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Create a Research Poster

Adapted from the University of Nevada (Reno) Libraries Poster Resources and Design Tips

A Good Poster Will:

  • Summarize your work
  • Convey a message visually
  • Be readable from about 4 feet away
  • Be clearly organized

Poster Design Tips

  • Use large font size (your text should be at least 18 to 24 pt.)
  • Do not use more than 2 to 3 font styles total
  • Use fonts that are easy to read
  • Avoid too much text (no more than 800 words max)
  • Organize your content with columns, sections, headings, and blocks of text
  • Choose a title that illustrates what your poster is about. Your title should be at least twice the size of your regular text.
  • Choose colors carefully and pay attention to contrast. If in doubt, dark print on light background is best.
  • Selectively incorporate charts, graphs, photographs, and other graphics that support the theme of your poster
  • Avoid fuzzy images; make sure all graphics are high-resolution and easily visible
  • Include your name and the UMD logo
  • Edit your poster carefully before the final print-out

Check your Poster

Print your Poster

  • The Engineering Copy Center on campus prints posters (cost $80 for 36 x 48 inch poster as of April 2023) and has a 24-hour turnaround time.
  • There are two posters printer on the 2nd floor of McKeldin Library in the Learning Commons. One of the printers can print out posters of the 36 x 48 inch dimensions that are required for Undergraduate Research Day ($5 per square foot, approximately $60 for 36 x 48 inch poster as of April 2023).
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