Why 4-H Record Keeping                         

The purpose of 4-H record keeping is to teach how to keep records, an important life skill.  Record keeping is an ongoing process that does not end when the 4-H year ends.  Youth can choose various alternatives to meet their record-keeping needs and learning styles.  4-H record keeping should reflect the 4-H'ers goals, accomplishments, and future plans.

Guidelines for 4-H Record Keeping                           

All 4-H'ers are encouraged to develop a record-keeping system that includes these three parts:

1. Records for one or more project(s) areas explored in this year using one of the project records below: 
   • Basic Project Record(4H-96A)  for juniors
   • Experienced Project Record (4H-96B)  for intermediates
   • Advanced Project Record (4H-96C)  for seniors
   • Project worksheets/manuals for livestock
   • SESS Project Record Log
   • Bucket Bottle, Pet, and Dog exhibitors have already completed records as part of their county fair evaluation, which could also be used. 
   • Additional support materials may also be added
2. Yearly 4-H Summary (4H-96) or a 4-H Story
3. Self-evaluation 

All record books should be completed by the club's deadline and turned in to the club leaders traditionally in August/September.  Club leaders will use the Record Book Evaluation Form  to evaluate and then nominate qualifying books for the Washington County Outstanding Record Book Award or Honorable Mention.  Those awards are presented at the 4-H Awards Event in November annually.