Judging Format (new for 2023)

Preliminary Round

Preliminary rounds will be held in-person in February 2023. Students will be assigned to compete within 5 divisional preliminary rounds: Humanities, Social Sciences, Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Engineering/Applied Sciences. Two preliminary round champions from each divisional group will be selected to move onto the Final Round.

Final Round

Final rounds will be held in-person on Friday, April 14, 5-6:45pm ET. Prior to the Final Round, preliminary round champions will have the opportunity to record their talks in March with the Yale Broadcast Studio. At the Final Round, each of our 10 champions will give a live version of their talk and judging will take place at this event.

For examples, make sure to watch videos of the previous 3MT finalists on YouTube.

Rules

  • Only 1 single static PowerPoint slide is permitted (no slide transitions, animations, or ‘movement’ of any description; the slide is to be presented from the beginning of the oration). Do not include your presentation title on the slide.
  • No additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) are permitted.
  • No additional props (e.g. costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment) are permitted.
  • Presentations are to be spoken word (i.e. no poems, raps, or songs).
  • Presentations are limited to 3 minutes maximum and competitors exceeding 3 minutes are disqualified.
  • The decision of the adjudicating panel is final.

Judging Criteria

Comprehension & Content

  • Did the presentation provide an understanding of the background to the research question being addressed and its significance?
  • Did the presentation clearly describe the key results of the research including conclusions and outcomes?
  • Did the presentation follow a clear and logical sequence?
  • Was the thesis topic, key results and research significance and outcomes communicated in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience?
  • Did the speaker avoid scientific jargon, explain terminology and provide adequate background information to illustrate points?
  • Did the presenter spend adequate time on each element of their presentation – or did they elaborate for too long on one aspect or was the presentation rushed?

Engagement & Communication

  • Did the oration make the audience want to know more?
  • Was the presenter careful not to trivialize or generalize their research?
  • Did the presenter convey enthusiasm for their research?
  • Did the presenter capture and maintain their audience’s attention?
  • Did the speaker have sufficient stage presence, eye contact and vocal range; maintain a steady pace, and have a confident stance?
  • Did the PowerPoint slide enhance the presentation – was it clear, legible, and concise?
  • Did the presentation recording appear clear and free of distracting elements (unnecessary noise, background clutter, etc.)?