Skip to Main Content

Guide to 3MT

This is a guide to assist students who are preparing to compete in the 3MT competitions.

1. Set the scene

Here are some recommended best practices when setting up to record your presentation.

  • Choose a controlled / enclosed space
  • Pick a plain backdrop
  • Wear deep earth tones or vibrant colours to stand out in your video
  • Avoid patterned clothes / backdrops
  • Strive for even lighting:
    • Choose a space with bright lights or a window with incoming natural light
    • Always stand facing a window, and not with your back against it

2. Record your video

You may use the following devices to record your presentation:

  • Computers / laptops with built-in camera / webcam
  • Smart phones
  • Digital cameras and/or a handheld video recorder


Things to note:

  • Record in landscape - 16:9 format
  • Prop up your device to meet you at eye level (e.g. place your laptop on top of a stack of books)
  • Angle – Ensure that your camera is parallel to your face
  • When using smart phones / digital camera / video recorder:
    • Stabilize your device – Use phone stand, tripod etc.
    • Compare your back and front camera – use the one with better quality
    • Ensure that your device auto-focus is on your, not your surroundings

3. Capture clean and clear audio

Consider using an external microphone, instead of the built-in microphone of your chosen device. You can use a wired earphone that comes with a microphone attached.

Things to note:

  • Ensure the microphone is close to you. You may want to clip the microphone under the collar of your top.
  • Be mindful of ambient noises. The microphone will be able to pick them up even if they are not audible to you. Examples – Fans, air conditioners, appliances, device notification sounds etc.

4. Edit your video

Most computers or laptops comes with built-in video editing programs such as Windows Movie Maker (Windows) and QuickTime/iMovie (Macintosh). 

If using your smart phone, you can download video editing apps such as CapCut (Apple / Android).

Tip: You can use CapCut to embed your slide into your video using the 'Overlay' tool. 

5. Other tools that you can use

You may also consider using self-recording online programs such as MS PowerPoint, Zoom and MS Teams, along with the tips shared above. 

Click on the links below for more information and to view the video tutorials or step by step instructions.  

 

You are expected to comply with University policies and guidelines namely, Appropriate Use of Information Resources Policy, IT Usage Policy and Social Media Policy. Users will be personally liable for any infringement of Copyright and Licensing laws.
Unless otherwise stated, all guide content is licensed by CC BY-NC 4.0.