Here’s how to put together a strong entry for the Breakthrough Junior Challenge, one of the most prestigious science video competitions for high schoolers.
What is the Breakthrough Junior Challenge?
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is an annual global science video competition founded by Julia and Yuri Milner. Students explain a concept in the life sciences, physics, or mathematics in a short, engaging video. The prize is substantial: a $250,000 post-secondary scholarship for the winner, $50,000 for a teacher who inspired them, and up to $100,000 toward a science lab for their school.
- Eligibility:
- Ages 13-18.
- No prior winners.
- Residents of sanctioned regions are not eligible.
- Entry rules:
- Individuals only, no groups.
- No affiliation with the competition sponsor.
- One entry per person.
- Content guidelines:
- English entries only.
- No unlawful, hateful, or obscene content.
- Get consent for any identifiable individuals who appear.
- Video requirements:
- Two minutes or less.
- Uploaded as a public YouTube video, following YouTube’s Community Guidelines.
- Submission process:
- Submit through the official portal and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Review at least five other entries as part of the peer-review step.
The competition typically opens for entries in spring and closes in mid-September, with a peer-review window shortly after. Confirm the current year’s dates and the full official rules at breakthroughjuniorchallenge.org.
Step 1: Choose your topic wisely
Pick a concept you genuinely find interesting. Your enthusiasm will come through on camera, and you’ll stay motivated through the work of scripting, filming, and editing. The topic also shapes everything that follows, so choose one you can explain clearly and make exciting in under two minutes. For more on choosing a topic, see the video below.
Step 2: Craft your script
- Know your audience. You’re writing for students, educators, and science enthusiasts, so pitch it accordingly.
- Keep the language clear. Break complex ideas into simple, understandable pieces.
- Tell a story. A narrative makes scientific content more relatable and memorable.
- Plan your visuals. Note where a diagram or example will help explain a point.
- Rehearse and refine. Practice your delivery and adjust pacing, tone, and emphasis.
- Show your passion. Genuine enthusiasm makes the video more engaging.
Step 3: Engage with visuals
- Animations. Tools like Blender, Adobe Animate, or Autodesk Maya can turn an abstract idea into a clear visual explanation.
- Diagrams. Use clean, organized diagrams and infographics so the information is easy to follow.
- Real-world examples. Connect abstract ideas to tangible experiences to make them relatable.
- Storytelling. Structure the visuals around a narrative that carries the viewer through.
Watch past winners’ videos to see how they did it. This YouTube playlist walks through the research process step by step.
Step 4: Edit it down
- Think like a viewer. Ask what would hold your attention and make the idea click.
- Use visual storytelling. Graphics and animations make abstract processes tangible.
- Use analogies. Tying a theory to an everyday experience makes it stick.
- Tighten the script. Every word and visual should earn its place in your two minutes.
- Get feedback. Ask others to watch and critique, and learn from past winners.
Step 5: Lights, camera, action
- Lighting: film in well-lit areas.
- Sound: use a good microphone.
- Delivery: speak clearly and confidently.
Believe in yourself
You have a unique perspective to share. Be passionate, authentic, and confident, and your breakthrough awaits.
Resources for success
Thumbnail taken from motachashma.com.
About Afreen Hossain:
I’m a web developer, amateur astronomer, and mathematician with ambitions to become a computer scientist. Eager to contribute to advancements in technology, healthcare, transportation and space for a more accessible and beneficial world. Learn more about me at LinkedIn. Check out my other blogs.
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