If a judge sees the same science fair project from multiple contestants, you probably stand little chance of receiving first place. The more original your project is, the more likely you are to win. First, try to find a problem out of the norm. Make sure it interests you, as you are more likely to get creative with a project you enjoy. Attempt to find innovative methods to solve your problem that you think no one else will try. Uniqueness will make your science fair project stand out from the pack.
Your investigation should clearly follow each step of the scientific method. Begin with a problem, form a hypothesis, and do your research. As you perform the steps of your experiment, record your data in an organized table. Finally, make sure your conclusion answers the original question. By following each step in order and taking detailed notes along the way, you insure the clarity of your science fair project.
Since your display provides the first piece of your project that anyone will see, it needs to grab people's attention. In order to win first place, your display needs to evoke "ooh"s and "aah"s from the judges. That said, clearly organize your information in order on your display board. Use colorful graphs to display your data and include pictures of your experiment. Choose a catchy title that adequately describes your project and has a ring to it. Lastly, choose a design theme for your backboard that ties it all together and doesn't leave too much white space on the board.
Judges will know if you've done your homework on your chosen topic. Before you even start performing your procedure, you need to thoroughly understand background information on your subject. Search the internet and pour through reference material in your local library. If you have trouble, ask your reference librarian for help. She provides an invaluable resource for your success.
In the end you will find yourself face to face with the judges. Not only will they study your hard work, noticing every detail of good and bad, but they will listen intently to what you say. It would be a shame to work hard on your project and then fail during the presentation. You can prevent such disappointment by repeated rehearsing. Long before you ever see a judge, plan out exactly what you will say. Stand in front of a mirror and practice. Once you have it down, try it for an audience such as your parents or a teacher. The more your practice, the easier time you will have relaxing, smiling, and having fun.