Phases 1 & 2: Foundations of Research
1. Topic & Curiosity
Start with Passion: Choose an issue that captures your imagination. Focus on real-world STEM problems (Urban issues, Sustainability, Engineering).
Narrow it Down: Move from "Air Quality" to "Efficiency of Low-Cost Sensors in London Traffic".
The Question: Formulate a testable hypothesis starting with "How," "What," or "To what extent."
2. Sources & Integrity
Reliability is Key: Use Google Scholar, JSTOR, or ScienceDirect. Avoid Wikipedia or unmaintained blogs.
Literature Review: Don't just summarize. Identify themes and schools of thought to situate your project in a wider context.
Academic Integrity: Plagiarism is strictly forbidden. Acknowledge all authors.
3. Referencing
Consistency: Use a recognized style (APA, MLA, IEEE, Chicago) consistently throughout the paper.
AI Usage: AI may be used for brainstorming, but generating the paper content with AI is considered plagiarism.
Bibliography: Include a complete list of all cited sources at the end.
Research Methodology
Your methodology must reflect a clear procedural plan demonstrating the use of the scientific method. Variables and controls must be clearly stated.
Primary Data Papers
Collecting new information.
- STEM: Laboratory experiments.
- Social Sciences: Questionnaires or interviews (requires ethical protocols).
Secondary Data Papers
Analysing data collected by others.
- Using data from government departments.
- Consumer research bodies.
- Large organizations.
Structure & Formatting
Formatting Guidelines
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | Max 15 pages (excluding Title & References). |
| Font | Size 11 or 12 (Calibri or Arial). |
| Margins | 1 inch (2.5 cm) or more on all sides. |
| Submission | PDF Format (Max 5MB). English filenames < 25 chars. |
| Language | Formal, objective, precise terminology. |
Paper Sections (Click to Expand)
Must include the project title, author(s) name(s), school, city/state, country, and category.
State the central issue, the rationale (why it matters), background info, and significance. Clearly state your Research Question or Hypothesis. Include a "road map" of the paper.
Detailed description of experimental or analytical methods. Describe data collection, analysis methods, algorithms, and tools. Must be systematic and repeatable.
Report findings from data analysis leading to conclusions. Use tables, graphs, or figures. Projects without results will not be accepted.
Interpret results and explain significance. Compare with existing studies (Literature Review). Address limitations of your data and experiment.
Brief summary of key findings supporting your thesis. Do not introduce new concepts. Propose issues for further research.
Complete list of all sources cited using a recognized style (APA, MLA, etc.). Alphabetical order.
What IGO Judges Look For
Scientific Method
Is the problem clearly stated and testable? Are variables defined and controls used?
Creativity & Innovation
Does the project offer a unique approach? Is the solution original and distinct from existing ones?
Thoroughness & Data
Is the project systematic? Are conclusions backed by sufficient data? Did you keep a Project Journal?
Technical Skills
Did you build the project independently? If external help was used, is it credited?
Societal Impact
Does it tackle real-world energy, engineering, or environmental challenges?
Ethical Considerations
Especially for Social Sciences/AI: Have ethical principles been thoughtfully applied?