Project Guidelines
Everything you need to know to create a successful science fair project
Science vs Engineering Projects
Choose the project type that best fits your research question
Science Projects
Research Problem
- Clear, focused, testable question using scientific methods
Design & Methodology
- Independent & dependent variables described
- Experimental data compared to control group
- Controls kept constant for fair testing
- Laboratory skills used correctly
- Large enough sample size to support conclusions
Helpful Resource: Steps of the Scientific Method
Engineering Projects
Research Problem
- Describes a practical need or problem to solve
- Includes criteria for proposed solution & restrictions
Design & Methodology
- Prototype demonstrates intended design
- Prototype tested in multiple conditions/trials
- Demonstrates engineering skill & understanding
- Number of trials large enough to support conclusions
Helpful Resource: Engineering Design Process Steps
Requirements for All Projects
These elements are essential for both science and engineering projects
Data & Analysis
- •Clear, detailed charts & graphs with labels
- •One-sentence summary captions
- •Appropriate analysis strategies used correctly
Conclusion
- •Answer supported with evidence (data)
- •Discussion of possible errors & impacts
- •New questions for future research
- •Connections made to real world
Display
- •Complete & organized display board
- •Detailed, dated logbook showing all work
- •250-word abstract describing project
Fair Day Interview
Be prepared to showcase your knowledge and enthusiasm
What to Expect
- Judges will ask about your project and process
- Explain your methodology and findings
- Share what you learned and future plans
Interview Tips
- Answer questions with confidence
- Use scientific vocabulary related to your research
- Practice your presentation beforehand