Project Record Books

 

What is a project record book?

A 4-H Project Record Book is a written document that records a 4-H member's project work and learning experiences throughout the year (January-December). 4-H youth across the state complete project record books annually. It serves as a tool for documenting progress, setting goals, and reflecting on accomplishments and challenges faced during the project. The record book includes sections for goals, activities, expenses, and reflections, helping members track their growth and prepare for future applications, such as job and college applications.

Who can submit a project record book?

Any youth ages 8-18 is eligible to submit a project record book as long as they are enrolled in 4-H Online for the current program year.

What do you need to do?

You need to choose the category and focus of your project and document your work. Then, complete the project record book. The categories, format, examples, and guidelines can be found under the Project records section: NC 4-H Awards and Incentives

Where can I find the project record book, examples, and rules?

Visit NC 4-H Awards and Incentives for current information from NC State 4-H regarding project record books. Please visit that page before beginning your project record book.

How do I submit my project record book?

The project record book is due to the 4-H Agent in the participant's county extension office. Fill out the project record book forms and print them. Hole punch the pages and put them into a 3-prong folder. One project record book per folder. Please ensure that all pages have been printed properly and are numbered to ensure this.

What are the categories?

Animal Science, Citizenship & Civic Education, Communication Arts, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Family & Consumer Science, Personal Development & Leadership, Healthy Lifestyles, and Science & Technology. If you are unsure about where your interests may fit, read here: Project record book categories

How many project record books can I submit each year?

Youth may submit up to two project record books each year.

What do I put for my age?

In 4-H, age is typically determined by the participants age as of January 1st. For example, if you submit a project record book for the 2024 year, the participants age would be their age as of January 1st, 2024.

What happens after it is turned in?

The top two entries from our county (category and age) advance to the district level. They are graded and scored for the possibility of Gold, Silver, or Bronze awards.

When our project record books due?

Project record books will be due to the Mecklenburg County 4-H Agent in early February 2026 for the 2025 year (January 1st, 2025-December 2025)

What if I am finding out about this in the middle of the year?

That is okay! Start working on a project and make sure all the work you submit for your record book is from the current year.