SBU 3MT Rules and Judging

Presentation Rules

The Slide

Single static PowerPoint slide to be presented from the beginning of the oration
No slide transitions or animations.

Timing

Presentations are limited to 3 minutes maximum.
Competitors exceeding 3 minutes are disqualified.

Restrictions

No additional electronic media (sound or video).
No additional props (costumes, musical instruments, lab equipment).
Spoken word only (no poems, raps, or songs).

Commencing the Presentation

Presentations commence from the stage or, for online competition, from a video screen. The clock starts when you speak your first word. You are allowed to finish your final sentence if time is called while speaking it. The adjudicating panel's decision is final.

Judging Criteria

Competitors will be judged on the following two core criteria, each worth 10 points.

Comprehension & Content

10 Points

Did you (the judge) understand the significance of the thesis to the field, culture, and/or society?
Did you understand the approach or method taken to address the thesis questions?
Did you understand the conclusions and findings from the thesis?

Engagement & Communication

10 Points

Did the presenter capture and maintain your attention?
Was the language appropriate for a non-specialist audience?
Did the slide enhance your engagement with the presentation?

Learn from Past Winners

We encourage participants to explore past competitions to gain inspiration and insight as they prepare their own presentations.

Watch Winning Presentations