You can figure out the size you need by how much text in your report, the number of images or graphs you plan to include. If your report is under 5 pages and has less than 7 pictures or graphs a 36X48 should work. If your report has more information you can adjust your size accordingly.  Check with any poster size requirements for your event. You may have space limitations for your display, and sometimes your poster size may be restricted. Be sure you have adequate supplies to display your poster. Usually, display stands or clips may be provided for you on site, but it is best to check ahead to make sure you bring everything you need. Many students try to include everything in their research paper, but this is a serious mistake. You can leave off the abstract and large areas of text tend to dissolve into visually cramped, boring, gray spaces that are intimidating to an audience. Posters that have too much text on them will be passed over in favor of those that are easier to read.  Highlight the key details and share the extraneous details verbally. Use columns to organize and structure your presentation in a logical manner.  Clearly label any sections, graphs or images. If you know how to use Powerpoint, Keynote or design programs like Photoshop, you can make some stunning visual aids that can combine your text and graphics into a professional looking display.  Once you've created all your sections and illustrations, transfer the files to portable document format (PDF) so you can be certain how they will look when printed. Use either PC or Mac platform for everything so you don't run into compatibility problems when moving files between the two. Check your graphs, charts and other illustrations to make sure a reader can make out the details at that distance. Take another couple steps back. Your poster title should be readable from 10 feet (3 m) away.  Use a large font for all text. Paragraph text should be between 18-24 pt. font. You can use a different font style for titles to help distinguish them, but otherwise, you should keep the font consistent.  Use color to attract the eyes of your audience. 2-3 colors can help your various titles to stand out. Avoid adding too many, though, so it doesn't become overwhelming. Avoid using 3D illustrations unless it's absolutely necessary. If you do use 3D illustrations, print stereoscopic versions on the poster and provide readers with 3D glasses. Don't settle for poor-quality images. Go to the trouble of finding image files that will still look sharp when blown up to place on your photo. You may have to take your own digital photos. There are a number of ways to do this, from using the devices found inside recordable greeting cards to attaching your personal media player to your poster. You can place a quick response (QR) code on your poster that readers with smartphones and similar devices can scan to access a website that will show photographs, play sound files or display other media on their devices. Place your information so it is in an easy to follow sequential order. Evaluate how the information is organized and if the poster is visually appealing. Ask for feedback from fellow students and teachers. Use the feedback to create the final version. You may want to purchase a cardboard tube to store and protect your poster until your presentation. You don't want all your hard work to go to waste. If you don't want to purchase a container, consider rolling the poster up and wrapping a rubber band loosely around each end to keep it closed until your presentation. You can use a local printing service or find one online that specializes in creating scientific posters.  If you are traveling to a scientific gathering, you can have a printing service create your poster and have it waiting for you when you arrive. Conference organizers often make agreements with printing services to make and deliver posters as a courtesy to students. If you plan to use a poster printer at your university, see if they have a place to sign up. During crunch time, many people may be trying to print off their work. For many events, a presenter should be present to answer client questions or give additional information as needed. It's a good idea to have a sign on hand in case you need to step away to get a drink or use the restroom. This can help reduce the chance you miss any interested visitors. A good poster may still not include every bit of relevant information. You should be prepared to answer any questions with all your available information. Bring note cards that you can refer to in a pinch. You may also want to get a binder to carry along any other information that might be requested. Practice your presentation multiple times before taking it to the public. This will make you more confident and engage the listeners.
Determine the size of your poster. Carefully select what to put on your poster. Use software designed for making slide presentations and software that manipulates images to create your poster. Look at your poster from a distance of 6 feet (2 m) away. Add audio and video files if appropriate. Assemble a rough draft of your poster. Store your poster safely. Consider having a professional printing service create your poster. Make a "Back in 5 Minutes" sign that can hang next to your poster. Bring any additional reference materials you may need.