| name | scientific-slides |
| description | Build slide decks and presentations for research talks. Use for PowerPoint slides, conference presentations, seminar talks, thesis defense slides, or any scientific talk. |
| allowed-tools | ["Read","Write","Edit","Bash"] |
Scientific Slides
Build effective scientific presentations for conferences, seminars, defenses, and professional talks.
Design Philosophy
- Compelling visuals: High-quality figures, diagrams (not just bullet points)
- Minimal text: Bullet points as prompts, speaker provides explanation
- Professional design: Modern color schemes, strong visual hierarchy
- Story-driven: Clear narrative arc, not just data dumps
When to Use
- Conference presentations (5-20 minutes)
- Academic seminars (45-60 minutes)
- Thesis/dissertation defense presentations
- Grant pitch presentations
- Journal club presentations
Presentation Structure
Conference Talk (15 min)
| Section | Slides | Time |
|---|
| Title + Motivation | 1-2 | 1-2 min |
| Background | 2-3 | 2-3 min |
| Methods | 2-3 | 2-3 min |
| Results | 3-5 | 5-6 min |
| Discussion | 1-2 | 1-2 min |
| Conclusion | 1 | 1 min |
Seminar (45 min)
| Section | Slides | Time |
|---|
| Title + Overview | 2-3 | 3-5 min |
| Background/Literature | 5-8 | 8-10 min |
| Methods | 4-6 | 5-8 min |
| Results | 8-12 | 15-18 min |
| Discussion | 3-5 | 5-8 min |
| Conclusion + Future | 2-3 | 3-5 min |
Slide Design Rules
- One idea per slide - If you need "and", split the slide
- 6x6 rule maximum - 6 bullets, 6 words each (prefer fewer)
- Visual hierarchy - Title > Key point > Supporting detail
- Consistent formatting - Same fonts, colors, spacing throughout
- High-contrast text - Dark on light or light on dark
- Professional figures - Publication-quality, properly labeled
Output Formats
- PowerPoint (python-pptx): Full programmatic control
- LaTeX Beamer: Academic standard, beautiful math
- HTML/Reveal.js: Web-based, interactive
Figure Guidelines
- Export at 300 DPI minimum
- Use vector formats (SVG/PDF) when possible
- Include proper axis labels, legends, units
- Use colorblind-friendly palettes
