CFAES Give Today
Ohio 4-H Youth Development

Ohio State University Extension

CFAES

Self-Determined Projects and Idea Starters

Self-Determined Projects

If you're a 4-H member with a great project idea of your own or someone who is ready to go beyond a current project book, consider doing a self-determined project. Use the Self-Determined Project Guide to describe your project, set goals, and record your activities.

Prefer to type? Download and save this Self-Determined Project Guide fillable form.

Self-determined projects may be repeated if new areas of interest, learning experiences, and leadership/citizenship activities are selected.

Ohio State Fair: Several subject matter days at the state fair include a self-determined class. For state fair information about the idea starters lised below, refer to this tip sheet.

Idea Starters

Not sure what topic to explore? You can get some great ideas by reviewing the idea starters below. Don't forget, every idea starter must be used with the Self-Determined Project Guide.

These are just ideas, written as open invitations to explore new or innovative topics YOU choose. You can always customize an idea starter or create your own project.

* New in 2025!

To suggest a topic or even write your own, please contact Rhonda Williams. More information about writing your own is included in Writing an Idea Starter.