phd dissertation presentation ppt

PhD Defense Template

You’ve done the hard work to prepare your PhD dissertation, and now there’s only one step left: your defense. And Beautiful.ai has the perfect presentation template to help you along the way.

These customizable template slides have all the basic elements of a PhD defense presentation, including an abstract, methodology, research findings, executive summary, and more. The result? A streamlined presentation that’s as professional as it is impressive. All with just a few clicks of the mouse. 

Our PhD defense template can also help you:

• Customize your PhD presentation for different audiences
• Synthesize months of academic work into a concise presentation
• Successfully defend your PhD thesis to your panel

Use our template to create an effective PhD defense presentation

Your PhD defense presentation is a critical step in your academic journey – one that requires a smart and sophisticated format, layout, and story flow. That’s why our template includes everything you need to create an effective presentation. Tailoring this defense template to your unique PhD thesis is simple. Whether you need to create additional data points or showcase more findings, you can quickly bring your visions to life with these customizable templates and our entire library of professionally designed template slides.

Pro Tips for creating your own PhD defense presentation template

When you are thinking of creating your own impactful Phd defense presentation, keep these best practices in mind:

Condensing hours and hours of research can be daunting. Build an outline or table of contents first, then simply stick to that structure as you create your presentation.

It can be easy to get caught up in your research and findings, but don’t forget to answer critical questions like, ‘Why is this important?’ and ‘What results have you achieved?’

Remember: You aren’t recreating your entire thesis into a visual presentation. Limit the amount of content and data you add to each slide.

Your PhD defense presentation is your chance to share all of your hard work. Don’t be afraid to showcase bits of your personality throughout.

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• Publication Recognition

How to Make a PowerPoint Presentation of Your Research Paper

• 4 minute read
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Table of Contents

A research paper presentation is often used at conferences and in other settings where you have an opportunity to share your research, and get feedback from your colleagues. Although it may seem as simple as summarizing your research and sharing your knowledge, successful research paper PowerPoint presentation examples show us that there’s a little bit more than that involved.

In this article, we’ll highlight how to make a PowerPoint presentation from a research paper, and what to include (as well as what NOT to include). We’ll also touch on how to present a research paper at a conference.

Purpose of a Research Paper Presentation

The purpose of presenting your paper at a conference or forum is different from the purpose of conducting your research and writing up your paper. In this setting, you want to highlight your work instead of including every detail of your research. Likewise, a presentation is an excellent opportunity to get direct feedback from your colleagues in the field. But, perhaps the main reason for presenting your research is to spark interest in your work, and entice the audience to read your research paper.

So, yes, your presentation should summarize your work, but it needs to do so in a way that encourages your audience to seek out your work, and share their interest in your work with others. It’s not enough just to present your research dryly, to get information out there. More important is to encourage engagement with you, your research, and your work.

Tips for Creating Your Research Paper Presentation

In addition to basic PowerPoint presentation recommendations, which we’ll cover later in this article, think about the following when you’re putting together your research paper presentation:

• Know your audience : First and foremost, who are you presenting to? Students? Experts in your field? Potential funders? Non-experts? The truth is that your audience will probably have a bit of a mix of all of the above. So, make sure you keep that in mind as you prepare your presentation.

Know more about: Discover the Target Audience .

• Your audience is human : In other words, they may be tired, they might be wondering why they’re there, and they will, at some point, be tuning out. So, take steps to help them stay interested in your presentation. You can do that by utilizing effective visuals, summarize your conclusions early, and keep your research easy to understand.
• Running outline : It’s not IF your audience will drift off, or get lost…it’s WHEN. Keep a running outline, either within the presentation or via a handout. Use visual and verbal clues to highlight where you are in the presentation.
• Where does your research fit in? You should know of work related to your research, but you don’t have to cite every example. In addition, keep references in your presentation to the end, or in the handout. Your audience is there to hear about your work.
• Plan B : Anticipate possible questions for your presentation, and prepare slides that answer those specific questions in more detail, but have them at the END of your presentation. You can then jump to them, IF needed.

What Makes a PowerPoint Presentation Effective?

You’ve probably attended a presentation where the presenter reads off of their PowerPoint outline, word for word. Or where the presentation is busy, disorganized, or includes too much information. Here are some simple tips for creating an effective PowerPoint Presentation.

• Less is more: You want to give enough information to make your audience want to read your paper. So include details, but not too many, and avoid too many formulas and technical jargon.
• Clean and professional : Avoid excessive colors, distracting backgrounds, font changes, animations, and too many words. Instead of whole paragraphs, bullet points with just a few words to summarize and highlight are best.
• Know your real-estate : Each slide has a limited amount of space. Use it wisely. Typically one, no more than two points per slide. Balance each slide visually. Utilize illustrations when needed; not extraneously.
• Keep things visual : Remember, a PowerPoint presentation is a powerful tool to present things visually. Use visual graphs over tables and scientific illustrations over long text. Keep your visuals clean and professional, just like any text you include in your presentation.

Know more about our Scientific Illustrations Services .

Another key to an effective presentation is to practice, practice, and then practice some more. When you’re done with your PowerPoint, go through it with friends and colleagues to see if you need to add (or delete excessive) information. Double and triple check for typos and errors. Know the presentation inside and out, so when you’re in front of your audience, you’ll feel confident and comfortable.

How to Present a Research Paper

If your PowerPoint presentation is solid, and you’ve practiced your presentation, that’s half the battle. Follow the basic advice to keep your audience engaged and interested by making eye contact, encouraging questions, and presenting your information with enthusiasm.

We encourage you to read our articles on how to present a scientific journal article and tips on giving good scientific presentations .

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Know How to Structure Your PhD Thesis

• Research Process

Systematic Literature Review or Literature Review?

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• Introduction for Types of Dissertations
• Overview of the Dissertation
• Self-Assessment Exercise
• What is a Dissertation Committee
• Different Types of Dissertations
• Introduction for Overview of the Dissertation Process
• Responsibilities: the Chair, the Team and You
• Sorting Exercise
• Stages of a Dissertation
• Managing Your Time
• Create Your Own Timeline
• Working with a Writing Partner
• Key Deadlines
• Self Assessment Exercise
• Additional Resources
• Purpose and Goals
• Read and Evaluate Chapter 1 Exemplars
• Draft an Introduction of the Study
• Outline the Background of the Problem
• Draft your Statement of the Problem
• Draft your Purpose of the Study
• Draft your Significance of the Study
• List the Possible Limitations and Delimitations
• Explicate the Definition of Terms
• Outline the Organization of the Study
• Recommended Resources and Readings
• Purpose of the Literature Review
• What is the Literature?
• Article Summary Table
• Writing a Short Literature Review
• Outline for Literature Review
• Synthesizing the Literature Review
• Purpose of the Methodology Chapter
• Topics to Include
• Preparing to Write the Methodology Chapter
• Confidentiality
• Building the Components for Chapter Three
• Preparing for Your Qualifying Exam (aka Proposal Defense)
• What is Needed for Your Proposal Defense?
• Submitting Your Best Draft
• Preparing Your Abstract for IRB
• Use of Self-Assessment
• Preparing Your PowerPoint
• During Your Proposal Defense
• After Your Proposal Defense
• Pre-observation – Issues to consider
• During Observations
• Wrapping Up
• Recommended Resources and Readings (Qualitative)
• Quantitative Data Collection
• Recommended Resources and Readings (Quantitative)
• Qualitative: Before you Start
• Qualitative: During Analysis
• Qualitative: After Analysis
• Qualitative: Recommended Resources and Readings
• Quantitative: Deciding on the Right Analysis
• Quantitative: Data Management and Cleaning
• Quantitative: Keep Track of your Analysis
• The Purpose of Chapter 4
• The Elements of Chapter 4
• Presenting Results (Quantitative)
• Presenting Findings (Qualitative)
• Chapter 4 Considerations
• The Purpose of Chapter 5
• Preparing Your Abstract for the Graduate School
• Draft the Introduction for Chapter 5
• Draft the Summary of Findings
• Draft Implications for Practice
• Draft your Recommendations for Research
• Draft your Conclusions
• What is Needed
• What Happens During the Final Defense?
• What Happens After the Final Defense?

Preparing Your PowerPoint Topic 3:  Preparing for Defense

• Statement of the Problem (1 slide)
• Literature Review (1 slide)
• Purpose of the Study (1 slide)
• Research Question(s) (1 slide)
• Sample and Population/ Instrumentation (1 slide)
• Data Collection/ Data Analysis (1 slide)
• Your research questions and findings (1 slide per question)
• Implications for Practice (1 slide)
• Recommendations for Research (1 slide) 
• Review Abstract (1 slide)
• Thank You/Questions (1 slide)

PhD Dissertation Defense Slides Design: Additional Resources

• Tips for designing the slides
• Presentation checklist
• Example slides
• Additional Resources

Video resources

• Presentation Skills - CMU GCC
• Design Effective PowerPoint Slides - Part I
• Design Effective PowerPoint Slides - Part II
• THE “SNAKE FIGHT” PORTION OF YOUR THESIS DEFENSE
• << Previous: Example slides
• Last Updated: Aug 28, 2020 1:13 PM
• URL: https://guides.library.cmu.edu/c.php?g=883178

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Minimalist PhD dissertation. Free PPT Template & Google Slides Theme

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Black, white, orange and blue minimalist phd dissertation presentation.

Simple, clean, and classic, these minimalist PhD dissertation slides are great as a Google Slides template, PowerPoint theme or Canva template. Keep the layout as it is or add, delete, and re-order slides. Choose your own color scheme and font combination. Upload images, photos, and illustrations. Easily add charts, graphs, and other figures. Fill out ready-made slides for your introduction, research methodology, results, discussion, and other core parts of your dissertation. Check out the handy How-To page at the start of the deck for tips on using these slides as a Google Slides theme, PowerPoint template, or Canva theme. 

• 25+ ready-made slides to customize as you see fit
• Hundreds of charts, frames, lines and shapes to choose from
• Handy animation and transition features for each slide
• Easy downloading or sharing in a wide range of formats

With Canva, you get even more creative freedom:

• An easy drag-and-drop tool to help you add graphics
• Set-and-forget brand color and font combinations
• Page animation features, emojis, color palettes and font sets 
• Millions of professionally designed images and photos
• Pre-recorded Talking Presentation tools to help you practice
• A notes feature for adding talking points to your design
• Searchable videos, soundtracks and other audio clips
• Easy collaboration with friends, coworkers and family

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How to Create a Dissertation Proposal Defense PowerPoint (+Example)

Published by steve tippins on june 21, 2022 june 21, 2022.

Last Updated on: 29th August 2022, 08:04 am

As part of the dissertation process, you will need to create a dissertation proposal defense PowerPoint to present a summary of the plan for your study. You will need to show how important your study is and how it is useful. 

When creating the PowerPoint, keep in mind that you need to make sure all of your audience can understand all aspects of your study.  The exact content for the defense PowerPoint varies by college, discipline and department, so it is important that you discuss with your committee chair about the requirements. However, we will give some general guidelines that apply to most institutions.

The defense typically takes 20‐30 minutes. You should keep the timeframe in mind as you consider the information you will have in your presentation. 

Except for aspects of your presentation, such as the research question(s) or hypothesis(es), do not just read the slides. Instead, explain or expand on what is on the slides. To ensure you keep within the timeframe, practice narrating your PowerPoint presentation. 

Although the APA manual does not provide guidelines for creating a PowerPoint presentation, you will need to follow some of the APA style guidelines within your PowerPoint. 

For example, provide in-text citations for quotes, paraphrases, images, graphs, and other information that should be cited. Also, you will need to provide a list of pertinent references. 

The following are other format requirements for the slides :

• Create 17-20 slides.
• Do not provide a lot of information. Be concise and write a few sentences (approximately 1-7 on each slide). 
• Because your slides will contain only a small amount of information, any extra information that you want to touch on should be put in the notes section of the PowerPoint. 
• Write the information in your slides for visual appeal and optimum communication, using a legible font size. 
• You can use graphics and images to enhance and reinforce the information. However, ensure that they do not distract from your information.
• You can use bullet points but keep them to a minimum of 3-4 for each listing.

Example Dissertation Proposal Defense PowerPoint Format

The dissertation proposal will consist of three chapters, which you will be providing information on in the presentation. Although the contents and order of the contents may vary, there are some basic parts of the proposal that are usually required.  

The following is a breakdown of the usual contents that are included in the presentation. Each of these headings below represents the titles of each slide. The information below the headings is the type of content you will need to provide. 

Title (1 slide) : 

• Dissertation’s Title 
• Department of Program of Study/Name of University
• Chair and Committee Members

Statement of the Problem (1 slide):

• Provide the problem that your dissertation will address. 

Purpose of the Study (1 slide):

• Provide what the study will do relative to the issue(s) defined in the statement of the problem.

Significance of the Study (1 slide):

• Provide the main argument of why the solution to the problem that you propose is important. 

Research Question(s)/Hypothesis(es ) (1 slide):

• Provide the research question(s) or hypothesis(es) relevant to your field of study, written exactly as it is in your dissertation proposal.

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The Literature Review (2 slides):  

• These slides should consist of a coherent, organized overview of the main literature that frames your study’s problem, and the gap in literature that your study will address. Make sure that you include the sources. 

Theoretical/Conceptual Framework (1 slide):

• This slide should consist of the theoretical/conceptual framework that will help you make sense of the phenomenon that you will investigate. 

Research Design (1 slide):

• Provide the framework for the methods of data collection and data analysis. Indicate whether the study will be quantitative or qualitative.

Sample and Population (1 slide):

• Provide the population that refers to the entire group that you will draw conclusions about, and the sample that refers to the specific group that you will collect data from.

Data Collection (1 slide):

• Provide the methods by which you will obtain the data. If the research design is quantitative, provide methods such as correlation and regression, mean, mode and median or others. If the design is qualitative, provide methods such as, interviews, questionnaires with open-ended questions, focus groups, observation, game or role-playing, case studies, or others.

Data Analysis (1-2 slides):

• This slide should contain the process you will use to understand, gather, compile, and process the data you will obtain. 

Limitations (1 slide):

• In this slide, explain the nature of the limitations and how they will be overcome during your research. 

Delimitations (1slide):

• Provide the characteristics that describe the boundaries of your study and limit the scope, such as sample size, geographical location, population traits, or others.

References (1-2 slides):

• Only provide those sources that you referred to in the presentation. Do not provide all the sources that you have in your dissertation proposal.

Thank You/Questions (1 slide):

• Use this final slide to thank your committee and to request questions from them.

Note : For information about citing your references, refer to Chapters 9 and 10 of the APA Manual 7 th edition.

For instructions on how to create a PowerPoint, see How to Create a Powerpoint Presentation .

View this video for “ Tips and Tricks for your Proposal Defense Day Presentation ” 

You can find several examples of students’ Dissertation Proposal Defense presentations online by searching for “Dissertation Proposal Defense PowerPoint.”  You can also find one at this webpage .

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Steve Tippins, PhD, has thrived in academia for over thirty years. He continues to love teaching in addition to coaching recent PhD graduates as well as students writing their dissertations. Learn more about his dissertation coaching and career coaching services. Book a Free Consultation with Steve Tippins

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Home Blog Presentation Ideas How To Do a Proper Thesis Defense Using the Right PowerPoint Presentation

How To Do a Proper Thesis Defense Using the Right PowerPoint Presentation

Writing a thesis is stressful, but preparing an oral defense can be even more painful. But it doesn’t have to be; with proper preparation and a good presentation, you will be able to better equip yourself comes time to present your thesis defense.

But what makes a good thesis defense?

A proper presentation helps you with your thesis defense because it helps you capture the panels’ attention and gives you cues and reminders on what to say as well.

It also helps keep your data organized while visually looking good and provides a flow structure for the rest of your presentation.

In today’s article, we will be giving you The Right PowerPoint Templates for Your Thesis Defense and a powerful outline composed of best practices and layouts specifically designed to help you defend your thesis in both written and oral presentations.

In the next segments of this article, we’ll walk you through the most feasible process on how to ace this kind of presentation.

Let’s dive into the outline of what makes a great thesis defense.

Thesis Defense Overview

Similarities.

• Type of Degree

Thesis and Dissertation Distinction Varies on Location

Three most common thesis defense myths, how to use chatgpt to structure your thesis.

• Introduction
• Literature Review
• Methodology
• Acknowledgements
• Questions and Answers
• Contact Information
• Tips During Your Oral Defense
• More Quick Tips on How to Present

A thesis defense is composed of two parts – a thesis and a defense.

The thesis, according to Grad School Hub , represents a student’s collective understanding of his or her program and major.

Universities often include a thesis in every course as one of the final requirements to earn a particular graduate or postgraduate degree.

The thesis, however, isn’t just a mere requirement.

It helps the students to grow out of their shell from their respective discipline and give them the opportunity to present all the findings of their study.

Moreover, some people think a thesis is just a long essay, but it’s not. Unlike an essay, a thesis needs to assert something.

This can be considered one of the most crucial research documents that a student makes during their academic schooling .

On the other hand, defense is the presentation of the pieces of evidence to support and prove your research.

It’s the most essential part of the thesis process.

Your presentation has to be prepared to answer questions from members of the committee and any other panel present, and it’s your job to convince them and defend your thesis with ample proof.

Prior to presenting, you have to carefully determine what appropriate evidence should be presented before the panel, depending on what thesis you have to defend.

Thesis and Dissertation Distinguished

A thesis or dissertation is usually required to complete a particular graduate degree. These two words are often used interchangeably by most students when referring to research studies.

But while being almost similar in format or structure, it’s worth noting that they have significant differences that set them apart from each other.

The very reason why thesis and dissertation are treated the same is that these two are both extensive papers. Not just merely long essays like what others are claiming.

Both of these papers are extensive. This is why students are given ample time, usually the entire last semester of the last year of study, to complete all the requirements and finally acquire their degree.

With regards to structure, both papers are very similar with few differences.

Differences Between Thesis and Dissertation

One of the significant differences between the two is to whom the paper is assigned. A thesis is usually required for those students earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree. While a dissertation is for those, who want to obtain a doctorate degree.

However, not all students taking a master’s degree are required to make a thesis. Prior to their enrollment, they have been given a choice of whether they’ll go for a non-thesis program or with a thesis.

Those who have a plan to escalate their degree to a doctorate eventually should take the path of a thesis. This is to prepare themselves for a more extensive dissertation requirement as doctorate students. Otherwise, they will be only limited to earning a master’s degree.

But above all, the most significant difference between the two papers is the purpose for which it is written.

A thesis, like what has been mentioned above, is being done by students obtaining a bachelor’s or master’s degree and has the purpose of testing their understanding of the discipline they’re engaged with.

A thesis is focused on obtaining technical expertise.

On the other hand, a dissertation is made for students to come up with an original study that other researchers haven’t already studied.

USA: In the United States of America, they consider a thesis shorter than a dissertation. In fact, aside from being a requirement to graduate in college, a thesis is now also inculcated in master’s degree programs. And since the dissertation is more extensive, the thesis is treated as preliminary in gaining a doctorate degree.

Europe: The distinction between the two papers is almost opposite to that of the USA. In Europe, a dissertation is only a broader research study from a post-graduate program and not the making of original research. Instead, educational systems in the said continent treat the doctoral thesis as a more elaborate paper writing.

The difference between a thesis and a dissertation might not seem that big, but it’s important that we know what makes them different.

If your upcoming defense gives you pressure and uneasiness, it could be cause you are not sure what to expect. Today we will dispel three common thesis defense myths that will help you be more confident in your presentation.

“Answer all the questions correctly. Otherwise, your thesis won’t get approved.”

You are expected to have a focus on your research.

That being said, you have to study each part of your thesis, every detail, and even your sources.

You have to study and practice how to effectively deliver your presentation.

But don’t overthink to the extent that you’re stressing yourself to know everything perfectly.

Don’t overstress if you can’t answer one of the questions, this doesn’t necessarily mean the committee won’t approve your thesis.

You should know that research is a continuous study.

So you should expect that your committee will always be able to find a gap in your study to fill in future related research .

So in times you don’t exactly know the answer, admit it, and you’ll learn as they give their sides or suggestions.

Making up an answer will only displease your committee, so it’s to be upfront, honest, and transparent.

“The committee is just there to find holes in your study. They don’t care about you.”

One of the typical descriptions students have of the committee is that they are just there to poke holes in your thesis.

Going in with this perspective makes standing before them a nerve-wracking experience.

They’re not your enemy.

In fact, they are there to help you polish your study.

They might challenge you with difficult suggestions and tricky questions.

In the end, they will walk you through the process to come up with better results that won’t only benefit you but also your research.

They care about you and your study, and they’re ultimately there to make your thesis and the research better.  Separate yourself from your work look at it objectively, and don’t take their comments personally .

“If your thesis defense isn’t successful, you have to start your thesis all over again”

An unsuccessful defense is one of the worst-case fears most students have.

One thing that you should be aware of is when you aren’t able to please your committee, you don’t need to start a new thesis again or go back to square one with your existing paper.

It’s unusual that your committee will ask you to change your topic and start from scratch again.

The fact that you’ve been permitted to defend your study means your research is almost complete.

They might suggest further details or ask you for minor revisions, and that’s normal.

But overall, you need to go into this defense thinking that your presentation will be successful. Otherwise, you are already setting yourself up for failure with the wrong mindset.

Remember that positive thoughts attract positive results.

Thesis Defense Presentation Structure and Slides Content

We can use language learning models like ChatGPT to help us curate the structure of our thesis presentation. Let’s see a step-by-step solution on how to apply this.

Step 1: Define the thesis topic and research questions

You can set the environment for ChatGPT to work by explaining what your thesis is going to cover and which specific questions you aim to address through the course of that document. This gives ChatGPT the context from which it shall formulate the structure. A prompt can be written like this:

“Take the role of an academic professional who shall help me to write my thesis. This thesis is going to cover the topic of (insert topic), and through its course, I want to answer these questions: Question 1 – Question 2 – Question 3 – Consider this information as the starting point for this chat.”

Step 2: Ask for an outline

With the previously provided information, ask ChatGPT to generate an outline for your presentation. If some of the points listed in the output don’t convince you, then chat with the interface until you reach a final outline. Then, ask to elaborate on each specific point for information or cues you may have overlooked.

Step 3: Ask ChatGPT which content should you place per slide

Instead of debating how are you going to trim your thesis into a presentation format, ask ChatGPT to do the decision process for you. You can be as specific as asking how many words per slide, how many slides should the presentation have, if you need any visual element, etc.

N.B.: We don’t recommend using ChatGPT to retrieve academic references as, in some cases, it can provide faulty results. You can ask if any facts on this presentation need to be checked or similar questions. ChatGPT is a powerful tool, but it shouldn’t be considered a bible, so be extra cautious about grabbing content directly from its outputs.

1. Title Page

This slide should contain the information that is provided on the title page of your hard copy . Here is an example of title page or cover slide for your title defense or thesis presentation.

• The title of your research paper
• Where you are studying
• Name and details of your course
• Name of Adviser

2. Introduction Slide

Your introduction slide should provide the committee with an idea of the following:

• What is the topic area that you are investigating ?
• What are the specific research questions that you set out to answer?
• Why is this question important to answer?
• What were the objectives of your research?

3. Literature Review Slide

It’s not necessary to cover everything that’s currently understood in the available literature. You may want to present the following content under a Literature Review slide:

• Relevant current research that is close to your topic
• Different theories that may apply to your specific area of research
• Areas of weakness that are currently highlighted

4. Methodology Slide

Make sure to touch the factors below within your process, and include the following in the Methodology slide:

• The type of study you have conducted: qualitative, quantitative, or mixed
• The methods that you chose and why
• Details of the population, sampling methods, and other information
• Provide information regarding how you have analyzed the data that you have collected

5. Results Slide

This part should give the committee/audience a good understanding of what you’ve discovered during your research. The statistics & results slide could include the final results of your analysis, here is an example:

• An overall description of the data that you collected during your research
• The results of the analysis that you have done on that data
• What were the most significant findings from your data

6. Discussion Slide

Highlight here the meaning of the findings in relation to your discipline program and the research that you have done:

• What are the major findings, and what do they mean with regard to your research
• How do these findings relate to what others have found in the past
• How can you explain any unusual or surprising result

7. Conclusions Slide

You have to end your presentation with a conclusion summarizing all that you have found within your research. Here is an example of a Conclusion slide in a Thesis presentation:

• Restate your research questions
• Show how your results answer these questions
• Show what contribution you have made
• State any limitations to the work you have done
• Suggest future research
• Make any recommendations

See Also: How to Create a Great Investors Pitch Deck and Close the Deal

8. Acknowledgements Slide

Express gratitude to your advisor, committee members, peers, and others who supported your research journey. This slide provides a moment to acknowledge the collaborative nature of academic work.

9. Questions and Answers Slide

Dedicate a slide for audience questions at the end of your presentation.

Encourage engagement by inviting questions from the audience.

Be prepared to provide clear and concise responses to inquiries.

10. References Slide

Include a slide listing your cited sources throughout your presentation.

Use a consistent citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).

The References slide demonstrates your thorough engagement with existing literature.

11. Contact Information Slide

If you’re open to further inquiries or collaborations, consider adding your contact information.

Include your email address or relevant professional social media handles.

Tips During Your Oral Defense!

Review your materials.

Even if you already feel confident with your upcoming presentation, you still need to review your materials.

You can bring the hard copy of your thesis with you during the defense, but you don’t want to get lost in your presentation when you forget some specific details and have to scan your papers.

You should know your paper in and out.

Rehearse Your Presentation

It’s not wrong if it sounds like a script when you speak in your oral defense. It’s expected and understandable.

You need to practice your presentation, especially when there’s a time restriction given to every presenter.

You only need to prepare enough slides that would fit your time limit. A hundred slides aren’t suitable for a 15 to 20-minute presentation, nor 10 slides for an hour of defense.

Your rehearsal will be more effective if you practice it in front of an audience.

Note: You will experience complete silence in the defense room. You might feel awkward because, most of the time, you’re the only one speaking out loud.  This is completely fine, and it’s something you should practice in rehearsal should you be afraid.

Narrow the Presentation of Ideas

Regarding your slides, you don’t have to include everything that’s in your paper. You should narrow down your ideas to the main points and the most important details, such as the statistics and findings.

If the members of your committee think you lack details or they want to hear a further explanation, they won’t hesitate to ask you.

Prepare for the Unexpected Questions

The panel tends to challenge the presenters, usually through some hard questions.

Its aim is how well do you you have done your research and how prepared you are.

But as long as you know the ins and outs of your paper, you shouldn’t lose your confidence regardless of which questions they ask.

Just keep in mind that what you’re saying in your oral defense is not in conflict with what is written on the hard copy you provided them.

What To Do When You Don’t Know the Answer

If the committee asks you a question and you don’t know the answer, don’t make up a baseless answer.

Baseless means out-of-context answers or something without proof or backup.

How To Deal With The Nervousness

The committee expects you to be nervous. Of course, it’s normal.

However, one effect of being nervous is the changes in your behavior.

There’s a tendency for you’ll talk fast, which will make it hard for the committee to understand you.

It might also cause you to have a mental block.

So try to slow down. Take a deep breath.

Inhale, exhale.  Remember to breathe!

It’s OK to pause, and it’s OK to take your time; it’s more important that the committee clearly understands what you are trying to articulate.

More Quick Tips on How to Present!

• Introduce yourself at the beginning
• Introduce the title of the presentation
• Don’t read your notes if possible
• Don’t speak too fast
• Put an emphasis on what you’re saying so you don’t sound monotonous
• Look at your adviser once in a while for possible signs
• Stand on the right of the white screen if you are right-handed so you can easily refer to the slide without giving your back to the committee
• Face the audience when you talk
• Keep an eye contact
• Make sure to keep attention to the reactions of the committee and don’t forget to react in turn

We hope you enjoyed this article on how to do a proper thesis defense and how to best prepare for one using proven tips and techniques to help you get through this.  Hopefully, after your defense, you will be set as the one in your class to deliver an inspiring graduation speech for your peers. If you have value, please remember to share this article. We also recommend you read these Thesis Statement Examples for inspiration to create your own professionally.

1. MasterDoc PowerPoint Template

Creating a Thesis presentation should be a straight forward task; based on your thesis document and following the tips described above you have a high level structure already outlined. The MasterDoc PowerPoint template provides professional layouts with texts and image placeholders; so you can create document like slides using your thesis defense as your content. This template is ideal for a highly detailed documents, where visuals and words unite to illustrate one concept per page. The result is an asset that can be read and digested more quickly than either your thesis document or a presentation created for assisting a speech. A document created with the MasterDoc PowerPoint templates is meant to be printed or distributed, read on screen without the accompaniment of a presenter or used in an e-learning platform as pure learning content.

Use This Template

2. Thesis Presentation PowerPoint Template

You had invested a considerable time researching, testing hypothesis and confirming your thesis. Craft your thesis presentation with the same level of detail you applied in your work. Using the Thesis Presentation PowerPoint Template you will focus only in your content and your message. The layouts, images,design and structure will be taken care by the template.

3. Master Thesis PowerPoint Template

The Master Thesis PowerPoint Template is a professional document designed for postgraduate degrees presentations. It provides simple sections that follow  the structure and best practices of traditional research thesis presentations. Starting with the introduction to the theory and state of the art scenario; following with hypothesis research and its findings and concluding with the confirmation or negation of the initial thesis statement.

4. Essay Outline PowerPoint Template

Your thesis defense can be accompanied by an essay, that states your thesis and argues about it using several supporting paragraphs. This kind of document is ideal to be an intermediate step between reading assisting to the thesis presentation and reading the complete thesis documentation. It has more information that your thesis defense abstract, but does summarizes the supporting evidence and examples that allows the argument of each idea behind the thesis. You can use the Essay Outline Template to present your Essay outline and create an essay linked to your thesis defense documentation.

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36 Responses to “How To Do a Proper Thesis Defense Using the Right PowerPoint Presentation”

Great job! This has made my thesis presentation a whole lot easier.

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What’s a thesis defense presentation?

As you approach the end of grad or postgrad studies, you’ll probably be required to deliver a thesis defense presentation. This takes place during the final semester and involves speaking about your thesis or dissertation in front of a committee of professors. 

The word “defend” might sound intimidating, but it simply means answering questions about your work. Examiners want to see how knowledgeable you are about your field and if you can back up your arguments with solid and original research. Some departments invite students to a pre-defense, which is like a dress rehearsal for the main event. 

If you’re defending your doctoral thesis or dissertation, the event will be more formal than at Master’s level. In some universities, this is called a PhD viva, which comes from the Latin viva voce, meaning “by live voice”. Basically, it’s time to speak about the 80 thousand words you’ve written! As well as your supervisor, the panel will usually include visiting academics from other institutions. If it’s an “open defense” it will be open to other students and members of the public.

The format varies between different universities, but a thesis defense usually starts with the candidate delivering a short presentation accompanied by slides. This is followed by a question and answer session with the panel. 

How do I design slides for my thesis defense?

The secret to a good thesis defense presentation is a well-designed slide deck. This will act as a visual aid and starting point for the conversation. Structuring your points and illustrating them on the screen will help you present more confidently. 

If the prospect of creating a thesis presentation from scratch is daunting, check out Genially’s free thesis defense templates. Each design has been created by professional graphic designers in collaboration with students and academic experts. 

Choose from hundreds of examples with preset color palettes and easy-to-edit slides. In a few minutes you can outline the content of your thesis in an impressive visual format. No artistic skills required!

How should I structure a thesis presentation?

When you create a thesis defense presentation, the first thing to remember is that it should be short and concise. There’s no need to rewrite your thesis on the slides. Members of the committee will already be familiar with your work, having read the document prior to the event. 

A thesis defense is a conversational, person-to-person event. Examiners don’t want to read large blocks of text on the screen. They want to hear you talking about your research with passion and insight.

With this in mind, your presentation should serve as a starting point or prompt for discussion. Think of your slides as cue cards: use short titles and keywords to remind you of what you want to say. 

Make a good first impression by using a professional thesis defense presentation template with a consistent theme and attractive visuals. Go for a calm color palette and neutral style. The aim is to illustrate your points while keeping the committee focused on what you’re saying. 

A thesis defense usually begins with an introductory presentation lasting 15 to 20 minutes, followed by discussion time. For a 20 minute presentation we recommend a series of about 10 slides. 

Make sure to include an introduction slide or title page that lays out what you’re going to talk about. Next, move on to each part of your thesis. Outline the problem, background and literature review, your research question, methodology and objectives, findings, conclusions, and areas for future research. 

A great thesis presentation should provide the panel with a summary of your research. For that reason, try to avoid dumping too much data or information onto your slides. Use Genially’s interactive infographics, diagrams and charts to highlight the most important points in an eye-catching visual format.

When it comes to the big day and defending your thesis, try to keep calm. Take a deep breath, introduce yourself to the committee and let your slides guide you. Your examiners will come armed with a list of questions, so the formal presentation will flow naturally into a Q&A.

How do I make a good final year project presentation?

If you’re an undergrad, you might be required to deliver a final year project presentation or dissertation presentation. It’s less formal than a graduate degree thesis defense, but the format is similar. You will be asked to present your research findings to faculty and peers with the help of slides. Your performance may count towards your final grade when you’re awarded your Bachelor’s degree.

A good presentation for a final year project should start with a title slide. At this point you should introduce your research question and explain why you chose the topic. If it’s a collaborative project, include a slide that introduces your teammates. 

The core part of your presentation should cover your methodology, findings, conclusions, and scope for future research. Wrap things up by thanking your contributors and invite your audience to ask questions.   

If you’re not sure how to make a final year project presentation, check out Genially’s free presentation slides for students. Choose from hundreds of professional templates that can be customized to any undergraduate or graduate project. With animated graphics and beautiful data visualizations, you can make standout slides in a matter of minutes.

If you’re submitting your presentation to your professor, try including interactive elements. Genially’s presentation builder allows you to embed online data, videos, audio, maps, PDFs, and hyperlinks in your slides. This can be a useful way to provide supporting evidence, sources, and additional documentation. 

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The Art of Academic Presentations Dissertation in 90 Days

Welcome to 'Dissertation in 90 Days,' the essential podcast for doctoral candidates navigating the challenges of academic presentations. Join us as we explore the art of effectively communicating complex research. Whether you're in the thick of your PhD journey or preparing for your dissertation defense, this podcast is your go-to resource for practical tips and relatable advice. In this episode, we delve into the nuances of creating and delivering compelling academic presentations. We cover everything from selecting the most impactful content to designing engaging slides and mastering the art of delivery. Learn how to balance depth with accessibility, make your slides visually appealing, and manage the natural nervousness that comes with public speaking. Our host, an expert in academic writing and research, shares personal anecdotes and real-life examples, making each segment not only informative but also engaging and relatable. Whether you're presenting at a conference, to your committee, or in a classroom, these insights will help you transform your presentation skills. Plus, don't miss our special segment on a successful real-life academic presentation, where we break down key takeaways and offer an actionable step-by-step guide to apply these tips in your own work. Excitingly, this episode also introduces the 'How to Get Your Dissertation Approved in Six Months or Less' playbook by Dr. Anthony Robinson, an invaluable resource for any doctoral candidate. Dr. Robinson, who impressively completed two dissertations in just six months, shares his strategies and insights in this playbook, available for download at writerser.com/playbook. Keywords: Dissertation, PhD Journey, Academic Presentations, Doctoral Candidates, Dissertation Defense, Public Speaking, Research Presentation, Academic Writing, Effective Communication, Educational Podcast, Dissertation Advice, PhD Tips.

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Dissertation Defense - PowerPoint Presentation

by Linda S Vann

This PowerPoint presentation, developed for my dissertation defense call, has been uploaded here for anyone in need of an example. Some minor misalignment of text occurred during upload.

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Entails a brief elaboration of my dissertation's argument.

Date of submission: 14th May, 2016 Word count (excluding bibliography and this title page): 7,345 words I hereby declare that the attached piece of written work is my own work and that I have not reproduced, without acknowledgement, the work of another. I do hereby give permission for my dissertation to be used by the Department as a sample to be viewed by future students.

Liam Dalquen

Master's dissertation

Terry S Neiman

2011, Communication in Conflict and Problem-Solving: a study of dialogue in everyday life

Please follow this link below to reach my dissertation. http://summit.sfu.ca/system/files/iritems1/11770/etd6717_TNeiman.pdf

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Comparative effectiveness of ACEI and ARB for the risk of dementia in patients with diabetes and hypertension

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• 1. Hemalkumar B. Mehta, MS PhD Candidate in Pharmaceutical Health Outcomes and Policy Comparative Effectiveness of ACEI and ARB for the Risk of Dementia in Elderly Patients with Diabetes and Hypertension 1
• 2. Outline 2 Introduction Objectives Methods Results Conclusions
• 3. Why elderly patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension? Why dementia outcome? Why compare ACEI and ARB? How to properly account for confounding? Introduction 3
• 4. HypertensionType 2 Diabetes Two Major Public Health Problems 1 CDC, 2011; 2 Zhang, 2010; 3DIabetes Atlas, 2013; 4Wang, 2004; 5Yoon, 2012; 6Heidenreich, 2011 4 Prevalence • Adults: 60% • Elderly: 88% Cost • $131 billion (2010) • $389 billion (2030) Prevalence • All age: 8.3% • Elderly: 26.9% Cost • $198 billion (2010) • $264 billion (2030)
• 5. 1 + 1 = 3 7Deedwania, 2005 5 HypertensionType 2 Diabetes Diabetes + Hypertension = “Deadly Duet”
• 6. Elderly Patients with “Deadly Duet” Conditions are At High Risk of Dementia 8Plassman, 2007; 9Hendrie, 2007; 10Fillit, 2012; 11Cukierman, 2005 6 96% of dementia patients ≥65 years of age Diabetes patients are twice as likely to develop dementia Hypertension is an independent risk factor for dementia
• 7. Burden of Dementia 12Alzheimer's disease facts and figures, 2013 7
• 8. Treatment of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Hypertension 13ADA, 2011 8 ADA Guideline “Should be with a regimen that includes either an ACEI or an ARB” ACEI: Captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, ramipril ARB: Losartan, valsartan, irbesartan, telmisartan
• 9. ACEI, ARB and Cognitive Function 14 9
• 10.  ONTARGET clinical trial  ARB (Telmisartan) vs. ACE (Ramipril) - Secondary endpoints  Cognitive impairment: OR = 0.90 (95%CI: 0.80-1.01)  Epidemiological Studies ACEI, ARB and the Risk of Dementia 15 Anderson, 2011; 16 Johnson, 2012; 17Li, 2010; 18 Davies, 2012; 19Yasar, 2013 10 Study Drug treatment HR, 95% CI Johnson et al., 2012 ARB versus non-users 0.78 (0.71–0.85) Li et al., 2010 ARB versus Lisinopril 0.81 (0.68-0.96) Davies et al., 2011 ARB versus other antihypertensive ACEI versus other antihypertensive 0.47 (0.37-0.58) 0.76 (0.69-0.84) Yasar et al., 2013 ARB versus none ACEI versus none ARB versus ACEI 0.31 (0.14-0.68) 0.50 (0.29-0.83) 0.62 (0.27-1.40)
• 11.  Baby boomers  By 2050, 88.5 million older Americans (20.2%) of total population  ↑ Incidence of type 2 diabetes and hypertension  Greater risk for dementia  Treatment that can delay dementia onset by few years  Major public health implication  Blood Pressure – time varying confounder affected by previous treatment history  Prior studies did not properly account for it Significance: CER of ACEI and ARB 11
• 12. CER of ACEI versus ARB for the Risk of Dementia 12 ACEI ARB
• 14. Controlling Confounding in Observational Studies 14 ACEI ARB C
• 15. 1. Categorical variables for comorbidities 2. Charlson comorbidity score (CCS) – 1987  Diagnosis based score – 17 diseases  Adaptation in administrative claims data – ICD-9-CM algorithms 3. Chronic disease score (CDS) – 1995  Rx based score – 29 disease categories  Drugs and drug classes - American Hospital Formulary system How to Control for Confounding? 20Charlson, 1987; 21Clark, 1995; 22Austin, 2013 15
• 16. Including CCS and CDS Improves Confounding Control 16 ACEI ARB CCS CDS
• 17. Including CCS and CDS improves Confounding Control 23Schneeweiss, 2001; 24Mehta, 2013; 25Mehta, 2013; 26Mcgregor, 2006 17
• 18. Including CCS and CDS improves Confounding Control 18
• 19. Including CCS and CDS improves Confounding Control 19
• 20. Including CCS and CDS improves Confounding Control 20
• 21. Including CCS and CDS improves Confounding Control 21
• 22. Issues with Existing Dementia Specific Risk Indices 27Exalto, 2013; 28Barnes, 2009; 29Barnes, 2010; 30Reitz, 2010; 31Kivipelto, 2006; 32Mehta, 2012; 33Exalto, 2013 22 Issues Use of genetic, MRI or MMSE information Use of lab values – How to deal with missing values No index included Rx medications as risk factors Why two separate indices based on Diagnosis and Prescription drug use Dementia Risk Index Mid-life dementia risk Late-life dementia risk index Brief dementia risk index Summary risk score for Alzheimer’s disease Late-life dementia risk index – GE data Diabetes-specific dementia risk score (DSDRS)
• 23.  Why to include two separate variables in the model?  Charlson comorbidity score  Chronic disease score  Why not combine two informations in a single summary score? RxDx risk index  Conditions will be identified from Bright !dea 23 Rx Dx
• 24.  First study to combine diagnosis and prescription drug information in one risk index  Easily applicable to claims and EMR data  Diagnosis  Prescription  New tool for confounding control  Useful for identifying patients at risk  Steps can be taken to target modifiable risk factors for dementia Significance: RxDx Risk Index 24
• 25. Summary 25 ACEI ARB RxDx Risk Index
• 26. Objectives 26 Aim 1 • Develop RxDx risk index to predict dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension Aim 2 • Compare RxDx risk index with Charlson comorbidity index and Chronic disease score to predict dementia Aim 3 • To compare ACE versus ARB for the risk of dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension
• 27. Data Source Study Cohort Variables Statistical Analysis Methods 27
• 28.  Electronic medical record data, United Kingdom (UK)  Information entered by general practitioner (GPs)  12 million patients - 593 general practices  Anonymized longitudinal clinical and prescribing information  Clinical diagnoses are recorded using medcodes  High validity (Median = 89%)  Prescription information is well documented  Computerized system generates each prescription  Clinically Rich  >450 lab measures Clinical Practice Research Data 34 Williams, 2012; 35Lewis, 2002 28
• 29.  Elderly (age ≥ 60 years)  Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes  Diagnosis or (abnormal lab value + oral hypoglycemic agent)  Diagnosed with hypertension  Diagnosis or (abnormal lab value + antihypertensive agent)  Prevalent dementia cases were excluded Study Cohort 29
• 30.  Covariates  Age  Gender  Risk indices  Lab measures  Blood pressure  HbA1c  Body mass index (BMI)  Smoking status  Alcohol consumption  Albumin  Serum creatinine  Platelets count  Pottasium  Total white blood cell count  Cholesterol, HDL and LDL  Exposure  ACEI / ARB Variables 30  Outcome  Time to dementia
• 31.  29 disease categories based on Rx drug use  Developed algorithm to map CDS to multiples Rx coding system  Two sets of weights Chronic disease score  17 disease categories  The CCS has been adapted to CPRD data medcodes system  Three sets of weights Charlson comorbidity index Risk Indices 20Charlson, 1987; 36Schneeweiss, 2003; 37Quan, 201; 21Clark, 1995; 38Johnson, 2006 31
• 32.  29 disease categories based on Rx drug use  Developed algorithm to map CDS to multiples Rx coding system  Two sets of weights Chronic disease score  17 disease categories  The CCS has been adapted to CPRD data medcodes system  Three sets of weights Charlson comorbidity index Risk Indices 32
• 33.  29 disease categories based on Rx drug use  Developed algorithm to map CDS to multiples Rx coding system  Two sets of weights Chronic disease score  17 disease categories  The CCS has been adapted to CPRD data medcodes system  Three sets of weights Charlson comorbidity index Risk Indices 33
• 34.  RxDx risk index – 31 disease conditions  Few disease conditions were merged  CDS: Pain/Inflammation and Pain are separate conditions  Not possible to identify separately using diagnosis  CCS: Renal disease and ESRD  Not possible to identify using Rx drugs RxDx-Dementia Risk Index 34 Rx Dx
• 35. Statistical Analysis – Aim 1 35 Jan 1, 2003 Index date One year prior Jan 1, 2002 Dec 31, 2012 Baseline year to construct risk index Index date: Date when patient was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension
• 36.  Cox proportional hazards regression  Dependent variable – Time to dementia  Independent variables  Age and gender  RxDx disease conditions  Censoring – discontinue, died, combination, end of study  Weights were assigned based on beta coefficient  Rule: Beta * 10  round it to the nearest integer  Discrimination: c-statistics  Validation: 10 cross-fold validation  Calibration: Hosmer-Lemeshow calibration Statistical Analysis – Aim 1 39Harrell, 2001 36
• 37.  Discrimination  C-statistics (0.7-0.8 = acceptable; 0.8-0.9 = excellent)  Net reclassification index (NRI)  Assesses risk reclassification and is the sum of improvement in cases and in controls  Positive NRI indicates “new” model is better compared to “old”  Integrated discrimination index (IDI)  Difference in discrimination slopes between two models  Positive IDI indicates “new” model is better compared to “old” Statistical Analysis – Aim 2 39Harrell, 2001; 40Cook, 2009 37
• 38. Statistical Analysis – Aim 3 38 Jan 1, 2003 Index date One year prior Jan 1, 2002 Dec 31, 2012 Baseline year to construct covariates Index date: Date when patient started taking ACEI or ARB New users study design
• 39.  Descriptive Statistics  Multivariable time-dependent Cox model  Dependent variable – Time to dementia  Independent variables  Drug exposure (quarterly)  Demographics, comorbidities and clinical measures  Censoring – discontinue, died, combination, end of study Statistical Analysis – Aim 3 39
• 40.  Marginal Structural Model (MSM)  Blood Pressure (BP) - time dependent confounder affected by previous treatment history  Time dependent Cox model – biased estimate  MSM – unbiased estimate – IPTW estimator Statistical Analysis – Aim 3 41Robins, 2000; 42Hernan, 2000; 43Delaney, 2009; 44Gerhard, 2012 40 BPt0 BPt1 Et0 Et1 Fixed confounders
• 41. Results | Discussion 41
• 42. Objectives 42 Aim 1 • Develop RxDx risk index to predict dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension Aim 2 • Compare RxDx score with Charlson comorbidity index and Chronic disease score to predict dementia Aim 3 • To compare ACE versus ARB for the risk of dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension
• 43.  Cohort included 133,176 patients  Means age = 72.12 years (SD =8.04)  52% of patients were male  Incidence of dementia = 3.42% Aim 1: Descriptive Statistics 43 Disease categories identified using diagnosis n, (%) Disease categories identified using prescription drug use (n, %) Disease categories identified using diagnosis or prescription drug use (n, %) Chronic pulmonary disease 3,501 (2.63) 27,154 (20.39) 27,583 (20.71) Rheumatologic disease 1,443 (1.08) 13,154 (9.88) 13,426 (10.08) Peptic ulcer disease 332 (0.25) 42,474 (31.89) 42,521 (31.93)
• 44. Aim 1 - Deriving Points for RxDX Conditions 44 Beta Estimates (p-value) Hazard Ratio (95% CI) Points Myocardial infarction -0.16 (0.21) 0.85 (0.65-1.10) -2 Congestive heart failure -0.07 (0.02) 0.93 (0.87-0.99) -1 Coronary and peripheral vascular disease 0.15 (<0.001) 1.16 (1.07-1.26) 1 Cerebrovascular disease 0.36 (<0.001) 1.43 (1.23-1.67) 4 Epilepsy 0.33 (<0.001) 1.39 (1.22-1.58) 3 Hyperlipidemia 0.11 (<0.001) 1.11 (1.05-1.19) 1 Parkinson’s disease 0.78 (<0.001) 2.19 (1.81-2.64) 8 Depression 0.61 (<0.001) 1.84 (1.71-1.97) 6 Psychotic illness 0.63 (<0.001) 1.88 (1.71-2.06) 6
• 45. CalibrationCross - Validation Aim 1: Cross-Validation | Calibration 45 RxDx-Dementia Risk Index C-statistics 0.806 (0.798 – 0.814) Ten-fold cross-validation C-statistics 0.806 (0.800 – 0.813) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10PercentageofDementiacases RxDx risk index deciles Observed % Expectd % * Likelihood-ratio Chi-square (df = 9) = 217.65; P-value = <0.0001
• 46.  First study to combine diagnosis and prescription information in a single summary risk index  RxDx-Dementia Risk Index  Control confounding in observational studies  Prognostic tool  Identify patients who are at high risk  Interventions can be focused on modifiable risk factors for dementia  Can be used in EMR as well as claims data  Diagnosis and prescription data are available  No issue of missing values Discussion for RxDx-Dementia 46
• 47. Objectives 47 Aim 1 • Develop RxDx risk index to predict dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension Aim 2 • Compare RxDx score with Charlson comorbidity index and Chronic disease score to predict dementia Aim 3 • To compare ACE versus ARB for the risk of dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension
• 48. Aim 2: RxDX-Dementia Risk Index Performance Model Risk Index C-Statistics (95% CI) NRI, % (P-value) IDI, % (P-value) 1 Baseline model (Age + Gender) 0.779 (0.773-0.786) 5.63 (<0.001) 1.93 (0.52) RxDx-Dementia risk index 2 RxDx-Dementia risk index 0.806 (0.798-0.814) Reference (New Model) Reference (New Model) 3 RxDx risk index categorical* 0.807 (0.801-0.813) 0.21 (0.38) -0.06 (0.95) Charlson comorbidity score (CCS) 4 Charlson original 0.782 (0.775-0.788) 6.47 (<0.001) 1.91 (0.52) 5 Charlson/Schneeweiss 0.782 (0.776-0.788) 6.50 (<0.001) 1.92 (0.52) 6 Charlson/Quan 0.781 (0.775-0.788) 5.63 (<0.001) 1.93 (0.52) 7 Charlson categorical† 0.783 (0.777-0.789) 6.13 (<0.001) 1.84 (0.53) Chronic disease Score (CDS) 8 CDS original 0.789 (0.782-0.795) 5.90 (<0.001) 1.67 (0.56) 9 CDS/RxRisk – V 0.787 (0.779-0.794) 6.59 (<0.001) 1.80 (0.54) 10 CDS categorical‡ 0.805 (0.798-0.812) 0.86 (0.02) 0.09 (0.96)
• 49. Model Risk Index C-Statistics (95% CI) NRI, % (P-value) IDI, % (P-value) RxDx-Dementia risk index 2 RxDx-Dementia risk index 0.806 (0.798-0.814) Reference Reference 3 RxDx risk index categorical* 0.807 (0.801-0.813) 0.21 (0.38) -0.06 (0.95) Combined comorbidity score (CCS+CDS) 12 Charlson original + CDS original 0.789 (0.783-0.795) 5.88 (<0.001) 1.67 (0.56) 13 Charlson/Schneeweiss + CDS original 0.789 (0.783-0.795) 5.94 (<0.001) 1.67 (0.56) 14 Charlson/Quan + CDS original 0.789 (0.782-0.796) 5.98 (<0.001) 1.68 (0.56) 15 Charlson original + CDS/RxRisk – V 0.787 (0.781-0.793) 6.06 (<0.001) 1.79 (0.54) 16 Charlson/Schneeweiss + CDS/ RxRisk-V 0.787 (0.780-0.794) 6.11 (<0.001) 1.79 (0.54) 17 Charlson/Quan + CDS/RxRisk – V 0.787 (0.781-0.793) 6.44 (<0.001) 1.80 (0.54) Aim 2: RxDX-Dementia Risk Index Performance
• 50.  Performed superior compared to CCS, CDS or CCS + CDS  Performance is superior or comparable to existing dementia-specific risk indices  Future studies  RxDxClin-Risk Index Risk Index C-Stat RxDx – Dementia 0.81 Mid-life dementia risk 0.75 Late-life dementia risk index 0.81 Brief dementia risk index 0.77 Summary risk score for Alzheimer’s disease 0.79 Late-life dementia risk index – GE data 0.72 Diabetes-specific dementia risk score (DSDRS) 0.75 Discussion for RxDX-Dementia Performance 27Exalto, 2013; 28Barnes, 2009; 29Barnes, 2010; 30Reitz, 2010; 31Kivipelto, 2006; 32Mehta, 2012; 33Exalto, 2013 50
• 51. Objectives 51 Aim 1 • Develop RxDx risk index to predict dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension Aim 2 • Compare RxDx score with Charlson comorbidity index and Chronic disease score to predict dementia Aim 3 • To compare ACE versus ARB for the risk of dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension
• 52. Aim 3: Descriptive Statistics 52 Characteristics Total* n = 32,856; n (%) ACE users n = 28,562; n (%) ARB Users n =3,943; n (%) P-value Age, mean (SD) 71.55 (7.86) 71.52 (7.88) 71.79 (7.77) 0.04 Age Categories 60-64 years 7,490 (22.80) 6,572 (23.01) 836 (21.20) 0.03 65-69 years 7,220 (21.97) 6,275 (21.97) 878 (22.27) 70-74 years 6,891 (20.97) 5,986 (20.96) 821 (20.82) 75-79 years 5,517 (16.79) 4,730 (16.56) 721 (18.29) 80-84 years 3,515 (10.70) 3,047 (10.67) 431 (10.93) >85 years 2,223 (6.77) 1,952 (6.83) 256 (6.49) Male, n (%) 17,600 (53.57) 15,642 (54.77) 1,810 (45.90) <0.0001 RxDx-Dementia risk index 0.71 (3.74) 0.72 (3.75) 0.66 (3.67) 0.31
• 53. Aim 3: CER of ACEI and ARB 53 Treatment Risk Ratio 95% Confidence Interval ARB vs. ACEI Unadjusted 0.86 0.73 – 1.01 Time-dependent Cox regression 0.88 0.75 – 1.04 Marginal structural Cox model 0.61 0.50 – 0.77
• 54.  Current study  ARB offers 39% reduction in the risk of dementia  Previous epidemiological studies  Estimates ranged from 19% to 69%  What is the true estimate?  Prior studies showed MSM estimates ~ true estimates  All prior studies  Standard regression methods  Shorter follow-up  Time varying effect of blood pressure not considered Discussion for CER of ARB versus ACEI 41Robins, 2000; 42Hernan, 2000; 43Delaney, 2009 54
• 55. Strengths | Limitations 55 - Created new RxDx-Dementia risk index - 10 years of longitudinal follow-up - Causal effect of ACEI and ARB on dementia (use of MSM) - Cannot ascertain that prescriptions are always filled or taken by patients - Missing data imputation
• 56. Conclusions 56
• 57. Conclusions 57 Aim 1 • Successfully developed and validated RxDx-Dementia Risk Index Aim 2 • RxDx-Dementia Risk Index outperformed all other risk indices Aim 3 • ARB may offer protective effect on the risk of dementia compared to ACEI
• 58.  RxDx-Dementia Risk Index  Prognosis of dementia  Control of confounding  Protective effect of ARB compared to ACEI  Proper adjustment of time dependent confounding is important in estimating causal effect  Use of ARB will increase due to generics  Losartan (2010); Irbesartan (2012)  Delay the onset of dementia  Reduce healthcare expenditure, improve patient quality of life and have public health implications Implications 58

10 Tips To Prepare PhD Thesis Defense Presentation

“ PhD thesis defense presentation is prepared at the terminal of the degree to show the research work in the form of a PowerPoint Presentation. Students often fail miserably because they lack knowledge of presentation. Here are some tips to help them.”   

Firstly, congratulate yourself. You have gone through all the pains, problems, and stress and that’s come to over. PhD is a difficult task, indeed. So have done fantastic work, If you are on the way to preparing your PhD defense presentation.

But my friend, the game is yet not over. You are now at the critical phase and now chances of errors are less. For that 1-hour discussion session, everything should be nearly perfect. From your presentation (with a number of slides) to how you will present. 

You have to care about every single point starting from the number of slides, text, visuals, content quantity, and audience attention to the final conclusion. Everything must be in your control. 

But unfortunately, it’s not a story for many. Students fail to give a good presentation, even though their work is great. And advised for re-viva. There are so many reasons for that. Three major points that fail a presentation are– presentation preparation, delivery and audience engagement. 

What is a thesis defense?

The thesis defense is a process to justify your work with logical arguments with the referees. To know more read this article: Defending a PhD thesis like a boss!- an in-depth Guide .

In this article, I will give you 10 tips– proven, practical and actionable to give an amazing PhD thesis defense presentation. Stay tuned. 

10 Tips for PhD Thesis Defense Presentation

1. plan your presentation .

PhD is all about planning– I mean, proper planning. So, you also have to plan for your presentation. Remember, you are at the last stage of getting the honor hence things must be nearly perfect and in your favor. 

Make a rough outline of the points you will discuss in the presentation. Don’t forget to include major and important points. Moreover, give a strong introduction by keeping in mind that the audience is totally unaware of the topic. 

Plan how much text you will use, and the thing about how the evaluator understands and interprets it. Accordingly, prepare your answers. Last, constrain the content in the number of slides recommended by the university. 

Organize each point in a logical sequence and around your research topic only. Don’t give too much information. 

2. Text to the visual ratio 

Your success in the presentation depends on the attention and retention time on each slide. So you should have to balance every slide with texts and visuals. Texts should create curiosity which visuals satisfy and vice versa. 

If your text-to-visual ratio is good, people will give more attention to your talk. However, I strongly recommend not using visuals on every slide. Use when and only it’s needed. After all, it’s a professional demonstration. 

Don’t fill too much text in a slide and the visuals too. Don’t use every image you captured for your results. Use it in the form of one master image, table or chart to show results. Visuals are great for the eyes– the next point explains. 

3. Use visuals 

Imagine there are two types of information on the slide, one written in the form of long text and another in the form of visuals, charts, bars, images and tables, where do you focus? What attracts you more?

Obviously the second one! 

Summarize your ideas, findings and results in the form of a chart, bar, image, table or anything that looks good. Visual helps your audience to engage and at the same time makes things easier to understand. 

Nonetheless, do care about the ratio. Don’t use too many visuals on every slide.

4. Number of slides 

If I ask you, what is the main goal to present your work? To engage an audience and deliver your work. But your research work would only be delivered if people will engage with it. There is a psychology behind numbers. 

People don’t want more if it isn’t understandable. So if at the beginning of the presentation, they know that you have 50 to 60 slides, they naturally feel bored. Try using fewer slides. It creates curiosity. Give more time to explain your point. 

Ideally, I recommend using 20 to 22 slides. 

5. Practice to present 

Practice makes everyone perfect. 

What is more important– Giving more time to prepare the presentation or on how to deliver it? As I aforementioned, planning is the key to success even though you know everything about your research. 

Give more time for preparation. Know which slide contains which point, what is more important, and which slide would take more time. Where to stay and explain, and where to go in a rush. You should have to know everything in order to control the entire session. 

Practice becoming more comfortable with the content you prepared. Record or observe your delivery scheme. Adjust your tone, speech, pace and body language accordingly.  

6. Engage people

People will only admire your work only if they engage. So first, follow the previous point– focus on how you will deliver your presentation. In addition, create curiosity, ask questions, and give some amazing information timely, encourage them to ask questions. 

Also, engage people psychologically— keep a small smile, look confident, and see in their eyes while explaining your point. Dress decently to attract. Use different hand gestures and styles to gain their focus. 

7. Language

You should have a strong grip on the language. If not, work on it, at least for your presentation. Do use transition words to control the flow and engage people. Use emotions with each transition. Use can use words like— furthermore, in addition, however, unfortunately, fortunately, nonetheless, etc. 

Do learn which transition work to use when, why and how, and accordingly use the exact emotion to use it. This increases the overall attention on your presentation. 

8. Strong conclusion 

All’s well that ends well. 

Give a strong conclusion. To end your presentation, give a quick summary– verbally and conclude your point or research in a sentence that best describes it. Create a positive impact by explaining how it would help society or mankind. 

Show a strong emotion to depict the conclusion. Your conclusion should satisfy the audience and inspire them to learn more and ask questions. 

9. Be prepared for discussion 

Now once your session ends, it’s now open for discussion. Encourage or confidently tell the audience to ask their queries. Answer each question to the point and logically. Explain concepts rather than points. 

Admire them for asking questions, and say thank you for their involvement. In case you don’t know the answer, accept it and convince them that you will find the answer. 

10. Technical considerations 

• The first slide should have your research title, name, guide name and all other credentials necessary. 
• The title should be large enough to read and bold. 
• Every slide should have titles and each must be readable enough. 
• Every slide should have a slide number.
• The fond style for presentation is “Times New Roman”. 
• There are no guidelines for font size but every font should be readable enough. 
• Visuals are clear enough and have high quality. 
• Use bold, underline, and highlight when needed.
• Use at least 1.5 spacing between lines. 
• The presentation file must be in ‘.ppt’. 

Wrapping up

Our students have amazing experience delivering their presentations because we have a huge experience on how to prepare it, deliver it and play with the audience’s mind. Our students prepare well, follow our guidelines and know what questions the referee or audience will ask. 

The reason is their preparation and control over their presentation. If you want to make your presentation amazing you can contact us. I will personally guide you in a 1-hour class. Nonetheless, by keeping these points in mind you can make a difference with your ppt. 

I hope this information and tips will help you to deliver an amazing PhD thesis defense presentation.

Dr. Tushar Chauhan is a Scientist, Blogger and Scientific-writer. He has completed PhD in Genetics. Dr. Chauhan is a PhD coach and tutor.

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