• Why should I complete a fair?
• How much time will it take?
• How much does the average project cost?
• Who should conduct a fair project?
• What if my project doesn't work?
• How much help can I have completing the project?
• What should I study for the project?
• How do I get started?
• Where do I get the materials and supplies to complete a project?
• What is the most difficult part of completing a successful project?
• Where should I work on my project?
• How do I know if I have done a good job?
• How fancy does my project board need to be?
• What is the worst thing to do while preparing a science fair project?
• What are the judges like?
• When are most science fairs scheduled?

Why should I complete a fair?
Working on a project gives you an unusual opportunity to take a close look at the natural world, and perhaps make a discovery. Plus, you will have an opportunity to meet and learn from other young scientists, as well as professional scientists from many fields.

How much time will it take?
Some students work on a project for several years, refining it each time they present it at a fair. However, your initial project will probably require 3 to 6 months.

How much does the average project cost?
Students usually spend $15 to $20 for the materials to complete a very simple and basic project. As you develop your project over time, you may end up spending a few hundred dollars. You can save money by borrowing or sharing equipment. Your teacher or science mentor should be able to help with this.

Who should conduct a fair project?
If you have an interest in nature and the laws that govern it, and like to make discoveries and share them with others, you are qualified to conduct a science fair project.

Most fairs address upper elementary, middle and high school age students. Physical and learning handicaps are not barriers to conducting science investigations.

What if my project doesn't work?
Most don't! So, do not worry about it! Scientists reach many closed doors before finding those open to them. Failure is not a word often used in scientific circles. If you have put forth effort and found something that "doesn't work," you will have a successful project if you report collected data showing why it didn't work. Most judges will score you on the methods you use in your work, not the success rate you achieve.

How much help can I have completing the project?
As much as you need! Notice... we said need, not want! Scientists usually do not make their own test tubes. They buy or borrow them. However, scientists usually fill and wash their own. In addition to equipment, scientists always rely on others to share information and expertise.

It is a good rule to follow that you should perform all work that is logical and efficient to do yourself. In some cases, it makes perfect sense to have someone more experienced or efficient to complete a task. In all cases, give credit where credit is due! Don't let anyone assume you did work on your project that was done by others.

What should I study for the project?
You must find a topic in which you are interested, and in which you would delight in learning. If you have an interest in something, it will not be a chore to study it. Also, select a topic that can be studied safely, and within time and financial budgets.

How do I get started?
First, finish reading this guide. Then, begin a list of at least ten project ideas; something in which you have an interest. Discuss your list with teachers, friends, and mentors. You'll eventually narrow your focus to one idea..and make it simple! The simpler, the better! Don't try to change the world with your first science project. Try to answer a single, simple question! Writing the question is the first step.

Where do I get the materials and supplies to complete a project?
For project presentation supplies, we suggest visiting any major mass retailer, office supply superstore or arts & craft retailer. Many of them carry a full line of Elmer's Science Fair products, and support Science Fair with seasonal displays that provide merchandise like the book you're reading! Your science mentor may also be able so suggest supplier's specific to your project topic.

What is the most difficult part of completing a successful project?
Each project presents its own set of challenges. However, there is one challenge constant to all science fair projects: Time! You must set aside sufficient time in your schedule to work on your project. Last minute efforts usually result in meager project results.

Where should I work on my project?
Safety should be one of your primary concerns. Work in a safe location; a place where your work will not disturb others or their property. You should also consider safety for your work. Locate a site where your work can be protected from siblings, pets, and other interested parties. Also, we suggest a site where you can leave your work undisturbed. Repeated "taking down putting up," can hinder your progress.

How do I know if I have done a good job?
One good source of evaluation for your project is a recent winner of your local science fair. Ask your sponsor or mentor for the names of last year's winners. If they are true young scientists, they will be more than happy to learn about your work... and offer suggestions.

Also, run trial presentations on both people with a scientific background, and people who have little knowledge of science. If both groups understand and appreciate your work...you've probably done a great job!

How fancy does my project board need to be?
Most of the time, you cannot fool judges with fluff and glitz. Experienced judges can look past glossy additions to a project preparation. Don't worry about how flashy your project appears. Keep it neat, tidy, well organized, and free of extra information and clutter.

Use charts and photos only when necessary. Do not attempt to impress judges with long or detailed lists of numbers and figures. Keep it simple, and to the point!

What is the worst thing to do while preparing a science fair project?
Falsify your work! The loss of integrity is the worst thing that can happen to a scientist and his work. Stay true to what you know. Never add or subtract from the truth you are trying to discover.

It is not a failure to say... "I don't know." Stay honest!

What are the judges like?
Fair judges usually come from the ranks of local scientists and educators. They were kids once themselves. So, be yourself!

Judges are usually rushed to score many presentations in a short amount of time. So, don't be concerned if they appear to be cold or short with you. Judges go out of their way to be fair and evenhanded.

When are most science fairs scheduled?
Most local fairs are held in February and March each year. State, Regional and International Fairs are scheduled for April and May.

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