Designing a Research Poster: Sections of a Poster

Title: states the question/problem that you are addressing, sometimes in question form

• Use bold typeface.
• Capitalize important words of title, but do not use ALL CAPS.
• Title should be short, meaningful, and eye-catching (no longer than two lines).
• Avoid jargon or acronyms.
• If using a university logo, place on either side of the title.
• Author(s) should be listed right under the title (Font size: 60).

Font size: 70 - 80 for the title

 Introduction: introduces your topic and briefly explains why your research is significant

• Place your topic within context of published literature.
• Clearly state your hypothesis.
• Include just what is highly relevant. Minimize background information and definitions.

Wordcount: 100-200   Font size: Headings: about 44; Main text about 32

Materials/Methodology: tells readers what your research strategy was and how you actually carried it out

• Briefly describe your research methods and any equipment or software you may have used.
• You may also add figures, tables, flow charts, photographs, or drawings that describe your design.

Wordcount: 100-200   Font size: Headings about 44; Main text about 32 Captions about 28

Results: what did you find out?

• Briefly discuss your data analysis.
• You may add supporting charts, images, tables, quotations etc.
• Use captions that describe the graphics.

Wordcount: 100-200      Font size: Headings 44; Main text 32; Captions 28

Conclusions: This is where you summarize your hypothesis and results.

• Focus on the main takeaway points
• Was your hypothesis supported?
• What is the significance of your findings?
• Future research?

Wordcount: 150-300       Font size: Headings: 44; Main text 32

Works Cited

• Cite only the most pertinent articles.
• Select a documentation format (APA, MLA, Chicago etc) and be consistent.
• Create a handout if you want to share more citations.

Font size: 24

Acknowledgments This section is optional but it is nice to acknowledge people who have provided assistance or funding for your project.

• Thank individuals who made contributions to your project.
• Thank research subjects.
• Acknowledge funding sources.

Font size: 24-28