SXSW PanelPicker session proposals should be specific, well-titled, and illustrative of the impact of your ideas and the depth of research behind them.

Tips for PanelPicker Success

• Follow the instructions and read the FAQ. Reading the PanelPicker FAQ will give you important information about SXSW and more valuable application tips.

• Create a future-focused, original proposal that shows what you’re passionate about. Often SXSW previews what you’ll be talking about next year and beyond in tech, culture, music, film and television, and more. Give us your perspective on what lies ahead and why.

• Depth and specificity. SXSW attendees want advanced, in-depth information, so be sure to delve into the particulars of a topic. The more specific a proposal is, the better. Drill down to what really matters.

• Your title should reflect your description. Cute titles are fun, but your title is going to be fighting for attention with hundreds of other titles. Direct and explanatory titles work best. The community should be able to understand what the proposal will cover without reading your description. Remember: think simple, accurate, and succinct.

• Include a neutral moderator. The moderator is a neutral party that helps run the session and leads the panel discussion. Having a neutral moderator will help keep your session focused on the proposed topic and will allow for a more balanced presentation. This is strongly recommended to ensure all points of views on a given panel are equally represented.

• Include a video with your proposal. Your speaking abilities matter and we’d like to see them. No fancy production required – recording from your webcam or phone works just fine. The supporting material you enter helps viewers to understand your proposal and distinguish it from the competition.

• Proofread, proofread, proofread. Did we mention proofread? Once you are done with your proposal and click the “Enter My Proposal” button, you will NOT be able to edit your idea. Be sure you have reviewed your proposal carefully.

• Meet the deadline. The final deadline to enter your application is Sunday, July 23 at 11:59pm PT.

Enter Your Idea