Which slides do you need for a defence?

One question per slide

Start with an unformatted slide list. Write the question each slide answers: how groups were formed, how a measure was assessed or what changed. If one slide needs several independent explanations, divide the material.

Table or chart

A table suits exact comparisons of several values. A chart is useful for trends, distributions or relationships. Include only necessary table rows on the slide, retaining units and statistical notation. Other data can stay in supplementary materials.

Readability

Check the presentation in slideshow mode. Axis labels, group names and notes must be readable from a distance. Do not distinguish groups by colour alone; add labels, symbols or different line styles. The PLOS article on scientific figures recommends considering the display medium and using informative captions.

Consistent formatting

Use the same group colours on every slide. Check abbreviations and decimal places. Dedicate the final substantive slide to conclusions linked to the objectives. Save a PDF backup and check it separately before the defence.

Structure before design

Divide the talk into meaningful sections. Define what the audience should understand after each one. This determines the material: a process diagram for study design, a chart for numerical comparisons and a short list for inclusion criteria.

Start with a draft without decoration. If the sequence is clear from the headings alone, the structure works. Then add tables, images and explanations. This reduces attractive but unnecessary slides that lengthen the talk and distract from the findings.

One chart, one question

Before creating a chart, define the question: compare groups, follow change over time or explain sample composition? Different questions need different formats. Keep axis labels, units, group names and a key on the slide.

For example, when discussing a measure before and after an intervention, place stages in their natural order. Avoid similar colours for groups that must be distinguished quickly. Explain any intervals. An attractive chart with unclear notation creates more questions about the data.

Preparing a table for the screen

A dissertation table may fill a page, but a slide is viewed from a distance. Select the rows and columns needed for the current conclusion and move the rest to a backup slide. Label it as an extract if some measures are omitted.

Keep number formats consistent. Account for different measurement precision when rounding. Place labels on the left and align numbers for easy comparison. Use colour to highlight the result being discussed, rather than every other cell.

Checking the finished presentation

Review slides in slideshow mode, not just the editor. Ask whether the audience can read each label while you explain the result. A long caption is better split into a short heading and spoken explanation.

Check numbering, figure references and the final slide separately. Remove working notes, comments and personal data unnecessary for a public talk. Save a backup without complex animation. The closing screen should support discussion, perhaps with key conclusions and the supplementary section title.