How to Design a Winning 3MT Slide

While your delivery is key, your slide plays a crucial supporting role. Judges and audiences need to remember your research, and a well-designed slide can make all the difference.  

5 Tips for an Impactful 3MT Slide

1. Ditch the Data Dump 📊

Conference slides crammed with graphs and tables? Not here. The 3MT is about storytelling, not data overload.  

Good Example: 

Swap dense graphs for "simple infographics" or "metaphorical visuals".  

- Instead of a bar chart, use a "pie graphic" resembling a salad bowl.  

- Replace a table with a "map or diagram" that instantly conveys your point.  

2. Think Conceptually, Not Technically 

Your slide should reinforce one core idea—not explain your entire methodology.  

Winning Examples: 

- Joshua Chu-Tan (2016 Winner) used a striking image of blurred vision to depict macular degeneration’s impact—no complex diagrams needed.  

- Cintya Dharmayanti (2021 Winner)compared drug delivery to "cars on a highway", with a simple road sign visual.  

How to Do It:  

- Write your script first, then design a slide that matches your analogy or key message.  

- Avoid jargon-heavy diagrams—opt for universally understandable visuals.  

3. Use Eye-Catching (But Relevant) Imagery  

Your slide should grab attention immediately. Two effective approaches:  

4. Minimize Text  

If your audience is reading, they’re not listening.

Do This Instead:  

- Replace paragraphs with a single powerful image.

- If text is unavoidable, limit to 15 words max (and use large, readable fonts).  

Avoid:

- Tiny fonts (go for 24pt+).  

- Fancy, hard-to-read typefaces (yes, even Comic Sans).  

5. Embrace Negative Space   

A cluttered slide overwhelms. Empty space directs focus to what matters.  

How to Use It:

- Photos: Pick images with one clear focal point(e.g., a person against a soft background).  

- Diagrams: Leave room between elements—simplicity = clarity.  

Key Takeaways

Your 3MT slide should:  

✔ Simplify—no data overload.  

✔ Support your story—conceptual > technical.  

✔ Stick in memory—use striking visuals.  

✔ Stay minimal—less text, more impact.  

✔ Breathe—negative space is powerful.