The 3M Young Scientist Challenge is one of the top science competitions for US middle schoolers. Winning opens real doors: scholarships, media appearances, and mentorship from working scientists. Here’s how to set yourself up to win.
1. Understand the competition
The 3M Young Scientist Challenge invites students in grades 5-8 to submit a short video (1-2 minutes) explaining a scientific concept or innovation that could solve a problem in their community or the world.
What judges look for
- Originality and creativity: an innovative approach to a real-world problem.
- Scientific knowledge: a solid grasp of the relevant science.
- Communication: a clear explanation of your idea and its impact.
2. Identify a problem to solve
Winning projects address real problems with fresh solutions. Look around your community, school, or the wider world, and ask:
- What problems do you see every day?
- Could an existing solution be improved?
- Can you apply a scientific principle to make something new?
Tips
- Make it personal: a problem that affects you or someone close to you will drive your motivation and give you a unique angle.
- Survey your community: short surveys or interviews can surface impactful but lesser-known problems.
- Explore niche areas: some of the best ideas come from under-explored corners of science.
3. Research and prepare
Once you’ve picked a problem, dig into research. Look at existing solutions, understand the science behind the problem, and brainstorm possible innovations.
Steps
- Use diverse sources: go beyond textbooks to scientific journals, talks, and online courses.
- Crowdsource ideas: online forums and science communities can offer fresh perspectives.
- Reverse-engineer: deconstruct existing solutions to understand their strengths and weaknesses, which can inspire improvements.
4. Run experiments
If your project involves an experiment, follow the scientific method:
- Hypothesis: form a testable hypothesis.
- Experiment: design and run experiments to test it.
- Data: collect and analyze your data carefully.
- Conclusion: draw conclusions and refine your solution.
Tips
- Prototype quickly: build rough prototypes to test ideas and iterate, rather than aiming for perfection up front.
- Use household items: everyday materials make your project relatable and practical.
- Test in the real world: field trials beyond the lab can make your project stand out.
5. Make an engaging video
Your video is your chance to impress the judges. To make it stand out:
- Tell a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
- Show, don’t just tell: use visuals to demonstrate the problem and your solution.
- Add interactive elements, like a question or a challenge to the viewer.
Tips
- Practice public speaking, through a club or school debates.
- Learn basic filmmaking: even simple edits improve quality.
- Use a teleprompter app (like PromptSmart Pro) to deliver your script smoothly.
- Add B-roll from free stock sites like Pexels or Videvo for variety and context.
6. Review and submit
Before submitting:
- Proofread your script and video.
- Get feedback from teachers, parents, or peers, and revise.
- Double-check that you’ve met all the submission requirements.
Tips
- Make a submission checklist and tick off each requirement.
- Have peers review your video for clarity, especially people unfamiliar with the project.
- Get varied perspectives from teachers, family, and classmates.
- Check out ScienceFair.io’s AI judging tool.
7. Prepare for the finals
If you’re selected as a finalist, here’s what to expect:
- Mentorship: you’re paired with a 3M scientist mentor to refine your project.
- Presentation: prepare a detailed presentation for the final event.
- Judging: be ready to answer questions and discuss your project in depth.
Tips
- Use your mentor’s feedback to refine your prototype, and stay open to criticism.
- Simulate the finals: practice your presentation in front of an audience.
- Be memorable: a clear, consistent presenting style helps you stand out.
Get started
Winning the 3M Young Scientist Challenge takes hard work, creativity, and good guidance. ScienceFair.io’s A-Z Science Fair Program offers one-on-one mentorship through every step, from idea to final entry, with advice from people who’ve won competitions like ISEF and the 3M Young Scientist Challenge.
Sign up for ScienceFair.io’s A-Z Science Fair Program to get help with your 3M Young Scientist Challenge entry.
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