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General Writing and Grammar Tips
- Write out numbers that are ten and below unless you are using units or other numbers in the sentence/paragraph are written numerically. Use numerals for numbers above ten (i.e., 11 and up).
- Always give a table or figure a number and a title.
- Always refer to tables and figures in your text. For example, "Table 1 shows..." or "the results indicate...(Table 1)."
- Periods and commas go inside quote marks.
- Paragraphs are three or more sentences.
- Refrain from using many bulleted or numbered lists within your text. Consider if the information can be included in the narrative or should be put in a table.
- When using bulleted or numbered lists, indent the list and keep the format of each item consistent, i.e., use all phrases or all complete sentences and start with a verb or noun. If using phrases, do not capitalize each bullet or number, and do not put a period at the end of each phrase; put a period after the last phrase only.
- Always cite your references.
- Never plagiarize. Put the information in quotes or reword it. In either case, always cite the reference.
General Presentation Tips
- Look at the audience, not the screen or board.
- Speak loud enough so everyone can hear you clearly.
- Use phrases rather than complete sentences.
- Leave some blank space on your slide.
- If possible, use relevant photos, clipart, or schematics.
- Make font sizes large enough so everyone can see the words or numbers clearly.
- Make graphs large enough so everyone can read them easily.
- Use a color scheme that does not detract from your presentation or make it difficult to read.
- Do not simply read your slides. Add information.
- Start with a title slide; end with a conclusion or summary slide. Tell your audience what you're going to say, say it, and tell them what you told them.
- Make sure to give some background information.
- Do not include a list of your references.
- Ask if there are any questions.
