Research communication

How to Turn a Research Paper into a Conference Poster

Convert a linear manuscript into a selective visual argument by extracting the main claim, essential method, strongest result, and limitation.

By Hendri Susetyo (ArsyaVisual) · Published · Updated

Extract the argument first

Read the accepted manuscript for logic rather than wording. Write the question, principal result, and implication separately, then list the minimum method and limitation needed to interpret them. This avoids shortening every section equally while leaving no visible point.

  • Use approved analysis as truth.
  • Choose one primary audience.
  • Mark claims needing author approval.

Convert evidence into visual decisions

A one-comparison table may become a chart, procedural prose may become a flow, and repeated definitions may move into a caption. Do not add icons as decoration. A visual earns space when it makes comparison, sequence, magnitude, or relationship easier to inspect.

  • Use charts for comparisons.
  • Retain denominators and uncertainty.
  • Write explanatory captions.

Extend without hiding essentials

A QR-linked paper or repository can add depth, but the poster must stand alone. Keep the question, primary evidence, conclusion, authors, and caveats on the page. Test the link and prefer a durable institutional or DOI destination.

  • Use stable destinations.
  • Never expose embargoed files.
  • Include a follow-up contact.

A practical example

A 5,000-word manuscript with seven tables can become a poster centred on one effect estimate, participant flow, and two supporting plots. The remaining tables stay in the paper.

Bring the approved paper; build a clearer poster story

Custom poster design suits a complete manuscript whose main narrative, data hierarchy, and print-ready PowerPoint file still need focused design work.

Compare poster design packages

Sources and further reading