What are some tips for giving a conference presentation?

A successful conference presentation will depend on the type of presentation. The most common types are poster sessions, a panel discussion or presentation, a paper with a respondent session, or a report of one's research.

View descriptions for a few different types of conference presentations on the Walden Writing Center website.

Think of what you like to see and hear in a presentation and follow that guidance. Some common tips are to do the following:

• Practice and time your presentation to ensure you can complete it within the timeframe provided.
• At the presentation, speak and dress professionally.
• Preview the venue so you know the size of the room and its capacity.
• Arrive at the venue early and check that all technology or presentation materials are in order.
• Practice and know your material so you are not simply reading off slides or from a script.
• Make slides interesting but not overly crowded.

*List adapted in part from “The Nuts and Bolts of an Academic Conference Presentation” by Linda Vaughan. Available at http://graduate.asu.edu/sites/default/files/Transcript-Nuts-Bolts-of-an-Academic-Conference-Presentation.pdf

Additional Resources:

• See more information on research symposia opportunities and resources at Walden University by visiting the Office of Research and Doctoral Services website.

Further Questions?

Would you like a current or future assignment to be reviewed by the Writing Center?  If so please visit the Writing Center's Paper Review Website and make an appointment with us! 

Do you have other general writing questions? Ask OASIS ! 

Other questions about your doctoral capstone or the Form & Style review? E-mail the Dissertation Editors at [email protected].

Want to peruse other writing resources? Go to the Writing Center’s homepage.