The most common types of science fair projects are experiments and innovations. Projects of each type are equally capable of winning top NVSEF awards, provided they meet the necessary criteria.
Science (Experiment): This is traditionally the most common type of science fair project. A winning exhibit of this type should involve an original scientific experiment to test a specific hypothesis in which the young scientist(s) recognizes and controls all significant competing variables and demonstrates excellent collection, analysis, and presentation of data. The judge should also realize that it is not regarded as essential that any significant positive findings result from the project. It must be recognized that it is the design rather than the results that are most important. These projects are requested to follow a theme of having a real world application or benefit.
Engineering (Innovation): A project of this type would involve the development and evaluation of new (or significant improvements to existing) devices, models, techniques or approaches in fields such as technology, engineering, or computers (both software and hardware). A winning project should integrate several technologies, inventions, or designs and construct an original innovative technological system that will have commercial application and/or human benefit. It must demonstrate how the innovation was designed or developed on the basis of a sound understanding of the scientific, engineering, or technological principles involved.