The self-determined project is primarily designed for older youth and offers you an opportunity to develop and carry out a project of your own design. This means selecting a topic, deciding on goals, obtaining resources and keeping track with records of progress and learning. You are responsible for designing your self-determined project in advance and with some intentionality. This project can include any subject and may be related to any current 4-H project. You’ll want to design projects that have a special interest for you that are not offered in this catalog. The success of the project depends on your initiative and self-motivation. Those who select a worthwhile topic and become intrigued with it often do some of the best and most rewarding 4-H work. The recommended member’s manual and leader’s guide will help you progress successfully in this project. Following these general steps will help you develop a self-determined project. Keeping records are an important part of completing each project. They help you set goals, keep track of your attendance at meetings, record your accomplishments, keep track of demonstrations and other public speaking, record leadership positions held, and a whole lot more. A 4-H project is not complete without up-to-date records.