Initial commit for pptx-posters
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---
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name: pptx-posters
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description: "Create research posters using HTML/CSS that can be exported to PDF or PPTX. Use this skill ONLY when the user explicitly requests PowerPoint/PPTX poster format. For standard research posters, use latex-posters instead. This skill provides modern web-based poster design with responsive layouts and easy visual integration."
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allowed-tools: [Read, Write, Edit, Bash]
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---
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# PPTX Research Posters (HTML-Based)
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## Overview
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**⚠️ USE THIS SKILL ONLY WHEN USER EXPLICITLY REQUESTS PPTX/POWERPOINT POSTER FORMAT.**
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For standard research posters, use the **latex-posters** skill instead, which provides better typographic control and is the default for academic conferences.
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This skill creates research posters using HTML/CSS, which can then be exported to PDF or converted to PowerPoint format. The web-based approach offers:
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- Modern, responsive layouts
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- Easy integration of AI-generated visuals
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- Quick iteration and preview in browser
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- Export to PDF via browser print function
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- Conversion to PPTX if specifically needed
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## When to Use This Skill
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**ONLY use this skill when:**
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- User explicitly requests "PPTX poster", "PowerPoint poster", or "PPT poster"
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- User specifically asks for HTML-based poster
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- User needs to edit poster in PowerPoint after creation
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- LaTeX is not available or user requests non-LaTeX solution
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**DO NOT use this skill when:**
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- User asks for a "poster" without specifying format → Use latex-posters
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- User asks for "research poster" or "conference poster" → Use latex-posters
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- User mentions LaTeX, tikzposter, beamerposter, or baposter → Use latex-posters
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## AI-Powered Visual Element Generation
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**STANDARD WORKFLOW: Generate ALL major visual elements using AI before creating the HTML poster.**
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This is the recommended approach for creating visually compelling posters:
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1. Plan all visual elements needed (hero image, intro, methods, results, conclusions)
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2. Generate each element using scientific-schematics or Nano Banana Pro
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3. Assemble generated images in the HTML template
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4. Add text content around the visuals
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**Target: 60-70% of poster area should be AI-generated visuals, 30-40% text.**
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---
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### CRITICAL: Poster-Size Font Requirements
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**⚠️ ALL text within AI-generated visualizations MUST be poster-readable.**
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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.
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**MANDATORY prompt requirements for EVERY poster graphic:**
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```
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POSTER FORMAT REQUIREMENTS (STRICTLY ENFORCE):
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- ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM 3-4 elements per graphic (3 is ideal)
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- ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM 10 words total in the entire graphic
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- NO complex workflows with 5+ steps (split into 2-3 simple graphics instead)
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- NO multi-level nested diagrams (flatten to single level)
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- NO case studies with multiple sub-sections (one key point per case)
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- ALL text GIANT BOLD (80pt+ for labels, 120pt+ for key numbers)
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- High contrast ONLY (dark on white OR white on dark, NO gradients with text)
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- MANDATORY 50% white space minimum (half the graphic should be empty)
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- Thick lines only (5px+ minimum), large icons (200px+ minimum)
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- ONE SINGLE MESSAGE per graphic (not 3 related messages)
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```
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**⚠️ BEFORE GENERATING: Review your prompt and count elements**
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- If your description has 5+ items → STOP. Split into multiple graphics
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- If your workflow has 5+ stages → STOP. Show only 3-4 high-level steps
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- If your comparison has 4+ methods → STOP. Show only top 3 or Our vs Best Baseline
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**Example - WRONG (7-stage workflow):**
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```bash
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# ❌ Creates tiny unreadable text
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python scripts/generate_schematic.py "Drug discovery workflow: Stage 1 Target ID, Stage 2 Synthesis, Stage 3 Screening, Stage 4 Lead Opt, Stage 5 Validation, Stage 6 Clinical Trial, Stage 7 FDA Approval with metrics." -o figures/workflow.png
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```
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**Example - CORRECT (3 mega-stages):**
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```bash
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# ✅ Same content, simplified to readable poster format
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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. ONLY these 3 words. NO substeps. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/workflow_simple.png
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```
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---
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### CRITICAL: Preventing Content Overflow
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**⚠️ POSTERS MUST NOT HAVE TEXT OR CONTENT CUT OFF AT EDGES.**
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**Prevention Rules:**
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**1. Limit Content Sections (MAXIMUM 5-6 sections):**
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```
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✅ GOOD - 5 sections with room to breathe:
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- Title/Header
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- Introduction/Problem
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- Methods
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- Results (1-2 key findings)
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- Conclusions
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❌ BAD - 8+ sections crammed together
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```
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**2. Word Count Limits:**
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- **Per section**: 50-100 words maximum
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- **Total poster**: 300-800 words MAXIMUM
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- **If you have more content**: Cut it or make a handout
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---
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## Core Capabilities
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### 1. HTML/CSS Poster Design
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The HTML template (`assets/poster_html_template.html`) provides:
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- Fixed poster dimensions (36×48 inches = 2592×3456 pt)
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- Professional header with gradient styling
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- Three-column content layout
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- Block-based sections with modern styling
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- Footer with references and contact info
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### 2. Poster Structure
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**Standard Layout:**
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```
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┌─────────────────────────────────────────┐
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│ HEADER: Title, Authors, Hero Image │
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├─────────────┬─────────────┬─────────────┤
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│ Introduction│ Results │ Discussion │
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│ │ │ │
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│ Methods │ (charts) │ Conclusions │
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│ │ │ │
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│ (diagram) │ (data) │ (summary) │
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├─────────────┴─────────────┴─────────────┤
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│ FOOTER: References & Contact Info │
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└─────────────────────────────────────────┘
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```
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### 3. Visual Integration
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Each section should prominently feature AI-generated visuals:
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**Hero Image (Header):**
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```html
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<img src="figures/hero.png" class="hero-image">
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```
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**Section Graphics:**
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```html
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<div class="block">
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<h2 class="block-title">Methods</h2>
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<div class="block-content">
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<img src="figures/workflow.png" class="block-image">
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<ul>
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<li>Brief methodology point</li>
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</ul>
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</div>
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</div>
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```
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### 4. Generating Visual Elements
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**Before creating the HTML, generate all visual elements:**
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```bash
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# Create figures directory
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mkdir -p figures
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# Hero image - SIMPLE, impactful
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python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. Hero banner: '[TOPIC]' in HUGE text (120pt+). Dark blue gradient background. ONE iconic visual. Minimal text. Readable from 15 feet." -o figures/hero.png
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# Introduction visual - ONLY 3 elements
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python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE visual with ONLY 3 icons: [icon1] → [icon2] → [icon3]. ONE word labels (80pt+). 50% white space. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/intro.png
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# Methods flowchart - ONLY 4 steps
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python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE flowchart with ONLY 4 boxes: STEP1 → STEP2 → STEP3 → STEP4. GIANT labels (100pt+). Thick arrows. 50% white space. NO sub-steps." -o figures/workflow.png
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# Results visualization - ONLY 3 bars
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python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE bar chart with ONLY 3 bars: BASELINE (70%), EXISTING (85%), OURS (95%). GIANT percentages ON bars (120pt+). NO axis, NO legend. 50% white space." -o figures/results.png
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# Conclusions - EXACTLY 3 key findings
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python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. EXACTLY 3 cards: '95%' (150pt) 'ACCURACY' (60pt), '2X' (150pt) 'FASTER' (60pt), checkmark 'READY' (60pt). 50% white space. NO other text." -o figures/conclusions.png
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```
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---
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## Workflow for PPTX Poster Creation
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### Stage 1: Planning
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1. **Confirm PPTX is explicitly requested**
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2. **Determine poster requirements:**
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- Size: 36×48 inches (most common) or A0
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- Orientation: Portrait (most common)
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3. **Develop content outline:**
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- Identify 1-3 core messages
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- Plan 3-5 visual elements
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- Draft minimal text (300-800 words total)
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### Stage 2: Generate Visual Elements (AI-Powered)
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**CRITICAL: Generate SIMPLE figures with MINIMAL content.**
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```bash
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mkdir -p figures
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# Generate each element with POSTER FORMAT specifications
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# (See examples in Section 4 above)
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```
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### Stage 3: Create HTML Poster
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1. **Copy the template:**
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```bash
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cp skills/pptx-posters/assets/poster_html_template.html poster.html
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```
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2. **Update content:**
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- Replace placeholder title and authors
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- Insert AI-generated images
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- Add minimal supporting text
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- Update references and contact info
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3. **Preview in browser:**
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```bash
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open poster.html # macOS
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# or
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xdg-open poster.html # Linux
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```
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### Stage 4: Export to PDF
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**Browser Print Method:**
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1. Open poster.html in Chrome or Firefox
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2. Print (Cmd/Ctrl + P)
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3. Select "Save as PDF"
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4. Set paper size to match poster dimensions
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5. Remove margins
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6. Enable "Background graphics"
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**Command Line (if Chrome available):**
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```bash
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# Chrome headless PDF export
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google-chrome --headless --print-to-pdf=poster.pdf \
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--print-to-pdf-no-header \
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--no-margins \
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poster.html
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```
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### Stage 5: Convert to PPTX (If Required)
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**Option 1: PDF to PPTX conversion**
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```bash
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# Using LibreOffice
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libreoffice --headless --convert-to pptx poster.pdf
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# Or use online converters for simple cases
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```
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**Option 2: Direct PPTX creation with python-pptx**
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```python
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from pptx import Presentation
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from pptx.util import Inches, Pt
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prs = Presentation()
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prs.slide_width = Inches(48)
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prs.slide_height = Inches(36)
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slide = prs.slides.add_slide(prs.slide_layouts[6]) # Blank
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# Add images from figures/
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slide.shapes.add_picture("figures/hero.png", Inches(0), Inches(0), width=Inches(48))
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# ... add other elements
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prs.save("poster.pptx")
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```
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---
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## HTML Template Structure
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The provided template (`assets/poster_html_template.html`) includes:
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### CSS Variables for Customization
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```css
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/* Poster dimensions */
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body {
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width: 2592pt; /* 36 inches */
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height: 3456pt; /* 48 inches */
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}
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/* Color scheme - customize these */
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.header {
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background: linear-gradient(135deg, #1a365d 0%, #2b6cb0 50%, #3182ce 100%);
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}
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/* Typography */
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.poster-title { font-size: 108pt; }
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.authors { font-size: 48pt; }
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.block-title { font-size: 52pt; }
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.block-content { font-size: 34pt; }
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```
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### Key Classes
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| Class | Purpose | Font Size |
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|-------|---------|-----------|
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| `.poster-title` | Main title | 108pt |
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| `.authors` | Author names | 48pt |
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| `.affiliations` | Institutions | 38pt |
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| `.block-title` | Section headers | 52pt |
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| `.block-content` | Body text | 34pt |
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| `.key-finding` | Highlight box | 36pt |
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---
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## Quality Checklist
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### Step 0: Pre-Generation Review (MANDATORY)
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**For EACH planned graphic, verify:**
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- [ ] Can describe in 3-4 items or less? (NOT 5+)
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- [ ] Is it a simple workflow (3-4 steps, NOT 7+)?
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- [ ] Can describe all text in 10 words or less?
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- [ ] Does it convey ONE message (not multiple)?
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**Reject these patterns:**
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- ❌ "7-stage workflow" → Simplify to "3 mega-stages"
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- ❌ "Multiple case studies" → One case per graphic
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- ❌ "Timeline 2015-2024 annual" → "ONLY 3 key years"
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- ❌ "Compare 6 methods" → "ONLY 2: ours vs best"
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### Step 2b: Post-Generation Review (MANDATORY)
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**For EACH generated figure at 25% zoom:**
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**✅ PASS criteria (ALL must be true):**
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- [ ] Can read ALL text clearly
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- [ ] Count: 3-4 elements or fewer
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- [ ] White space: 50%+ empty
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- [ ] Understand in 2 seconds
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- [ ] NOT a complex 5+ stage workflow
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- [ ] NOT multiple nested sections
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**❌ FAIL criteria (regenerate if ANY true):**
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- [ ] Text small/hard to read → Regenerate with "150pt+"
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- [ ] More than 4 elements → Regenerate "ONLY 3 elements"
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- [ ] Less than 50% white space → Regenerate "60% white space"
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- [ ] Complex multi-stage → SPLIT into 2-3 graphics
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- [ ] Multiple cases cramped → SPLIT into separate graphics
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### After Export
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- [ ] NO content cut off at ANY of the 4 edges (check carefully)
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- [ ] All images display correctly
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- [ ] Colors render as expected
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- [ ] Text readable at 25% scale
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- [ ] Graphics look SIMPLE (not like complex 7-stage workflows)
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---
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## Common Pitfalls to Avoid
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**AI-Generated Graphics Mistakes:**
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- ❌ Too many elements (10+ items) → Keep to 3-5 max
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- ❌ Text too small → Specify "GIANT (100pt+)" in prompts
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- ❌ No white space → Add "50% white space" to every prompt
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- ❌ Complex flowcharts (8+ steps) → Limit to 4-5 steps
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**HTML/Export Mistakes:**
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- ❌ Content exceeding poster dimensions → Check overflow in browser
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- ❌ Missing background graphics in PDF → Enable in print settings
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- ❌ Wrong paper size in PDF → Match poster dimensions exactly
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- ❌ Low-resolution images → Use 300 DPI minimum
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**Content Mistakes:**
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||||||
|
- ❌ Too much text (over 1000 words) → Cut to 300-800 words
|
||||||
|
- ❌ Too many sections (7+) → Consolidate to 5-6
|
||||||
|
- ❌ No clear visual hierarchy → Make key findings prominent
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
---
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
## Integration with Other Skills
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
This skill works with:
|
||||||
|
- **Scientific Schematics**: Generate all poster diagrams and flowcharts
|
||||||
|
- **Generate Image / Nano Banana Pro**: Create stylized graphics and hero images
|
||||||
|
- **LaTeX Posters**: DEFAULT skill for poster creation (use this instead unless PPTX explicitly requested)
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
---
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
## Template Assets
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
Available in `assets/` directory:
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
- `poster_html_template.html`: Main HTML poster template (36×48 inches)
|
||||||
|
- `poster_quality_checklist.md`: Pre-submission validation checklist
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
## References
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
Available in `references/` directory:
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
- `poster_content_guide.md`: Content organization and writing guidelines
|
||||||
|
- `poster_design_principles.md`: Typography, color theory, and visual hierarchy
|
||||||
|
- `poster_layout_design.md`: Layout principles and grid systems
|
||||||
257
assets/poster_html_template.html
Normal file
257
assets/poster_html_template.html
Normal file
@@ -0,0 +1,257 @@
|
|||||||
|
<!DOCTYPE html>
|
||||||
|
<html>
|
||||||
|
<head>
|
||||||
|
<meta charset="UTF-8">
|
||||||
|
<title>Research Poster Template - 36x48 inches</title>
|
||||||
|
<style>
|
||||||
|
/* PPTX POSTER TEMPLATE
|
||||||
|
Generate images FIRST:
|
||||||
|
- Hero: python scripts/generate_image.py "scientific banner" -o figures/hero.png
|
||||||
|
- Workflow: python scripts/generate_schematic.py "workflow diagram" -o figures/workflow.png
|
||||||
|
- Results: python scripts/generate_image.py "data visualization" -o figures/results.png
|
||||||
|
*/
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
html { background: #f0f4f8; }
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
body {
|
||||||
|
width: 2592pt;
|
||||||
|
height: 3456pt;
|
||||||
|
margin: 0;
|
||||||
|
padding: 0;
|
||||||
|
font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;
|
||||||
|
display: flex;
|
||||||
|
flex-direction: column;
|
||||||
|
background-color: #f7fafc;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.header {
|
||||||
|
height: 420pt;
|
||||||
|
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #1a365d 0%, #2b6cb0 50%, #3182ce 100%);
|
||||||
|
display: flex;
|
||||||
|
align-items: center;
|
||||||
|
padding: 50pt 80pt;
|
||||||
|
gap: 60pt;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.header-text { flex: 1; }
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.poster-title {
|
||||||
|
color: #ffffff;
|
||||||
|
font-size: 108pt;
|
||||||
|
font-weight: bold;
|
||||||
|
line-height: 1.1;
|
||||||
|
margin: 0 0 35pt 0;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.authors {
|
||||||
|
color: #e2e8f0;
|
||||||
|
font-size: 48pt;
|
||||||
|
margin: 0 0 20pt 0;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.affiliations {
|
||||||
|
color: #a0aec0;
|
||||||
|
font-size: 38pt;
|
||||||
|
margin: 0;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.hero-image {
|
||||||
|
width: 650pt;
|
||||||
|
height: 380pt;
|
||||||
|
border-radius: 24pt;
|
||||||
|
object-fit: cover;
|
||||||
|
box-shadow: 0 8pt 40pt rgba(0,0,0,0.3);
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.main-content {
|
||||||
|
flex: 1;
|
||||||
|
display: flex;
|
||||||
|
gap: 50pt;
|
||||||
|
padding: 60pt 80pt;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.column {
|
||||||
|
flex: 1;
|
||||||
|
display: flex;
|
||||||
|
flex-direction: column;
|
||||||
|
gap: 50pt;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.block {
|
||||||
|
background: #ffffff;
|
||||||
|
border-radius: 24pt;
|
||||||
|
padding: 45pt;
|
||||||
|
box-shadow: 0 4pt 24pt rgba(0,0,0,0.08);
|
||||||
|
border-left: 8pt solid #3182ce;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.block-title {
|
||||||
|
font-size: 52pt;
|
||||||
|
font-weight: bold;
|
||||||
|
color: #1a365d;
|
||||||
|
margin: 0 0 30pt 0;
|
||||||
|
padding-bottom: 20pt;
|
||||||
|
border-bottom: 3pt solid #e2e8f0;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.block-content {
|
||||||
|
font-size: 34pt;
|
||||||
|
line-height: 1.5;
|
||||||
|
color: #2d3748;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.block-image {
|
||||||
|
width: 100%;
|
||||||
|
border-radius: 16pt;
|
||||||
|
margin: 25pt 0;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
ul {
|
||||||
|
margin: 20pt 0;
|
||||||
|
padding-left: 60pt;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
li {
|
||||||
|
font-size: 34pt;
|
||||||
|
line-height: 1.6;
|
||||||
|
color: #2d3748;
|
||||||
|
margin-bottom: 18pt;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.key-finding {
|
||||||
|
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #ebf8ff 0%, #bee3f8 100%);
|
||||||
|
border-radius: 16pt;
|
||||||
|
padding: 30pt;
|
||||||
|
margin: 25pt 0;
|
||||||
|
border-left: 6pt solid #3182ce;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.key-finding p {
|
||||||
|
font-size: 36pt;
|
||||||
|
font-weight: 600;
|
||||||
|
color: #2b6cb0;
|
||||||
|
margin: 0;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.placeholder {
|
||||||
|
background: #edf2f7;
|
||||||
|
border-radius: 16pt;
|
||||||
|
border: 3pt dashed #a0aec0;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.footer {
|
||||||
|
height: 220pt;
|
||||||
|
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #1a365d 0%, #2d3748 100%);
|
||||||
|
display: flex;
|
||||||
|
align-items: center;
|
||||||
|
padding: 0 80pt;
|
||||||
|
gap: 60pt;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.references {
|
||||||
|
flex: 2;
|
||||||
|
color: #e2e8f0;
|
||||||
|
font-size: 24pt;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
.contact {
|
||||||
|
flex: 1;
|
||||||
|
text-align: right;
|
||||||
|
color: #ffffff;
|
||||||
|
font-size: 28pt;
|
||||||
|
}
|
||||||
|
</style>
|
||||||
|
</head>
|
||||||
|
<body>
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
<div class="header">
|
||||||
|
<div class="header-text">
|
||||||
|
<h1 class="poster-title">Your Research Title Here</h1>
|
||||||
|
<p class="authors">Author One¹*, Author Two², Author Three¹</p>
|
||||||
|
<p class="affiliations">¹University of Example · ²Research Institute</p>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
<img src="figures/hero.png" class="hero-image">
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
<div class="main-content">
|
||||||
|
<div class="column">
|
||||||
|
<div class="block">
|
||||||
|
<h2 class="block-title">Introduction</h2>
|
||||||
|
<div class="block-content">
|
||||||
|
<img src="figures/intro.png" class="block-image">
|
||||||
|
<p><b>Background:</b> Context about your research problem.</p>
|
||||||
|
<p><b>Objective:</b> What you aimed to accomplish.</p>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
<div class="block" style="border-left-color: #38a169;">
|
||||||
|
<h2 class="block-title">Methods</h2>
|
||||||
|
<div class="block-content">
|
||||||
|
<img src="figures/workflow.png" class="block-image">
|
||||||
|
<ul>
|
||||||
|
<li>Study design overview</li>
|
||||||
|
<li>Key methodology</li>
|
||||||
|
<li>Analysis approach</li>
|
||||||
|
</ul>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
<div class="column">
|
||||||
|
<div class="block" style="flex: 1; border-left-color: #ed8936;">
|
||||||
|
<h2 class="block-title">Results</h2>
|
||||||
|
<div class="block-content">
|
||||||
|
<div class="key-finding">
|
||||||
|
<p>Key Finding: Your main result in one sentence</p>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
<div id="chart1" class="placeholder" style="width: 100%; height: 400pt;"></div>
|
||||||
|
<img src="figures/results.png" class="block-image">
|
||||||
|
<ul>
|
||||||
|
<li><b>Finding 1:</b> Description (p < 0.001)</li>
|
||||||
|
<li><b>Finding 2:</b> Description with effect size</li>
|
||||||
|
</ul>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
<div class="column">
|
||||||
|
<div class="block">
|
||||||
|
<h2 class="block-title">Discussion</h2>
|
||||||
|
<div class="block-content">
|
||||||
|
<ul>
|
||||||
|
<li>Interpretation of findings</li>
|
||||||
|
<li>Comparison to prior work</li>
|
||||||
|
<li>Practical applications</li>
|
||||||
|
</ul>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
<div class="block" style="border-left-color: #805ad5;">
|
||||||
|
<h2 class="block-title">Conclusions</h2>
|
||||||
|
<div class="block-content">
|
||||||
|
<ul>
|
||||||
|
<li><b>Conclusion 1:</b> Clear takeaway</li>
|
||||||
|
<li><b>Conclusion 2:</b> Clear takeaway</li>
|
||||||
|
<li><b>Future:</b> Next steps</li>
|
||||||
|
</ul>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
<div class="block" style="border-left-color: #718096;">
|
||||||
|
<h2 class="block-title" style="font-size: 42pt;">Acknowledgments</h2>
|
||||||
|
<div class="block-content" style="font-size: 28pt;">
|
||||||
|
<p>Funded by Grant #XXX. Thanks to collaborators.</p>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
<div class="footer">
|
||||||
|
<div class="references">
|
||||||
|
<p><b>References:</b> 1. Author (2024) Journal. 2. Author (2023) Journal.</p>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
<div class="contact">
|
||||||
|
<p>Contact: author@university.edu</p>
|
||||||
|
<p>Lab: labwebsite.edu</p>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
</div>
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
</body>
|
||||||
|
</html>
|
||||||
358
assets/poster_quality_checklist.md
Normal file
358
assets/poster_quality_checklist.md
Normal file
@@ -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)
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
748
references/poster_content_guide.md
Normal file
748
references/poster_content_guide.md
Normal file
@@ -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.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
806
references/poster_design_principles.md
Normal file
806
references/poster_design_principles.md
Normal file
@@ -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.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
900
references/poster_layout_design.md
Normal file
900
references/poster_layout_design.md
Normal file
@@ -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.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
Reference in New Issue
Block a user