 3 words total." | +| **Methods** | 3 boxes | 6 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: ULTRA-SIMPLE 3-box workflow: 'STEP1' → 'STEP2' → 'STEP3'. GIANT labels (120pt+). 60% white space. 3 words only." | +| **Results** | 2-3 bars | 6 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: TWO bars: 'BASELINE 70%' 'OURS 95%'. GIANT percentages (150pt+) ON bars. NO axis. 60% white space." | +| **Conclusions** | 3 cards | 9 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: THREE cards: '95%' (150pt) 'ACCURATE', '2X' (150pt) 'FASTER', checkmark 'READY'. 60% white space." | +| **Case Study** | 3 elements | 5 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: ONE case: logo + '18 MONTHS' (150pt) + 'to discovery' (60pt). 60% white space." | +| **Timeline** | 3 points | 3 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: THREE years only: '2018' '2021' '2024' (150pt each). Large icons. 60% white space. NO details." | + +**MANDATORY prompt elements (ALL required, NO exceptions):** +1. **"POSTER FORMAT for A0"** - MUST be first +2. **"ULTRA-SIMPLE"** or **"ONLY X elements"** - content limit +3. **"GIANT (120pt+)"** or specific font sizes - readability +4. **"60% white space"** - mandatory breathing room +5. **"readable from 10-12 feet"** - viewing distance +6. **Exact count** of words/elements - "3 words total" or "ONLY 3 icons" + +**PATTERNS THAT ALWAYS FAIL (REJECT IMMEDIATELY):** +- ❌ "7-stage drug discovery workflow" → Split to "3 mega-stages" +- ❌ "Timeline from 2015-2024 with annual updates" → "ONLY 3 key years" +- ❌ "3 case studies with details" → Make 3 separate simple graphics +- ❌ "Comparison of 5 methods with metrics" → "ONLY 2: ours vs best" +- ❌ "Complete architecture showing all layers" → "3 components only" +- ❌ "Show stages 1,2,3,4,5,6" → "3 high-level stages" + +**PATTERNS THAT WORK:** +- ✅ "3 mega-stages collapsed from 7" → Proper simplification +- ✅ "ONE case with ONE metric" → Will make multiple if needed +- ✅ "ONLY 3 milestones" → Selective, focused +- ✅ "2 bars: ours vs baseline" → Direct comparison +- ✅ "3-component high-level view" → Appropriately simplified + +--- + +## Scientific Schematics Integration + +For detailed guidance on creating schematics, refer to the **scientific-schematics** skill documentation. + +**Key capabilities:** +- Nano Banana Pro automatically generates, reviews, and refines diagrams +- Creates publication-quality images with proper formatting +- Ensures accessibility (colorblind-friendly, high contrast) +- Supports iterative refinement for complex diagrams + +--- + +## Core Capabilities + +### 1. LaTeX Poster Packages + +Support for three major LaTeX poster packages, each with distinct advantages. For detailed comparison and package-specific guidance, refer to `references/latex_poster_packages.md`. + +**beamerposter**: +- Extension of the Beamer presentation class +- Familiar syntax for Beamer users +- Excellent theme support and customization +- Best for: Traditional academic posters, institutional branding + +**tikzposter**: +- Modern, flexible design with TikZ integration +- Built-in color themes and layout templates +- Extensive customization through TikZ commands +- Best for: Colorful, modern designs, custom graphics + +**baposter**: +- Box-based layout system +- Automatic spacing and positioning +- Professional-looking default styles +- Best for: Multi-column layouts, consistent spacing + +### 2. Poster Layout and Structure + +Create effective poster layouts following visual communication principles. For comprehensive layout guidance, refer to `references/poster_layout_design.md`. + +**Common Poster Sections**: +- **Header/Title**: Title, authors, affiliations, logos +- **Introduction/Background**: Research context and motivation +- **Methods/Approach**: Methodology and experimental design +- **Results**: Key findings with figures and data visualizations +- **Conclusions**: Main takeaways and implications +- **References**: Key citations (typically abbreviated) +- **Acknowledgments**: Funding, collaborators, institutions + +**Layout Strategies**: +- **Column-based layouts**: 2-column, 3-column, or 4-column grids +- **Block-based layouts**: Flexible arrangement of content blocks +- **Z-pattern flow**: Guide readers through content logically +- **Visual hierarchy**: Use size, color, and spacing to emphasize key points + +### 3. Design Principles for Research Posters + +Apply evidence-based design principles for maximum impact. For detailed design guidance, refer to `references/poster_design_principles.md`. + +**Typography**: +- Title: 72-120pt for visibility from distance +- Section headers: 48-72pt +- Body text: 24-36pt minimum for readability from 4-6 feet +- Use sans-serif fonts (Arial, Helvetica, Calibri) for clarity +- Limit to 2-3 font families maximum + +**Color and Contrast**: +- Use high-contrast color schemes for readability +- Institutional color palettes for branding +- Color-blind friendly palettes (avoid red-green combinations) +- White space is active space—don't overcrowd + +**Visual Elements**: +- High-resolution figures (300 DPI minimum for print) +- Large, clear labels on all figures +- Consistent figure styling throughout +- Strategic use of icons and graphics +- Balance text with visual content (40-50% visual recommended) + +**Content Guidelines**: +- **Less is more**: 300-800 words total recommended +- Bullet points over paragraphs for scannability +- Clear, concise messaging +- Self-explanatory figures with minimal text explanation +- QR codes for supplementary materials or online resources + +### 4. Standard Poster Sizes + +Support for international and conference-specific poster dimensions: + +**International Standards**: +- A0 (841 × 1189 mm / 33.1 × 46.8 inches) - Most common European standard +- A1 (594 × 841 mm / 23.4 × 33.1 inches) - Smaller format +- A2 (420 × 594 mm / 16.5 × 23.4 inches) - Compact posters + +**North American Standards**: +- 36 × 48 inches (914 × 1219 mm) - Common US conference size +- 42 × 56 inches (1067 × 1422 mm) - Large format +- 48 × 72 inches (1219 × 1829 mm) - Extra large + +**Orientation**: +- Portrait (vertical) - Most common, traditional +- Landscape (horizontal) - Better for wide content, timelines + +### 5. Package-Specific Templates + +Provide ready-to-use templates for each major package. Templates available in `assets/` directory. + +**beamerposter Templates**: +- `beamerposter_classic.tex` - Traditional academic style +- `beamerposter_modern.tex` - Clean, minimal design +- `beamerposter_colorful.tex` - Vibrant theme with blocks + +**tikzposter Templates**: +- `tikzposter_default.tex` - Standard tikzposter layout +- `tikzposter_rays.tex` - Modern design with ray theme +- `tikzposter_wave.tex` - Professional wave-style theme + +**baposter Templates**: +- `baposter_portrait.tex` - Classic portrait layout +- `baposter_landscape.tex` - Landscape multi-column +- `baposter_minimal.tex` - Minimalist design + +### 6. Figure and Image Integration + +Optimize visual content for poster presentations: + +**Best Practices**: +- Use vector graphics (PDF, SVG) when possible for scalability +- Raster images: minimum 300 DPI at final print size +- Consistent image styling (borders, captions, sizes) +- Group related figures together +- Use subfigures for comparisons + +**LaTeX Figure Commands**: +```latex +% Include graphics package +\usepackage{graphicx} + +% Simple figure +\includegraphics[width=0.8\linewidth]{figure.pdf} + +% Figure with caption in tikzposter +\block{Results}{ + \begin{tikzfigure} + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{results.png} + \end{tikzfigure} +} + +% Multiple subfigures +\usepackage{subcaption} +\begin{figure} + \begin{subfigure}{0.48\linewidth} + \includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{fig1.pdf} + \caption{Condition A} + \end{subfigure} + \begin{subfigure}{0.48\linewidth} + \includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{fig2.pdf} + \caption{Condition B} + \end{subfigure} +\end{figure} +``` + +### 7. Color Schemes and Themes + +Provide professional color palettes for various contexts: + +**Academic Institution Colors**: +- Match university or department branding +- Use official color codes (RGB, CMYK, or LaTeX color definitions) + +**Scientific Color Palettes** (color-blind friendly): +- Viridis: Professional gradient from purple to yellow +- ColorBrewer: Research-tested palettes for data visualization +- IBM Color Blind Safe: Accessible corporate palette + +**Package-Specific Theme Selection**: + +**beamerposter**: +```latex +\usetheme{Berlin} +\usecolortheme{beaver} +``` + +**tikzposter**: +```latex +\usetheme{Rays} +\usecolorstyle{Denmark} +``` + +**baposter**: +```latex +\begin{poster}{ + background=plain, + bgColorOne=white, + headerColorOne=blue!70, + textborder=rounded +} +``` + +### 8. Typography and Text Formatting + +Ensure readability and visual appeal: + +**Font Selection**: +```latex +% Sans-serif fonts recommended for posters +\usepackage{helvet} % Helvetica +\usepackage{avant} % Avant Garde +\usepackage{sfmath} % Sans-serif math fonts + +% Set default to sans-serif +\renewcommand{\familydefault}{\sfdefault} +``` + +**Text Sizing**: +```latex +% Adjust text sizes for visibility +\setbeamerfont{title}{size=\VeryHuge} +\setbeamerfont{author}{size=\Large} +\setbeamerfont{institute}{size=\normalsize} +``` + +**Emphasis and Highlighting**: +- Use bold for key terms: `\textbf{important}` +- Color highlights sparingly: `\textcolor{blue}{highlight}` +- Boxes for critical information +- Avoid italics (harder to read from distance) + +### 9. QR Codes and Interactive Elements + +Enhance poster interactivity for modern conferences: + +**QR Code Integration**: +```latex +\usepackage{qrcode} + +% Link to paper, code repository, or supplementary materials +\qrcode[height=2cm]{https://github.com/username/project} + +% QR code with caption +\begin{center} + \qrcode[height=3cm]{https://doi.org/10.1234/paper}\\ + \small Scan for full paper +\end{center} +``` + +**Digital Enhancements**: +- Link to GitHub repositories for code +- Link to video presentations or demos +- Link to interactive web visualizations +- Link to supplementary data or appendices + +### 10. Compilation and Output + +Generate high-quality PDF output for printing or digital display: + +**Compilation Commands**: +```bash +# Basic compilation +pdflatex poster.tex + +# With bibliography +pdflatex poster.tex +bibtex poster +pdflatex poster.tex +pdflatex poster.tex + +# For beamer-based posters +lualatex poster.tex # Better font support +xelatex poster.tex # Unicode and modern fonts +``` + +**Ensuring Full Page Coverage**: + +Posters should use the entire page without excessive margins. Configure packages correctly: + +**beamerposter - Full Page Setup**: +```latex +\documentclass[final,t]{beamer} +\usepackage[size=a0,scale=1.4,orientation=portrait]{beamerposter} + +% Remove default beamer margins +\setbeamersize{text margin left=0mm, text margin right=0mm} + +% Use geometry for precise control +\usepackage[margin=10mm]{geometry} % 10mm margins all around + +% Remove navigation symbols +\setbeamertemplate{navigation symbols}{} + +% Remove footline and headline if not needed +\setbeamertemplate{footline}{} +\setbeamertemplate{headline}{} +``` + +**tikzposter - Full Page Setup**: +```latex +\documentclass[ + 25pt, % Font scaling + a0paper, % Paper size + portrait, % Orientation + margin=10mm, % Outer margins (minimal) + innermargin=15mm, % Space inside blocks + blockverticalspace=15mm, % Space between blocks + colspace=15mm, % Space between columns + subcolspace=8mm % Space between subcolumns +]{tikzposter} + +% This ensures content fills the page +``` + +**baposter - Full Page Setup**: +```latex +\documentclass[a0paper,portrait,fontscale=0.285]{baposter} + +\begin{poster}{ + grid=false, + columns=3, + colspacing=1.5em, % Space between columns + eyecatcher=true, + background=plain, + bgColorOne=white, + borderColor=blue!50, + headerheight=0.12\textheight, % 12% for header + textborder=roundedleft, + headerborder=closed, + boxheaderheight=2em % Consistent box header heights +} +% Content here +\end{poster} +``` + +**Common Issues and Fixes**: + +**Problem**: Large white margins around poster +```latex +% Fix for beamerposter +\setbeamersize{text margin left=5mm, text margin right=5mm} + +% Fix for tikzposter +\documentclass[..., margin=5mm, innermargin=10mm]{tikzposter} + +% Fix for baposter - adjust in document class +\documentclass[a0paper, margin=5mm]{baposter} +``` + +**Problem**: Content doesn't fill vertical space +```latex +% Use \vfill between sections to distribute space +\block{Introduction}{...} +\vfill +\block{Methods}{...} +\vfill +\block{Results}{...} + +% Or manually adjust block spacing +\vspace{1cm} % Add space between specific blocks +``` + +**Problem**: Poster extends beyond page boundaries +```latex +% Check total width calculation +% For 3 columns with spacing: +% Total = 3×columnwidth + 2×colspace + 2×margins +% Ensure this equals \paperwidth + +% Debug by adding visible page boundary +\usepackage{eso-pic} +\AddToShipoutPictureBG{ + \AtPageLowerLeft{ + \put(0,0){\framebox(\LenToUnit{\paperwidth},\LenToUnit{\paperheight}){}} + } +} +``` + +**Print Preparation**: +- Generate PDF/X-1a for professional printing +- Embed all fonts +- Convert colors to CMYK if required +- Check resolution of all images (minimum 300 DPI) +- Add bleed area if required by printer (usually 3-5mm) +- Verify page size matches requirements exactly + +**Digital Display**: +- RGB color space for screen display +- Optimize file size for email/web +- Test readability on different screens + +### 11. PDF Review and Quality Control + +**CRITICAL**: Always review the generated PDF before printing or presenting. Use this systematic checklist: + +**Step 1: Page Size Verification** +```bash +# Check PDF dimensions (should match poster size exactly) +pdfinfo poster.pdf | grep "Page size" + +# Expected outputs: +# A0: 2384 x 3370 points (841 x 1189 mm) +# 36x48": 2592 x 3456 points +# A1: 1684 x 2384 points (594 x 841 mm) +``` + +**Step 2: OVERFLOW CHECK (CRITICAL) - DO THIS IMMEDIATELY AFTER COMPILATION** + +**⚠️ THIS IS THE #1 CAUSE OF POSTER FAILURES. Check BEFORE proceeding.** + +**Step 2a: Check LaTeX Log File** +```bash +# Check for overflow warnings (these are ERRORS, not suggestions) +grep -i "overfull\|underfull\|badbox" poster.log + +# ANY "Overfull" warning = content is cut off or extending beyond boundaries +# FIX ALL OF THESE before proceeding +``` + +**Common overflow warnings and what they mean:** +- `Overfull \hbox (15.2pt too wide)` → Text or graphic is 15.2pt wider than column +- `Overfull \vbox (23.5pt too high)` → Content is 23.5pt taller than available space +- `Badbox` → LaTeX struggling to fit content within boundaries + +**Step 2b: Visual Edge Inspection (100% zoom in PDF viewer)** + +**Check ALL FOUR EDGES systematically:** + +1. **TOP EDGE:** + - [ ] Title completely visible (not cut off) + - [ ] Author names fully visible + - [ ] No graphics touching top margin + - [ ] Header content within safe zone + +2. **BOTTOM EDGE:** + - [ ] References fully visible (not cut off) + - [ ] Acknowledgments complete + - [ ] Contact info readable + - [ ] No graphics cut off at bottom + +3. **LEFT EDGE:** + - [ ] No text touching left margin + - [ ] All bullet points fully visible + - [ ] Graphics have left margin (not bleeding off) + - [ ] Column content within bounds + +4. **RIGHT EDGE:** + - [ ] No text extending beyond right margin + - [ ] Graphics not cut off on right + - [ ] Column content stays within bounds + - [ ] QR codes fully visible + +5. **BETWEEN COLUMNS:** + - [ ] Content stays within individual columns + - [ ] No text bleeding into adjacent columns + - [ ] Figures respect column boundaries + +**If ANY check fails, you have overflow. FIX IMMEDIATELY before continuing:** + +**Fix hierarchy (try in order):** +1. **Check AI-generated graphics first:** + - Are they too complex (5+ elements)? → Regenerate simpler + - Do they have tiny text? → Regenerate with "150pt+" fonts + - Are there too many? → Reduce number of figures + +2. **Reduce sections:** + - More than 5-6 sections? → Combine or remove + - Example: Merge "Discussion" into "Conclusions" + +3. **Cut text content:** + - More than 800 words total? → Cut to 300-500 + - More than 100 words per section? → Cut to 50-80 + +4. **Adjust figure sizing:** + - Using `width=\linewidth`? → Change to `width=0.85\linewidth` + - Using `width=1.0\columnwidth`? → Change to `width=0.9\columnwidth` + +5. **Increase margins (last resort):** + ```latex + \documentclass[25pt, a0paper, portrait, margin=25mm]{tikzposter} + ``` + +**DO NOT proceed to Step 3 if ANY overflow exists.** + +**Step 3: Visual Inspection Checklist** + +Open PDF at 100% zoom and check: + +**Layout and Spacing**: +- [ ] Content fills entire page (no large white margins) +- [ ] Consistent spacing between columns +- [ ] Consistent spacing between blocks/sections +- [ ] All elements aligned properly (use ruler tool) +- [ ] No overlapping text or figures +- [ ] White space evenly distributed + +**Typography**: +- [ ] Title clearly visible and large (72pt+) +- [ ] Section headers readable (48-72pt) +- [ ] Body text readable at 100% zoom (24-36pt minimum) +- [ ] No text cutoff or running off edges +- [ ] Consistent font usage throughout +- [ ] All special characters render correctly (symbols, Greek letters) + +**Visual Elements**: +- [ ] All figures display correctly +- [ ] No pixelated or blurry images +- [ ] Figure captions present and readable +- [ ] Colors render as expected (not washed out or too dark) +- [ ] Logos display clearly +- [ ] QR codes visible and scannable + +**Content Completeness**: +- [ ] Title and authors complete +- [ ] All sections present (Intro, Methods, Results, Conclusions) +- [ ] References included +- [ ] Contact information visible +- [ ] Acknowledgments (if applicable) +- [ ] No placeholder text remaining (Lorem ipsum, TODO, etc.) + +**Technical Quality**: +- [ ] No LaTeX compilation warnings in important areas +- [ ] All citations resolved (no [?] marks) +- [ ] All cross-references working +- [ ] Page boundaries correct (no content cut off) + +**Step 4: Reduced-Scale Print Test** + +**Essential Pre-Printing Test**: +```bash +# Create reduced-size test print (25% of final size) +# This simulates viewing full poster from ~8-10 feet + +# For A0 poster, print on A4 paper (24.7% scale) +# For 36x48" poster, print on letter paper (~25% scale) +``` + +**Print Test Checklist**: +- [ ] Title readable from 6 feet away +- [ ] Section headers readable from 4 feet away +- [ ] Body text readable from 2 feet away +- [ ] Figures clear and understandable +- [ ] Colors printed accurately +- [ ] No obvious design flaws + +**Step 5: Digital Quality Checks** + +**Font Embedding Verification**: +```bash +# Check that all fonts are embedded (required for printing) +pdffonts poster.pdf + +# All fonts should show "yes" in "emb" column +# If any show "no", recompile with: +pdflatex -dEmbedAllFonts=true poster.tex +``` + +**Image Resolution Check**: +```bash +# Extract image information +pdfimages -list poster.pdf + +# Check that all images are at least 300 DPI +# Formula: DPI = pixels / (inches in poster) +# For A0 width (33.1"): 300 DPI = 9930 pixels minimum +``` + +**File Size Optimization**: +```bash +# For email/web, compress if needed (>50MB) +gs -sDEVICE=pdfwrite -dCompatibilityLevel=1.4 \ + -dPDFSETTINGS=/printer -dNOPAUSE -dQUIET -dBATCH \ + -sOutputFile=poster_compressed.pdf poster.pdf + +# For printing, keep original (no compression) +``` + +**Step 6: Accessibility Check** + +**Color Contrast Verification**: +- [ ] Text-background contrast ratio ≥ 4.5:1 (WCAG AA) +- [ ] Important elements contrast ratio ≥ 7:1 (WCAG AAA) +- Test online: https://webaim.org/resources/contrastchecker/ + +**Color Blindness Simulation**: +- [ ] View PDF through color blindness simulator +- [ ] Information not lost with red-green simulation +- [ ] Use Coblis (color-blindness.com) or similar tool + +**Step 7: Content Proofreading** + +**Systematic Review**: +- [ ] Spell-check all text +- [ ] Verify all author names and affiliations +- [ ] Check all numbers and statistics for accuracy +- [ ] Confirm all citations are correct +- [ ] Review figure labels and captions +- [ ] Check for typos in headers and titles + +**Peer Review**: +- [ ] Ask colleague to review poster +- [ ] 30-second test: Can they identify main message? +- [ ] 5-minute review: Do they understand conclusions? +- [ ] Note any confusing elements + +**Step 8: Technical Validation** + +**LaTeX Compilation Log Review**: +```bash +# Check for warnings in .log file +grep -i "warning\|error\|overfull\|underfull" poster.log + +# Common issues to fix: +# - Overfull hbox: Text extending beyond margins +# - Underfull hbox: Excessive spacing +# - Missing references: Citations not resolved +# - Missing figures: Image files not found +``` + +**Fix Common Warnings**: +```latex +% Overfull hbox (text too wide) +\usepackage{microtype} % Better spacing +\sloppy % Allow slightly looser spacing +\hyphenation{long-word} % Manual hyphenation + +% Missing fonts +\usepackage[T1]{fontenc} % Better font encoding + +% Image not found +% Ensure paths are correct and files exist +\graphicspath{{./figures/}{./images/}} +``` + +**Step 9: Final Pre-Print Checklist** + +**Before Sending to Printer**: +- [ ] PDF size exactly matches requirements (check with pdfinfo) +- [ ] All fonts embedded (check with pdffonts) +- [ ] Color mode correct (RGB for screen, CMYK for print if required) +- [ ] Bleed area added if required (usually 3-5mm) +- [ ] Crop marks visible if required +- [ ] Test print completed and reviewed +- [ ] File naming clear: [LastName]_[Conference]_Poster.pdf +- [ ] Backup copy saved + +**Printing Specifications to Confirm**: +- [ ] Paper type (matte vs. glossy) +- [ ] Printing method (inkjet, large format, fabric) +- [ ] Color profile (provided to printer if required) +- [ ] Delivery deadline and shipping address +- [ ] Tube or flat packaging preference + +**Digital Presentation Checklist**: +- [ ] PDF size optimized (<10MB for email) +- [ ] Tested on multiple PDF viewers (Adobe, Preview, etc.) +- [ ] Displays correctly on different screens +- [ ] QR codes tested and functional +- [ ] Alternative formats prepared (PNG for social media) + +**Review Script** (Available in `scripts/review_poster.sh`): +```bash +#!/bin/bash +# Automated poster PDF review script + +echo "Poster PDF Quality Check" +echo "=======================" + +# Check file exists +if [ ! -f "$1" ]; then + echo "Error: File not found" + exit 1 +fi + +echo "File: $1" +echo "" + +# Check page size +echo "1. Page Dimensions:" +pdfinfo "$1" | grep "Page size" +echo "" + +# Check fonts +echo "2. Font Embedding:" +pdffonts "$1" | head -20 +echo "" + +# Check file size +echo "3. File Size:" +ls -lh "$1" | awk '{print $5}' +echo "" + +# Count pages (should be 1 for poster) +echo "4. Page Count:" +pdfinfo "$1" | grep "Pages" +echo "" + +echo "Manual checks required:" +echo "- Visual inspection at 100% zoom" +echo "- Reduced-scale print test (25%)" +echo "- Color contrast verification" +echo "- Proofreading for typos" +``` + +**Common PDF Issues and Solutions**: + +| Issue | Cause | Solution | +|-------|-------|----------| +| Large white margins | Incorrect margin settings | Reduce margin in documentclass | +| Content cut off | Exceeds page boundaries | Check total width/height calculations | +| Blurry images | Low resolution (<300 DPI) | Replace with higher resolution images | +| Missing fonts | Fonts not embedded | Compile with -dEmbedAllFonts=true | +| Wrong page size | Incorrect paper size setting | Verify documentclass paper size | +| Colors look wrong | RGB vs CMYK mismatch | Convert color space for print | +| File too large (>50MB) | Uncompressed images | Optimize images or compress PDF | +| QR codes don't work | Too small or low resolution | Minimum 2×2cm, high contrast | + +### 11. Common Poster Content Patterns + +Effective content organization for different research types: + +**Experimental Research Poster**: +1. Title and authors +2. Introduction: Problem and hypothesis +3. Methods: Experimental design (with diagram) +4. Results: Key findings (2-4 main figures) +5. Conclusions: Main takeaways (3-5 bullet points) +6. Future work (optional) +7. References and acknowledgments + +**Computational/Modeling Poster**: +1. Title and authors +2. Motivation: Problem statement +3. Approach: Algorithm or model (with flowchart) +4. Implementation: Technical details +5. Results: Performance metrics and comparisons +6. Applications: Use cases +7. Code availability (QR code to GitHub) +8. References + +**Review/Survey Poster**: +1. Title and authors +2. Scope: Topic overview +3. Methods: Literature search strategy +4. Key findings: Main themes (organized by category) +5. Trends: Visualizations of publication patterns +6. Gaps: Identified research needs +7. Conclusions: Summary and implications +8. References + +### 12. Accessibility and Inclusive Design + +Design posters that are accessible to diverse audiences: + +**Color Blindness Considerations**: +- Avoid red-green combinations (most common color blindness) +- Use patterns or shapes in addition to color +- Test with color-blindness simulators +- Provide high contrast (WCAG AA standard: 4.5:1 minimum) + +**Visual Impairment Accommodations**: +- Large, clear fonts (minimum 24pt body text) +- High contrast text and background +- Clear visual hierarchy +- Avoid complex textures or patterns in backgrounds + +**Language and Content**: +- Clear, concise language +- Define acronyms and jargon +- International audience considerations +- Consider multilingual QR code options for global conferences + +### 13. Poster Presentation Best Practices + +Guidance beyond LaTeX for effective poster sessions: + +**Content Strategy**: +- Tell a story, don't just list facts +- Focus on 1-3 main messages +- Use visual abstract or graphical summary +- Leave room for conversation (don't over-explain) + +**Physical Presentation Tips**: +- Bring printed handouts or business cards with QR code +- Prepare 30-second, 2-minute, and 5-minute verbal summaries +- Stand to the side, not blocking the poster +- Engage viewers with open-ended questions + +**Digital Backups**: +- Save poster as PDF on mobile device +- Prepare digital version for email sharing +- Create social media-friendly image version +- Have backup printed copy or digital display option + +## Workflow for Poster Creation + +### Stage 1: Planning and Content Development + +1. **Determine poster requirements**: + - Conference size specifications (A0, 36×48", etc.) + - Orientation (portrait vs. landscape) + - Submission deadlines and format requirements + +2. **Develop content outline**: + - Identify 1-3 core messages + - Select key figures (typically 3-6 main visuals) + - Draft concise text for each section (bullet points preferred) + - Aim for 300-800 words total + +3. **Choose LaTeX package**: + - beamerposter: If familiar with Beamer, need institutional themes + - tikzposter: For modern, colorful designs with flexibility + - baposter: For structured, professional multi-column layouts + +### Stage 2: Generate Visual Elements (AI-Powered) + +**CRITICAL: Generate SIMPLE figures with MINIMAL content. Each graphic = ONE message.** + +**Content limits:** +- Maximum 4-5 elements per graphic +- Maximum 15 words total per graphic +- 50% white space minimum +- GIANT fonts (80pt+ for labels, 120pt+ for key numbers) + +1. **Create figures directory**: + ```bash + mkdir -p figures + ``` + +2. **Generate SIMPLE visual elements**: + ```bash + # Introduction - ONLY 3 icons/elements + python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE visual with ONLY 3 elements: [icon1] [icon2] [icon3]. ONE word labels (80pt+). 50% white space. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/intro.png + + # Methods - ONLY 4 steps maximum + python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE flowchart with ONLY 4 boxes: STEP1 → STEP2 → STEP3 → STEP4. GIANT labels (100pt+). 50% white space. NO sub-steps." -o figures/methods.png + + # Results - ONLY 3 bars/comparisons + python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE chart with ONLY 3 bars. GIANT percentages ON bars (120pt+). NO axis, NO legend. 50% white space." -o figures/results.png + + # Conclusions - EXACTLY 3 items with GIANT numbers + python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. EXACTLY 3 key findings: '[NUMBER]' (150pt) '[LABEL]' (60pt) for each. 50% white space. NO other text." -o figures/conclusions.png + ``` + +3. **Review generated figures - check for overflow:** + - **View at 25% zoom**: All text still readable? + - **Count elements**: More than 5? → Regenerate simpler + - **Check white space**: Less than 40%? → Add "60% white space" to prompt + - **Font too small?**: Add "EVEN LARGER" or increase pt sizes + - **Still overflowing?**: Reduce to 3 elements instead of 4-5 + +### Stage 3: Design and Layout + +1. **Select or create template**: + - Start with provided templates in `assets/` + - Customize color scheme to match branding + - Configure page size and orientation + +2. **Design layout structure**: + - Plan column structure (2, 3, or 4 columns) + - Map content flow (typically left-to-right, top-to-bottom) + - Allocate space for title (10-15%), content (70-80%), footer (5-10%) + +3. **Set typography**: + - Configure font sizes for different hierarchy levels + - Ensure minimum 24pt body text + - Test readability from 4-6 feet distance + +### Stage 4: Content Integration + +1. **Create poster header**: + - Title (concise, descriptive, 10-15 words) + - Authors and affiliations + - Institution logos (high-resolution) + - Conference logo if required + +2. **Integrate AI-generated figures**: + - Add all figures from Stage 2 to appropriate sections + - Use `\includegraphics` with proper sizing + - Ensure figures dominate each section (visuals first, text second) + - Center figures within blocks for visual impact + +3. **Add minimal supporting text**: + - Keep text minimal and scannable (300-800 words total) + - Use bullet points, not paragraphs + - Write in active voice + - Text should complement figures, not duplicate them + +4. **Add supplementary elements**: + - QR codes for supplementary materials + - References (cite key papers only, 5-10 typical) + - Contact information and acknowledgments + +### Stage 5: Refinement and Testing + +1. **Review and iterate**: + - Check for typos and errors + - Verify all figures are high resolution + - Ensure consistent formatting + - Confirm color scheme works well together + +2. **Test readability**: + - Print at 25% scale and read from 2-3 feet (simulates poster from 8-12 feet) + - Check color on different monitors + - Verify QR codes function correctly + - Ask colleague to review + +3. **Optimize for printing**: + - Embed all fonts in PDF + - Verify image resolution + - Check PDF size requirements + - Include bleed area if required + +### Stage 6: Compilation and Delivery + +1. **Compile final PDF**: + ```bash + pdflatex poster.tex + # Or for better font support: + lualatex poster.tex + ``` + +2. **Verify output quality**: + - Check all elements are visible and correctly positioned + - Zoom to 100% and inspect figure quality + - Verify colors match expectations + - Confirm PDF opens correctly on different viewers + +3. **Prepare for printing**: + - Export as PDF/X-1a if required + - Save backup copies + - Get test print on regular paper first + - Order professional printing 2-3 days before deadline + +4. **Create supplementary materials**: + - Save PNG/JPG version for social media + - Create handout version (8.5×11" summary) + - Prepare digital version for email sharing + +## Integration with Other Skills + +This skill works effectively with: +- **Scientific Schematics**: CRITICAL - Use for generating all poster diagrams and flowcharts +- **Generate Image / Nano Banana Pro**: For stylized graphics, conceptual illustrations, and summary visuals +- **Scientific Writing**: For developing poster content from papers +- **Literature Review**: For contextualizing research +- **Data Analysis**: For creating result figures and charts + +**Recommended workflow**: Always use scientific-schematics and generate-image skills BEFORE creating the LaTeX poster to generate all visual elements. + +## Common Pitfalls to Avoid + +**AI-Generated Graphics Mistakes (MOST COMMON):** +- ❌ Too many elements in one graphic (10+ items) → Keep to 3-5 max +- ❌ Text too small in AI graphics → Specify "GIANT (100pt+)" or "HUGE (150pt+)" +- ❌ Too much detail in prompts → Use "SIMPLE" and "ONLY X elements" +- ❌ No white space specification → Add "50% white space" to every prompt +- ❌ Complex flowcharts with 8+ steps → Limit to 4-5 steps maximum +- ❌ Comparison charts with 6+ items → Limit to 3 items maximum +- ❌ Key findings with 5+ metrics → Show only top 3 + +**Fixing Overflow in AI Graphics:** +If your AI-generated graphics are overflowing or have small text: +1. Add "SIMPLER" or "ONLY 3 elements" to prompt +2. Increase font sizes: "150pt+" instead of "80pt+" +3. Add "60% white space" instead of "50%" +4. Remove sub-details: "NO sub-steps", "NO axis labels", "NO legend" +5. Regenerate with fewer elements + +**Design Mistakes**: +- ❌ Too much text (over 1000 words) +- ❌ Font sizes too small (under 24pt body text) +- ❌ Low-contrast color combinations +- ❌ Cluttered layout with no white space +- ❌ Inconsistent styling across sections +- ❌ Poor quality or pixelated images + +**Content Mistakes**: +- ❌ No clear narrative or message +- ❌ Too many research questions or objectives +- ❌ Overuse of jargon without definitions +- ❌ Results without context or interpretation +- ❌ Missing author contact information + +**Technical Mistakes**: +- ❌ Wrong poster dimensions for conference requirements +- ❌ RGB colors sent to CMYK printer (color shift) +- ❌ Fonts not embedded in PDF +- ❌ File size too large for submission portal +- ❌ QR codes too small or not tested + +**Best Practices**: +- ✅ Generate SIMPLE AI graphics with 3-5 elements max +- ✅ Use GIANT fonts (100pt+) for key numbers in graphics +- ✅ Specify "50% white space" in every AI prompt +- ✅ Follow conference size specifications exactly +- ✅ Test print at reduced scale before final printing +- ✅ Use high-contrast, accessible color schemes +- ✅ Keep text minimal and highly scannable +- ✅ Include clear contact information and QR codes +- ✅ Proofread carefully (errors are magnified on posters!) + +## Package Installation + +Ensure required LaTeX packages are installed: + +```bash +# For TeX Live (Linux/Mac) +tlmgr install beamerposter tikzposter baposter + +# For MiKTeX (Windows) +# Packages typically auto-install on first use + +# Additional recommended packages +tlmgr install qrcode graphics xcolor tcolorbox subcaption +``` + +## Scripts and Automation + +Helper scripts available in `scripts/` directory: + +- `compile_poster.sh`: Automated compilation with error handling +- `generate_template.py`: Interactive template generator +- `resize_images.py`: Batch image optimization for posters +- `poster_checklist.py`: Pre-submission validation tool + +## References + +Comprehensive reference files for detailed guidance: + +- `references/latex_poster_packages.md`: Detailed comparison of beamerposter, tikzposter, and baposter with examples +- `references/poster_layout_design.md`: Layout principles, grid systems, and visual flow +- `references/poster_design_principles.md`: Typography, color theory, visual hierarchy, and accessibility +- `references/poster_content_guide.md`: Content organization, writing style, and section-specific guidance + +## Templates + +Ready-to-use poster templates in `assets/` directory: + +- beamerposter templates (classic, modern, colorful) +- tikzposter templates (default, rays, wave, envelope) +- baposter templates (portrait, landscape, minimal) +- Example posters from various scientific disciplines +- Color scheme definitions and institutional templates + +Load these templates and customize for your specific research and conference requirements. + diff --git a/assets/baposter_template.tex b/assets/baposter_template.tex new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7c57eac --- /dev/null +++ b/assets/baposter_template.tex @@ -0,0 +1,257 @@ +% ============================================================================== +% Research Poster Template - baposter +% ============================================================================== +% A structured, professional poster template using baposter +% Excellent for multi-column layouts with automatic positioning +% ============================================================================== + +\documentclass[a0paper,portrait,fontscale=0.285]{baposter} + +% Packages +\usepackage{graphicx} +\usepackage{amsmath,amssymb} +\usepackage{booktabs} +\usepackage{multicol} +\usepackage{qrcode} +\usepackage{hyperref} +\usepackage{enumitem} + +% Set list spacing +\setlist{nosep} + +% ============================================================================== +% POSTER CONTENT - CUSTOMIZE BELOW +% ============================================================================== + +\begin{document} + +\begin{poster}{ + % ============================================================================ + % POSTER CONFIGURATION + % ============================================================================ + + % Grid and columns + grid=false, % Set to true for debugging layout + columns=3, % Number of columns + colspacing=1.5em, % Space between columns + + % Background + background=plain, % plain, shadetb, shadelr + bgColorOne=white, + bgColorTwo=white, + + % Borders + borderColor=blue!50!black, + linewidth=2pt, + + % Header + headerColorOne=blue!70!black, + headerColorTwo=blue!60!black, + headerFontColor=white, + headerheight=0.12\textheight, + headershape=roundedright, % rectangle, rounded, roundedright, roundedleft + headershade=plain, % plain, shadetb, shadelr + headerborder=closed, % open, closed + headerfont=\Large\sf\bf, + + % Boxes + boxColorOne=white, + boxColorTwo=blue!10, + boxshade=plain, + textborder=roundedleft, % none, rectangle, rounded, roundedleft, roundedright + + % Eye catcher + eyecatcher=true +} +% ============================================================================ +% HEADER CONTENT +% ============================================================================ +% Eye Catcher (Left Logo) +{ + \includegraphics[height=6em]{logo1.pdf} +} +% Title +{ + \sf\bf Your Research Title: Concise and Descriptive +} +% Authors +{ + \vspace{0.3em} + Author One\textsuperscript{1}, Author Two\textsuperscript{2}, \underline{Presenting Author}\textsuperscript{1}\\[0.3em] + {\small + \textsuperscript{1}Department, University Name, City, Country\\ + \textsuperscript{2}Research Institute Name, City, Country} +} +% University Logo (Right) +{ + \includegraphics[height=6em]{logo2.pdf} +} + +% ============================================================================== +% LEFT COLUMN +% ============================================================================== + +\headerbox{Introduction}{name=intro,column=0,row=0}{ + \textbf{Background} + + Brief context establishing the importance of your research area (1-2 sentences). + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \textbf{Problem Statement} + + What gap or challenge does your work address? (1-2 sentences) + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \textbf{Objective} + + Clear statement of your research goal (1 sentence). +} + +\headerbox{Methods}{name=methods,column=0,below=intro}{ + \textbf{Study Design} + \begin{itemize} + \item Experimental approach or study type + \item Sample: n = X participants/samples + \item Key procedures + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \textbf{Analysis} + \begin{itemize} + \item Statistical methods + \item Software: R 4.3, Python 3.10 + \item Significance: p < 0.05 + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \begin{center} + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{methods_flowchart.pdf} + \end{center} +} + +% ============================================================================== +% MIDDLE COLUMN (SPANS 2 COLUMNS FOR LARGE RESULT) +% ============================================================================== + +\headerbox{Results: Main Finding}{name=results1,column=1,row=0,span=2}{ + Brief description of your primary result. What is the key observation? + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \begin{center} + \includegraphics[width=0.95\linewidth]{figure1.pdf} + \end{center} + + \textbf{Figure 1:} Descriptive caption explaining the main result. Include statistics (Mean ± SD, n=X, **p<0.01). +} + +% ============================================================================== +% MIDDLE COLUMN (CONTINUES BELOW) +% ============================================================================== + +\headerbox{Results: Finding 2}{name=results2,column=1,below=results1}{ + Brief description of second key result. + + \begin{center} + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{figure2.pdf} + \end{center} + + \textbf{Figure 2:} Supporting result or comparison. +} + +% ============================================================================== +% RIGHT COLUMN +% ============================================================================== + +\headerbox{Results: Finding 3}{name=results3,column=2,below=results1}{ + Brief description of third result or validation. + + \begin{center} + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{figure3.pdf} + \end{center} + + \textbf{Figure 3:} Additional finding. +} + +% ============================================================================== +% BOTTOM ROW (SPANS ALL COLUMNS) +% ============================================================================== + +\headerbox{Conclusions}{name=conclusions,column=0,span=2,above=bottom}{ + \begin{multicols}{2} + \textbf{Key Findings} + \begin{itemize} + \item Main conclusion 1 with significance + \item Main conclusion 2 with impact + \item Main conclusion 3 with implications + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \textbf{Limitations} + \begin{itemize} + \item Study constraints + \item Interpretation context + \end{itemize} + + \columnbreak + + \textbf{Future Directions} + \begin{itemize} + \item Ongoing studies + \item Broader applications + \item Next research questions + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \textbf{Clinical/Practical Implications} + \begin{itemize} + \item Real-world applications + \item Impact on practice + \end{itemize} + \end{multicols} +} + +\headerbox{Scan for More}{name=qr,column=2,above=bottom}{ + \begin{center} + \qrcode[height=4cm]{https://doi.org/10.1234/your-paper}\\ + \vspace{0.3cm} + \small Full paper, code \& data + \end{center} +} + +% ============================================================================== +% FOOTER (FULL WIDTH AT BOTTOM) +% ============================================================================== + +\headerbox{}{name=footer,column=0,span=3,above=bottom,below=conclusions}{ + \footnotesize + \begin{multicols}{2} + \textbf{References} + \begin{enumerate} + \item Author A et al. (2023). Title. \textit{Journal}, 10(2), 123-145. + \item Author B et al. (2024). Title. \textit{Conference}. + \item Author C et al. (2022). Title. \textit{Journal}, 15(3), 456-478. + \end{enumerate} + + \columnbreak + + \textbf{Acknowledgments} + + Funded by Grant Agency (Grant \#12345). Thanks to collaborators at Institution X. + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \textbf{Contact:} presenter.email@university.edu | labname.university.edu + \end{multicols} +} + +\end{poster} + +\end{document} + diff --git a/assets/beamerposter_template.tex b/assets/beamerposter_template.tex new file mode 100644 index 0000000..43c9bd7 --- /dev/null +++ b/assets/beamerposter_template.tex @@ -0,0 +1,244 @@ +% ============================================================================== +% Research Poster Template - beamerposter +% ============================================================================== +% A professional academic poster template using beamerposter +% Customize colors, content, and layout as needed +% ============================================================================== + +\documentclass[final,t]{beamer} +\usepackage[size=a0,scale=1.4,orientation=portrait]{beamerposter} +\usetheme{Berlin} +\usecolortheme{beaver} + +% Remove default margins for full page coverage +\setbeamersize{text margin left=5mm, text margin right=5mm} +\usepackage[margin=10mm]{geometry} + +% Remove navigation symbols +\setbeamertemplate{navigation symbols}{} + +% Packages +\usepackage{graphicx} +\usepackage{amsmath,amssymb} +\usepackage{booktabs} +\usepackage{multicol} +\usepackage{qrcode} +\usepackage{hyperref} + +% Font configuration +\setbeamerfont{title}{size=\VeryHuge,series=\bfseries} +\setbeamerfont{author}{size=\Large} +\setbeamerfont{institute}{size=\normalsize} +\setbeamerfont{block title}{size=\huge,series=\bfseries} +\setbeamerfont{block body}{size=\LARGE} + +% Custom colors (customize to match your institution) +\definecolor{primarycolor}{RGB}{0,51,102} % Dark blue +\definecolor{secondarycolor}{RGB}{204,0,0} % Red +\definecolor{accentcolor}{RGB}{255,204,0} % Gold + +\setbeamercolor{structure}{fg=primarycolor} +\setbeamercolor{block title}{bg=primarycolor,fg=white} +\setbeamercolor{block body}{bg=primarycolor!10,fg=black} + +% ============================================================================== +% POSTER CONTENT - CUSTOMIZE BELOW +% ============================================================================== + +\title{Your Research Title: Concise and Descriptive} +\author{Author One\textsuperscript{1}, Author Two\textsuperscript{2}, \underline{Presenting Author}\textsuperscript{1}} +\institute{ + \textsuperscript{1}Department, University Name\\ + \textsuperscript{2}Research Institute Name +} + +\begin{document} + +\begin{frame}[t] + + % ============================================================================ + % HEADER + % ============================================================================ + \begin{block}{} + \begin{columns}[T] + \begin{column}{.15\linewidth} + % Left logo + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{logo1.pdf} + \end{column} + + \begin{column}{.7\linewidth} + \centering + \usebeamerfont{title}\inserttitle\\[0.5cm] + \usebeamerfont{author}\insertauthor\\[0.3cm] + \usebeamerfont{institute}\insertinstitute + \end{column} + + \begin{column}{.15\linewidth} + % Right logo + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{logo2.pdf} + \end{column} + \end{columns} + \end{block} + + \vspace{1cm} + + % ============================================================================ + % MAIN CONTENT - 3 COLUMN LAYOUT + % ============================================================================ + + \begin{columns}[t] + + % ========================================================================== + % LEFT COLUMN + % ========================================================================== + \begin{column}{.3\linewidth} + + \begin{block}{Introduction} + \textbf{Background:} Brief context about your research area (1-2 sentences). + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Problem:} What gap or challenge does your work address? (1-2 sentences) + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Objective:} Clear statement of your research goal (1 sentence). + \end{block} + + \vspace{1cm} + + \begin{block}{Methods} + \textbf{Study Design:} + \begin{itemize} + \item Experimental approach or design + \item Sample size and population + \item Key procedures + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Analysis:} + \begin{itemize} + \item Statistical methods + \item Software/tools used + \item Validation approach + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + % Optional: Methods flowchart + \begin{center} + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{methods_flowchart.pdf} + \end{center} + \end{block} + + \end{column} + + % ========================================================================== + % MIDDLE COLUMN + % ========================================================================== + \begin{column}{.3\linewidth} + + \begin{block}{Results} + \textbf{Finding 1:} Brief description + + \begin{center} + \includegraphics[width=0.95\linewidth]{figure1.pdf} + \small Figure 1: Descriptive caption with key statistics (n=X, p<0.01). + \end{center} + + \vspace{1cm} + + \textbf{Finding 2:} Brief description + + \begin{center} + \includegraphics[width=0.95\linewidth]{figure2.pdf} + \small Figure 2: Another key result showing comparison or trend. + \end{center} + \end{block} + + \end{column} + + % ========================================================================== + % RIGHT COLUMN + % ========================================================================== + \begin{column}{.3\linewidth} + + \begin{block}{Results (continued)} + \textbf{Finding 3:} Brief description + + \begin{center} + \includegraphics[width=0.95\linewidth]{figure3.pdf} + \small Figure 3: Additional important result or validation. + \end{center} + \end{block} + + \vspace{1cm} + + \begin{block}{Conclusions} + \textbf{Key Findings:} + \begin{itemize} + \item Main conclusion 1 with impact + \item Main conclusion 2 with significance + \item Main conclusion 3 with implications + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Limitations:} + \begin{itemize} + \item Brief acknowledgment of constraints + \item Context for interpretation + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Future Directions:} + \begin{itemize} + \item Next steps or ongoing work + \item Broader applications + \end{itemize} + \end{block} + + \end{column} + + \end{columns} + + \vspace{1cm} + + % ============================================================================ + % FOOTER + % ============================================================================ + + \begin{block}{} + \footnotesize + \begin{columns}[T] + \begin{column}{.75\linewidth} + \textbf{References} + \begin{enumerate} + \item Author A et al. (2023). Title. \textit{Journal}, 10(2), 123-145. + \item Author B et al. (2024). Title. \textit{Conference Proceedings}. + \item Author C et al. (2022). Title. \textit{Journal}, 15(3), 456-478. + \end{enumerate} + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \textbf{Acknowledgments:} Funded by Grant Agency (Grant \#12345). Thanks to collaborators and facility staff. + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \textbf{Contact:} presenter.email@university.edu | Lab Website: labname.university.edu + \end{column} + + \begin{column}{.2\linewidth} + \centering + \qrcode[height=3.5cm]{https://doi.org/10.1234/your-paper}\\ + \tiny Scan for full paper + \end{column} + \end{columns} + \end{block} + +\end{frame} + +\end{document} + diff --git a/assets/poster_quality_checklist.md b/assets/poster_quality_checklist.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9338688 --- /dev/null +++ b/assets/poster_quality_checklist.md @@ -0,0 +1,358 @@ +# Research Poster Quality Checklist + +Use this comprehensive checklist before printing or presenting your research poster. + +## Pre-Compilation Checks + +### Content Completeness +- [ ] Title is concise and descriptive (10-15 words) +- [ ] All author names spelled correctly +- [ ] Affiliations complete and accurate +- [ ] Contact email address included +- [ ] All sections present: Introduction, Methods, Results, Conclusions +- [ ] References cited (5-10 key citations) +- [ ] Acknowledgments included (funding, collaborators) +- [ ] No placeholder text remaining (TODO, Lorem ipsum, etc.) + +### Visual Content +- [ ] All figures prepared and high resolution (300+ DPI) +- [ ] Figure captions written and descriptive +- [ ] Logos available (university, funding agencies) +- [ ] QR codes generated and tested +- [ ] Icons/graphics sourced (if used) + +### LaTeX Configuration +- [ ] Correct paper size specified (A0, A1, 36×48", etc.) +- [ ] Correct orientation (portrait/landscape) +- [ ] Minimal margins configured (5-15mm) +- [ ] Font sizes appropriate (title 72pt+, body 24pt+) +- [ ] Color scheme defined +- [ ] All packages installed and working + +## Compilation Checks + +### Successful Compilation +- [ ] PDF compiles without errors +- [ ] No critical warnings in .log file +- [ ] All citations resolved (no [?] marks) +- [ ] All cross-references working +- [ ] Bibliography generated correctly (if using BibTeX) + +### Warning Review +Run in terminal: `grep -i "warning\|overfull\|underfull" poster.log` + +- [ ] No overfull hbox warnings (text too wide) +- [ ] No underfull hbox warnings (excessive spacing) +- [ ] No missing figure warnings +- [ ] No missing font warnings +- [ ] No undefined reference warnings + +## PDF Quality Checks + +### Automated Checks + +Run: `./scripts/review_poster.sh poster.pdf` or manually verify: + +#### Page Specifications +```bash +pdfinfo poster.pdf | grep "Page size" +``` +- [ ] Page size matches requirements exactly +- [ ] Single page document (not multi-page) +- [ ] Correct orientation + +#### Font Embedding +```bash +pdffonts poster.pdf +``` +- [ ] All fonts show "yes" in "emb" column +- [ ] No bitmap fonts (should be Type 1 or TrueType) + +#### Image Quality +```bash +pdfimages -list poster.pdf +``` +- [ ] All images at least 300 DPI +- [ ] No JPEG artifacts in figures +- [ ] Vector graphics used where possible + +#### File Size +```bash +ls -lh poster.pdf +``` +- [ ] Reasonable size (2-50 MB typical) +- [ ] Not too large for email (<50 MB) if sharing digitally +- [ ] Not suspiciously small (<1 MB - may indicate low quality) + +## Visual Inspection (100% Zoom) + +### Layout and Spacing +- [ ] Content fills entire page (no excessive white margins) +- [ ] Consistent spacing between columns (1-2cm) +- [ ] Consistent spacing between blocks (1-2cm) +- [ ] All elements aligned to grid +- [ ] No overlapping text or figures +- [ ] White space evenly distributed (30-40% total) +- [ ] Visual balance across poster (no heavy/empty areas) + +### Typography +- [ ] Title readable and prominent (72-120pt) +- [ ] Section headers clear (48-72pt) +- [ ] Body text large enough (24-36pt minimum, 30pt+ recommended) +- [ ] Captions readable (18-24pt) +- [ ] No text running off edges +- [ ] Consistent font usage throughout +- [ ] Line spacing adequate (1.2-1.5×) +- [ ] No awkward hyphenation or word breaks +- [ ] All special characters render correctly (Greek, math symbols) + +### Visual Elements +- [ ] All figures display correctly +- [ ] No pixelated or blurry images +- [ ] Figure resolution high (zoom to 200% to verify) +- [ ] Figure labels large and clear +- [ ] Graph axes labeled with units +- [ ] Color schemes consistent across figures +- [ ] Legends readable and well-positioned +- [ ] Logos crisp and professional +- [ ] QR codes sharp and high-contrast (minimum 2×2cm) +- [ ] No visual artifacts or rendering errors + +### Colors +- [ ] Colors render as intended (not washed out) +- [ ] High contrast between text and background (≥4.5:1) +- [ ] Color scheme harmonious +- [ ] Colors appropriate for printing (not too bright/neon) +- [ ] Institutional colors used correctly +- [ ] Color-blind friendly palette (avoid red-green only) + +### Content +- [ ] Title complete and correctly positioned +- [ ] All author names and affiliations visible +- [ ] All sections present and labeled +- [ ] Results section has figures/data +- [ ] Conclusions clearly stated +- [ ] References formatted consistently +- [ ] Contact information clearly visible +- [ ] No missing content + +## Reduced-Scale Print Test (CRITICAL) + +### Test Print Preparation +Print poster at 25% scale: +- A0 poster → Print on A4 paper +- 36×48" poster → Print on Letter paper +- A1 poster → Print on A5 paper + +### Readability from Distance + +**From 6 feet (2 meters):** +- [ ] Title clearly readable +- [ ] Authors identifiable +- [ ] Main figures visible + +**From 4 feet (1.2 meters):** +- [ ] Section headers readable +- [ ] Figure captions readable +- [ ] Key results visible + +**From 2 feet (0.6 meters):** +- [ ] Body text readable +- [ ] References readable +- [ ] All details clear + +### Print Quality +- [ ] Colors accurate (match screen expectations) +- [ ] No banding or color shifts +- [ ] Sharp edges (not blurry) +- [ ] Consistent print density +- [ ] No printer artifacts + +## Content Proofreading + +### Text Accuracy +- [ ] Spell-checked all text +- [ ] Grammar checked +- [ ] All author names spelled correctly +- [ ] All affiliations accurate +- [ ] Email address correct +- [ ] No typos in title or headers + +### Scientific Accuracy +- [ ] All numbers and statistics verified +- [ ] Units included and correct +- [ ] Statistical significance correctly indicated +- [ ] Sample sizes (n=) reported +- [ ] Figure numbering consistent +- [ ] Citations accurate and complete +- [ ] Methodology accurately described +- [ ] Results match figures/data +- [ ] Conclusions supported by data + +### Consistency +- [ ] Terminology consistent throughout +- [ ] Abbreviations defined at first use +- [ ] Consistent notation (italics for genes, etc.) +- [ ] Consistent units (don't mix metric/imperial) +- [ ] Consistent decimal places +- [ ] Consistent citation format + +## Accessibility Checks + +### Color Contrast +Test at: https://webaim.org/resources/contrastchecker/ + +- [ ] Title-background contrast ≥ 7:1 +- [ ] Body text-background contrast ≥ 4.5:1 +- [ ] All text meets WCAG AA standard minimum + +### Color Blindness +Test with simulator: https://www.color-blindness.com/coblis-color-blindness-simulator/ + +- [ ] Information not lost with deuteranopia (red-green) +- [ ] Key distinctions visible with protanopia +- [ ] Patterns/shapes used in addition to color +- [ ] No critical info conveyed by color alone + +### Visual Clarity +- [ ] Clear visual hierarchy (size, weight, position) +- [ ] Logical reading order +- [ ] Grouping of related elements obvious +- [ ] Important info emphasized appropriately + +## Peer Review + +### 30-Second Test +Show poster to colleague for 30 seconds, then ask: +- [ ] They can identify the research topic +- [ ] They can state the main finding +- [ ] They remember the key figure + +### 5-Minute Review +Ask colleague to read poster (5 minutes), then ask: +- [ ] They understand the research question +- [ ] They can explain the approach +- [ ] They can summarize the conclusions +- [ ] They identify what makes it novel/important + +### Feedback +- [ ] Noted any confusing elements +- [ ] Identified any unclear figures +- [ ] Checked for jargon that needs definition +- [ ] Verified logical flow + +## Pre-Printing Final Checks + +### Technical Specifications +- [ ] PDF size exactly matches conference requirements +- [ ] Orientation correct (portrait vs landscape) +- [ ] All fonts embedded (verified with pdffonts) +- [ ] Color space correct (RGB for screen, CMYK if printer requires) +- [ ] Resolution adequate (300+ DPI for all images) +- [ ] Bleed area added if required (typically 3-5mm) +- [ ] Crop marks visible if required +- [ ] File naming convention followed + +### Printer Communication +- [ ] Confirmed paper type (matte vs glossy) +- [ ] Confirmed poster size +- [ ] Provided color profile if required +- [ ] Verified delivery deadline +- [ ] Confirmed shipping/pickup arrangements +- [ ] Discussed backup plan if issues arise + +### Backup and Storage +- [ ] PDF saved with clear filename: `LastName_Conference_Poster.pdf` +- [ ] Source .tex file backed up +- [ ] All figure files backed up +- [ ] Copy saved to cloud storage +- [ ] Copy saved on USB drive for conference +- [ ] Digital version ready to email if requested + +## Digital Presentation Checks + +If presenting digitally or sharing online: + +### File Optimization +- [ ] PDF compressed if >10MB (for email) +- [ ] Test opens in Adobe Reader +- [ ] Test opens in Preview (Mac) +- [ ] Test opens in browser PDF viewers +- [ ] Test on mobile devices + +### Interactive Elements +- [ ] All QR codes tested and functional +- [ ] QR codes link to correct URLs +- [ ] Hyperlinks work (if included) +- [ ] Links open in new tabs/windows appropriately + +### Alternative Formats +- [ ] PNG version created for social media (if needed) +- [ ] Thumbnail image created +- [ ] Poster description/abstract prepared +- [ ] Hashtags and social media text ready + +## Conference-Specific + +### Requirements Verification +- [ ] Poster size matches conference specifications exactly +- [ ] Orientation matches requirements +- [ ] File format correct (usually PDF) +- [ ] Submission deadline met +- [ ] File naming convention followed +- [ ] Abstract/description submitted if required + +### Physical Preparation +- [ ] Poster printed and inspected +- [ ] Backup printed copy prepared +- [ ] Push pins/mounting materials ready +- [ ] Poster tube or flat portfolio for transport +- [ ] Business cards/handouts prepared +- [ ] Digital backup on laptop/phone + +### Presentation Preparation +- [ ] 30-second elevator pitch prepared +- [ ] 2-minute summary prepared +- [ ] 5-minute detailed explanation prepared +- [ ] Anticipated questions considered +- [ ] Follow-up materials ready (QR code to paper, etc.) + +## Final Sign-Off + +Date: ________________ + +Poster Title: _______________________________________________ + +Conference: _______________________________________________ + +Reviewed by: _______________________________________________ + +All critical items checked: [ ] + +Ready for printing: [ ] + +Ready for presentation: [ ] + +Notes/Issues to address: +_________________________________________________________ +_________________________________________________________ +_________________________________________________________ + +--- + +## Quick Reference: Common Issues + +| Issue | Quick Fix | +|-------|-----------| +| Large white margins | Reduce margin in documentclass: `margin=5mm` | +| Text too small | Increase scale: `scale=1.5` in beamerposter | +| Blurry figures | Use vector graphics (PDF) or higher resolution (600+ DPI) | +| Colors wrong | Check RGB vs CMYK, test print before final | +| Fonts not embedded | Compile with: `pdflatex -dEmbedAllFonts=true` | +| Content cut off | Check total width: columns + spacing + margins = pagewidth | +| QR codes don't scan | Increase size (min 2×2cm), ensure high contrast | +| File too large | Compress: `gs -sDEVICE=pdfwrite -dPDFSETTINGS=/printer ...` | + +## Checklist Version +Version 1.0 - For use with LaTeX poster packages (beamerposter, tikzposter, baposter) + diff --git a/assets/tikzposter_template.tex b/assets/tikzposter_template.tex new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6247188 --- /dev/null +++ b/assets/tikzposter_template.tex @@ -0,0 +1,251 @@ +% ============================================================================== +% Research Poster Template - tikzposter +% ============================================================================== +% A modern, colorful poster template using tikzposter +% Customize themes, colors, and content as needed +% ============================================================================== + +\documentclass[ + 25pt, % Font scaling + a0paper, % Paper size + portrait, % Orientation + margin=10mm, % Outer margins (minimal for full page) + innermargin=15mm, % Space inside blocks + blockverticalspace=15mm, % Space between blocks + colspace=15mm, % Space between columns + subcolspace=8mm % Space between subcolumns +]{tikzposter} + +% Packages +\usepackage{graphicx} +\usepackage{amsmath,amssymb} +\usepackage{booktabs} +\usepackage{qrcode} +\usepackage{hyperref} + +% Theme selection (uncomment your choice) +\usetheme{Rays} % Modern with radiating background +% \usetheme{Wave} % Clean with decorative wave +% \usetheme{Board} % Board-style with texture +% \usetheme{Envelope} % Minimal with envelope corners +% \usetheme{Default} % Professional with lines + +% Color style (uncomment your choice) +\usecolorstyle{Denmark} % Professional blue +% \usecolorstyle{Australia} % Warm colors +% \usecolorstyle{Sweden} % Cool tones +% \usecolorstyle{Britain} % Earth tones + +% Custom color scheme (optional - comment out if using built-in) +% \definecolorstyle{CustomStyle}{ +% \definecolor{colorOne}{RGB}{0,51,102} % Dark blue +% \definecolor{colorTwo}{RGB}{255,204,0} % Gold +% \definecolor{colorThree}{RGB}{204,0,0} % Red +% }{ +% % Background Colors +% \colorlet{backgroundcolor}{white} +% \colorlet{framecolor}{colorOne} +% % Title Colors +% \colorlet{titlefgcolor}{white} +% \colorlet{titlebgcolor}{colorOne} +% % Block Colors +% \colorlet{blocktitlebgcolor}{colorOne} +% \colorlet{blocktitlefgcolor}{white} +% \colorlet{blockbodybgcolor}{white} +% \colorlet{blockbodyfgcolor}{black} +% } +% \usecolorstyle{CustomStyle} + +% ============================================================================== +% POSTER CONTENT - CUSTOMIZE BELOW +% ============================================================================== + +\title{Your Research Title: Concise and Descriptive} +\author{Author One\textsuperscript{1}, Author Two\textsuperscript{2}, \underline{Presenting Author}\textsuperscript{1}} +\institute{ + \textsuperscript{1}Department, University Name, City, Country\\ + \textsuperscript{2}Research Institute Name, City, Country +} + +% Title matter (logos) +\titlegraphic{ + \includegraphics[width=0.1\textwidth]{logo1.pdf} + \hspace{3cm} + \includegraphics[width=0.1\textwidth]{logo2.pdf} +} + +\begin{document} + +\maketitle + +% ============================================================================== +% MAIN CONTENT - 3 COLUMN LAYOUT +% ============================================================================== + +\begin{columns} + + % ============================================================================ + % LEFT COLUMN + % ============================================================================ + \column{0.33} + + \block{Introduction}{ + \textbf{Background} + + Brief context about your research area. One to two sentences establishing the importance of the topic. + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Problem Statement} + + What gap or challenge does your work address? Why is this important? One to two sentences. + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Research Objective} + + Clear, concise statement of what you set out to do in this study. + } + + \block{Methods}{ + \textbf{Study Design} + \begin{itemize} + \item Experimental approach or study type + \item Sample size: n = X participants/samples + \item Key inclusion/exclusion criteria + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Procedures} + \begin{itemize} + \item Main experimental steps + \item Key measurements or interventions + \item Data collection approach + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Analysis} + \begin{itemize} + \item Statistical methods used + \item Software/tools (e.g., R 4.3, Python) + \item Significance threshold (p < 0.05) + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + % Optional: Methods flowchart + \begin{tikzfigure} + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{methods_diagram.pdf} + \end{tikzfigure} + } + + % ============================================================================ + % MIDDLE COLUMN + % ============================================================================ + \column{0.33} + + \block{Results: Finding 1}{ + Brief description of your first main result. What did you observe? + + \begin{tikzfigure} + \includegraphics[width=0.95\linewidth]{figure1.pdf} + \end{tikzfigure} + + \textbf{Figure 1:} Descriptive caption explaining the figure. Include key statistics (Mean ± SD, n=X, **p<0.01). + } + + \block{Results: Finding 2}{ + Brief description of your second main result. + + \begin{tikzfigure} + \includegraphics[width=0.95\linewidth]{figure2.pdf} + \end{tikzfigure} + + \textbf{Figure 2:} Another key result showing comparison, trend, or correlation. + } + + % ============================================================================ + % RIGHT COLUMN + % ============================================================================ + \column{0.33} + + \block{Results: Finding 3}{ + Brief description of your third main result or validation. + + \begin{tikzfigure} + \includegraphics[width=0.95\linewidth]{figure3.pdf} + \end{tikzfigure} + + \textbf{Figure 3:} Additional important finding or supporting data. + } + + \block{Conclusions}{ + \textbf{Key Findings} + \begin{itemize} + \item \textbf{Main conclusion 1:} Impact and significance + \item \textbf{Main conclusion 2:} Novel contribution + \item \textbf{Main conclusion 3:} Practical implications + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Limitations} + \begin{itemize} + \item Brief acknowledgment of study constraints + \item Context for result interpretation + \end{itemize} + + \vspace{0.5cm} + + \textbf{Future Directions} + \begin{itemize} + \item Ongoing or planned follow-up studies + \item Broader applications of findings + \end{itemize} + } + + \block{Scan for More}{ + \begin{center} + \qrcode[height=5cm]{https://doi.org/10.1234/your-paper}\\ + \vspace{0.5cm} + \large Full paper, code, and data + \end{center} + } + +\end{columns} + +% ============================================================================== +% FOOTER (Full Width) +% ============================================================================== + +\block[width=1.0\linewidth]{}{ + \footnotesize + \begin{minipage}{0.7\textwidth} + \textbf{References} + \begin{enumerate} + \item Author A et al. (2023). Title of paper. \textit{Journal Name}, 10(2), 123-145. doi:10.xxxx/xxxxx + \item Author B et al. (2024). Title of paper. \textit{Conference Proceedings}. + \item Author C et al. (2022). Title of paper. \textit{Journal Name}, 15(3), 456-478. + \end{enumerate} + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \textbf{Acknowledgments:} This work was supported by Funding Agency (Grant \#12345). We thank collaborators at Institution X and the Core Facility for technical support. + + \vspace{0.3cm} + + \textbf{Contact:} presenter.email@university.edu | Twitter: @labname | Website: labname.university.edu + \end{minipage}% + \hfill + \begin{minipage}{0.25\textwidth} + \raggedleft + Conference Name 2024\\ + Location, Dates\\ + Poster \#XXX + \end{minipage} +} + +\end{document} + diff --git a/references/latex_poster_packages.md b/references/latex_poster_packages.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5a08035 --- /dev/null +++ b/references/latex_poster_packages.md @@ -0,0 +1,745 @@ +# LaTeX Poster Packages: Comprehensive Comparison + +## Overview + +Three major LaTeX packages dominate research poster creation: beamerposter, tikzposter, and baposter. Each has distinct strengths, syntax, and use cases. This guide provides detailed comparisons and practical examples. + +## Package Comparison Matrix + +| Feature | beamerposter | tikzposter | baposter | +|---------|--------------|------------|----------| +| **Learning Curve** | Easy (if familiar with Beamer) | Moderate | Moderate | +| **Flexibility** | Moderate | High | Moderate-High | +| **Default Aesthetics** | Traditional/Academic | Modern/Colorful | Professional/Clean | +| **Theme Support** | Extensive (Beamer themes) | Built-in + Custom | Limited built-in | +| **Customization** | Moderate effort | Easy with TikZ | Structured approach | +| **Layout System** | Frame-based | Block-based | Box-based with grid | +| **Multi-column** | Manual | Automatic | Automatic | +| **Graphics Integration** | Standard includegraphics | TikZ + includegraphics | Standard + advanced | +| **Community Support** | Large (Beamer community) | Growing | Smaller | +| **Best For** | Traditional academic, institutional branding | Creative designs, custom graphics | Structured multi-column layouts | +| **File Size** | Small | Medium-Large (TikZ overhead) | Medium | +| **Compilation Speed** | Fast | Slower (TikZ processing) | Fast-Medium | + +## 1. beamerposter + +### Overview + +beamerposter extends the popular Beamer presentation class for poster-sized documents. It inherits all Beamer functionality, themes, and customization options. + +### Advantages + +- **Familiar syntax**: If you know Beamer, you know beamerposter +- **Extensive themes**: Access to all Beamer themes and color schemes +- **Institutional branding**: Easy to match university templates +- **Stable and mature**: Well-tested, extensive documentation +- **Block structure**: Clear organizational units +- **Good for traditional posters**: Academic conferences, thesis defenses + +### Disadvantages + +- **Less flexible layouts**: Column-based system can be restrictive +- **Manual positioning**: Requires careful spacing adjustments +- **Traditional aesthetics**: Can look dated compared to modern designs +- **Limited built-in styling**: Requires theme customization for unique looks + +### Basic Template + +```latex +\documentclass[final,t]{beamer} +\usepackage[size=a0,scale=1.4,orientation=portrait]{beamerposter} +\usetheme{Berlin} +\usecolortheme{beaver} + +% Configure fonts +\setbeamerfont{title}{size=\VeryHuge,series=\bfseries} +\setbeamerfont{author}{size=\Large} +\setbeamerfont{block title}{size=\large,series=\bfseries} + +\title{Your Research Title} +\author{Author Names} +\institute{Institution} + +\begin{document} +\begin{frame}[t] + + % Title block + \begin{block}{} + \maketitle + \end{block} + + \begin{columns}[t] + \begin{column}{.45\linewidth} + + \begin{block}{Introduction} + Your introduction text here... + \end{block} + + \begin{block}{Methods} + Your methods text here... + \end{block} + + \end{column} + + \begin{column}{.45\linewidth} + + \begin{block}{Results} + Your results text here... + \includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{figure.pdf} + \end{block} + + \begin{block}{Conclusions} + Your conclusions here... + \end{block} + + \end{column} + \end{columns} + +\end{frame} +\end{document} +``` + +### Popular Themes + +```latex +% Traditional academic +\usetheme{Berlin} +\usecolortheme{beaver} + +% Modern minimal +\usetheme{Madrid} +\usecolortheme{whale} + +% Blue professional +\usetheme{Singapore} +\usecolortheme{dolphin} + +% Dark theme +\usetheme{Warsaw} +\usecolortheme{seahorse} +``` + +### Custom Colors + +```latex +% Define custom colors +\definecolor{primarycolor}{RGB}{0,51,102} % Dark blue +\definecolor{secondarycolor}{RGB}{204,0,0} % Red +\definecolor{accentcolor}{RGB}{255,204,0} % Gold + +% Apply to beamer elements +\setbeamercolor{structure}{fg=primarycolor} +\setbeamercolor{block title}{bg=primarycolor,fg=white} +\setbeamercolor{block body}{bg=primarycolor!10,fg=black} +``` + +### Advanced Customization + +```latex +% Remove navigation symbols +\setbeamertemplate{navigation symbols}{} + +% Custom title formatting +\setbeamertemplate{title page}{ + \begin{center} + {\usebeamerfont{title}\usebeamercolor[fg]{title}\inserttitle}\\[1cm] + {\usebeamerfont{author}\insertauthor}\\[0.5cm] + {\usebeamerfont{institute}\insertinstitute} + \end{center} +} + +% Custom block style +\setbeamertemplate{block begin}{ + \par\vskip\medskipamount + \begin{beamercolorbox}[colsep*=.75ex,rounded=true]{block title} + \usebeamerfont*{block title}\insertblocktitle + \end{beamercolorbox} + {\parskip0pt\par} + \usebeamerfont{block body} + \begin{beamercolorbox}[colsep*=.75ex,vmode,rounded=true]{block body} +} +``` + +### Three-Column Layout + +```latex +\begin{columns}[t] + \begin{column}{.3\linewidth} + % Left column content + \end{column} + \begin{column}{.3\linewidth} + % Middle column content + \end{column} + \begin{column}{.3\linewidth} + % Right column content + \end{column} +\end{columns} +``` + +## 2. tikzposter + +### Overview + +tikzposter is built on the powerful TikZ graphics package, offering modern designs with extensive customization through TikZ commands. + +### Advantages + +- **Modern aesthetics**: Contemporary, colorful designs out-of-the-box +- **Flexible block placement**: Easy positioning anywhere on poster +- **Beautiful themes**: Multiple professionally designed themes included +- **TikZ integration**: Seamless graphics and custom drawings +- **Color customization**: Easy to create custom color palettes +- **Automatic spacing**: Intelligent block spacing and alignment + +### Disadvantages + +- **Compilation time**: TikZ processing can be slow for large posters +- **File size**: PDFs can be larger due to TikZ elements +- **Learning curve**: TikZ syntax can be complex for advanced customization +- **Less institutional theme support**: Requires more work to match branding + +### Basic Template + +```latex +\documentclass[25pt, a0paper, portrait, margin=0mm, innermargin=15mm, + blockverticalspace=15mm, colspace=15mm, subcolspace=8mm]{tikzposter} + +\title{Your Research Title} +\author{Author Names} +\institute{Institution} + +% Choose theme and color style +\usetheme{Rays} +\usecolorstyle{Denmark} + +\begin{document} + +\maketitle + +% First column +\begin{columns} + \column{0.5} + + \block{Introduction}{ + Your introduction text here... + } + + \block{Methods}{ + Your methods text here... + } + + % Second column + \column{0.5} + + \block{Results}{ + Your results text here... + \begin{tikzfigure} + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{figure.pdf} + \end{tikzfigure} + } + + \block{Conclusions}{ + Your conclusions here... + } + +\end{columns} + +\end{document} +``` + +### Available Themes + +```latex +% Modern with radiating background +\usetheme{Rays} + +% Clean with decorative wave +\usetheme{Wave} + +% Minimal with envelope corners +\usetheme{Envelope} + +% Traditional academic +\usetheme{Basic} + +% Board-style with texture +\usetheme{Board} + +% Clean minimal +\usetheme{Simple} + +% Professional with lines +\usetheme{Default} + +% Autumn color scheme +\usetheme{Autumn} + +% Desert color palette +\usetheme{Desert} +``` + +### Color Styles + +```latex +% Professional blue +\usecolorstyle{Denmark} + +% Warm colors +\usecolorstyle{Australia} + +% Cool tones +\usecolorstyle{Sweden} + +% Earth tones +\usecolorstyle{Britain} + +% Default color scheme +\usecolorstyle{Default} +``` + +### Custom Color Definition + +```latex +\definecolorstyle{CustomStyle}{ + \definecolor{colorOne}{RGB}{0,51,102} % Dark blue + \definecolor{colorTwo}{RGB}{255,204,0} % Gold + \definecolor{colorThree}{RGB}{204,0,0} % Red +}{ + % Background Colors + \colorlet{backgroundcolor}{white} + \colorlet{framecolor}{colorOne} + % Title Colors + \colorlet{titlefgcolor}{white} + \colorlet{titlebgcolor}{colorOne} + % Block Colors + \colorlet{blocktitlebgcolor}{colorOne} + \colorlet{blocktitlefgcolor}{white} + \colorlet{blockbodybgcolor}{white} + \colorlet{blockbodyfgcolor}{black} + % Innerblock Colors + \colorlet{innerblocktitlebgcolor}{colorTwo} + \colorlet{innerblocktitlefgcolor}{black} + \colorlet{innerblockbodybgcolor}{colorTwo!10} + \colorlet{innerblockbodyfgcolor}{black} + % Note colors + \colorlet{notefgcolor}{black} + \colorlet{notebgcolor}{colorThree!20} +} + +\usecolorstyle{CustomStyle} +``` + +### Block Placement and Sizing + +```latex +% Full-width block +\block{Title}{Content} + +% Specify width +\block[width=0.8\linewidth]{Title}{Content} + +% Position manually +\block[x=10, y=50, width=30]{Title}{Content} + +% Inner blocks (nested, different styling) +\block{Outer Title}{ + \innerblock{Inner Title}{ + Highlighted content + } +} + +% Note blocks (for emphasis) +\note[width=0.4\linewidth]{ + Important note text +} +``` + +### Advanced Features + +```latex +% QR codes with tikzposter styling +\block{Scan for More}{ + \begin{center} + \qrcode[height=5cm]{https://github.com/project}\\ + \vspace{0.5cm} + Visit our GitHub repository + \end{center} +} + +% Multi-column within block +\block{Results}{ + \begin{tabular}{cc} + \includegraphics[width=0.45\linewidth]{fig1.pdf} & + \includegraphics[width=0.45\linewidth]{fig2.pdf} + \end{tabular} +} + +% Custom TikZ graphics +\block{Methodology}{ + \begin{tikzpicture} + \node[draw, rectangle, fill=blue!20] (A) {Step 1}; + \node[draw, rectangle, fill=green!20, right=of A] (B) {Step 2}; + \draw[->, thick] (A) -- (B); + \end{tikzpicture} +} +``` + +## 3. baposter + +### Overview + +baposter (Box Area Poster) uses a box-based layout system with automatic positioning and spacing. Excellent for structured, professional multi-column layouts. + +### Advantages + +- **Automatic layout**: Intelligent box positioning and spacing +- **Professional defaults**: Clean, polished appearance out-of-the-box +- **Multi-column excellence**: Best-in-class column-based layouts +- **Header/footer boxes**: Easy institutional branding +- **Consistent spacing**: Automatic vertical and horizontal alignment +- **Print-ready**: Excellent CMYK support + +### Disadvantages + +- **Less flexible**: Box-based system can be constraining +- **Fewer themes**: Limited built-in theme options +- **Learning curve**: Unique syntax requires time to master +- **Less active development**: Smaller community compared to others + +### Basic Template + +```latex +\documentclass[a0paper,portrait]{baposter} + +\usepackage{graphicx} +\usepackage{multicol} + +\begin{document} + +\begin{poster}{ + % Options + grid=false, + columns=3, + colspacing=1em, + bgColorOne=white, + bgColorTwo=white, + borderColor=blue!50, + headerColorOne=blue!80, + headerColorTwo=blue!70, + headerFontColor=white, + boxColorOne=white, + boxColorTwo=blue!10, + textborder=roundedleft, + eyecatcher=true, + headerborder=open, + headerheight=0.12\textheight, + headershape=roundedright, + headershade=plain, + headerfont=\Large\sf\bf, + linewidth=2pt +} +% Eye Catcher (Logo) +{ + \includegraphics[height=6em]{logo.pdf} +} +% Title +{ + Your Research Title +} +% Authors +{ + Author Names\\ + Institution Name +} +% University Logo +{ + \includegraphics[height=6em]{university-logo.pdf} +} + +% First column boxes +\headerbox{Introduction}{name=intro,column=0,row=0}{ + Your introduction text here... +} + +\headerbox{Methods}{name=methods,column=0,below=intro}{ + Your methods text here... +} + +% Second column boxes +\headerbox{Results}{name=results,column=1,row=0,span=2}{ + Your results here... + \includegraphics[width=0.9\linewidth]{results.pdf} +} + +\headerbox{Analysis}{name=analysis,column=1,below=results}{ + Analysis details... +} + +\headerbox{Validation}{name=validation,column=2,below=results}{ + Validation results... +} + +% Bottom spanning box +\headerbox{Conclusions}{name=conclusions,column=0,span=3,above=bottom}{ + Your conclusions here... +} + +\end{poster} +\end{document} +``` + +### Box Positioning + +```latex +% Position by column and row +\headerbox{Title}{name=box1, column=0, row=0}{Content} + +% Position relative to other boxes +\headerbox{Title}{name=box2, column=0, below=box1}{Content} + +% Above another box +\headerbox{Title}{name=box3, column=1, above=bottom}{Content} + +% Span multiple columns +\headerbox{Title}{name=box4, column=0, span=2, row=0}{Content} + +% Between two boxes vertically +\headerbox{Title}{name=box5, column=0, below=box1, above=box3}{Content} + +% Aligned with another box +\headerbox{Title}{name=box6, column=1, aligned=box1}{Content} +``` + +### Styling Options + +```latex +\begin{poster}{ + % Grid and layout + grid=false, % Show layout grid (debug) + columns=3, % Number of columns + colspacing=1em, % Space between columns + + % Background + background=plain, % plain, shadetb, shadelr, user + bgColorOne=white, + bgColorTwo=lightgray, + + % Borders + borderColor=blue!50, + linewidth=2pt, + + % Header + headerColorOne=blue!80, + headerColorTwo=blue!70, + headerFontColor=white, + headerheight=0.12\textheight, + headershape=roundedright, % rectangle, rounded, roundedright, roundedleft + headershade=plain, % plain, shadetb, shadelr + headerborder=open, % open, closed + + % Boxes + boxColorOne=white, + boxColorTwo=blue!10, + boxshade=plain, % plain, shadetb, shadelr + textborder=roundedleft, % none, rectangle, rounded, roundedleft, roundedright + + % Eye catcher + eyecatcher=true +} +``` + +### Color Schemes + +```latex +% Professional blue +\begin{poster}{ + headerColorOne=blue!80, + headerColorTwo=blue!70, + boxColorTwo=blue!10, + borderColor=blue!50 +} + +% Academic green +\begin{poster}{ + headerColorOne=green!70!black, + headerColorTwo=green!60!black, + boxColorTwo=green!10, + borderColor=green!50 +} + +% Corporate gray +\begin{poster}{ + headerColorOne=gray!60, + headerColorTwo=gray!50, + boxColorTwo=gray!10, + borderColor=gray!40 +} +``` + +## Package Selection Guide + +### Choose beamerposter if: +- ✅ You're already familiar with Beamer +- ✅ You need to match institutional Beamer themes +- ✅ You prefer traditional academic aesthetics +- ✅ You want extensive theme options +- ✅ You need fast compilation times +- ✅ You're creating posters for conservative academic conferences + +### Choose tikzposter if: +- ✅ You want modern, colorful designs +- ✅ You plan to create custom graphics with TikZ +- ✅ You value aesthetic flexibility +- ✅ You want built-in professional themes +- ✅ You don't mind slightly longer compilation +- ✅ You're presenting at design-conscious or public-facing events + +### Choose baposter if: +- ✅ You need structured multi-column layouts +- ✅ You want automatic box positioning +- ✅ You prefer clean, professional defaults +- ✅ You need precise control over box relationships +- ✅ You're creating posters with many sections +- ✅ You value consistent spacing and alignment + +## Conversion Between Packages + +### From beamerposter to tikzposter + +```latex +% beamerposter +\begin{block}{Title} + Content +\end{block} + +% tikzposter equivalent +\block{Title}{ + Content +} +``` + +### From beamerposter to baposter + +```latex +% beamerposter +\begin{block}{Introduction} + Content +\end{block} + +% baposter equivalent +\headerbox{Introduction}{name=intro, column=0, row=0}{ + Content +} +``` + +### From tikzposter to baposter + +```latex +% tikzposter +\block{Methods}{ + Content +} + +% baposter equivalent +\headerbox{Methods}{name=methods, column=0, row=0}{ + Content +} +``` + +## Compilation Tips + +### Faster Compilation + +```bash +# Use draft mode for initial edits +\documentclass[draft]{tikzposter} + +# Compile with faster engines when possible +pdflatex -interaction=nonstopmode poster.tex + +# For tikzposter, use externalization to cache TikZ graphics +\usetikzlibrary{external} +\tikzexternalize +``` + +### Memory Issues + +```latex +% Increase TeX memory for large posters +% Add to poster preamble: +\pdfminorversion=7 +\pdfobjcompresslevel=2 +``` + +### Font Embedding + +```bash +# Ensure fonts are embedded (required for printing) +pdflatex -dEmbedAllFonts=true poster.tex + +# Check font embedding +pdffonts poster.pdf +``` + +## Hybrid Approaches + +You can combine strengths of different packages: + +### beamerposter with TikZ Graphics + +```latex +\documentclass[final]{beamer} +\usepackage[size=a0]{beamerposter} +\usepackage{tikz} + +\begin{block}{Flowchart} + \begin{tikzpicture} + % Custom TikZ graphics within beamerposter + \end{tikzpicture} +\end{block} +``` + +### tikzposter with Beamer Themes + +```latex +\documentclass{tikzposter} + +% Import specific Beamer color definitions +\definecolor{beamerblue}{RGB}{0,51,102} +\colorlet{blocktitlebgcolor}{beamerblue} +``` + +## Recommended Packages for All Systems + +```latex +% Essential packages for any poster +\usepackage{graphicx} % Images +\usepackage{amsmath,amssymb} % Math symbols +\usepackage{booktabs} % Professional tables +\usepackage{multicol} % Multiple columns in text +\usepackage{qrcode} % QR codes +\usepackage{hyperref} % Hyperlinks +\usepackage{caption} % Caption customization +\usepackage{subcaption} % Subfigures +``` + +## Performance Comparison + +| Package | Compile Time (A0) | PDF Size | Memory Usage | +|---------|-------------------|----------|--------------| +| beamerposter | ~5-10 seconds | 2-5 MB | Low | +| tikzposter | ~15-30 seconds | 5-15 MB | Medium-High | +| baposter | ~8-15 seconds | 3-8 MB | Medium | + +*Note: Times for poster with 5 figures, typical conference content* + +## Conclusion + +All three packages are excellent choices for different scenarios: + +- **beamerposter**: Best for traditional academic settings and Beamer users +- **tikzposter**: Best for modern, visually striking presentations +- **baposter**: Best for structured, professional multi-section posters + +Choose based on your specific needs, aesthetic preferences, and time constraints. When in doubt, start with tikzposter for modern conferences or beamerposter for traditional academic venues. + diff --git a/references/poster_content_guide.md b/references/poster_content_guide.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..dd97de4 --- /dev/null +++ b/references/poster_content_guide.md @@ -0,0 +1,748 @@ +# Research Poster Content Guide + +## Overview + +Content is king in research posters. This guide covers writing strategies, section-specific guidance, visual-text balance, and best practices for communicating research effectively in poster format. + +## Core Content Principles + +### 1. The 3-5 Minute Rule + +**Reality**: Most viewers spend 3-5 minutes at your poster +- **1 minute**: Scanning from distance (title, figures) +- **2-4 minutes**: Reading key points up close +- **5+ minutes**: Engaged conversation (if interested) + +**Design Implication**: Poster must work at three levels: +1. **Distance view** (6-10 feet): Title and main figure visible +2. **Browse view** (3-6 feet): Section headers and key results readable +3. **Detail view** (1-3 feet): Full content accessible + +### 2. Tell a Story, Not a Paper + +**Poster ≠ Condensed Paper** + +**Paper approach** (❌): +- Comprehensive literature review +- Detailed methodology +- All results presented +- Lengthy discussion +- 50+ references + +**Poster approach** (✅): +- One sentence background +- Visual methods diagram +- 3-5 key results +- 3-4 bullet point conclusions +- 5-10 key references + +**Story Arc for Posters**: +``` +Hook (Problem) → Approach → Discovery → Impact +``` + +**Example**: +- **Hook**: "Antibiotic resistance threatens millions of lives annually" +- **Approach**: "We developed an AI system to predict resistance patterns" +- **Discovery**: "Our model achieves 87% accuracy, 20% better than existing methods" +- **Impact**: "Could reduce treatment failures by identifying resistance earlier" + +### 3. The 800-Word Maximum + +**Word Count Guidelines**: +- **Ideal**: 300-500 words +- **Maximum**: 800 words +- **Hard limit**: 1000 words (beyond this, poster is unreadable) + +**Word Budget by Section**: +| Section | Word Count | % of Total | +|---------|-----------|------------| +| Introduction/Background | 50-100 | 15% | +| Methods | 100-150 | 25% | +| Results (text) | 100-200 | 25% | +| Discussion/Conclusions | 100-150 | 25% | +| References/Acknowledgments | 50-100 | 10% | + +**Counting Tool**: +```latex +% Add word count to poster (remove for final) +\usepackage{texcount} +% Compile with: texcount -inc poster.tex +``` + +### 4. Visual-to-Text Ratio + +**Optimal Balance**: 40-50% visual content, 50-60% text+white space + +**Visual Content Includes**: +- Figures and graphs +- Photos and images +- Diagrams and flowcharts +- Icons and symbols +- Color blocks and design elements + +**Too Text-Heavy** (❌): +- Wall of text +- Small figures +- Intimidating to viewers +- Low engagement + +**Well-Balanced** (✅): +- Clear figures dominate +- Text supports visuals +- Easy to scan +- Inviting appearance + +## Section-Specific Content Guidance + +### Title + +**Purpose**: Capture attention, convey topic, establish credibility + +**Characteristics of Effective Titles**: +- **Concise**: 10-15 words maximum +- **Descriptive**: Clearly states research topic +- **Active**: Uses strong verbs when possible +- **Specific**: Avoids vague terms +- **Jargon-aware**: Balances field-specific terms with accessibility + +**Title Formulas**: + +**1. Descriptive**: +``` +[Method/Approach] for [Problem/Application] + +Example: "Deep Learning for Early Detection of Alzheimer's Disease" +``` + +**2. Question**: +``` +[Research Question]? + +Example: "Can Microbiome Diversity Predict Treatment Response?" +``` + +**3. Assertion**: +``` +[Finding] in [Context] + +Example: "Novel Mechanism Identified in Drug Resistance Pathways" +``` + +**4. Colon Format**: +``` +[Topic]: [Specific Approach/Finding] + +Example: "Urban Heat Islands: A Machine Learning Framework for Mitigation" +``` + +**Avoid**: +- ❌ Generic titles: "A Study of X" +- ❌ Overly cute or clever wordplay (confuses message) +- ❌ Excessive jargon: "Utilization of CRISPR-Cas9..." +- ❌ Unnecessarily long: "Investigation of the potential role of..." + +**LaTeX Title Formatting**: +```latex +% Emphasize key words with bold +\title{Deep Learning for \textbf{Early Detection} of Alzheimer's Disease} + +% Two-line titles for long names +\title{Machine Learning Framework for\\Urban Heat Island Mitigation} + +% Avoid ALL CAPS (harder to read) +``` + +### Authors and Affiliations + +**Best Practices**: +- **Presenting author**: Bold, underline, or asterisk +- **Corresponding author**: Include email +- **Affiliations**: Superscript numbers or symbols +- **Institutional logos**: 2-4 maximum + +**Format Examples**: +```latex +% Simple format +\author{\textbf{Jane Smith}\textsuperscript{1}, John Doe\textsuperscript{2}} +\institute{ + \textsuperscript{1}University of Example, + \textsuperscript{2}Research Institute +} + +% With contact +\author{Jane Smith\textsuperscript{1,*}} +\institute{ + \textsuperscript{1}Department, University\\ + \textsuperscript{*}jane.smith@university.edu +} +``` + +### Introduction/Background + +**Purpose**: Establish context, motivate research, state objective + +**Structure** (50-100 words): +1. **Problem statement** (1-2 sentences): What's the issue? +2. **Knowledge gap** (1-2 sentences): What's unknown/unsolved? +3. **Research objective** (1 sentence): What did you do? + +**Example** (95 words): +``` +Antibiotic resistance causes 700,000 deaths annually, projected to reach +10 million by 2050. Current diagnostic methods require 48-72 hours, +delaying appropriate treatment. Machine learning offers potential for +rapid resistance prediction, but existing models lack generalizability +across bacterial species. + +We developed a transformer-based deep learning model to predict antibiotic +resistance from genomic sequences across multiple pathogen species. Our +approach integrates evolutionary information and protein structure to +improve cross-species accuracy. +``` + +**Visual Support**: +- Conceptual diagram showing problem +- Infographic with statistics +- Image of application context + +**Common Mistakes**: +- ❌ Extensive literature review +- ❌ Too much background detail +- ❌ Undefined acronyms at first use +- ❌ Missing clear objective statement + +### Methods + +**Purpose**: Describe approach sufficiently for understanding (not replication) + +**Key Question**: "How did you do it?" not "How could someone else replicate it?" + +**Content Strategy**: +- **Prioritize**: Visual methods diagram > text description +- **Include**: Study design, key procedures, analysis approach +- **Omit**: Detailed protocols, routine procedures, specific reagent details + +**Visual Methods (Highly Recommended)**: +```latex +% Flowchart of study design +\begin{tikzpicture}[node distance=2cm] + \node (start) [box] {Data Collection\\n=1,000 samples}; + \node (process) [box, below of=start] {Preprocessing\\Quality Control}; + \node (analysis) [box, below of=process] {Statistical Analysis\\Mixed Models}; + \node (end) [box, below of=analysis] {Validation\\Independent Cohort}; + + \draw [arrow] (start) -- (process); + \draw [arrow] (process) -- (analysis); + \draw [arrow] (analysis) -- (end); +\end{tikzpicture} +``` + +**Text Methods** (50-150 words): + +**For Experimental Studies**: +``` +Methods +• Study design: Randomized controlled trial (n=200) +• Participants: Adults aged 18-65 with Type 2 diabetes +• Intervention: 12-week exercise program vs. standard care +• Outcomes: HbA1c (primary), insulin sensitivity (secondary) +• Analysis: Linear mixed models, intention-to-treat +``` + +**For Computational Studies**: +``` +Methods +• Dataset: 10,000 labeled images from ImageNet +• Architecture: ResNet-50 with custom attention mechanism +• Training: 100 epochs, Adam optimizer, learning rate 0.001 +• Validation: 5-fold cross-validation +• Comparison: Baseline CNN, VGG-16, Inception-v3 +``` + +**Format Options**: +- **Bullet points**: Quick scanning (recommended) +- **Numbered list**: Sequential procedures +- **Diagram + brief text**: Ideal combination +- **Table**: Multiple conditions or parameters + +### Results + +**Purpose**: Present key findings visually and clearly + +**Golden Rule**: Show, don't tell + +**Content Allocation**: +- **Figures**: 70-80% of Results section +- **Text**: 20-30% (brief descriptions, statistics) + +**How Many Results**: +- **Ideal**: 3-5 main findings +- **Maximum**: 6-7 distinct results +- **Focus**: Primary outcomes, most impactful findings + +**Figure Selection Criteria**: +1. Does it support the main message? +2. Is it self-explanatory with caption? +3. Can it be understood in 10 seconds? +4. Does it add information beyond text? + +**Figure Captions**: +- **Descriptive**: Explain what is shown +- **Standalone**: Understandable without reading full poster +- **Statistical**: Include significance indicators, sample sizes +- **Concise**: 1-3 sentences + +**Example Caption**: +```latex +\caption{Treatment significantly improved outcomes. +Mean±SD shown for control (blue, n=45) and treatment (orange, n=47) groups. +**p<0.01, ***p<0.001 (two-tailed t-test).} +``` + +**Text Support for Results** (100-200 words): +- State main finding per figure +- Include key statistics +- Note trends or patterns +- Avoid detailed interpretation (save for Discussion) + +**Example Results Text**: +``` +Key Findings +• Model achieved 87% accuracy on test set (vs. 73% baseline) +• Performance consistent across 5 bacterial species (p<0.001) +• Prediction speed: <30 seconds per isolate +• Feature importance: protein structure (42%), sequence (35%), + evolutionary conservation (23%) +``` + +**Data Presentation Formats**: + +**1. Bar Charts**: Comparing categories +```latex +\begin{tikzpicture} + \begin{axis}[ + ybar, + ylabel=Accuracy (\%), + symbolic x coords={Baseline, Model A, Our Method}, + xtick=data, + nodes near coords + ] + \addplot coordinates {(Baseline,73) (Model A,81) (Our Method,87)}; + \end{axis} +\end{tikzpicture} +``` + +**2. Line Graphs**: Trends over time +**3. Scatter Plots**: Correlations +**4. Heatmaps**: Matrix data, clustering +**5. Box Plots**: Distributions, comparisons +**6. ROC Curves**: Classification performance + +### Discussion/Conclusions + +**Purpose**: Interpret findings, state implications, acknowledge limitations + +**Structure** (100-150 words): + +**1. Main Conclusions** (50-75 words): +- 3-5 bullet points +- Clear, specific takeaways +- Linked to research objectives + +**Example**: +``` +Conclusions +• First cross-species model for antibiotic resistance prediction + achieving >85% accuracy +• Protein structure integration critical for generalizability + (improved accuracy by 14%) +• Prediction speed enables clinical decision support within + consultation timeframe +• Potential to reduce inappropriate antibiotic use by 20-30% +``` + +**2. Limitations** (25-50 words, optional but recommended): +- Acknowledge key constraints +- Brief, honest +- Shows scientific rigor + +**Example**: +``` +Limitations +• Training data limited to 5 bacterial species +• Requires genomic sequencing (not widely available) +• Validation needed in prospective clinical trials +``` + +**3. Future Directions** (25-50 words, optional): +- Next steps +- Broader implications +- Call to action + +**Example**: +``` +Next Steps +• Expand to 20+ additional species +• Develop point-of-care sequencing integration +• Launch multi-center clinical validation study (2025) +``` + +**Avoid**: +- ❌ Overstating findings: "This revolutionary breakthrough..." +- ❌ Extensive comparison to other work +- ❌ New results in Discussion +- ❌ Vague conclusions: "Further research is needed" + +### References + +**How Many**: 5-10 key citations + +**Selection Criteria**: +- Include seminal work in the field +- Recent relevant studies (last 5 years) +- Methods cited in your poster +- Controversial claims that need support + +**Format**: Abbreviated, consistent style + +**Examples**: + +**Numbered (Vancouver)**: +``` +References +1. Smith et al. (2023). Nature. 615:234-240. +2. Jones & Lee (2024). Science. 383:112-118. +3. Chen et al. (2022). Cell. 185:456-470. +``` + +**Author-Year (APA)**: +``` +References +Smith, J. et al. (2023). Title. Nature, 615, 234-240. +Jones, A., & Lee, B. (2024). Title. Science, 383, 112-118. +``` + +**Minimal (For Space Constraints)**: +``` +Key References: Smith (Nature 2023), Jones (Science 2024), +Chen (Cell 2022). Full bibliography: [QR Code] +``` + +**Alternative**: QR code linking to full reference list + +### Acknowledgments + +**Include**: +- Funding sources (with grant numbers) +- Major collaborators +- Core facilities used +- Dataset sources + +**Format** (25-50 words): +``` +Acknowledgments +Funded by NIH Grant R01-123456 and NSF Award 7890123. +We thank Dr. X for data access, the Y Core Facility for +sequencing, and Z for helpful discussions. +``` + +### Contact Information + +**Essential Elements**: +- Name of presenting/corresponding author +- Email address +- Optional: Lab website, Twitter/X, LinkedIn, ORCID + +**Format**: +``` +Contact: Jane Smith, jane.smith@university.edu +Lab: smithlab.university.edu | Twitter: @smithlab +``` + +**QR Code Alternative**: +- Link to personal/lab website +- Link to paper preprint/publication +- Link to code repository (GitHub) +- Link to supplementary materials + +## Writing Style for Posters + +### Active vs. Passive Voice + +**Prefer Active Voice** (more engaging, clearer): +- ✅ "We developed a model..." +- ✅ "The treatment reduced symptoms..." + +**Passive Voice** (when appropriate): +- ✅ "Samples were collected from..." +- ✅ "Data were analyzed using..." + +### Sentence Length + +**Keep Sentences Short**: +- **Ideal**: 10-15 words per sentence +- **Maximum**: 20-25 words +- **Avoid**: >30 words (hard to follow) + +**Example Revision**: +- ❌ Long: "We performed a comprehensive analysis of gene expression data from 500 patients with colorectal cancer using RNA sequencing and identified 47 differentially expressed genes associated with treatment response." (31 words) +- ✅ Short: "We analyzed RNA sequencing data from 500 colorectal cancer patients. We identified 47 genes associated with treatment response." (19 words total, two sentences) + +### Bullet Points vs. Paragraphs + +**Use Bullet Points For**: +- ✅ Lists of items or findings +- ✅ Key conclusions +- ✅ Methods steps +- ✅ Study characteristics + +**Use Short Paragraphs For**: +- ✅ Narrative flow (Introduction) +- ✅ Complex explanations +- ✅ Connected ideas + +**Bullet Point Best Practices**: +- Start with action verbs or nouns +- Parallel structure throughout list +- 3-7 bullets per list (not too many) +- Brief (1-2 lines each) + +**Example**: +``` +Methods +• Participants: 200 adults (18-65 years) +• Design: Double-blind RCT (12 weeks) +• Intervention: Daily 30-min exercise +• Control: Standard care +• Analysis: Mixed models (SPSS v.28) +``` + +### Acronyms and Jargon + +**First Use Rule**: Define at first appearance +``` +We used machine learning (ML) to analyze... Later, ML predicted... +``` + +**Common Acronyms**: May not need definition if universal to field +- DNA, RNA, MRI, CT, PCR (in biomedical context) +- AI, ML, CNN (in computer science context) + +**Avoid Excessive Jargon**: +- ❌ "Utilized" → ✅ "Used" +- ❌ "Implement utilization of" → ✅ "Use" +- ❌ "A majority of" → ✅ "Most" + +### Numbers and Statistics + +**Present Statistics Clearly**: +- Always include measure of variability (SD, SE, CI) +- Report sample sizes: n=50 +- Indicate significance: p<0.05, p<0.01, p<0.001 +- Use symbols consistently: * for p<0.05, ** for p<0.01 + +**Format Numbers**: +- Round appropriately (avoid false precision) +- Use consistent decimal places +- Include units: 25 mg/dL, 37°C +- Large numbers: 1,000 or 1000 (be consistent) + +**Example**: +``` +Treatment increased response by 23.5% (95% CI: 18.2-28.8%, p<0.001, n=150) +``` + +## Visual-Text Integration + +### Figure-Text Relationship + +**Figure First, Text Second**: +1. Design poster around key figures +2. Add text to support and explain visuals +3. Ensure figures can stand alone + +**Text Placement Relative to Figures**: +- **Above**: Context, "What you're about to see" +- **Below**: Explanation, statistics, caption +- **Beside**: Comparison, interpretation + +### Callouts and Annotations + +**On-Figure Annotations**: +```latex +\begin{tikzpicture} + \node[inner sep=0] (img) {\includegraphics[width=10cm]{figure.pdf}}; + \draw[->, thick, red] (8,5) -- (6,3) node[left] {Key region}; + \draw[red, thick] (3,2) circle (1cm) node[above=1.2cm] {Anomaly}; +\end{tikzpicture} +``` + +**Callout Boxes**: +```latex +\begin{tcolorbox}[colback=yellow!10, colframe=orange!80, + title=Key Finding] +Our method reduces errors by 34\% compared to state-of-the-art. +\end{tcolorbox} +``` + +### Icons for Section Headers + +**Visual Section Markers**: +```latex +\usepackage{fontawesome5} + +\block{\faFlask~Introduction}{...} +\block{\faCog~Methods}{...} +\block{\faChartBar~Results}{...} +\block{\faLightbulb~Conclusions}{...} +``` + +## Content Adaptation Strategies + +### From Paper to Poster + +**Condensation Process**: + +**1. Identify Core Message** (The Elevator Pitch): +- What's the one thing you want people to remember? +- If you had 30 seconds, what would you say? + +**2. Select Key Results**: +- Choose 3-5 most impactful findings +- Omit supporting/secondary results +- Focus on figures with strong visual impact + +**3. Simplify Methods**: +- Visual flowchart > text description +- Omit routine procedures +- Include only essential parameters + +**4. Trim Literature Review**: +- One sentence background +- One sentence gap/motivation +- One sentence your contribution + +**5. Condense Discussion**: +- Main conclusions only +- Brief limitations +- One sentence future direction + +### For Different Audiences + +**Specialist Audience** (Same Field): +- Can use field-specific jargon +- Less background needed +- Focus on novel methodology +- Emphasize nuanced findings + +**General Scientific Audience**: +- Define key terms +- More context/background +- Broader implications +- Visual metaphors helpful + +**Public/Lay Audience**: +- Minimal jargon, all defined +- Extensive context +- Real-world applications +- Analogies and simple language + +**Example Adaptation**: + +**Specialist**: "CRISPR-Cas9 knockout of BRCA1 induced synthetic lethality with PARP inhibitors" + +**General**: "We used gene editing to make cancer cells vulnerable to existing drugs" + +**Public**: "We found a way to make cancer treatments work better by targeting specific genetic weaknesses" + +## Quality Control Checklist + +### Content Review + +**Clarity**: +- [ ] Main message immediately clear +- [ ] All acronyms defined +- [ ] Sentences short and direct +- [ ] No unnecessary jargon + +**Completeness**: +- [ ] Research question/objective stated +- [ ] Methods sufficiently described +- [ ] Key results presented +- [ ] Conclusions drawn +- [ ] Limitations acknowledged + +**Accuracy**: +- [ ] All statistics correct +- [ ] Figure captions accurate +- [ ] References properly cited +- [ ] No overstated claims + +**Engagement**: +- [ ] Compelling title +- [ ] Visual interest +- [ ] Clear take-home message +- [ ] Conversation starters + +### Readability Testing + +**Distance Test**: +- Print at 25% scale +- View from 2-3 feet (simulates 8-12 feet for full poster) +- Can you read: Title? Section headers? Body text? + +**Scan Test**: +- Give poster to colleague for 30 seconds +- Ask: "What is this poster about?" +- They should identify: Topic, approach, main finding + +**Detail Test**: +- Ask colleague to read poster thoroughly (5 min) +- Ask: "What are the key conclusions?" +- Verify understanding matches your intent + +## Common Content Mistakes + +**1. Too Much Text** +- ❌ >1000 words +- ❌ Long paragraphs +- ❌ Full paper condensed +- ✅ 300-800 words, bullet points, key findings only + +**2. Unclear Message** +- ❌ Multiple unrelated findings +- ❌ No clear conclusion +- ❌ Vague implications +- ✅ 1-3 main points, explicit conclusions + +**3. Methods Overkill** +- ❌ Detailed protocols +- ❌ All parameters listed +- ❌ Routine procedures described +- ✅ Visual flowchart, key details only + +**4. Poor Figure Integration** +- ❌ Figures without context +- ❌ Unclear captions +- ❌ Text doesn't reference figures +- ✅ Figures central, well-captioned, text integrated + +**5. Missing Context** +- ❌ No background +- ❌ Undefined acronyms +- ❌ Assumes expert knowledge +- ✅ Brief context, definitions, accessible to broader audience + +## Conclusion + +Effective poster content: +- **Concise**: 300-800 words maximum +- **Visual**: 40-50% figures and graphics +- **Clear**: One main message, 3-5 key findings +- **Engaging**: Compelling story, not just facts +- **Accessible**: Appropriate for target audience +- **Actionable**: Clear implications and next steps + +Remember: Your poster is a conversation starter, not a comprehensive treatise. Design content to intrigue, engage, and invite discussion. + diff --git a/references/poster_design_principles.md b/references/poster_design_principles.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..2454bff --- /dev/null +++ b/references/poster_design_principles.md @@ -0,0 +1,806 @@ +# Research Poster Design Principles + +## Overview + +Effective poster design balances visual appeal, readability, and scientific content. This guide covers typography, color theory, visual hierarchy, accessibility, and evidence-based design principles for research posters. + +## Core Design Principles + +### 1. Visual Hierarchy + +Guide viewers through content in logical order using size, color, position, and contrast. + +**Hierarchy Levels**: + +1. **Primary (Title)**: Largest, most prominent + - Size: 72-120pt + - Position: Top center or top spanning + - Weight: Bold + - Purpose: Capture attention from 20+ feet + +2. **Secondary (Section Headers)**: Organize content + - Size: 48-72pt + - Weight: Bold or semi-bold + - Purpose: Section navigation, readable from 10 feet + +3. **Tertiary (Body Text)**: Main content + - Size: 24-36pt minimum + - Weight: Regular + - Purpose: Detailed information, readable from 4-6 feet + +4. **Quaternary (Captions, References)**: Supporting info + - Size: 18-24pt + - Weight: Regular or light + - Purpose: Context and attribution + +**Implementation**: +```latex +% Define hierarchy in LaTeX +\setbeamerfont{title}{size=\VeryHuge,series=\bfseries} % 90pt+ +\setbeamerfont{block title}{size=\Huge,series=\bfseries} % 60pt +\setbeamerfont{block body}{size=\LARGE} % 30pt +\setbeamerfont{caption}{size=\large} % 24pt +``` + +### 2. White Space (Negative Space) + +Empty space is not wasted space—it enhances readability and guides attention. + +**White Space Functions**: +- **Breathing room**: Prevents overwhelming viewers +- **Grouping**: Shows which elements belong together +- **Focus**: Draws attention to important elements +- **Flow**: Creates visual pathways through content + +**Guidelines**: +- Minimum 5-10% margins on all sides +- Consistent spacing between blocks (1-2cm) +- Space around figures equal to or greater than border width +- Group related items closely, separate unrelated items +- Don't fill every inch—aim for 40-60% text coverage + +**LaTeX Implementation**: +```latex +% beamerposter spacing +\setbeamertemplate{block begin}{ + \vskip2ex % Space before block + ... +} + +% tikzposter spacing +\documentclass[..., blockverticalspace=15mm, colspace=15mm]{tikzposter} + +% Manual spacing +\vspace{2cm} % Vertical space +\hspace{1cm} % Horizontal space +``` + +### 3. Alignment and Grid Systems + +Proper alignment creates professional, organized appearance. + +**Alignment Types**: +- **Left-aligned text**: Most readable for body text (Western audiences) +- **Center-aligned**: Headers, titles, symmetric layouts +- **Right-aligned**: Rarely used, special cases only +- **Justified**: Avoid (creates uneven spacing) + +**Grid Systems**: +- **2-column**: Simple, traditional, good for narrative flow +- **3-column**: Most common, balanced, versatile +- **4-column**: Complex, information-dense, requires careful design +- **Asymmetric**: Creative, modern, requires expertise + +**Best Practices**: +- Align block edges to invisible grid lines +- Keep consistent column widths (unless intentionally asymmetric) +- Align similar elements (all figures, all text blocks) +- Use consistent margins throughout + +### 4. Visual Flow and Reading Patterns + +Design for natural eye movement and logical content progression. + +**Common Reading Patterns**: + +**Z-Pattern (Landscape posters)**: +``` +Start → → → Top Right + ↓ +Middle Left → → Middle + ↓ +Bottom Left → → → End +``` + +**F-Pattern (Portrait posters)**: +``` +Title → → → → +↓ +Section 1 → → +↓ +Section 2 → → +↓ +Section 3 → → +↓ +Conclusion → → +``` + +**Gutenberg Diagram**: +``` +Primary Area Strong Fallow +(top-left) (top-right) + ↓ ↓ +Weak Fallow Terminal Area +(bottom-left) (bottom-right) +``` + +**Implementation Strategy**: +1. Place most important content in "hot zones" (top-left, center) +2. Create visual paths with arrows, lines, or color +3. Use numbering for sequential information (Methods steps) +4. Design left-to-right, top-to-bottom flow (Western audiences) +5. Position conclusions prominently (bottom-right is natural endpoint) + +## Typography + +### Font Selection + +**Recommended Fonts**: + +**Sans-Serif (Recommended for posters)**: +- **Helvetica**: Clean, professional, widely available +- **Arial**: Similar to Helvetica, universal compatibility +- **Calibri**: Modern, friendly, good readability +- **Open Sans**: Contemporary, excellent web and print +- **Roboto**: Modern, Google design, highly readable +- **Lato**: Warm, professional, works at all sizes + +**Serif (Use sparingly)**: +- **Times New Roman**: Traditional, formal +- **Garamond**: Elegant, good for humanities +- **Georgia**: Designed for screens, readable + +**Avoid**: +- ❌ Comic Sans (unprofessional) +- ❌ Decorative or script fonts (illegible from distance) +- ❌ Mixing more than 2-3 font families + +**LaTeX Implementation**: +```latex +% Helvetica (sans-serif) +\usepackage{helvet} +\renewcommand{\familydefault}{\sfdefault} + +% Arial-like +\usepackage{avant} +\renewcommand{\familydefault}{\sfdefault} + +% Modern fonts with fontspec (requires LuaLaTeX/XeLaTeX) +\usepackage{fontspec} +\setmainfont{Helvetica Neue} +\setsansfont{Open Sans} +``` + +### Font Sizing + +**Absolute Minimum Sizes** (readable from 4-6 feet): +- Title: 72pt+ (85-120pt recommended) +- Section headers: 48-72pt +- Body text: 24-36pt (30pt+ recommended) +- Captions/small text: 18-24pt +- References: 16-20pt minimum + +**Testing Readability**: +- Print at 25% scale +- Read from 2-3 feet distance +- If legible, full-scale poster will be readable from 8-12 feet + +**Size Conversion**: +| LaTeX Command | Approximate Size | Use Case | +|---------------|------------------|----------| +| `\tiny` | 10pt | Avoid on posters | +| `\small` | 16pt | Minimal use only | +| `\normalsize` | 20pt | References (scaled up) | +| `\large` | 24pt | Captions, small text | +| `\Large` | 28pt | Body text (minimum) | +| `\LARGE` | 32pt | Body text (recommended) | +| `\huge` | 36pt | Subheadings | +| `\Huge` | 48pt | Section headers | +| `\VeryHuge` | 72pt+ | Title | + +### Text Formatting Best Practices + +**Use**: +- ✅ **Bold** for emphasis and headers +- ✅ Short paragraphs (3-5 lines maximum) +- ✅ Bullet points for lists +- ✅ Adequate line spacing (1.2-1.5) +- ✅ High contrast (dark text on light background) + +**Avoid**: +- ❌ Italics from distance (hard to read) +- ❌ ALL CAPS FOR LONG TEXT (SLOW TO READ) +- ❌ Underlines (old-fashioned, interferes with descenders) +- ❌ Long paragraphs (> 6 lines) +- ❌ Light text on light backgrounds + +**Line Spacing**: +```latex +% Increase line spacing for readability +\usepackage{setspace} +\setstretch{1.3} % 1.3x normal spacing + +% Or in specific blocks +\begin{spacing}{1.5} + Your text here with extra spacing +\end{spacing} +``` + +## Color Theory for Posters + +### Color Psychology and Meaning + +Colors convey meaning and affect viewer perception: + +| Color | Associations | Use Cases | +|-------|--------------|-----------| +| **Blue** | Trust, professionalism, science | Academic, medical, technology | +| **Green** | Nature, health, growth | Environmental, biology, health | +| **Red** | Energy, urgency, passion | Attention, warnings, bold statements | +| **Orange** | Creativity, enthusiasm | Innovative research, friendly approach | +| **Purple** | Wisdom, creativity, luxury | Humanities, arts, premium research | +| **Gray** | Neutral, professional, modern | Technology, minimal designs | +| **Yellow** | Optimism, attention, caution | Highlights, energy, caution areas | + +### Color Scheme Types + +**1. Monochromatic**: Variations of single hue +- **Pros**: Harmonious, professional, easy to execute +- **Cons**: Can be boring, less visual interest +- **Use**: Conservative conferences, institutional branding + +```latex +% Monochromatic blue scheme +\definecolor{darkblue}{RGB}{0,51,102} +\definecolor{medblue}{RGB}{51,102,153} +\definecolor{lightblue}{RGB}{204,229,255} +``` + +**2. Analogous**: Adjacent colors on color wheel +- **Pros**: Harmonious, visually comfortable +- **Cons**: Low contrast, may lack excitement +- **Use**: Nature/biology topics, smooth gradients + +```latex +% Analogous blue-green scheme +\definecolor{blue}{RGB}{0,102,204} +\definecolor{teal}{RGB}{0,153,153} +\definecolor{green}{RGB}{51,153,102} +``` + +**3. Complementary**: Opposite colors on wheel +- **Pros**: High contrast, vibrant, energetic +- **Cons**: Can be overwhelming if intense +- **Use**: Drawing attention, modern designs + +```latex +% Complementary blue-orange scheme +\definecolor{primary}{RGB}{0,71,171} % Blue +\definecolor{accent}{RGB}{255,127,0} % Orange +``` + +**4. Triadic**: Three evenly spaced colors +- **Pros**: Balanced, vibrant, visually rich +- **Cons**: Can appear busy if not balanced +- **Use**: Multi-topic posters, creative fields + +```latex +% Triadic scheme +\definecolor{blue}{RGB}{0,102,204} +\definecolor{red}{RGB}{204,0,51} +\definecolor{yellow}{RGB}{255,204,0} +``` + +**5. Split-Complementary**: Base + two adjacent to complement +- **Pros**: High contrast but less tense than complementary +- **Cons**: Complex to balance +- **Use**: Sophisticated designs, experienced designers + +### High-Contrast Combinations + +Ensure readability with sufficient contrast: + +**Excellent Contrast (Use these)**: +- Dark blue on white +- Black on white +- White on dark blue/green/purple +- Dark gray on light yellow +- Black on light cyan + +**Poor Contrast (Avoid)**: +- ❌ Red on green (color-blind issue) +- ❌ Yellow on white +- ❌ Light gray on white +- ❌ Blue on black (hard to read) +- ❌ Any pure colors on each other + +**Contrast Ratio Standards**: +- Minimum: 4.5:1 (WCAG AA) +- Recommended: 7:1 (WCAG AAA) +- Test at: https://webaim.org/resources/contrastchecker/ + +**LaTeX Color Contrast**: +```latex +% High contrast header +\setbeamercolor{block title}{bg=black, fg=white} + +% Medium contrast body +\setbeamercolor{block body}{bg=gray!10, fg=black} + +% Check contrast manually or use online tools +``` + +### Color-Blind Friendly Palettes + +~8% of males and ~0.5% of females have color vision deficiency. + +**Safe Color Combinations**: +- Blue + Orange (most universally distinguishable) +- Blue + Yellow +- Blue + Red +- Purple + Green (use with caution) + +**Avoid**: +- ❌ Red + Green (indistinguishable to most common color blindness) +- ❌ Green + Brown +- ❌ Blue + Purple (can be problematic) +- ❌ Light green + Yellow + +**Recommended Palettes**: + +**IBM Color Blind Safe** (excellent accessibility): +```latex +\definecolor{ibmblue}{RGB}{100,143,255} +\definecolor{ibmmagenta}{RGB}{254,97,0} +\definecolor{ibmpurple}{RGB}{220,38,127} +\definecolor{ibmcyan}{RGB}{33,191,115} +``` + +**Okabe-Ito Palette** (scientifically tested): +```latex +\definecolor{okorange}{RGB}{230,159,0} +\definecolor{okskyblue}{RGB}{86,180,233} +\definecolor{okgreen}{RGB}{0,158,115} +\definecolor{okyellow}{RGB}{240,228,66} +\definecolor{okblue}{RGB}{0,114,178} +\definecolor{okvermillion}{RGB}{213,94,0} +\definecolor{okpurple}{RGB}{204,121,167} +``` + +**Paul Tol's Bright Palette**: +```latex +\definecolor{tolblue}{RGB}{68,119,170} +\definecolor{tolred}{RGB}{204,102,119} +\definecolor{tolgreen}{RGB}{34,136,51} +\definecolor{tolyellow}{RGB}{238,221,136} +\definecolor{tolcyan}{RGB}{102,204,238} +``` + +### Institutional Branding + +Match university or department colors: + +```latex +% Example: Stanford colors +\definecolor{stanford-red}{RGB}{140,21,21} +\definecolor{stanford-gray}{RGB}{83,86,90} + +% Example: MIT colors +\definecolor{mit-red}{RGB}{163,31,52} +\definecolor{mit-gray}{RGB}{138,139,140} + +% Example: Cambridge colors +\definecolor{cambridge-blue}{RGB}{163,193,173} +\definecolor{cambridge-lblue}{RGB}{212,239,223} +``` + +## Accessibility Considerations + +### Universal Design Principles + +Design posters usable by the widest range of people: + +**1. Visual Accessibility**: +- High contrast text (minimum 4.5:1 ratio) +- Large font sizes (24pt+ body text) +- Color-blind safe palettes +- Clear visual hierarchy +- Avoid relying solely on color to convey information + +**2. Cognitive Accessibility**: +- Clear, simple language +- Logical organization +- Consistent layout +- Visual cues for navigation (arrows, numbers) +- Avoid clutter and information overload + +**3. Physical Accessibility**: +- Position critical content at wheelchair-accessible height (3-5 feet) +- Include QR codes to digital versions +- Provide printed handouts for detail viewing +- Consider lighting and reflection in poster material choice + +### Alternative Text and Descriptions + +Make posters accessible to screen readers (for digital versions): + +```latex +% Add alt text to figures +\includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{figure.pdf} +% Alternative: Include detailed caption +\caption{Bar graph showing mean±SD of treatment outcomes. +Control group (blue): 45±5\%; Treatment group (orange): 78±6\%. +Asterisks indicate significance: *p<0.05, **p<0.01.} +``` + +### Multi-Modal Information + +Don't rely on single sensory channel: + +**Use Redundant Encoding**: +- Color + Shape (not just color for categories) +- Color + Pattern (hatching, stippling) +- Color + Label (text labels on graph elements) +- Text + Icons (visual + verbal) + +**Example**: +```latex +% Good: Color + shape + label +\begin{tikzpicture} + \draw[fill=blue, circle] (0,0) circle (0.3) node[right] {Male: 45\%}; + \draw[fill=red, rectangle] (0,-1) rectangle (0.6,-0.4) node[right] {Female: 55\%}; +\end{tikzpicture} +``` + +## Layout Composition + +### Rule of Thirds + +Divide poster into 3×3 grid; place key elements at intersections: + +``` ++-----+-----+-----+ +| × | | × | ← Top third (title, logos) ++-----+-----+-----+ +| | × | | ← Middle third (main content) ++-----+-----+-----+ +| × | | × | ← Bottom third (conclusions) ++-----+-----+-----+ + ↑ ↑ +Left Right +``` + +**Power Points** (intersections): +- Top-left: Primary section start +- Top-right: Logos, QR codes +- Center: Key figure or main result +- Bottom-right: Conclusions, contact + +### Balance and Symmetry + +**Symmetric Layouts**: +- Formal, traditional, stable +- Easy to design +- Can appear static or boring +- Good for conservative audiences + +**Asymmetric Layouts**: +- Dynamic, modern, interesting +- Harder to execute well +- More visually engaging +- Good for creative fields + +**Visual Weight Balance**: +- Large elements = heavy weight +- Dark colors = heavy weight +- Dense text = heavy weight +- Distribute weight evenly across poster + +### Proximity and Grouping + +**Gestalt Principles**: + +**Proximity**: Items close together are perceived as related +``` +[Introduction] [Methods] + +[Results] [Discussion] +``` + +**Similarity**: Similar items are perceived as grouped +- Use consistent colors for related sections +- Same border styles for similar content types + +**Continuity**: Eyes follow lines and paths +- Use arrows to guide through methods +- Align elements to create invisible lines + +**Closure**: Mind completes incomplete shapes +- Use partial borders to group without boxing in + +## Visual Elements + +### Icons and Graphics + +Strategic use of icons enhances comprehension: + +**Benefits**: +- Universal language (crosses linguistic barriers) +- Faster processing than text +- Adds visual interest +- Clarifies concepts + +**Best Practices**: +- Use consistent style (all line, all filled, all flat) +- Appropriate size (1-3cm typical) +- Label ambiguous icons +- Source: Font Awesome, Noun Project, academic icon sets + +**LaTeX Implementation**: +```latex +% Font Awesome icons +\usepackage{fontawesome5} +\faFlask{} Methods \quad \faChartBar{} Results + +% Custom icons with TikZ +\begin{tikzpicture} + \node[circle, draw, thick, minimum size=1cm] {\Huge \faAtom}; +\end{tikzpicture} +``` + +### Borders and Dividers + +**Use Borders To**: +- Define sections +- Group related content +- Add visual interest +- Match institutional branding + +**Border Styles**: +- Solid lines: Traditional, formal +- Dashed lines: Informal, secondary info +- Rounded corners: Friendly, modern +- Drop shadows: Depth, modern (use sparingly) + +**Guidelines**: +- Keep consistent width (2-5pt typical) +- Use sparingly (not every element needs a border) +- Match border color to content or theme +- Ensure sufficient padding inside borders + +```latex +% tikzposter borders +\usecolorstyle{Denmark} +\tikzposterlatexaffectionproofoff % Remove bottom-right logo + +% Custom border style +\defineblockstyle{CustomBlock}{ + titlewidthscale=1, bodywidthscale=1, titleleft, + titleoffsetx=0pt, titleoffsety=0pt, bodyoffsetx=0pt, bodyoffsety=0pt, + bodyverticalshift=0pt, roundedcorners=10, linewidth=2pt, + titleinnersep=8mm, bodyinnersep=8mm +}{ + \draw[draw=blocktitlebgcolor, fill=blockbodybgcolor, + rounded corners=\blockroundedcorners, line width=\blocklinewidth] + (blockbody.south west) rectangle (blocktitle.north east); +} +``` + +### Background and Texture + +**Background Options**: + +**Plain (Recommended)**: +- White or very light color +- Maximum readability +- Professional +- Print-friendly + +**Gradient**: +- Subtle gradients acceptable +- Top-to-bottom or radial +- Avoid strong contrasts that interfere with text + +**Textured**: +- Very subtle textures only +- Watermarks of logos/molecules (5-10% opacity) +- Avoid patterns that create visual noise + +**Avoid**: +- ❌ Busy backgrounds +- ❌ Images behind text +- ❌ High contrast backgrounds +- ❌ Repeating patterns that cause visual artifacts + +```latex +% Gradient background in tikzposter +\documentclass{tikzposter} +\definecolorstyle{GradientStyle}{ + % ...color definitions... +}{ + \colorlet{backgroundcolor}{white!90!blue} + \colorlet{framecolor}{white!70!blue} +} + +% Watermark +\usepackage{tikz} +\AddToShipoutPictureBG{ + \AtPageCenter{ + \includegraphics[width=0.5\paperwidth,opacity=0.05]{university-seal.pdf} + } +} +``` + +## Common Design Mistakes + +### Critical Errors + +**1. Too Much Text** (Most common mistake) +- ❌ More than 1000 words +- ❌ Long paragraphs (>5 lines) +- ❌ Small font sizes to fit more content +- ✅ Solution: Cut ruthlessly, use bullet points, focus on key messages + +**2. Poor Contrast** +- ❌ Light text on light background +- ❌ Colored text on colored background +- ✅ Solution: Dark on light or light on dark, test contrast ratio + +**3. Font Size Too Small** +- ❌ Body text under 24pt +- ❌ Trying to fit full paper content +- ✅ Solution: 30pt+ body text, prioritize key findings + +**4. Cluttered Layout** +- ❌ No white space +- ❌ Elements touching edges +- ❌ Random placement +- ✅ Solution: Generous margins, grid alignment, intentional white space + +**5. Inconsistent Styling** +- ❌ Multiple font families +- ❌ Varying header styles +- ❌ Misaligned elements +- ✅ Solution: Define style guide, use templates, align to grid + +### Moderate Issues + +**6. Poor Figure Quality** +- ❌ Pixelated images (<300 DPI) +- ❌ Tiny axis labels +- ❌ Unreadable legends +- ✅ Solution: Vector graphics (PDF/SVG), large labels, clear legends + +**7. Color Overload** +- ❌ Too many colors (>5 distinct hues) +- ❌ Neon or overly saturated colors +- ✅ Solution: Limit to 2-3 main colors, use tints/shades for variation + +**8. Ignoring Visual Hierarchy** +- ❌ All text same size +- ❌ No clear entry point +- ✅ Solution: Vary sizes significantly, clear title, visual flow + +**9. Information Overload** +- ❌ Trying to show everything +- ❌ Too many figures +- ✅ Solution: Show 3-5 key results, link to full paper via QR code + +**10. Poor Typography** +- ❌ Justified text (uneven spacing) +- ❌ All caps body text +- ❌ Mixing serif and sans-serif randomly +- ✅ Solution: Left-align body, sentence case, consistent fonts + +## Design Checklist + +### Before Printing + +- [ ] Title visible and readable from 20+ feet +- [ ] Body text minimum 24pt, ideally 30pt+ +- [ ] High contrast (4.5:1 minimum) throughout +- [ ] Color-blind friendly palette +- [ ] Less than 800 words total +- [ ] White space around all elements +- [ ] Consistent alignment and spacing +- [ ] All figures high resolution (300+ DPI) +- [ ] Figure labels readable (18pt+ minimum) +- [ ] No orphaned text or awkward breaks +- [ ] Contact information included +- [ ] QR codes tested and functional +- [ ] Consistent font usage (2-3 families max) +- [ ] All acronyms defined +- [ ] Proper institutional branding/logos +- [ ] Print test at 25% scale for readability check + +### Content Review + +- [ ] Clear narrative arc (problem → approach → findings → impact) +- [ ] 1-3 main messages clearly communicated +- [ ] Methods concise but reproducible +- [ ] Results visually presented (not just text) +- [ ] Conclusions actionable and clear +- [ ] References cited appropriately +- [ ] No typos or grammatical errors +- [ ] Figures have descriptive captions +- [ ] Data visualizations are clear and honest +- [ ] Statistical significance properly indicated + +## Evidence-Based Design Recommendations + +Research on poster effectiveness shows: + +**Findings from Studies**: +1. **Viewers spend 3-5 minutes average** on posters + - Design for scanning, not deep reading + - Most important info must be visible immediately + +2. **Visual content processed 60,000× faster** than text + - Use figures, not paragraphs, to convey key findings + - Images attract attention first + +3. **High contrast improves recall** by 40% + - Dark on light > light on dark for comprehension + - Color contrast aids memory retention + +4. **White space increases comprehension** by 20% + - Don't fear empty space + - Margins and padding are essential + +5. **Three-column layouts most effective** for portrait posters + - Balanced visual weight + - Natural reading flow + +6. **QR codes increase engagement** by 30% + - Provide digital access to full paper + - Link to videos, code repositories, data + +## Resources and Tools + +### Color Tools +- **Coolors.co**: Generate color palettes +- **Adobe Color**: Color wheel and accessibility checker +- **ColorBrewer**: Scientific visualization palettes +- **WebAIM Contrast Checker**: Test contrast ratios + +### Design Resources +- **Canva**: Poster mockups and inspiration +- **Figma**: Design prototypes before LaTeX +- **Noun Project**: Icons and graphics +- **Font Awesome**: Icon fonts for LaTeX + +### Testing Tools +- **Coblis**: Color blindness simulator +- **Vischeck**: Another color blindness checker +- **Accessibility Checker**: WCAG compliance + +### LaTeX Packages +- `xcolor`: Extended color support +- `tcolorbox`: Colored boxes and frames +- `fontawesome5`: Icon fonts +- `qrcode`: QR code generation +- `tikz`: Custom graphics + +## Conclusion + +Effective poster design requires balancing aesthetics, readability, and scientific content. Follow these core principles: + +1. **Less is more**: Prioritize key messages over comprehensive detail +2. **Size matters**: Make text large enough to read from distance +3. **Contrast is critical**: Ensure all text is highly readable +4. **Accessibility first**: Design for diverse audiences +5. **Visual hierarchy**: Guide viewers through content logically +6. **Test early**: Print at reduced scale and gather feedback + +Remember: A poster is an advertisement for your research and a conversation starter—not a substitute for reading the full paper. + diff --git a/references/poster_layout_design.md b/references/poster_layout_design.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b00a584 --- /dev/null +++ b/references/poster_layout_design.md @@ -0,0 +1,900 @@ +# Poster Layout and Design Guide + +## Overview + +Effective poster layout organizes content for maximum impact and comprehension. This guide covers grid systems, spatial organization, visual flow, and layout patterns for research posters. + +## Grid Systems and Column Layouts + +### Common Grid Patterns + +#### 1. Two-Column Layout + +**Characteristics**: +- Simple, traditional structure +- Easy to design and execute +- Clear narrative flow +- Good for text-heavy content +- Best for A1 size or smaller + +**Content Organization**: +``` ++-------------------------+ +| Title/Header | ++-------------------------+ +| Column 1 | Column 2 | +| | | +| Intro | Results | +| | | +| Methods | Discussion | +| | | +| | Conclusions | ++-------------------------+ +| References/Contact | ++-------------------------+ +``` + +**LaTeX Implementation (beamerposter)**: +```latex +\begin{columns}[t] + \begin{column}{.48\linewidth} + \begin{block}{Introduction} + % Content + \end{block} + \begin{block}{Methods} + % Content + \end{block} + \end{column} + + \begin{column}{.48\linewidth} + \begin{block}{Results} + % Content + \end{block} + \begin{block}{Conclusions} + % Content + \end{block} + \end{column} +\end{columns} +``` + +**Best For**: +- Small posters (A1, A2) +- Narrative-heavy content +- Simple comparisons (before/after, control/treatment) +- Linear storytelling + +**Limitations**: +- Limited space for multiple results +- Can appear basic or dated +- Less visual variety + +#### 2. Three-Column Layout (Most Popular) + +**Characteristics**: +- Balanced, professional appearance +- Optimal for A0 posters +- Versatile content distribution +- Natural visual rhythm +- Industry standard + +**Content Organization**: +``` ++--------------------------------+ +| Title/Header | ++--------------------------------+ +| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3| +| | | | +| Intro | Results | Results | +| | (Fig 1) | (Fig 2) | +| Methods | | | +| | Results | Discuss | +| Methods | (Fig 3) | | +| (cont.) | | Concl. | ++--------------------------------+ +| Acknowledgments/Refs | ++--------------------------------+ +``` + +**LaTeX Implementation (tikzposter)**: +```latex +\begin{columns} + \column{0.33} + \block{Introduction}{...} + \block{Methods}{...} + + \column{0.33} + \block{Results Part 1}{...} + \block{Results Part 2}{...} + + \column{0.33} + \block{Results Part 3}{...} + \block{Discussion}{...} + \block{Conclusions}{...} +\end{columns} +``` + +**Best For**: +- Standard A0 conference posters +- Multiple results/figures (4-6) +- Balanced content distribution +- Professional academic presentations + +**Strengths**: +- Visual balance and symmetry +- Adequate space for text and figures +- Clear section delineation +- Easy to scan left-to-right + +#### 3. Four-Column Layout + +**Characteristics**: +- Information-dense +- Modern, structured appearance +- Best for large posters (>A0) +- Requires careful design +- More complex to balance + +**Content Organization**: +``` ++----------------------------------------+ +| Title/Header | ++----------------------------------------+ +| Col 1 | Col 2 | Col 3 | Col 4 | +| | | | | +| Intro | Method | Results | Results | +| | (Flow) | (Fig 1) | (Fig 3) | +| Motiv. | | | | +| | Method | Results | Discuss. | +| Hypoth.| (Stats)| (Fig 2) | | +| | | | Concl. | ++----------------------------------------+ +| References/Contact | ++----------------------------------------+ +``` + +**LaTeX Implementation (baposter)**: +```latex +\begin{poster}{columns=4, colspacing=1em, ...} + + \headerbox{Intro}{name=intro, column=0, row=0}{...} + \headerbox{Methods}{name=methods, column=1, row=0}{...} + \headerbox{Results 1}{name=res1, column=2, row=0}{...} + \headerbox{Results 2}{name=res2, column=3, row=0}{...} + + % Continue with below=... for stacking + +\end{poster} +``` + +**Best For**: +- Large format posters (48×72") +- Data-heavy presentations +- Comparison studies (multiple conditions) +- Engineering/technical posters + +**Challenges**: +- Can appear crowded +- Requires more white space management +- Harder to achieve visual balance +- Risk of overwhelming viewers + +#### 4. Asymmetric Layouts + +**Characteristics**: +- Dynamic, modern appearance +- Flexible content arrangement +- Emphasizes hierarchy +- Requires design expertise +- Best for creative fields + +**Example Pattern**: +``` ++--------------------------------+ +| Title/Header | ++--------------------------------+ +| Wide Column | Narrow Column | +| (66%) | (33%) | +| | | +| Intro + | Key | +| Methods | Figure | +| (narrative) | (emphasized) | +| | | ++--------------------------------+ +| Results (spanning full width) | ++--------------------------------+ +| Discussion | Conclusions | +| (50%) | (50%) | ++--------------------------------+ +``` + +**LaTeX Implementation (tikzposter)**: +```latex +\begin{columns} + \column{0.65} + \block{Introduction and Methods}{ + % Combined narrative section + } + + \column{0.35} + \block{}{ + % Key figure with minimal text + \includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{key-figure.pdf} + } +\end{columns} + +\block[width=1.0\linewidth]{Results}{ + % Full-width results section +} +``` + +**Best For**: +- Design-oriented conferences +- Single key finding with supporting content +- Modern, non-traditional fields +- Experienced poster designers + +### Grid Alignment Principles + +**Baseline Grid**: +- Establish invisible horizontal lines +- Align all text blocks to grid +- Typical spacing: 5mm or 10mm increments +- Creates visual rhythm and professionalism + +**Column Grid**: +- Divide width into equal units (12, 16, or 24 units common) +- Elements span multiple units +- Allows flexible but structured layouts + +**Example 12-Column Grid**: +``` +| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 |10 |11 |12 | +|-------|-------|-------|-------|-------|-------| +| Block spanning 6 units| Block spanning 6 units| +| Block spanning 12 units | +| 4 units | 8 units (emphasized) | +``` + +**LaTeX Grid Helper**: +```latex +% Debug grid overlay (remove for final version) +\usepackage{tikz} +\AddToShipoutPictureBG{ + \begin{tikzpicture}[remember picture, overlay] + \draw[help lines, step=5cm, very thin, gray!30] + (current page.south west) grid (current page.north east); + \end{tikzpicture} +} +``` + +## Visual Flow and Reading Patterns + +### Z-Pattern (Landscape Posters) + +Viewers' eyes naturally follow a Z-shape on landscape layouts: + +``` +START → → → → → → → → → → → → → → TOP RIGHT + ↓ ↓ + ↓ ↓ +MIDDLE LEFT → → → → → → → → → MIDDLE RIGHT + ↓ ↓ + ↓ ↓ +BOTTOM LEFT → → → → → → → → → → → → END +``` + +**Design Strategy**: +1. **Top-left**: Title and introduction (entry point) +2. **Top-right**: Institution logo, QR code +3. **Center**: Key result or main figure +4. **Bottom-right**: Conclusions and contact (exit point) + +**Content Placement**: +- Critical information at corners and center +- Support information along diagonal paths +- Use arrows or visual cues to reinforce flow + +### F-Pattern (Portrait Posters) + +Portrait posters follow F-shaped eye movement: + +``` +TITLE → → → → → → → → → → → → + ↓ +INTRO → → → → + ↓ +METHODS + ↓ +RESULTS → → → + ↓ +RESULTS (cont.) + ↓ +DISCUSSION + ↓ +CONCLUSIONS → → → → → → → → → +``` + +**Design Strategy**: +1. Place engaging content at top-left +2. Use section headers to create horizontal scan points +3. Most important figures in upper-middle area +4. Conclusions visible without scrolling (if digital) or from distance + +### Gutenberg Diagram + +Classic newspaper layout principle: + +``` ++------------------+------------------+ +| PRIMARY AREA | STRONG FALLOW | +| (most attention) | (moderate attn) | +| ↓ | ↓ | ++------------------+------------------+ +| WEAK FALLOW | TERMINAL AREA | +| (least attention)| (final resting) | +| | ↑ | ++------------------+------------------+ +``` + +**Optimization**: +- **Primary Area** (top-left): Introduction, problem statement +- **Strong Fallow** (top-right): Supporting figure, logo +- **Weak Fallow** (bottom-left): Methods details, references +- **Terminal Area** (bottom-right): Conclusions, take-home message + +### Directional Cues + +Guide viewers explicitly through content: + +**Numerical Ordering**: +```latex +\block{❶ Introduction}{...} +\block{❷ Methods}{...} +\block{❸ Results}{...} +\block{❹ Conclusions}{...} +``` + +**Arrows and Lines**: +```latex +\begin{tikzpicture} + \node[block] (intro) {Introduction}; + \node[block, right=of intro] (methods) {Methods}; + \node[block, right=of methods] (results) {Results}; + \draw[->, thick, blue] (intro) -- (methods); + \draw[->, thick, blue] (methods) -- (results); +\end{tikzpicture} +``` + +**Color Progression**: +- Light to dark shades indicating progression +- Cool to warm colors showing importance increase +- Consistent color for related sections + +## Spatial Organization Strategies + +### Header/Title Area + +**Typical Size**: 10-15% of total poster height + +**Essential Elements**: +- **Title**: Concise, descriptive (10-15 words max) +- **Authors**: Full names, presenting author emphasized +- **Affiliations**: Institutions, departments +- **Logos**: University, funding agencies (2-4 max) +- **Conference info** (optional): Name, date, location + +**Layout Options**: + +**Centered**: +``` ++----------------------------------------+ +| [Logo] POSTER TITLE HERE [Logo]| +| Authors and Affiliations | +| email@university.edu | ++----------------------------------------+ +``` + +**Left-aligned**: +``` ++----------------------------------------+ +| POSTER TITLE HERE [Logo] | +| Authors and Affiliations [Logo] | ++----------------------------------------+ +``` + +**Split**: +``` ++----------------------------------------+ +| [Logo] | Authors & Affil. | +| POSTER TITLE | email@edu | +| | [QR Code] | ++----------------------------------------+ +``` + +**LaTeX Header (beamerposter)**: +```latex +\begin{columns}[T] + \begin{column}{.15\linewidth} + \includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{logo1.pdf} + \end{column} + + \begin{column}{.7\linewidth} + \centering + {\VeryHuge\textbf{Your Research Title Here}}\\[0.5cm] + {\Large Author One\textsuperscript{1}, Author Two\textsuperscript{2}}\\[0.3cm] + {\normalsize \textsuperscript{1}University A, \textsuperscript{2}University B} + \end{column} + + \begin{column}{.15\linewidth} + \includegraphics[width=\linewidth]{logo2.pdf} + \end{column} +\end{columns} +``` + +### Main Content Area + +**Typical Size**: 70-80% of total poster + +**Organization Principles**: + +**1. Top-to-Bottom Flow**: +``` +Introduction/Background + ↓ +Methods/Approach + ↓ +Results (Multiple panels) + ↓ +Discussion/Conclusions +``` + +**2. Left-to-Right, Top-to-Bottom**: +``` +[Intro] [Results 1] [Results 3] +[Methods] [Results 2] [Discussion] +``` + +**3. Centralized Main Figure**: +``` +[Intro] [Main Figure] [Discussion] +[Methods] (center) [Conclusions] +``` + +**Section Sizing**: +- Introduction: 10-15% of content area +- Methods: 15-20% +- Results: 40-50% (largest section) +- Discussion/Conclusions: 15-20% + +### Footer Area + +**Typical Size**: 5-10% of total poster height + +**Common Elements**: +- References (abbreviated, 5-10 key citations) +- Acknowledgments (funding, collaborators) +- Contact information +- QR codes (paper, code, data) +- Social media handles (optional) +- Conference hashtags + +**Layout**: +``` ++----------------------------------------+ +| References: 1. Author (2023) ... | 📱 | +| Acknowledgments: Funded by ... | QR | +| Contact: name@email.edu | Code | ++----------------------------------------+ +``` + +**LaTeX Footer**: +```latex +\begin{block}{} + \footnotesize + \begin{columns}[T] + \begin{column}{0.7\linewidth} + \textbf{References} + \begin{enumerate} + \item Author A et al. (2023). Journal. doi:... + \item Author B et al. (2024). Conference. + \end{enumerate} + + \textbf{Acknowledgments} + This work was supported by Grant XYZ. + + \textbf{Contact}: firstname.lastname@university.edu + \end{column} + + \begin{column}{0.25\linewidth} + \centering + \qrcode[height=3cm]{https://doi.org/10.1234/paper}\\ + \tiny Scan for full paper + \end{column} + \end{columns} +\end{block} +``` + +## White Space Management + +### Margins and Padding + +**Outer Margins**: +- Minimum: 2-3cm (0.75-1 inch) +- Recommended: 3-5cm (1-2 inches) +- Prevents edge trimming issues in printing +- Provides visual breathing room + +**Inner Spacing**: +- Between columns: 1-2cm +- Between blocks: 1-2cm +- Inside blocks (padding): 0.5-1.5cm +- Around figures: 0.5-1cm + +**LaTeX Margin Control**: +```latex +% beamerposter +\usepackage[size=a0, scale=1.4]{beamerposter} +\setbeamersize{text margin left=3cm, text margin right=3cm} + +% tikzposter +\documentclass[..., margin=30mm, innermargin=15mm]{tikzposter} + +% baposter +\begin{poster}{ + colspacing=1.5em, % Horizontal spacing + ... +} +``` + +### Active White Space vs. Passive White Space + +**Active White Space**: Intentionally placed for specific purpose +- Around key figures (draws attention) +- Between major sections (creates clear separation) +- Above/below titles (emphasizes hierarchy) + +**Passive White Space**: Natural result of layout +- Margins and borders +- Line spacing +- Gaps between elements + +**Balance**: Aim for 30-40% white space overall + +### Visual Breathing Room + +**Avoid**: +- ❌ Elements touching edges +- ❌ Text blocks directly adjacent +- ❌ Figures without surrounding space +- ❌ Cramped, claustrophobic feel + +**Implement**: +- ✅ Clear separation between sections +- ✅ Space around focal points +- ✅ Generous padding inside boxes +- ✅ Balanced distribution of content + +## Block and Box Design + +### Block Types and Functions + +**Title Block**: Poster header +- Full width, top position +- High visual weight +- Contains identifying information + +**Content Blocks**: Main sections +- Column-based or free-floating +- Hierarchical sizing (larger = more important) +- Clear headers and structure + +**Callout Blocks**: Emphasized information +- Key findings or quotes +- Different color or style +- Visually distinct + +**Reference Blocks**: Supporting info +- Footer position +- Smaller, less prominent +- Informational, not critical + +### Block Styling Options + +**Border Styles**: +```latex +% Rounded corners (friendly, modern) +\begin{block}{Title} + % beamerposter with rounded + \setbeamertemplate{block begin}[rounded] + +% Sharp corners (formal, traditional) + \setbeamertemplate{block begin}[default] + +% No border (minimal, clean) + \setbeamercolor{block title}{bg=white, fg=black} + \setbeamercolor{block body}{bg=white, fg=black} +``` + +**Shadow and Depth**: +```latex +% tikzposter shadow +\tikzset{ + block/.append style={ + drop shadow={shadow xshift=2mm, shadow yshift=-2mm} + } +} + +% tcolorbox drop shadow +\usepackage{tcolorbox} +\begin{tcolorbox}[enhanced, drop shadow] + Content with shadow +\end{tcolorbox} +``` + +**Background Shading**: +- **Solid**: Clean, professional +- **Gradient**: Modern, dynamic +- **Transparent**: Layered, sophisticated + +### Relationship and Grouping + +**Visual Grouping Techniques**: + +**1. Proximity**: Place related items close +``` +[Intro Text] +[Related Figure] + ↓ grouped +[Methods Text] +[Methods Diagram] +``` + +**2. Color Coding**: Use color to show relationships +- All "Methods" blocks in blue +- All "Results" blocks in green +- Conclusions in orange + +**3. Borders**: Enclose related elements +```latex +\begin{tcolorbox}[title=Experimental Pipeline] + \begin{enumerate} + \item Sample preparation + \item Data collection + \item Analysis + \end{enumerate} +\end{tcolorbox} +``` + +**4. Alignment**: Aligned elements appear related +``` +[Block A Left-aligned] +[Block B Left-aligned] + vs. +[Block C Centered] +``` + +## Responsive and Adaptive Layouts + +### Designing for Different Poster Sizes + +**Scaling Strategy**: +- Design for target size (e.g., A0) +- Test at other common sizes (A1, 36×48") +- Use relative sizing (percentages, not absolute) + +**Font Scaling**: +```latex +% Scale fonts proportionally +\usepackage[size=a0, scale=1.4]{beamerposter} % A0 at 140% +\usepackage[size=a1, scale=1.0]{beamerposter} % A1 at 100% + +% Or define sizes relatively +\newcommand{\titlesize}{\fontsize{96}{110}\selectfont} +\newcommand{\headersize}{\fontsize{60}{72}\selectfont} +``` + +**Content Adaptation**: +- **A0 (full)**: All content, 5-6 figures +- **A1 (reduced)**: Condense to 3-4 main figures +- **A2 (compact)**: Key finding only, 1-2 figures + +### Portrait vs. Landscape Orientation + +**Portrait (Vertical)**: +- **Pros**: Traditional, more common stands, natural reading flow +- **Cons**: Less width for figures, can feel cramped +- **Best for**: Text-heavy posters, multi-section flow, conferences + +**Landscape (Horizontal)**: +- **Pros**: Wide figures, natural for timelines, modern feel +- **Cons**: Harder to read from distance, less common +- **Best for**: Timelines, wide data visualizations, non-traditional venues + +**LaTeX Orientation**: +```latex +% Portrait +\usepackage[size=a0, orientation=portrait]{beamerposter} +\documentclass[..., portrait]{tikzposter} + +% Landscape +\usepackage[size=a0, orientation=landscape]{beamerposter} +\documentclass[..., landscape]{tikzposter} +``` + +## Layout Patterns by Research Type + +### Experimental Research + +**Typical Flow**: +``` +[Title and Authors] ++---------------------------+ +| Background | Methods | +| Problem | (Diagram) | ++---------------------------+ +| Results (Figure 1) | +| Results (Figure 2) | ++---------------------------+ +| Discussion | Conclusions | +| Limitations| Future Work | ++---------------------------+ +[References and Contact] +``` + +**Emphasis**: Visual results, clear methodology + +### Computational/Modeling + +**Typical Flow**: +``` +[Title and Authors] ++---------------------------+ +| Motivation | Algorithm | +| | (Flowchart) | ++---------------------------+ +| Implementation Details | ++---------------------------+ +| Results | Results | +| (Benchmark)| (Comparison) | ++---------------------------+ +| Conclusions| Code QR | ++---------------------------+ +[GitHub, Docker, Documentation] +``` + +**Emphasis**: Algorithm clarity, reproducibility + +### Clinical/Medical + +**Typical Flow**: +``` +[Title and Authors] ++---------------------------+ +| Background | Methods | +| Clinical | - Design | +| Need | - Population | +| | - Outcomes | ++---------------------------+ +| Results | | +| (Primary Outcome) | Key| +| | Fig| ++---------------------------+ +| Discussion | Clinical | +| | Implications | ++---------------------------+ +[Trial Registration, Ethics, Funding] +``` + +**Emphasis**: Patient outcomes, clinical relevance + +### Review/Meta-Analysis + +**Typical Flow**: +``` +[Title and Authors] ++---------------------------+ +| Research | Search | +| Question | Strategy | +| | (PRISMA Flow) | ++---------------------------+ +| Included Studies Overview | ++---------------------------+ +| Findings | Findings | +| (Theme 1) | (Theme 2) | ++---------------------------+ +| Synthesis | Gaps & | +| | Future Needs | ++---------------------------+ +[Systematic Review Registration] +``` + +**Emphasis**: Comprehensive coverage, synthesis + +## Layout Testing and Iteration + +### Design Iteration Process + +**1. Sketch Phase**: +- Hand-draw rough layout +- Experiment with different arrangements +- Mark primary, secondary, tertiary content + +**2. Digital Mockup**: +- Create low-fidelity version in LaTeX +- Use placeholder text/figures +- Test different grid systems + +**3. Content Integration**: +- Replace placeholders with actual content +- Adjust spacing and sizing +- Refine visual hierarchy + +**4. Refinement**: +- Fine-tune alignment +- Balance visual weight +- Optimize white space + +**5. Testing**: +- Print at reduced scale (25%) +- View from distance +- Get colleague feedback + +### Feedback Checklist + +**Visual Balance**: +- [ ] No single area feels too heavy or too light +- [ ] Color distributed evenly across poster +- [ ] Text and figures balanced +- [ ] White space well-distributed + +**Hierarchy and Flow**: +- [ ] Clear entry point (title visible) +- [ ] Logical reading path +- [ ] Section relationships clear +- [ ] Conclusions easy to find + +**Technical Execution**: +- [ ] Consistent alignment +- [ ] Uniform spacing +- [ ] Professional appearance +- [ ] No awkward breaks or orphans + +## Common Layout Mistakes + +**1. Unbalanced Visual Weight** +- ❌ All content on left, empty right side +- ❌ Large figure dominating, tiny text elsewhere +- ✅ Distribute content evenly across poster + +**2. Inconsistent Spacing** +- ❌ Random gaps between blocks +- ❌ Elements touching in some places, spaced in others +- ✅ Use consistent spacing values throughout + +**3. Poor Column Width** +- ❌ Extremely narrow columns (hard to read) +- ❌ Very wide columns (eye tracking difficult) +- ✅ Optimal: 40-80 characters per line + +**4. Ignoring Grid** +- ❌ Random placement of elements +- ❌ Misaligned blocks +- ✅ Align to invisible grid, consistent positioning + +**5. Overcrowding** +- ❌ No white space, cramped feel +- ❌ Trying to fit too much content +- ✅ Generous margins, clear separation + +## Conclusion + +Effective layout design: +- Uses appropriate grid systems (2, 3, or 4 columns) +- Follows natural eye movement patterns +- Maintains visual balance and hierarchy +- Provides adequate white space +- Groups related content clearly +- Adapts to different poster sizes and orientations + +Remember: Layout should support content, not compete with it. When viewers focus on your research rather than your design, you've succeeded. + diff --git a/scripts/review_poster.sh b/scripts/review_poster.sh new file mode 100755 index 0000000..1081be6 --- /dev/null +++ b/scripts/review_poster.sh @@ -0,0 +1,214 @@ +#!/bin/bash + +# Poster PDF Quality Check Script +# Usage: ./review_poster.sh poster.pdf + +# Colors for output +RED='\033[0;31m' +GREEN='\033[0;32m' +YELLOW='\033[1;33m' +BLUE='\033[0;34m' +NC='\033[0m' # No Color + +# Check if file argument provided +if [ $# -eq 0 ]; then + echo -e "${RED}Error: No file specified${NC}" + echo "Usage: $0 " + exit 1 +fi + +POSTER_FILE="$1" + +# Check if file exists +if [ ! -f "$POSTER_FILE" ]; then + echo -e "${RED}Error: File '$POSTER_FILE' not found${NC}" + exit 1 +fi + +echo -e "${BLUE}═══════════════════════════════════════════════${NC}" +echo -e "${BLUE} Poster PDF Quality Check${NC}" +echo -e "${BLUE}═══════════════════════════════════════════════${NC}" +echo "" +echo -e "${GREEN}File:${NC} $POSTER_FILE" +echo "" + +# Function to check if command exists +command_exists() { + command -v "$1" >/dev/null 2>&1 +} + +# 1. Page Size Check +echo -e "${YELLOW}[1] Page Dimensions:${NC}" +if command_exists pdfinfo; then + PAGE_SIZE=$(pdfinfo "$POSTER_FILE" 2>/dev/null | grep "Page size") + if [ -n "$PAGE_SIZE" ]; then + echo " $PAGE_SIZE" + + # Extract dimensions and check common sizes + WIDTH=$(echo "$PAGE_SIZE" | awk '{print $3}') + HEIGHT=$(echo "$PAGE_SIZE" | awk '{print $5}') + + # Check against common poster sizes (approximate) + if [ "$WIDTH" = "2384" ] && [ "$HEIGHT" = "3370" ]; then + echo -e " ${GREEN}✓ Detected: A0 Portrait${NC}" + elif [ "$WIDTH" = "3370" ] && [ "$HEIGHT" = "2384" ]; then + echo -e " ${GREEN}✓ Detected: A0 Landscape${NC}" + elif [ "$WIDTH" = "1684" ] && [ "$HEIGHT" = "2384" ]; then + echo -e " ${GREEN}✓ Detected: A1 Portrait${NC}" + elif [ "$WIDTH" = "2592" ] && [ "$HEIGHT" = "3456" ]; then + echo -e " ${GREEN}✓ Detected: 36×48 inches Portrait${NC}" + else + echo -e " ${YELLOW}⚠ Non-standard size detected${NC}" + fi + else + echo -e " ${RED}✗ Could not extract page size${NC}" + fi +else + echo -e " ${YELLOW}⚠ pdfinfo not installed (install: brew install poppler or apt-get install poppler-utils)${NC}" +fi +echo "" + +# 2. Page Count +echo -e "${YELLOW}[2] Page Count:${NC}" +if command_exists pdfinfo; then + PAGE_COUNT=$(pdfinfo "$POSTER_FILE" 2>/dev/null | grep "Pages" | awk '{print $2}') + if [ "$PAGE_COUNT" = "1" ]; then + echo -e " ${GREEN}✓ Single page (correct for poster)${NC}" + else + echo -e " ${RED}✗ Multiple pages detected: $PAGE_COUNT${NC}" + echo -e " ${YELLOW} Posters should be single page${NC}" + fi +else + echo -e " ${YELLOW}⚠ pdfinfo not installed${NC}" +fi +echo "" + +# 3. File Size +echo -e "${YELLOW}[3] File Size:${NC}" +if command_exists ls; then + FILE_SIZE=$(ls -lh "$POSTER_FILE" | awk '{print $5}') + FILE_SIZE_BYTES=$(ls -l "$POSTER_FILE" | awk '{print $5}') + echo " Size: $FILE_SIZE" + + # Check if file is too large for email + if [ "$FILE_SIZE_BYTES" -gt 52428800 ]; then # 50MB + echo -e " ${YELLOW}⚠ Large file (>50MB) - may need compression for email${NC}" + echo -e " ${BLUE} Compress with: gs -sDEVICE=pdfwrite -dPDFSETTINGS=/printer -dNOPAUSE -dQUIET -dBATCH -sOutputFile=compressed.pdf $POSTER_FILE${NC}" + elif [ "$FILE_SIZE_BYTES" -lt 1048576 ]; then # 1MB + echo -e " ${YELLOW}⚠ Small file - check image quality${NC}" + else + echo -e " ${GREEN}✓ Reasonable file size${NC}" + fi +fi +echo "" + +# 4. Font Embedding Check +echo -e "${YELLOW}[4] Font Embedding:${NC}" +if command_exists pdffonts; then + echo " Checking first 20 fonts..." + FONT_OUTPUT=$(pdffonts "$POSTER_FILE" 2>/dev/null | head -21) + echo "$FONT_OUTPUT" | tail -20 | while IFS= read -r line; do + echo " $line" + done + + # Check for non-embedded fonts + NON_EMBEDDED=$(echo "$FONT_OUTPUT" | tail -n +3 | awk '{if ($4 == "no") print $0}') + if [ -n "$NON_EMBEDDED" ]; then + echo -e " ${RED}✗ Some fonts are NOT embedded (printing may fail)${NC}" + echo -e " ${BLUE} Fix: Recompile with 'pdflatex -dEmbedAllFonts=true poster.tex'${NC}" + else + echo -e " ${GREEN}✓ All fonts appear to be embedded${NC}" + fi +else + echo -e " ${YELLOW}⚠ pdffonts not installed (install: brew install poppler or apt-get install poppler-utils)${NC}" +fi +echo "" + +# 5. Image Quality Check +echo -e "${YELLOW}[5] Image Quality:${NC}" +if command_exists pdfimages; then + IMAGE_COUNT=$(pdfimages -list "$POSTER_FILE" 2>/dev/null | tail -n +3 | wc -l | tr -d ' ') + if [ "$IMAGE_COUNT" -gt 0 ]; then + echo " Found $IMAGE_COUNT image(s)" + echo " Image details:" + pdfimages -list "$POSTER_FILE" 2>/dev/null | head -20 + + # Note: DPI calculation would require page size knowledge + echo -e " ${BLUE} Verify images are at least 300 DPI for printing${NC}" + echo -e " ${BLUE} Formula: DPI = pixels / (inches in poster)${NC}" + else + echo -e " ${YELLOW}⚠ No images found${NC}" + fi +else + echo -e " ${YELLOW}⚠ pdfimages not installed (install: brew install poppler or apt-get install poppler-utils)${NC}" +fi +echo "" + +# 6. Manual Checks Required +echo -e "${YELLOW}[6] Manual Visual Inspection Required:${NC}" +echo "" +echo -e "${BLUE}Layout and Spacing:${NC}" +echo " [ ] Content fills entire page (no large white margins)" +echo " [ ] Consistent spacing between columns" +echo " [ ] Consistent spacing between blocks/sections" +echo " [ ] All elements aligned properly" +echo " [ ] No overlapping text or figures" +echo "" + +echo -e "${BLUE}Typography:${NC}" +echo " [ ] Title visible and large (72pt+)" +echo " [ ] Section headers readable (48-72pt)" +echo " [ ] Body text readable (24-36pt minimum)" +echo " [ ] No text cutoff or running off edges" +echo " [ ] Consistent font usage" +echo "" + +echo -e "${BLUE}Visual Elements:${NC}" +echo " [ ] All figures display correctly" +echo " [ ] No pixelated or blurry images" +echo " [ ] Figure captions present and readable" +echo " [ ] Colors render as expected" +echo " [ ] Logos display clearly" +echo " [ ] QR codes visible and scannable" +echo "" + +echo -e "${BLUE}Content:${NC}" +echo " [ ] All sections present (Intro, Methods, Results, Conclusions)" +echo " [ ] References included" +echo " [ ] Contact information visible" +echo " [ ] No placeholder text (Lorem ipsum, TODO, etc.)" +echo "" + +# 7. Recommended Tests +echo -e "${YELLOW}[7] Recommended Next Steps:${NC}" +echo "" +echo -e "${BLUE}Test Print:${NC}" +echo " • Print at 25% scale (A0→A4, 36×48→Letter)" +echo " • Check readability from 2-3 feet" +echo " • Verify colors printed accurately" +echo "" + +echo -e "${BLUE}Digital Checks:${NC}" +echo " • View at 100% zoom in PDF viewer" +echo " • Test on different screens/devices" +echo " • Verify QR codes work with scanner app" +echo "" + +echo -e "${BLUE}Proofreading:${NC}" +echo " • Spell-check all text" +echo " • Verify author names and affiliations" +echo " • Confirm all statistics and numbers" +echo " • Ask colleague to review" +echo "" + +# 8. Summary +echo -e "${BLUE}═══════════════════════════════════════════════${NC}" +echo -e "${BLUE} Quality Check Complete${NC}" +echo -e "${BLUE}═══════════════════════════════════════════════${NC}" +echo "" +echo -e "Review the checks above and complete manual verification." +echo -e "For full checklist, see: ${BLUE}assets/poster_quality_checklist.md${NC}" +echo "" + +exit 0 +