latex-posters — Создание научных плакатов на основе LaTeX

--- name: latex-posters description: "Create professional research posters in LaTeX using beamerposter, tikzposter, or baposter. Support for conference presentations, academic posters, and scientific communication. Includes layout design, color schemes, multi-column formats, figure integration, and poster-specific best practices for visual communication." allowed-tools: Read Write Edit Bash --- # LaTeX Research Posters ## Overview Research posters are a critical medium for scientific communication at conferences, symposia, and academic events. This skill provides comprehensive guidance for creating professional, visually appealing research posters using LaTeX packages. Generate publication-quality posters with proper layout, typography, color schemes, and visual hierarchy. ## When to Use This Skill This skill should be used when: - Creating research posters for conferences, symposia, or poster sessions - Designing academic posters for university events or thesis defenses - Preparing visual summaries of research for public engagement - Converting scientific papers into poster format - Creating template posters for research groups or departments - Designing posters that comply with specific conference size requirements (A0, A1, 36×48", etc.) - Building posters with complex multi-column layouts - Integrating figures, tables, equations, and citations in poster format ## AI-Powered Visual Element Generation **STANDARD WORKFLOW: Generate ALL major visual elements using AI before creating the LaTeX poster.** This is the recommended approach for creating visually compelling posters: 1. Plan all visual elements needed (title, intro, methods, results, conclusions) 2. Generate each element using scientific-schematics or Nano Banana Pro 3. Assemble generated images in the LaTeX template 4. Add text content around the visuals **Target: 60-70% of poster area should be AI-generated visuals, 30-40% text.** --- ### CRITICAL: Preventing Content Overflow **⚠️ POSTERS MUST NOT HAVE TEXT OR CONTENT CUT OFF AT EDGES.** **Common Overflow Problems:** 1. **Title/footer text extending beyond page boundaries** 2. **Too many sections crammed into available space** 3. **Figures placed too close to edges** 4. **Text blocks exceeding column widths** **Prevention Rules:** **1. Limit Content Sections (MAXIMUM 5-6 sections for A0):** ``` ✅ GOOD - 5 sections with room to breathe: - Title/Header - Introduction/Problem - Methods - Results (1-2 key findings) - Conclusions ❌ BAD - 8+ sections crammed together: - Overview, Introduction, Background, Methods, - Results 1, Results 2, Discussion, Conclusions, Future Work ``` **2. Set Safe Margins in LaTeX:** ```latex % tikzposter - add generous margins documentclass[25pt, a0paper, portrait, margin=25mm]{tikzposter} % baposter - ensure content doesn't touch edges begin{poster}{ columns=3, colspacing=2em, % Space between columns headerheight=0.1textheight, % Smaller header % Leave space at bottom } ``` **3. Figure Sizing - Never 100% Width:** ```latex % Leave margins around figures includegraphics[width=0.85linewidth]{figure.png} % NOT 1.0linewidth ``` **4. Check for Overflow Before Printing:** ```bash # Compile and check PDF at 100% zoom pdflatex poster.tex # Look for: # - Text cut off at any edge # - Content touching page boundaries # - Overfull hbox warnings in .log file grep -i "overfull" poster.log ``` **5. Word Count Limits:** - **A0 poster**: 300-800 words MAXIMUM - **Per section**: 50-100 words maximum - **If you have more content**: Cut it or make a handout --- ### CRITICAL: Poster-Size Font Requirements **⚠️ ALL text within AI-generated visualizations MUST be poster-readable.** When generating graphics for posters, you MUST include font size specifications in EVERY prompt. Poster graphics are viewed from 4-6 feet away, so text must be LARGE. **⚠️ COMMON PROBLEM: Content Overflow and Density** The #1 issue with AI-generated poster graphics is **TOO MUCH CONTENT**. This causes: - Text overflow beyond boundaries - Unreadable small fonts - Cluttered, overwhelming visuals - Poor white space usage **SOLUTION: Generate SIMPLE graphics with MINIMAL content.** **MANDATORY prompt requirements for EVERY poster graphic:** ``` POSTER FORMAT REQUIREMENTS (STRICTLY ENFORCE): - ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM 3-4 elements per graphic (3 is ideal) - ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM 10 words total in the entire graphic - NO complex workflows with 5+ steps (split into 2-3 simple graphics instead) - NO multi-level nested diagrams (flatten to single level) - NO case studies with multiple sub-sections (one key point per case) - ALL text GIANT BOLD (80pt+ for labels, 120pt+ for key numbers) - High contrast ONLY (dark on white OR white on dark, NO gradients with text) - MANDATORY 50% white space minimum (half the graphic should be empty) - Thick lines only (5px+ minimum), large icons (200px+ minimum) - ONE SINGLE MESSAGE per graphic (not 3 related messages) ``` **⚠️ BEFORE GENERATING: Review your prompt and count elements** - If your description has 5+ items → STOP. Split into multiple graphics - If your workflow has 5+ stages → STOP. Show only 3-4 high-level steps - If your comparison has 4+ methods → STOP. Show only top 3 or Our vs Best Baseline **Content limits per graphic type (STRICT):** | Graphic Type | Max Elements | Max Words | Reject If | Good Example | |--------------|--------------|-----------|-----------|--------------| | Flowchart | **3-4 boxes MAX** | **8 words** | 5+ stages, nested steps | "DISCOVER → VALIDATE → APPROVE" (3 words) | | Key findings | **3 items MAX** | **9 words** | 4+ metrics, paragraphs | "95% ACCURATE" "2X FASTER" "FDA READY" (6 words) | | Comparison chart | **3 bars MAX** | **6 words** | 4+ methods, legend text | "OURS: 95%" "BEST: 85%" (4 words) | | Case study | **1 case, 3 elements** | **6 words** | Multiple cases, substories | Logo + "18 MONTHS" + "to discovery" (2 words) | | Timeline | **3-4 points MAX** | **8 words** | Year-by-year detail | "2020 START" "2022 TRIAL" "2024 APPROVED" (6 words) | **Example - WRONG (7-stage workflow - TOO COMPLEX):** ```bash # ❌ BAD - This creates tiny unreadable text like the drug discovery poster python scripts/generate_schematic.py "Drug discovery workflow showing: Stage 1 Target Identification, Stage 2 Molecular Synthesis, Stage 3 Virtual Screening, Stage 4 AI Lead Optimization, Stage 5 Clinical Trial Design, Stage 6 FDA Approval. Include success metrics, timelines, and validation steps for each stage." -o figures/workflow.png # Result: 7+ stages with tiny text, unreadable from 6 feet - POSTER FAILURE ``` **Example - CORRECT (simplified to 3 key stages):** ```bash # ✅ GOOD - Same content, split into ONE simple high-level graphic python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ULTRA-SIMPLE 3-box workflow: 'DISCOVER' → 'VALIDATE' → 'APPROVE'. Each word in GIANT bold (120pt+). Thick arrows (10px). 60% white space. NO substeps, NO details. 3 words total. Readable from 10 feet." -o figures/workflow_overview.png # Result: Clean, impactful, readable - can add detail graphics separately if needed ``` **Example - WRONG (complex case studies with multiple sections):** ```bash # ❌ BAD - Creates cramped unreadable sections python scripts/generate_schematic.py "Case studies: Insilico Medicine (drug candidate, discovery time, clinical trials), Recursion Pharma (platform, methodology, results), Exscientia (drug candidates, FDA status, timeline). Include company logos, metrics, and outcomes." -o figures/cases.png # Result: 3 case studies with 4+ elements each = 12+ total elements, tiny text ``` **Example - CORRECT (one case study, one key metric):** ```bash # ✅ GOOD - Show ONE case with ONE key number python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONE case study card: Company logo (large), '18 MONTHS' in GIANT text (150pt), 'to discovery' below (60pt). 3 elements total: logo + number + caption. 50% white space. Readable from 10 feet." -o figures/case_single.png # Result: Clear, readable, impactful. Make 3 separate graphics if you need 3 cases. ``` **Example - WRONG (key findings too complex):** ```bash # BAD - too many items, too much detail python scripts/generate_schematic.py "Key findings showing 8 metrics: accuracy 95%, precision 92%, recall 94%, F1 0.93, AUC 0.97, training time 2.3 hours, inference 50ms, model size 145MB with comparison to 5 baseline methods" -o figures/findings.png # Result: Cramped graphic with tiny numbers ``` **Example - CORRECT (key findings simple):** ```bash # GOOD - only 3 key items, giant numbers python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. KEY FINDINGS with ONLY 3 large cards. Card 1: '95%' in GIANT text (120pt) with 'ACCURACY' below (48pt). Card 2: '2X' in GIANT text with 'FASTER' below. Card 3: checkmark icon with 'VALIDATED' in large text. 50% white space. High contrast colors. NO other text or details." -o figures/findings.png # Result: Bold, readable impact statement ``` **Font size reference for poster prompts:** | Element | Minimum Size | Prompt Keywords | |---------|--------------|-----------------| | Main numbers/metrics | 72pt+ | "huge", "very large", "giant", "poster-size" | | Section titles | 60pt+ | "large bold", "prominent" | | Labels/captions | 36pt+ | "readable from 6 feet", "clear labels" | | Body text | 24pt+ | "poster-readable", "large text" | **Always include in prompts:** - "POSTER FORMAT" or "for A0 poster" or "readable from 6 feet" - "VERY LARGE TEXT" or "huge bold fonts" - Specific text that should appear (so it's baked into the image) - "minimal text, maximum impact" - "high contrast" for readability - "generous margins" and "no text near edges" --- ### CRITICAL: AI-Generated Graphic Sizing **⚠️ Each AI-generated graphic should focus on ONE concept with MINIMAL content.** **Problem**: Generating complex diagrams with many elements leads to small text. **Solution**: Generate SIMPLE graphics with FEW elements and LARGE text. **Example - WRONG (too complex, text will be small):** ```bash # BAD - too many elements in one graphic python scripts/generate_schematic.py "Complete ML pipeline showing data collection, preprocessing with 5 steps, feature engineering with 8 techniques, model training with hyperparameter tuning, validation with cross-validation, and deployment with monitoring. Include all labels and descriptions." -o figures/pipeline.png ``` **Example - CORRECT (simple, focused, large text):** ```bash # GOOD - split into multiple simple graphics with large text # Graphic 1: High-level overview (3-4 elements max) python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0: Simple 4-step pipeline. Four large boxes: DATA → PROCESS → MODEL → RESULTS. GIANT labels (80pt+), thick arrows, lots of white space. Only 4 words total. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/overview.png # Graphic 2: Key result (1 metric highlighted) python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0: Single key metric display. Giant '95%' text (150pt+) with 'ACCURACY' below (60pt+). Checkmark icon. Minimal design, high contrast. Readable from 10 feet." -o figures/accuracy.png ``` **Rules for AI-generated poster graphics:** | Rule | Limit | Reason | |------|-------|--------| | **Elements per graphic** | 3-5 maximum | More elements = smaller text | | **Words per graphic** | 10-15 maximum | Minimal text = larger fonts | | **Flowchart steps** | 4-5 maximum | Keeps labels readable | | **Chart categories** | 3-4 maximum | Prevents crowding | | **Nested levels** | 1-2 maximum | Avoids complexity | **Split complex content into multiple simple graphics:** ``` Instead of 1 complex diagram with 12 elements: → Create 3 simple diagrams with 4 elements each → Each graphic can have LARGER text → Arrange in poster with clear visual flow ``` --- ### Step 0: MANDATORY Pre-Generation Review (DO THIS FIRST) **⚠️ BEFORE generating ANY graphics, review your content plan:** **For EACH planned graphic, ask these questions:** 1. **Element count**: Can I describe this in 3-4 items or less? - ❌ NO → Simplify or split into multiple graphics - ✅ YES → Continue 2. **Complexity check**: Is this a multi-stage workflow (5+ steps) or nested diagram? - ❌ YES → Flatten to 3-4 high-level steps only - ✅ NO → Continue 3. **Word count**: Can I describe all text in 10 words or less? - ❌ NO → Cut text, use single-word labels - ✅ YES → Continue 4. **Message clarity**: Does this graphic convey ONE clear message? - ❌ NO → Split into multiple focused graphics - ✅ YES → Continue to generation **Common patterns that ALWAYS fail (reject these):** - "Show stages 1 through 7..." → Split into high-level overview (3 stages) + detail graphics - "Multiple case studies..." → One case per graphic - "Timeline from 2015 to 2024 with annual milestones..." → Show only 3-4 key years - "Comparison of 6 methods..." → Show only top 3 or Our method vs Best baseline - "Architecture with all layers and connections..." → High-level only (3-4 components) ### Step 1: Plan Your Poster Elements After passing the pre-generation review, identify visual elements needed: 1. **Title Block** - Stylized title with institutional branding (optional - can be LaTeX text) 2. **Introduction Graphic** - Conceptual overview (3 elements max) 3. **Methods Diagram** - High-level workflow (3-4 steps max) 4. **Results Figures** - Key findings (3 metrics max per figure, may need 2-3 separate figures) 5. **Conclusion Graphic** - Summary visual (3 takeaways max) 6. **Supplementary Icons** - Simple icons, QR codes, logos (minimal) ### Step 2: Generate Each Element (After Pre-Generation Review) **⚠️ CRITICAL: Review Step 0 checklist before proceeding.** Use the appropriate tool for each element type: **For Schematics and Diagrams (scientific-schematics):** ```bash # Create figures directory mkdir -p figures # Drug discovery workflow - HIGH-LEVEL ONLY, 3 stages # BAD: "Stage 1: Target ID, Stage 2: Molecular Synthesis, Stage 3: Virtual Screening, Stage 4: AI Lead Opt..." # GOOD: Collapse to 3 mega-stages python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ULTRA-SIMPLE 3-box workflow: 'DISCOVER' (120pt bold) → 'VALIDATE' (120pt bold) → 'APPROVE' (120pt bold). Thick arrows (10px). 60% white space. ONLY these 3 words. NO substeps. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/workflow_simple.png # System architecture - MAXIMUM 3 components python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ULTRA-SIMPLE 3-component stack: 'DATA' box (120pt) → 'AI MODEL' box (120pt) → 'PREDICTION' box (120pt). Thick vertical arrows. 60% white space. 3 words only. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/architecture.png # Timeline - ONLY 3 key milestones (not year-by-year) # BAD: "2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 with events" # GOOD: Only 3 breakthrough moments python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. Timeline with ONLY 3 points: '2018' + icon, '2021' + icon, '2024' + icon. GIANT years (120pt). Large icons. 60% white space. NO connecting lines or details. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/timeline.png # Case study - ONE case, ONE key metric # BAD: "3 case studies: Insilico (details), Recursion (details), Exscientia (details)" # GOOD: ONE case with ONE number python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONE case study: Large logo + '18 MONTHS' (150pt bold) + 'to discovery' (60pt). 3 elements total. 60% white space. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/case1.png # If you need 3 cases → make 3 separate simple graphics (not one complex graphic) ``` **For Stylized Blocks and Graphics (Nano Banana Pro):** ```bash # Title block - SIMPLE python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. Title block: 'ML FOR DRUG DISCOVERY' in HUGE bold text (120pt+). Dark blue background. ONE subtle icon. NO other text. 40% white space. Readable from 15 feet." -o figures/title_block.png # Introduction visual - SIMPLE, 3 elements only python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE problem visual with ONLY 3 icons: drug icon, arrow, target icon. ONE label per icon (80pt+). 50% white space. NO detailed text. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/intro_visual.png # Conclusion/summary - ONLY 3 items, GIANT numbers python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. KEY FINDINGS with EXACTLY 3 cards only. Card 1: '95%' (150pt font) with 'ACCURACY' (60pt). Card 2: '2X' (150pt) with 'FASTER' (60pt). Card 3: checkmark icon with 'READY' (60pt). 50% white space. NO other text. Readable from 10 feet." -o figures/conclusions_graphic.png # Background visual - SIMPLE, 3 icons only python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE visual with ONLY 3 large icons in a row: problem icon → challenge icon → impact icon. ONE word label each (80pt+). 50% white space. NO detailed text. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/background_visual.png ``` **For Data Visualizations - SIMPLE, 3 bars max:** ```bash # SIMPLE chart with ONLY 3 bars, GIANT labels python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE bar chart with ONLY 3 bars: BASELINE (70%), EXISTING (85%), OURS (95%). GIANT percentage labels ON the bars (100pt+). NO axis labels, NO legend, NO gridlines. Our bar highlighted in different color. 40% white space. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/comparison_chart.png ``` ### Step 2b: MANDATORY Post-Generation Review (Before Assembly) **⚠️ CRITICAL: Review EVERY generated graphic before adding to poster.** **For each generated figure, open at 25% zoom and check:** 1. **✅ PASS criteria (all must be true):** - Can read ALL text clearly at 25% zoom - Count elements: 3-4 or fewer - White space: 50%+ of image is empty - Simple enough to understand in 2 seconds - NOT a complex workflow with 5+ stages - NOT multiple nested sections 2. **❌ FAIL criteria (regenerate if ANY are true):** - Text is small or hard to read at 25% zoom → REGENERATE with "150pt+" fonts - More than 4 elements → REGENERATE with "ONLY 3 elements" - Less than 50% white space → REGENERATE with "60% white space" - Complex multi-stage workflow → SPLIT into 2-3 simple graphics - Multiple case studies cramped together → SPLIT into separate graphics - Takes more than 3 seconds to understand → SIMPLIFY and regenerate **Common failures and fixes:** - "7-stage workflow with tiny text" → Regenerate as "3 high-level stages only" - "3 case studies in one graphic" → Generate 3 separate simple graphics - "Timeline with 8 years" → Regenerate with "ONLY 3 key milestones" - "Comparison of 5 methods" → Regenerate with "ONLY Our method vs Best baseline (2 bars)" **DO NOT PROCEED to assembly if ANY graphic fails the checks above.** ### Step 3: Assemble in LaTeX Template After all figures pass the post-generation review, include them in your poster template: **tikzposter example:** ```latex documentclass[25pt, a0paper, portrait]{tikzposter} begin{document} maketitle begin{columns} column{0.5} block{Introduction}{ centering includegraphics[width=0.85linewidth]{figures/intro_visual.png} vspace{0.5em} Brief context text here (2-3 sentences max). } block{Methods}{ centering includegraphics[width=0.9linewidth]{figures/methods_flowchart.png} } column{0.5} block{Results}{ begin{minipage}{0.48linewidth} centering includegraphics[width=linewidth]{figures/result_1.png} end{minipage} hfill begin{minipage}{0.48linewidth} centering includegraphics[width=linewidth]{figures/result_2.png} end{minipage} vspace{0.5em} Key findings in 3-4 bullet points. } block{Conclusions}{ centering includegraphics[width=0.8linewidth]{figures/conclusions_graphic.png} } end{columns} end{document} ``` **baposter example:** ```latex headerbox{Methods}{name=methods,column=0,row=0}{ centering includegraphics[width=0.95linewidth]{figures/methods_flowchart.png} } headerbox{Results}{name=results,column=1,row=0}{ includegraphics[width=linewidth]{figures/comparison_chart.png} vspace{0.3em} Key finding: Our method achieves 92% accuracy. } ``` ### Example: Complete Poster Generation Workflow **Full workflow with ALL quality checks:** ```bash # STEP 0: Pre-Generation Review (MANDATORY) # Content plan: Drug discovery poster # - Workflow: 7 stages → ❌ TOO MANY → Reduce to 3 mega-stages ✅ # - 3 case studies → ❌ TOO MANY → One case per graphic (make 3 graphics) ✅ # - Timeline 2018-2024 → ❌ TOO DETAILED → Only 3 key years ✅ # STEP 1: Create figures directory mkdir -p figures # STEP 2: Generate ULTRA-SIMPLE graphics with strict limits # Workflow - HIGH-LEVEL ONLY (collapsed from 7 stages to 3) python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ULTRA-SIMPLE 3-box workflow: 'DISCOVER' → 'VALIDATE' → 'APPROVE'. Each word 120pt+ bold. Thick arrows (10px). 60% white space. ONLY 3 words total. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/workflow.png # Case study 1 - ONE case, ONE metric (will make 3 separate graphics) python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONE case: Company logo + '18 MONTHS' (150pt bold) + 'to drug discovery' (60pt). 3 elements only. 60% white space. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/case1.png python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONE case: Company logo + '95% SUCCESS' (150pt bold) + 'in trials' (60pt). 3 elements only. 60% white space." -o figures/case2.png python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONE case: Company logo + 'FDA APPROVED' (150pt bold) + '2024' (60pt). 3 elements only. 60% white space." -o figures/case3.png # Timeline - ONLY 3 key years (not 7 years) python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. ONLY 3 years: '2018' (150pt) + icon, '2021' (150pt) + icon, '2024' (150pt) + icon. Large icons. 60% white space. NO lines or details. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/timeline.png # Results - ONLY 2 bars (our method vs best baseline, not 5 methods) python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. TWO bars only: 'BASELINE 70%' and 'OURS 95%' (highlighted). GIANT percentages (150pt) ON bars. NO axis, NO legend. 60% white space. Readable from 12 feet." -o figures/results.png # STEP 2b: Post-Generation Review (MANDATORY) # Open each figure at 25% zoom: # ✅ workflow.png: 3 elements, text readable, 60% white - PASS # ✅ case1.png: 3 elements, giant numbers, clean - PASS # ✅ case2.png: 3 elements, giant numbers, clean - PASS # ✅ case3.png: 3 elements, giant numbers, clean - PASS # ✅ timeline.png: 3 elements, readable, simple - PASS # ✅ results.png: 2 bars, giant percentages, clear - PASS # ALL PASS → Proceed to assembly # STEP 3: Compile LaTeX poster pdflatex poster.tex # STEP 4: PDF Overflow Check (see Section 11) grep "Overfull" poster.log # Open at 100% and check all 4 edges ``` **If ANY graphic fails Step 2b review:** - Too many elements → Regenerate with "ONLY 3 elements" - Small text → Regenerate with "150pt+" or "GIANT BOLD (150pt+)" - Cluttered → Regenerate with "60% white space" and "ULTRA-SIMPLE" - Complex workflow → SPLIT into multiple simple 3-element graphics ### Visual Element Guidelines **⚠️ CRITICAL: Each graphic must have ONE message and MAXIMUM 3-4 elements.** **ABSOLUTE LIMITS - These are NOT guidelines, these are HARD LIMITS:** - **MAXIMUM 3-4 elements** per graphic (3 is ideal) - **MAXIMUM 10 words** total per graphic - **MINIMUM 50% white space** (60% is better) - **MINIMUM 120pt** for key numbers/metrics - **MINIMUM 80pt** for labels **For each poster section - STRICT requirements:** | Section | Max Elements | Max Words | Example Prompt (REQUIRED PATTERN) | |---------|--------------|-----------|-------------------------------------| | **Introduction** | 3 icons | 6 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: ULTRA-SIMPLE 3 icons: [icon1] [icon2] [icon3]. ONE WORD labels (100pt bold). 60% white space. 3 words total." | | **Methods** | 3 boxes | 6 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: ULTRA-SIMPLE 3-box workflow: 'STEP1' → 'STEP2' → 'STEP3'. GIANT labels (120pt+). 60% white space. 3 words only." | | **Results** | 2-3 bars | 6 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: TWO bars: 'BASELINE 70%' 'OURS 95%'. GIANT percentages (150pt+) ON bars. NO axis. 60% white space." | | **Conclusions** | 3 cards | 9 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: THREE cards: '95%' (150pt) 'ACCURATE', '2X' (150pt) 'FASTER', checkmark 'READY'. 60% white space." | | **Case Study** | 3 elements | 5 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: ONE case: logo + '18 MONTHS' (150pt) + 'to discovery' (60pt). 60% white space." | | **Timeline** | 3 points | 3 words | "POSTER FORMAT for A0: THREE years only: '2018' '2021' '2024' (150pt each). Large icons. 60% white space. NO details." | **MANDATORY prompt elements (ALL required, NO exceptions):** 1. **"POSTER FORMAT for A0"** - MUST be first 2. **"ULTRA-SIMPLE"** or **"ONLY X elements"** - content limit 3. **"GIANT (120pt+)"** or specific font sizes - readability 4. **"60% white space"** - mandatory breathing room 5. **"readable from 10-12 feet"** - viewing distance 6. **Exact count** of words/elements - "3 words total" or "ONLY 3 icons" **PATTERNS THAT ALWAYS FAIL (REJECT IMMEDIATELY):** - ❌ "7-stage drug discovery workflow" → Split to "3 mega-stages" - ❌ "Timeline from 2015-2024 with annual updates" → "ONLY 3 key years" - ❌ "3 case studies with details" → Make 3 separate simple graphics - ❌ "Comparison of 5 methods with metrics" → "ONLY 2: ours vs best" - ❌ "Complete architecture showing all layers" → "3 components only" - ❌ "Show stages 1,2,3,4,5,6" → "3 high-level stages" **PATTERNS THAT WORK:** - ✅ "3 mega-stages collapsed from 7" → Proper simplification - ✅ "ONE case with ONE metric" → Will make multiple if needed - ✅ "ONLY 3 milestones" → Selective, focused - ✅ "2 bars: ours vs baseline" → Direct comparison - ✅ "3-component high-level view" → Appropriately simplified --- ## Scientific Schematics Integration For detailed guidance on creating schematics, refer to the **scientific-schematics** skill documentation. **Key capabilities:** - Nano Banana Pro automatically generates, reviews, and refines diagrams - Creates publication-quality images with proper formatting - Ensures accessibility (colorblind-friendly, high contrast) - Supports iterative refinement for complex diagrams --- ## Core Capabilities ### 1. LaTeX Poster Packages Support for three major LaTeX poster packages, each with distinct advantages. For detailed comparison and package-specific guidance, refer to `references/latex_poster_packages.md`. **beamerposter**: - Extension of the Beamer presentation class - Familiar syntax for Beamer users - Excellent theme support and customization - Best for: Traditional academic posters, institutional branding **tikzposter**: - Modern, flexible design with TikZ integration - Built-in color themes and layout templates - Extensive customization through TikZ commands - Best for: Colorful, modern designs, custom graphics **baposter**: - Box-based layout system - Automatic spacing and positioning - Professional-looking default styles - Best for: Multi-column layouts, consistent spacing ### 2. Poster Layout and Structure Create effective poster layouts following visual communication principles. For comprehensive layout guidance, refer to `references/poster_layout_design.md`. **Common Poster Sections**: - **Header/Title**: Title, authors, affiliations, logos - **Introduction/Background**: Research context and motivation - **Methods/Approach**: Methodology and experimental design - **Results**: Key findings with figures and data visualizations - **Conclusions**: Main takeaways and implications - **References**: Key citations (typically abbreviated) - **Acknowledgments**: Funding, collaborators, institutions **Layout Strategies**: - **Column-based layouts**: 2-column, 3-column, or 4-column grids - **Block-based layouts**: Flexible arrangement of content blocks - **Z-pattern flow**: Guide readers through content logically - **Visual hierarchy**: Use size, color, and spacing to emphasize key points ### 3. Design Principles for Research Posters Apply evidence-based design principles for maximum impact. For detailed design guidance, refer to `references/poster_design_principles.md`. **Typography**: - Title: 72-120pt for visibility from distance - Section headers: 48-72pt - Body text: 24-36pt minimum for readability from 4-6 feet - Use sans-serif fonts (Arial, Helvetica, Calibri) for clarity - Limit to 2-3 font families maximum **Color and Contrast**: - Use high-contrast color schemes for readability - Institutional color palettes for branding - Color-blind friendly palettes (avoid red-green combinations) - White space is active space—don't overcrowd **Visual Elements**: - High-resolution figures (300 DPI minimum for print) - Large, clear labels on all figures - Consistent figure styling throughout - Strategic use of icons and graphics - Balance text with visual content (40-50% visual recommended) **Content Guidelines**: - **Less is more**: 300-800 words total recommended - Bullet points over paragraphs for scannability - Clear, concise messaging - Self-explanatory figures with minimal text explanation - QR codes for supplementary materials or online resources ### 4. Standard Poster Sizes Support for international and conference-specific poster dimensions: **International Standards**: - A0 (841 × 1189 mm / 33.1 × 46.8 inches) - Most common European standard - A1 (594 × 841 mm / 23.4 × 33.1 inches) - Smaller format - A2 (420 × 594 mm / 16.5 × 23.4 inches) - Compact posters **North American Standards**: - 36 × 48 inches (914 × 1219 mm) - Common US conference size - 42 × 56 inches (1067 × 1422 mm) - Large format - 48 × 72 inches (1219 × 1829 mm) - Extra large **Orientation**: - Portrait (vertical) - Most common, traditional - Landscape (horizontal) - Better for wide content, timelines ### 5. Package-Specific Templates Provide ready-to-use templates for each major package. Templates available in `assets/` directory. **beamerposter Templates**: - `beamerposter_classic.tex` - Traditional academic style - `beamerposter_modern.tex` - Clean, minimal design - `beamerposter_colorful.tex` - Vibrant theme with blocks **tikzposter Templates**: - `tikzposter_default.tex` - Standard tikzposter layout - `tikzposter_rays.tex` - Modern design with ray theme - `tikzposter_wave.tex` - Professional wave-style theme **baposter Templates**: - `baposter_portrait.tex` - Classic portrait layout - `baposter_landscape.tex` - Landscape multi-column - `baposter_minimal.tex` - Minimalist design ### 6. Figure and Image Integration Optimize visual content for poster presentations: **Best Practices**: - Use vector graphics (PDF, SVG) when possible for scalability - Raster images: minimum 300 DPI at final print size - Consistent image styling (borders, captions, sizes) - Group related figures together - Use subfigures for comparisons **LaTeX Figure Commands**: ```latex % Include graphics package usepackage{graphicx} % Simple figure includegraphics[width=0.8linewidth]{figure.pdf} % Figure with caption in tikzposter block{Results}{ begin{tikzfigure} includegraphics[width=0.9linewidth]{results.png} end{tikzfigure} } % Multiple subfigures usepackage{subcaption} begin{figure} begin{subfigure}{0.48linewidth} includegraphics[width=linewidth]{fig1.pdf} caption{Condition A} end{subfigure} begin{subfigure}{0.48linewidth} includegraphics[width=linewidth]{fig2.pdf} caption{Condition B} end{subfigure} end{figure} ``` ### 7. Color Schemes and Themes Provide professional color palettes for various contexts: **Academic Institution Colors**: - Match university or department branding - Use official color codes (RGB, CMYK, or LaTeX color definitions) **Scientific Color Palettes** (color-blind friendly): - Viridis: Professional gradient from purple to yellow - ColorBrewer: Research-tested palettes for data visualization - IBM Color Blind Safe: Accessible corporate palette **Package-Specific Theme Selection**: **beamerposter**: ```latex usetheme{Berlin} usecolortheme{beaver} ``` **tikzposter**: ```latex usetheme{Rays} usecolorstyle{Denmark} ``` **baposter**: ```latex begin{poster}{ background=plain, bgColorOne=white, headerColorOne=blue!70, textborder=rounded } ``` ### 8. Typography and Text Formatting Ensure readability and visual appeal: **Font Selection**: ```latex % Sans-serif fonts recommended for posters usepackage{helvet} % Helvetica usepackage{avant} % Avant Garde usepackage{sfmath} % Sans-serif math fonts % Set default to sans-serif renewcommand{familydefault}{sfdefault} ``` **Text Sizing**: ```latex % Adjust text sizes for visibility setbeamerfont{title}{size=VeryHuge} setbeamerfont{author}{size=Large} setbeamerfont{institute}{size=normalsize} ``` **Emphasis and Highlighting**: - Use bold for key terms: `textbf{important}` - Color highlights sparingly: `textcolor{blue}{highlight}` - Boxes for critical information - Avoid italics (harder to read from distance) ### 9. QR Codes and Interactive Elements Enhance poster interactivity for modern conferences: **QR Code Integration**: ```latex usepackage{qrcode} % Link to paper, code repository, or supplementary materials qrcode[height=2cm]{https://github.com/username/project} % QR code with caption begin{center} qrcode[height=3cm]{https://doi.org/10.1234/paper}\ small Scan for full paper end{center} ``` **Digital Enhancements**: - Link to GitHub repositories for code - Link to video presentations or demos - Link to interactive web visualizations - Link to supplementary data or appendices ### 10. Compilation and Output Generate high-quality PDF output for printing or digital display: **Compilation Commands**: ```bash # Basic compilation pdflatex poster.tex # With bibliography pdflatex poster.tex bibtex poster pdflatex poster.tex pdflatex poster.tex # For beamer-based posters lualatex poster.tex # Better font support xelatex poster.tex # Unicode and modern fonts ``` **Ensuring Full Page Coverage**: Posters should use the entire page without excessive margins. Configure packages correctly: **beamerposter - Full Page Setup**: ```latex documentclass[final,t]{beamer} usepackage[size=a0,scale=1.4,orientation=portrait]{beamerposter} % Remove default beamer margins setbeamersize{text margin left=0mm, text margin right=0mm} % Use geometry for precise control usepackage[margin=10mm]{geometry} % 10mm margins all around % Remove navigation symbols setbeamertemplate{navigation symbols}{} % Remove footline and headline if not needed setbeamertemplate{footline}{} setbeamertemplate{headline}{} ``` **tikzposter - Full Page Setup**: ```latex documentclass[ 25pt, % Font scaling a0paper, % Paper size portrait, % Orientation margin=10mm, % Outer margins (minimal) innermargin=15mm, % Space inside blocks blockverticalspace=15mm, % Space between blocks colspace=15mm, % Space between columns subcolspace=8mm % Space between subcolumns ]{tikzposter} % This ensures content fills the page ``` **baposter - Full Page Setup**: ```latex documentclass[a0paper,portrait,fontscale=0.285]{baposter} begin{poster}{ grid=false, columns=3, colspacing=1.5em, % Space between columns eyecatcher=true, background=plain, bgColorOne=white, borderColor=blue!50, headerheight=0.12textheight, % 12% for header textborder=roundedleft, headerborder=closed, boxheaderheight=2em % Consistent box header heights } % Content here end{poster} ``` **Common Issues and Fixes**: **Problem**: Large white margins around poster ```latex % Fix for beamerposter setbeamersize{text margin left=5mm, text margin right=5mm} % Fix for tikzposter documentclass[..., margin=5mm, innermargin=10mm]{tikzposter} % Fix for baposter - adjust in document class documentclass[a0paper, margin=5mm]{baposter} ``` **Problem**: Content doesn't fill vertical space ```latex % Use vfill between sections to distribute space block{Introduction}{...} vfill block{Methods}{...} vfill block{Results}{...} % Or manually adjust block spacing vspace{1cm} % Add space between specific blocks ``` **Problem**: Poster extends beyond page boundaries ```latex % Check total width calculation % For 3 columns with spacing: % Total = 3×columnwidth + 2×colspace + 2×margins % Ensure this equals paperwidth % Debug by adding visible page boundary usepackage{eso-pic} AddToShipoutPictureBG{ AtPageLowerLeft{ put(0,0){framebox(LenToUnit{paperwidth},LenToUnit{paperheight}){}} } } ``` **Print Preparation**: - Generate PDF/X-1a for professional printing - Embed all fonts - Convert colors to CMYK if required - Check resolution of all images (minimum 300 DPI) - Add bleed area if required by printer (usually 3-5mm) - Verify page size matches requirements exactly **Digital Display**: - RGB color space for screen display - Optimize file size for email/web - Test readability on different screens ### 11. PDF Review and Quality Control **CRITICAL**: Always review the generated PDF before printing or presenting. Use this systematic checklist: **Step 1: Page Size Verification** ```bash # Check PDF dimensions (should match poster size exactly) pdfinfo poster.pdf | grep "Page size" # Expected outputs: # A0: 2384 x 3370 points (841 x 1189 mm) # 36x48": 2592 x 3456 points # A1: 1684 x 2384 points (594 x 841 mm) ``` **Step 2: OVERFLOW CHECK (CRITICAL) - DO THIS IMMEDIATELY AFTER COMPILATION** **⚠️ THIS IS THE #1 CAUSE OF POSTER FAILURES. Check BEFORE proceeding.** **Step 2a: Check LaTeX Log File** ```bash # Check for overflow warnings (these are ERRORS, not suggestions) grep -i "overfull|underfull|badbox" poster.log # ANY "Overfull" warning = content is cut off or extending beyond boundaries # FIX ALL OF THESE before proceeding ``` **Common overflow warnings and what they mean:** - `Overfull hbox (15.2pt too wide)` → Text or graphic is 15.2pt wider than column - `Overfull vbox (23.5pt too high)` → Content is 23.5pt taller than available space - `Badbox` → LaTeX struggling to fit content within boundaries **Step 2b: Visual Edge Inspection (100% zoom in PDF viewer)** **Check ALL FOUR EDGES systematically:** 1. **TOP EDGE:** - [ ] Title completely visible (not cut off) - [ ] Author names fully visible - [ ] No graphics touching top margin - [ ] Header content within safe zone 2. **BOTTOM EDGE:** - [ ] References fully visible (not cut off) - [ ] Acknowledgments complete - [ ] Contact info readable - [ ] No graphics cut off at bottom 3. **LEFT EDGE:** - [ ] No text touching left margin - [ ] All bullet points fully visible - [ ] Graphics have left margin (not bleeding off) - [ ] Column content within bounds 4. **RIGHT EDGE:** - [ ] No text extending beyond right margin - [ ] Graphics not cut off on right - [ ] Column content stays within bounds - [ ] QR codes fully visible 5. **BETWEEN COLUMNS:** - [ ] Content stays within individual columns - [ ] No text bleeding into adjacent columns - [ ] Figures respect column boundaries **If ANY check fails, you have overflow. FIX IMMEDIATELY before continuing:** **Fix hierarchy (try in order):** 1. **Check AI-generated graphics first:** - Are they too complex (5+ elements)? → Regenerate simpler - Do they have tiny text? → Regenerate with "150pt+" fonts - Are there too many? → Reduce number of figures 2. **Reduce sections:** - More than 5-6 sections? → Combine or remove - Example: Merge "Discussion" into "Conclusions" 3. **Cut text content:** - More than 800 words total? → Cut to 300-500 - More than 100 words per section? → Cut to 50-80 4. **Adjust figure sizing:** - Using `width=linewidth`? → Change to `width=0.85linewidth` - Using `width=1.0columnwidth`? → Change to `width=0.9columnwidth` 5. **Increase margins (last resort):** ```latex documentclass[25pt, a0paper, portrait, margin=25mm]{tikzposter} ``` **DO NOT proceed to Step 3 if ANY overflow exists.** **Step 3: Visual Inspection Checklist** Open PDF at 100% zoom and check: **Layout and Spacing**: - [ ] Content fills entire page (no large white margins) - [ ] Consistent spacing between columns - [ ] Consistent spacing between blocks/sections - [ ] All elements aligned properly (use ruler tool) - [ ] No overlapping text or figures - [ ] White space evenly distributed **Typography**: - [ ] Title clearly visible and large (72pt+) - [ ] Section headers readable (48-72pt) - [ ] Body text readable at 100% zoom (24-36pt minimum) - [ ] No text cutoff or running off edges - [ ] Consistent font usage throughout - [ ] All special characters render correctly (symbols, Greek letters) **Visual Elements**: - [ ] All figures display correctly - [ ] No pixelated or blurry images - [ ] Figure captions present and readable - [ ] Colors render as expected (not washed out or too dark) - [ ] Logos display clearly - [ ] QR codes visible and scannable **Content Completeness**: - [ ] Title and authors complete - [ ] All sections present (Intro, Methods, Results, Conclusions) - [ ] References included - [ ] Contact information visible - [ ] Acknowledgments (if applicable) - [ ] No placeholder text remaining (Lorem ipsum, TODO, etc.) **Technical Quality**: - [ ] No LaTeX compilation warnings in important areas - [ ] All citations resolved (no [?] marks) - [ ] All cross-references working - [ ] Page boundaries correct (no content cut off) **Step 4: Reduced-Scale Print Test** **Essential Pre-Printing Test**: ```bash # Create reduced-size test print (25% of final size) # This simulates viewing full poster from ~8-10 feet # For A0 poster, print on A4 paper (24.7% scale) # For 36x48" poster, print on letter paper (~25% scale) ``` **Print Test Checklist**: - [ ] Title readable from 6 feet away - [ ] Section headers readable from 4 feet away - [ ] Body text readable from 2 feet away - [ ] Figures clear and understandable - [ ] Colors printed accurately - [ ] No obvious design flaws **Step 5: Digital Quality Checks** **Font Embedding Verification**: ```bash # Check that all fonts are embedded (required for printing) pdffonts poster.pdf # All fonts should show "yes" in "emb" column # If any show "no", recompile with: pdflatex -dEmbedAllFonts=true poster.tex ``` **Image Resolution Check**: ```bash # Extract image information pdfimages -list poster.pdf # Check that all images are at least 300 DPI # Formula: DPI = pixels / (inches in poster) # For A0 width (33.1"): 300 DPI = 9930 pixels minimum ``` **File Size Optimization**: ```bash # For email/web, compress if needed (>50MB) gs -sDEVICE=pdfwrite -dCompatibilityLevel=1.4 -dPDFSETTINGS=/printer -dNOPAUSE -dQUIET -dBATCH -sOutputFile=poster_compressed.pdf poster.pdf # For printing, keep original (no compression) ``` **Step 6: Accessibility Check** **Color Contrast Verification**: - [ ] Text-background contrast ratio ≥ 4.5:1 (WCAG AA) - [ ] Important elements contrast ratio ≥ 7:1 (WCAG AAA) - Test online: https://webaim.org/resources/contrastchecker/ **Color Blindness Simulation**: - [ ] View PDF through color blindness simulator - [ ] Information not lost with red-green simulation - [ ] Use Coblis (color-blindness.com) or similar tool **Step 7: Content Proofreading** **Systematic Review**: - [ ] Spell-check all text - [ ] Verify all author names and affiliations - [ ] Check all numbers and statistics for accuracy - [ ] Confirm all citations are correct - [ ] Review figure labels and captions - [ ] Check for typos in headers and titles **Peer Review**: - [ ] Ask colleague to review poster - [ ] 30-second test: Can they identify main message? - [ ] 5-minute review: Do they understand conclusions? - [ ] Note any confusing elements **Step 8: Technical Validation** **LaTeX Compilation Log Review**: ```bash # Check for warnings in .log file grep -i "warning|error|overfull|underfull" poster.log # Common issues to fix: # - Overfull hbox: Text extending beyond margins # - Underfull hbox: Excessive spacing # - Missing references: Citations not resolved # - Missing figures: Image files not found ``` **Fix Common Warnings**: ```latex % Overfull hbox (text too wide) usepackage{microtype} % Better spacing sloppy % Allow slightly looser spacing hyphenation{long-word} % Manual hyphenation % Missing fonts usepackage[T1]{fontenc} % Better font encoding % Image not found % Ensure paths are correct and files exist graphicspath{{./figures/}{./images/}} ``` **Step 9: Final Pre-Print Checklist** **Before Sending to Printer**: - [ ] PDF size exactly matches requirements (check with pdfinfo) - [ ] All fonts embedded (check with pdffonts) - [ ] Color mode correct (RGB for screen, CMYK for print if required) - [ ] Bleed area added if required (usually 3-5mm) - [ ] Crop marks visible if required - [ ] Test print completed and reviewed - [ ] File naming clear: [LastName]_[Conference]_Poster.pdf - [ ] Backup copy saved **Printing Specifications to Confirm**: - [ ] Paper type (matte vs. glossy) - [ ] Printing method (inkjet, large format, fabric) - [ ] Color profile (provided to printer if required) - [ ] Delivery deadline and shipping address - [ ] Tube or flat packaging preference **Digital Presentation Checklist**: - [ ] PDF size optimized (<10MB for email) - [ ] Tested on multiple PDF viewers (Adobe, Preview, etc.) - [ ] Displays correctly on different screens - [ ] QR codes tested and functional - [ ] Alternative formats prepared (PNG for social media) **Review Script** (Available in `scripts/review_poster.sh`): ```bash #!/bin/bash # Automated poster PDF review script echo "Poster PDF Quality Check" echo "=======================" # Check file exists if [ ! -f "$1" ]; then echo "Error: File not found" exit 1 fi echo "File: $1" echo "" # Check page size echo "1. Page Dimensions:" pdfinfo "$1" | grep "Page size" echo "" # Check fonts echo "2. Font Embedding:" pdffonts "$1" | head -20 echo "" # Check file size echo "3. File Size:" ls -lh "$1" | awk '{print $5}' echo "" # Count pages (should be 1 for poster) echo "4. Page Count:" pdfinfo "$1" | grep "Pages" echo "" echo "Manual checks required:" echo "- Visual inspection at 100% zoom" echo "- Reduced-scale print test (25%)" echo "- Color contrast verification" echo "- Proofreading for typos" ``` **Common PDF Issues and Solutions**: | Issue | Cause | Solution | |-------|-------|----------| | Large white margins | Incorrect margin settings | Reduce margin in documentclass | | Content cut off | Exceeds page boundaries | Check total width/height calculations | | Blurry images | Low resolution (<300 DPI) | Replace with higher resolution images | | Missing fonts | Fonts not embedded | Compile with -dEmbedAllFonts=true | | Wrong page size | Incorrect paper size setting | Verify documentclass paper size | | Colors look wrong | RGB vs CMYK mismatch | Convert color space for print | | File too large (>50MB) | Uncompressed images | Optimize images or compress PDF | | QR codes don't work | Too small or low resolution | Minimum 2×2cm, high contrast | ### 11. Common Poster Content Patterns Effective content organization for different research types: **Experimental Research Poster**: 1. Title and authors 2. Introduction: Problem and hypothesis 3. Methods: Experimental design (with diagram) 4. Results: Key findings (2-4 main figures) 5. Conclusions: Main takeaways (3-5 bullet points) 6. Future work (optional) 7. References and acknowledgments **Computational/Modeling Poster**: 1. Title and authors 2. Motivation: Problem statement 3. Approach: Algorithm or model (with flowchart) 4. Implementation: Technical details 5. Results: Performance metrics and comparisons 6. Applications: Use cases 7. Code availability (QR code to GitHub) 8. References **Review/Survey Poster**: 1. Title and authors 2. Scope: Topic overview 3. Methods: Literature search strategy 4. Key findings: Main themes (organized by category) 5. Trends: Visualizations of publication patterns 6. Gaps: Identified research needs 7. Conclusions: Summary and implications 8. References ### 12. Accessibility and Inclusive Design Design posters that are accessible to diverse audiences: **Color Blindness Considerations**: - Avoid red-green combinations (most common color blindness) - Use patterns or shapes in addition to color - Test with color-blindness simulators - Provide high contrast (WCAG AA standard: 4.5:1 minimum) **Visual Impairment Accommodations**: - Large, clear fonts (minimum 24pt body text) - High contrast text and background - Clear visual hierarchy - Avoid complex textures or patterns in backgrounds **Language and Content**: - Clear, concise language - Define acronyms and jargon - International audience considerations - Consider multilingual QR code options for global conferences ### 13. Poster Presentation Best Practices Guidance beyond LaTeX for effective poster sessions: **Content Strategy**: - Tell a story, don't just list facts - Focus on 1-3 main messages - Use visual abstract or graphical summary - Leave room for conversation (don't over-explain) **Physical Presentation Tips**: - Bring printed handouts or business cards with QR code - Prepare 30-second, 2-minute, and 5-minute verbal summaries - Stand to the side, not blocking the poster - Engage viewers with open-ended questions **Digital Backups**: - Save poster as PDF on mobile device - Prepare digital version for email sharing - Create social media-friendly image version - Have backup printed copy or digital display option ## Workflow for Poster Creation ### Stage 1: Planning and Content Development 1. **Determine poster requirements**: - Conference size specifications (A0, 36×48", etc.) - Orientation (portrait vs. landscape) - Submission deadlines and format requirements 2. **Develop content outline**: - Identify 1-3 core messages - Select key figures (typically 3-6 main visuals) - Draft concise text for each section (bullet points preferred) - Aim for 300-800 words total 3. **Choose LaTeX package**: - beamerposter: If familiar with Beamer, need institutional themes - tikzposter: For modern, colorful designs with flexibility - baposter: For structured, professional multi-column layouts ### Stage 2: Generate Visual Elements (AI-Powered) **CRITICAL: Generate SIMPLE figures with MINIMAL content. Each graphic = ONE message.** **Content limits:** - Maximum 4-5 elements per graphic - Maximum 15 words total per graphic - 50% white space minimum - GIANT fonts (80pt+ for labels, 120pt+ for key numbers) 1. **Create figures directory**: ```bash mkdir -p figures ``` 2. **Generate SIMPLE visual elements**: ```bash # Introduction - ONLY 3 icons/elements python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE visual with ONLY 3 elements: [icon1] [icon2] [icon3]. ONE word labels (80pt+). 50% white space. Readable from 8 feet." -o figures/intro.png # Methods - ONLY 4 steps maximum python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE flowchart with ONLY 4 boxes: STEP1 → STEP2 → STEP3 → STEP4. GIANT labels (100pt+). 50% white space. NO sub-steps." -o figures/methods.png # Results - ONLY 3 bars/comparisons python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. SIMPLE chart with ONLY 3 bars. GIANT percentages ON bars (120pt+). NO axis, NO legend. 50% white space." -o figures/results.png # Conclusions - EXACTLY 3 items with GIANT numbers python scripts/generate_schematic.py "POSTER FORMAT for A0. EXACTLY 3 key findings: '[NUMBER]' (150pt) '[LABEL]' (60pt) for each. 50% white space. NO other text." -o figures/conclusions.png ``` 3. **Review generated figures - check for overflow:** - **View at 25% zoom**: All text still readable? - **Count elements**: More than 5? → Regenerate simpler - **Check white space**: Less than 40%? → Add "60% white space" to prompt - **Font too small?**: Add "EVEN LARGER" or increase pt sizes - **Still overflowing?**: Reduce to 3 elements instead of 4-5 ### Stage 3: Design and Layout 1. **Select or create template**: - Start with provided templates in `assets/` - Customize color scheme to match branding - Configure page size and orientation 2. **Design layout structure**: - Plan column structure (2, 3, or 4 columns) - Map content flow (typically left-to-right, top-to-bottom) - Allocate space for title (10-15%), content (70-80%), footer (5-10%) 3. **Set typography**: - Configure font sizes for different hierarchy levels - Ensure minimum 24pt body text - Test readability from 4-6 feet distance ### Stage 4: Content Integration 1. **Create poster header**: - Title (concise, descriptive, 10-15 words) - Authors and affiliations - Institution logos (high-resolution) - Conference logo if required 2. **Integrate AI-generated figures**: - Add all figures from Stage 2 to appropriate sections - Use `includegraphics` with proper sizing - Ensure figures dominate each section (visuals first, text second) - Center figures within blocks for visual impact 3. **Add minimal supporting text**: - Keep text minimal and scannable (300-800 words total) - Use bullet points, not paragraphs - Write in active voice - Text should complement figures, not duplicate them 4. **Add supplementary elements**: - QR codes for supplementary materials - References (cite key papers only, 5-10 typical) - Contact information and acknowledgments ### Stage 5: Refinement and Testing 1. **Review and iterate**: - Check for typos and errors - Verify all figures are high resolution - Ensure consistent formatting - Confirm color scheme works well together 2. **Test readability**: - Print at 25% scale and read from 2-3 feet (simulates poster from 8-12 feet) - Check color on different monitors - Verify QR codes function correctly - Ask colleague to review 3. **Optimize for printing**: - Embed all fonts in PDF - Verify image resolution - Check PDF size requirements - Include bleed area if required ### Stage 6: Compilation and Delivery 1. **Compile final PDF**: ```bash pdflatex poster.tex # Or for better font support: lualatex poster.tex ``` 2. **Verify output quality**: - Check all elements are visible and correctly positioned - Zoom to 100% and inspect figure quality - Verify colors match expectations - Confirm PDF opens correctly on different viewers 3. **Prepare for printing**: - Export as PDF/X-1a if required - Save backup copies - Get test print on regular paper first - Order professional printing 2-3 days before deadline 4. **Create supplementary materials**: - Save PNG/JPG version for social media - Create handout version (8.5×11" summary) - Prepare digital version for email sharing ## Integration with Other Skills This skill works effectively with: - **Scientific Schematics**: CRITICAL - Use for generating all poster diagrams and flowcharts - **Generate Image / Nano Banana Pro**: For stylized graphics, conceptual illustrations, and summary visuals - **Scientific Writing**: For developing poster content from papers - **Literature Review**: For contextualizing research - **Data Analysis**: For creating result figures and charts **Recommended workflow**: Always use scientific-schematics and generate-image skills BEFORE creating the LaTeX poster to generate all visual elements. ## Common Pitfalls to Avoid **AI-Generated Graphics Mistakes (MOST COMMON):** - ❌ Too many elements in one graphic (10+ items) → Keep to 3-5 max - ❌ Text too small in AI graphics → Specify "GIANT (100pt+)" or "HUGE (150pt+)" - ❌ Too much detail in prompts → Use "SIMPLE" and "ONLY X elements" - ❌ No white space specification → Add "50% white space" to every prompt - ❌ Complex flowcharts with 8+ steps → Limit to 4-5 steps maximum - ❌ Comparison charts with 6+ items → Limit to 3 items maximum - ❌ Key findings with 5+ metrics → Show only top 3 **Fixing Overflow in AI Graphics:** If your AI-generated graphics are overflowing or have small text: 1. Add "SIMPLER" or "ONLY 3 elements" to prompt 2. Increase font sizes: "150pt+" instead of "80pt+" 3. Add "60% white space" instead of "50%" 4. Remove sub-details: "NO sub-steps", "NO axis labels", "NO legend" 5. Regenerate with fewer elements **Design Mistakes**: - ❌ Too much text (over 1000 words) - ❌ Font sizes too small (under 24pt body text) - ❌ Low-contrast color combinations - ❌ Cluttered layout with no white space - ❌ Inconsistent styling across sections - ❌ Poor quality or pixelated images **Content Mistakes**: - ❌ No clear narrative or message - ❌ Too many research questions or objectives - ❌ Overuse of jargon without definitions - ❌ Results without context or interpretation - ❌ Missing author contact information **Technical Mistakes**: - ❌ Wrong poster dimensions for conference requirements - ❌ RGB colors sent to CMYK printer (color shift) - ❌ Fonts not embedded in PDF - ❌ File size too large for submission portal - ❌ QR codes too small or not tested **Best Practices**: - ✅ Generate SIMPLE AI graphics with 3-5 elements max - ✅ Use GIANT fonts (100pt+) for key numbers in graphics - ✅ Specify "50% white space" in every AI prompt - ✅ Follow conference size specifications exactly - ✅ Test print at reduced scale before final printing - ✅ Use high-contrast, accessible color schemes - ✅ Keep text minimal and highly scannable - ✅ Include clear contact information and QR codes - ✅ Proofread carefully (errors are magnified on posters!) ## Package Installation Ensure required LaTeX packages are installed: ```bash # For TeX Live (Linux/Mac) tlmgr install beamerposter tikzposter baposter # For MiKTeX (Windows) # Packages typically auto-install on first use # Additional recommended packages tlmgr install qrcode graphics xcolor tcolorbox subcaption ``` ## Scripts and Automation Helper scripts available in `scripts/` directory: - `compile_poster.sh`: Automated compilation with error handling - `generate_template.py`: Interactive template generator - `resize_images.py`: Batch image optimization for posters - `poster_checklist.py`: Pre-submission validation tool ## References Comprehensive reference files for detailed guidance: - `references/latex_poster_packages.md`: Detailed comparison of beamerposter, tikzposter, and baposter with examples - `references/poster_layout_design.md`: Layout principles, grid systems, and visual flow - `references/poster_design_principles.md`: Typography, color theory, visual hierarchy, and accessibility - `references/poster_content_guide.md`: Content organization, writing style, and section-specific guidance ## Templates Ready-to-use poster templates in `assets/` directory: - beamerposter templates (classic, modern, colorful) - tikzposter templates (default, rays, wave, envelope) - baposter templates (portrait, landscape, minimal) - Example posters from various scientific disciplines - Color scheme definitions and institutional templates Load these templates and customize for your specific research and conference requirements.