3MT® competition rules
The following rules must be strictly followed to avoid disqualification:
- only a single static PowerPoint slide is permitted
- no slide transitions, animations or 'movement' of any description are allowed
- the slide is to be presented from the beginning of the talk
- no additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) are permitted
- no additional props (e.g. costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment) are permitted
- presentations are limited to a maximum of three minutes - competitors exceeding three minutes will be disqualified
- presentations are to be spoken word (e.g. no poems, raps or songs)
- presentations are considered to have commenced when a presenter starts their presentation through either movement or speech the decision of the judging panel is final
Judging criteria
3MT® presentations will be judged against the following:
Comprehension and content
- did the presentation provide an understanding of the background to the research question being addressed and its significance?
- did the presentation clearly describe the key results of the research including conclusions and outcomes?
- did the presentation follow a clear and logical sequence?
- was the thesis topic, key results and research significance and outcomes communicated in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience?
- did the speaker avoid research jargon, explain terminology and provide adequate background information to illustrate points?
- did the presenter spend adequate time on each element of their presentation - or did they elaborate for too long on one aspect or was the presentation rushed?
Engagement and communication
- did the presentation make the audience want to know more?
- was the presenter careful not to trivialise or generalise their research?
- did the presenter convey enthusiasm for their research?
- did the presenter capture and maintain their audience's attention?
- did the speaker have sufficient stage presence, eye contact and vocal range; maintain a steady pace, and have a confident stance?
- did the PowerPoint slide enhance the presentation - was it clear, legible, and concise?