 | Keep your presentation to less than 15 minutes (not counting time for
questions during the presentation). This means presenting the
highlights of the paper, not all of the figures. |
| A typical data slide takes an average of 2 min for
presentation. Therefore, plan on presenting about half a dozen
slides. Simpler slides (e.g. consisting only of text) may take less time. You may
prepare extra slides which you would only show if you get a question about a specific point. |
| Start by putting the paper in the context of what it was
trying to do. This will usually be given by its introduction. |
| Always explain the methods but keep this short. As with all
parts of the presentation, assume that the other students have read the
paper and that you are reminding them of the most important points. |
| Briefly present the results and give the interpretation provided by the
paper. Only after doing this should you present your criticisms of
the work, note points you don't understand, or make big-picture comments not
made by the authors. If something about these must be said while
presenting the results, keep it to one sentence and come back to the point
at the end of your talk. |
| End by summarizing what the paper accomplished and what it left
undone or did wrong. Suggest topics for discussion. |
| You are encouraged to be critical. Even the best papers (including
those authored by instructors) have weaknesses. Sometimes we may
deliberately assign flawed papers to illustrate methodological pitfalls. |
| Avoid jargon, address your audience directly, and try to appear
engaged. Be prepared to be interrupted: It means the other
students are following you. |
