1. Title states the independent and dependent variables OR states the predictor and criterion variables.
2. Include the author(s) and affiliation(s)
3. Readable from at least two meters away; lettering at least 2.5 cm high
4. Title uses both capital and lower case lettering
5. Avoid the use of reverse type (i.e., white letters on black background)
6. No more than ten words

B. Visual Appearance--Characteristics of the Layout

The poster is a visual presentation of information. Rely sparingly on verbal print, rely a lot on graphs, charts, tables and pictures to communicatin information. What verbal text you use should focus on the main points of your design, rationale, etc. Your poster should NOT be a copy of your written paper glued onto poster board. Save descriptions of complex analyses, etc. for your complete paper (see D below).

1. Use colors to attract attention
2. Use graphs/tables to convey information
3. Use pictures where appropriate
4. Print can be read from at least one meter away (no smaller than Times 24 font)
5. Symmetrical in appearance, i.e, right/left and top/bottom halves balanced
6. Focus selectively on major findings (presents the details in the printed manuscript available as handouts)
7. Include major sections: Abstract, Introduction, Method, Results, Discussion, References (smaller font okay for references)
8. Sections are labeled and appear in a clear order.
9. Limit the text pages

C. Interacting with the Audience

Posters don't stand alone. Your availability and interaction style will also influence the number of people who read your poster and talk with you about it. Stand by your poster at all times during your session. Use inviting behaviors to initiate conversation. Viewers appreciate having important information pointed out to them.

• Do you display a professional appearance and demeanor?
• Are you responsive to questions about your research?
• Are you willing to approach people who appear interested in your poster?
• Are you able to talk about your study with different audiences?
• Do you know how your research fits into various fields of study?
• Are you enthusiastic about your research? Can you convey this to others?

D. Your Paper Paper

• Bring 20-30 copies of your complete paper for distribution to interested persons. This paper provides details not given in your poster.
• Single-space and copy on both sides, saving readers room and weight in suitcases.
• Have a set of blank mailing labels with you for readers to fill out if you run out of copies.
• Take plenty of business cards for those who want them, and to give to others whose papers you would like.

*Adapted from Mitchell, J., Prevost, S. & Stoddart, R.M. (1995). And the survey says: An empirical study of effective poster presentations. Chicago: Midwestern Psychological Association Annual Conference.