Key points at a glance
- Build the story around question, approach, findings and interpretation.
- Give each slide one clear message with legible evidence.
- Rehearse timing and likely follow-up questions.
Start with the exam format
Check your programme’s time limit, technical rules and balance between talk and discussion. Outline the story before designing slides. Slide count follows speaking time and complexity; there is no universal number.
Tell a coherent research story
Open with the problem and question. Give just enough method for listeners to understand the evidence, then focus on two or three central findings. End with interpretation and limits. One clear chart can be more useful than a dense results table.
Make evidence readable and fair
Use meaningful chart titles, labelled axes with units and visible sources. Avoid tiny tables and distracting animation. Show uncertainty where it affects the conclusion. Check contrast and projection at realistic viewing size.
Prepare for discussion
Rehearse aloud with a timer. Ask a peer to question your sample, method and limitations. Keep backup details available without crowding the main talk. If you do not know an answer, say so and explain what evidence would resolve it.
Final submission context
Formal details can feel like a separate writing task, but they matter just as much for a printed submission. Anything missing, misplaced or inconsistently formatted in the document will also appear in the bound copy.
Use this guide together with your cover page, table of contents, page numbers, source notes and appendices. Prepare the final PDF for printing and binding only after the complete file has been checked.
Practical check before PDF export
- Do headings, chapter structure and page numbers match?
- Are sources, figures and tables included completely?
- Are required elements such as declarations, appendices or the cover page included where required?
- Did you open and check the final PDF after exporting it?
Checklist
- Format and timing checked.
- Each slide has a clear point.
- Charts and sources readable.
- Talk and questions rehearsed.
Common mistakes
- Copying thesis paragraphs into slides.
- Showing findings without method or limits.
- Testing timing only on exam day.
Prepare the finished thesis for submission
Once the content and university requirements are checked, review your PDF and the available printing and binding options.
Review printing optionsRelated content
Explore related guidance on thesis structure, sources, formatting and final submission.
Frequently asked questions
How many slides do I need?
Let your allotted time and the complexity of the argument determine it.
Should I present every result?
No. Prioritise findings that answer the research question.
What belongs on backup slides?
Methods or secondary results that may help with questions.