Earning merit badges is one of the best parts of Scouting, but let’s be real – not all badges are created equal! Some, like Fingerprinting, can be finished in a single afternoon, while beasts like Backpacking or Cycling require months of dedicated practice and physical effort.
That’s why, in this article I’ve analyzed every single merit badge Scouting offers, and ranked them on a scale of 1 to 10 in terms of difficulty. Here is how the scoring works:
- 1-3 (Easy): Mostly knowledge-based, can often be done in a day or weekend. Great for younger Scouts.
- 4-6 (Moderate): Requires some planning, a few projects, and usually a visit to a professional or a specific site.
- 7-8 (Hard): Involves long-term tracking (weeks or months), significant physical exertion, or complex skills (like learning CPR or welding).
- 9-10 (Very Hard): The toughest challenges in Scouting. These require massive time commitments, elite physical conditioning, or mastering a difficult talent.
I’ve also called out the most difficult requirement(s) and put together an overview of what you’ll be learning when taking on each badge. Whether you are looking for a quick win to reach Star or Life rank, or you’re ready to challenge yourself with an “Expert” level badge, this guide has you covered. Let’s dive in!
| Difficulty | Merit Badges |
|---|---|
| 1/10
(Easiest) |
Fingerprinting |
| 2/10
(Very Easy) |
American Cultures, Art, Collections, Scholarship |
| 3/10
(Easy) |
Basketry, Citizenship In Society, Coin Collecting, Leatherwork, Painting, Pets, Photography, Salesmanship, Sculpture, Wood Carving |
| 4/10
(Moderate) |
American Heritage, American Indian Culture, American Labor, Animation, Architecture, Dentistry, Farm Mechanics, Fishing, Genealogy, Journalism, Landscape Architecture, Mammal Study, Moviemaking, Music, Public Speaking, Pulp and Paper, Railroading, Reading, Safety, Scouting Heritage, Swimming, Textile, Truck Transportation, Veterinary Medicine |
| 5/10
(Moderate) |
Aviation, Chemistry, Chess, Citizenship In The World, Crime Prevention, Cybersecurity, Digital Technology, Disabilities Awareness, Electricity, Emergency Preparedness, Fire Safety, Geocaching, Golf, Graphic Arts, Insect Study, Kayaking, Law, Mining in Society, Model Design and Building, Pottery, Signs Signals and Codes, Skating, Stamp Collecting, Theater, Traffic Safety, Weather |
| 6/10
(Challenging) |
American Business, Archaeology, Archery, Artificial Intelligence, Automotive Maintenance, Bird Study, Canoeing, Citizenship In The Nation, Composite Materials, Drafting, Electronics, Engineering, Entrepreneurship, Exploration, Family Life, First Aid, Fish and Wildlife Management, Fly Fishing, Forestry, Geology, Health Care Professions, Home Repairs, Lifesaving, Motorboating, Nature, Nuclear Science, Oceanography, Plumbing, Programming, Public Health, Radio, Reptile and Amphibian Study, Rifle Shooting, Rowing, Search and Rescue, Shotgun Shooting, Snow Sports, Soil and Water Conservation, Space Exploration, Sports, Surveying |
| 7/10
(Hard) |
Animal Science, Athletics, Camping, Citizenship In The Community, Climbing, Communication, Cooking, Environmental Science, Energy, Game Design, Inventing, Metalwork, Multisport, Orienteering, Pioneering, Plant Science, Robotics, Water Sports, Welding, Wilderness Survival, Woodwork |
| 8/10
(Very Hard) |
Dog Care, Gardening, Personal Fitness, Small Boat Sailing, Sustainability |
| 9/10
(Extreme) |
Bugling, Hiking, Personal Management, Scuba Diving |
| 10/10
(Expert) |
Backpacking, Cycling, Whitewater |
*Gold Bold Text indicates an Eagle-required badge (or an option for one).
**Also keep in mind that difficulty is subjective. If you’re a musical prodigy, Bugling likely won’t be a level 9 in difficulty, and if you have terrible hand-eye coordination like me, Basketry might be harder than a 3. These rankings just reflect what I believe applies to most Scouts.
Now that you understand the difficulty scale, let’s learn more about the badges themselves! In the article below, I’ve broken down every single merit badge Scouting offers. You can click any of the badge names in the alphabetized table to jump directly to them, in case you already have a few in mind.
For each badge, I’ll be sharing a quick overview of what it’s actually about, explain my difficulty rating, and—most importantly—point out the Hardest Requirement you need to watch out for. This way, you’ll know exactly what you’re signing up for (and what the biggest hurdles are) before you even open a blue card! 🙂
Ranking Every Single Merit Badge
Time to jump into the badge explanations and rankings. In the boxes below, you can click each badge’s name to open a link to Scouting America’s official requirements. There, you’ll find an image of the badge, and can even access the pamphlet. Hope this resource helps you out a ton (it sure took me a while to make)! 😛
American Business
Overview: Want to know how the U.S. economy actually works? American Business helps you understand how companies are started, funded, and managed in the U.S. economy. You’ll explore topics like free enterprise, profits, ethics, labor laws, and sustainable business practices. This badge is perfect for Scouts curious about entrepreneurship, investing, or business careers, and it connects strongly to real-world jobs and leadership skills.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is research and discussion-based, with no long tracking logs or major projects, but there’s a lot of vocabulary and concepts to grasp. Expect to spend solid time studying and preparing thoughtful explanations.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 can be challenging because it asks you to research a real business and explain how it uses all five primary areas of business. Depending on what you choose, Requirement 6b (interviewing a business leader) can also be tough, while 6a is usually the easier mandatory alternative.
American Cultures
Overview: In earning the American Cultures merit badge, get ready to learn about the many backgrounds that make up our country. You’ll explore traditions, festivals, and beliefs from different racial, ethnic, or religious groups. This badge is mostly conversation and reflection-based, so it’s perfect for Scouts who like learning from people’s stories. It’s a great way to become more thoughtful, respectful, and aware of others.
Overall Difficulty: 2/10. Most of the work involves interviews, visits, and short presentations, with no long-term logs or complex written projects. The main challenge is scheduling visits and having meaningful discussions.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 asks you to prepare and give a talk to your unit or class and then lead a discussion on how different groups can better understand one another, which can feel intimidating if you’re not used to public speaking.
American Heritage
Overview: Do you know how our nation’s values, events, and people shaped the country we live in today? In the American Heritage badge, you’ll connect big moments in U.S. history to your own family and community, and even compare how America is shown in movies, books, or music. This badge is mostly research, thinking, and conversations—great for Scouts who enjoy stories and social studies.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most work is flexible, discussion-based, and can be done at home, but there’s a fair amount of reading, writing, and interviewing that takes time to arrange.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 (any option) can be toughest because it often involves research plus a visit, event participation, or detailed mapping of local historic sites. Among the mandatory items, Requirement 3c—researching how American history affected your own family—can also take some digging and long conversations with relatives.
American Indian Culture
Overview: The American Indian Culture merit badge helps you better understand the traditions, history, and modern lives of Native peoples across North America. You’ll study different cultural areas, research one tribe or nation in depth, and explore how Native cultures have influenced the world we live in today. This badge builds respect, curiosity, and awareness—skills that make you a more thoughtful leader and citizen.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is research, discussion, and a short outing or virtual visit, so it’s more time-and-effort based than mentally difficult. With a few good sources and some focus, you can complete this in a few dedicated days or over a couple of weeks.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2 can be the most time‑consuming, since you must deeply research one tribe’s government, beliefs, daily life, and present‑day situation. For some Scouts, requirement 5a or 5b can also be tricky if arranging a museum visit or gathering takes extra planning.
American Labor
Overview: The American Labor merit badge will teach you how workers, unions, and businesses all fit together in our economy. You’ll explore real issues like wages, safety, benefits, and how jobs are changing with technology and globalization. This badge is mostly discussion and research based, making it great for Scouts who like history, civics, or debate. What you learn here will help you better understand the workplace you’ll soon be entering.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. There’s a fair amount of reading, thinking, and interviewing, but no long-term logs or intense projects. Most of the work can be done in a few focused days if you plan ahead.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2 can be tricky because you must contact or visit a union or employee organization and diagram its structure. Requirement 7 is also challenging since you must argue both sides of a current labor issue and clearly explain the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees.
Animal Science
Overview: Animal Science helps you discover how farm animals are raised, fed, and cared for in the real world. You’ll learn breeds, diseases, digestion, and basic management for animals like cattle, horses, goats, hogs, and poultry. This badge is great if you’re interested in agriculture, veterinary work, or just love animals and want to see how modern farms actually operate. Expect a mix of diagrams, research, and at least one visit, video, or in-depth project.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. There’s a fair amount of detailed knowledge to learn and explain, plus a multi-step option (like beef, dairy, horse, sheep/goat, hog, or avian) that can take some planning and time.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6 can be tough, especially options that involve raising an animal or flock (like 6D4a, 6E3a, or 6F4a), since they require long-term care and recordkeeping. If that’s not realistic, you can choose a visit/video alternative, making the hardest mandatory piece usually Requirement 4, where you fully plan how to manage an animal or flock.
Animation
Overview: The Animation merit badge lets you dive into how cartoons, movies, and games are brought to life. You’ll learn key animation principles and then create your own short projects using different techniques. This badge is awesome for creative Scouts who enjoy drawing, computers, or storytelling, and it can even open your eyes to real careers in film and gaming.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is project-based and can be done at home, but planning and creating two animations will take focused time and creativity.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3 asks you to choose two animation techniques, plan each one with thumbnail sketches or layouts, then fully create and present both animations. This can take the most time, especially if you’re new to animation software or detailed drawing.
Archaeology
Overview: Archaeology helps you see how scientists study past people by carefully examining sites and artifacts, not just collecting “cool old stuff.” You’ll learn how digs are planned, how artifacts are dated, and why protecting historic places really matters. This badge is awesome if you’re into history, science, or even detective work, since you’ll be piecing together clues from long ago.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is research, writing, and explaining what you’ve learned, but there are also hands-on activities that take planning and time.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 10a can be challenging because it asks you to assist a qualified archaeologist for at least eight hours on a real project. If that’s tough to arrange, you can choose 10b, a simulated project, but the hardest mandatory part is Requirement 4, which requires detailed research on five archaeological sites and a presentation on one of them.
Archery
Overview: The Archery merit badge teaches you how to safely handle bows and arrows while building real shooting skill and focus. You’ll learn range commands, equipment care, and how different types of targets are scored. This badge is hands-on and very fun but takes practice to shoot accurately. It’s a great choice if you enjoy active, skill-based badges with clear goals.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the written work is straightforward, but you’ll need range access and enough practice time to consistently hit high scores. Expect multiple sessions with a certified instructor to finish requirement 5.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5a(6) or 5b(6) is toughest, since you must either shoot a qualifying field/indoor round or reach a specific score (150–160 points) at set distances. These performance-based requirements demand steady form, focus, and repeated practice.
Architecture
Overview: The Architecture merit badge introduces you to how buildings are planned, designed, and shaped to fit people’s needs. You’ll tour your community, sketch a favorite building, and see how architecture connects to history and the environment. Scouts also learn about sustainable design and how old structures can be reused instead of torn down. This badge is ideal if you enjoy drawing, design, or building things in real life or in games like Minecraft.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is discussion and simple drawing, with one meeting or interview to set up. It takes some planning and focus, but there are no long tracking logs or intense physical requirements.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3 can be tricky because you must arrange either a meeting with an architect, a construction-site visit, or a detailed client-style interview, which takes advance scheduling. The most demanding mandatory work is in requirement 4, where you must carefully measure a room and create an accurate scaled floor-plan drawing.
Artificial Intelligence
Overview: The Artificial Intelligence merit badge walks you through what AI is, how it shows up in everyday life, and how it’s changing school and work. You’ll explore both AI and automation, including timelines of how they developed. Scouts also dig into ethics, deepfakes, and how to talk to AI tools effectively. By the end, you’ll either build a simple AI-related project or teach other Scouts about AI, and explore careers in this fast-growing field.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. There’s no long tracking log, but there are many research and discussion requirements plus a substantial final project or teaching activity. Expect a few focused work sessions with your counselor or unit to finish everything.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7a can be challenging because it asks you to plan and implement an AI project, including objectives, data needs, tools, and ethics. If that feels too technical, you may choose 7b instead, but you must still design and deliver a solid AI lesson to your patrol or another Scout group.
Art
Overview: The Art merit badge lets you explore your creativity while learning real design skills used by professionals. You’ll study the elements and principles of art, then create your own pieces in several different mediums. Along the way, you’ll visit an art-related place and discover careers where artists actually get paid. This badge is fun, hands-on, and a great break from more technical merit badges.
Overall Difficulty: 2/10. Most of the work is creative and knowledge-based, with no long tracking logs or heavy physical effort. It can take a few sessions to complete your drawings and paintings, but the concepts are very approachable.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 asks you to render a subject of your choice in four different mediums (like pencil, watercolor, acrylics, or digital), which can take the most time to do well. Requirement 5, where you design something useful, tell a story, or create a logo, also takes some planning but offers flexible options.
Astronomy
Overview: Astronomy introduces you to planets, stars, galaxies, and how to actually find them in the night sky. You’ll learn to use star charts, spot constellations, track the Moon and planets, and safely observe the Sun. This badge is perfect if you enjoy science, being outside at night, or using cool gear like binoculars and telescopes. You’ll come away understanding our place in the universe a lot better.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is observation-based and spread over several clear nights, plus some solid reading and explanations. It’s not physically hard, but it does require planning around weather, late hours, and access to dark skies or equipment.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 and 6 together are the toughest since you must identify constellations and bright stars, make accurate sketches of the Big Dipper or Cassiopeia and the Moon over multiple nights, and clearly explain what changed.
Athletics
Overview: The Athletics merit badge helps you become a smarter, safer, and more consistent athlete in almost any sport. You’ll build a three‑month training plan, track your progress, and learn about injury prevention, nutrition, and sportsmanship. This badge is perfect if you already play a sport or want a structured reason to get in better shape. You’ll also see how athletics can connect to careers and lifelong fitness.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. The biggest challenge is the time commitment and sticking to regular workouts over three months, plus completing four performance options in requirement 5. Most of the knowledge work is straightforward if you stay organized.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3a–d requires you to design, follow, and review a personal three‑month training program, which takes discipline. In addition, requirement 5 (any option set) can be tough because you must show measurable improvement in four different athletic areas.
Automotive Maintenance
Overview: Automotive Maintenance walks you through the basics of safely caring for a car, from fluids and tires to brakes and the electrical system. You’ll get real hands-on practice under the hood and around the vehicle, building confidence to handle small issues on your own. This badge is awesome prep for future drivers and can even save your family money on repairs.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most requirements are practical and straightforward, but you’ll need access to a vehicle, tools, and an adult who’s willing to let you practice. There’s also a fair amount of technical vocabulary to understand.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 11a can be tough because it asks you to research three vehicles, compare insurance and operating costs, and complete an operation/maintenance chart. If that feels overwhelming, you can choose 11b, 11c, or 11d instead; in that case, the hardest mandatory requirement is usually 2a, since you must correctly check and explain several different vehicle fluids.
Aviation
Overview: The Aviation merit badge lets you explore how airplanes fly, what keeps them safe, and what it’s like to work in the world of flight. You’ll learn the basics of aircraft types, engines, and instruments, then get hands-on with models, simulators, or even a real flight if you choose. This badge is awesome for Scouts curious about STEM careers or who just love watching planes in the sky.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is knowledge-based and done in a single day or a few meetings, but arranging visits, simulations, or flights can take some planning.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3d, which has you obtain and interpret an aeronautical chart and calculate a navigational heading, is usually the most technically challenging. If that feels tough, you can choose other options in requirement 3, but requirement 1’s detailed explanations of engines and instruments are mandatory for every Scout.
Backpacking
Overview: The Backpacking merit badge is all about planning and completing real multi-day treks while carrying everything you need on your back. You’ll learn safety, gear selection, map skills, meal planning, and how to travel lightly using Leave No Trace. This badge is incredibly rewarding and builds confidence for high-adventure trips like Philmont and beyond.
Overall Difficulty: 10/10. Backpacking takes major time and commitment, including multiple multi-day trips and one 5-day/30-mile trek. The physical mileage, planning, and logistics make this one of Scouting’s tougher outdoor badges.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 11a–c is the biggest challenge because you must plan, budget, and safely lead a 5-day, 30-mile trek, complete a service project, and keep a detailed daily journal. Requirement 10 is also demanding, requiring three separate 3-day, 15-mile treks using multiple campsites.
Basketry
Overview: The Basketry merit badge lets you work with your hands and see your progress turn into real, useful projects. You’ll learn basic safety, different basket styles and weaves, and then actually create three items. This badge is great for Scouts who like crafts and want a relaxing, creative project. You’ll walk away with skills you can use for gifts, camp gear, or even small fundraisers.
Overall Difficulty: 3/10. Basketry is mostly hands-on and can be finished in a day or two of focused work, especially at camp. The main challenge is patience and careful weaving, not long-term time commitments.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3, especially 3c, is the toughest because you must plan and weave a square basket, round basket, and a sturdy campstool seat that’s tight and strong enough to sit on.
Bird Study
Overview: Bird Study gets you outside, learning to spot and identify birds like a real naturalist. You’ll practice using binoculars and field guides, keep a bird notebook, and discover how birds fit into local ecosystems. This badge is awesome for Scouts who enjoy quiet time outdoors, nature photography, or hiking. You’ll also learn how to make your yard more bird‑friendly and why conservation matters.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is observation and writing, but identifying 20 wild species and learning their songs takes patience and repeated trips outside.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 asks you to observe, correctly identify, and record 20 wild bird species with detailed notes, which can take weeks depending on your area. Requirement 7 can also be tricky because you must recognize five of those birds by song or call alone.
Bugling
Overview: The Bugling merit badge turns you into the musical voice of your troop, helping signal important moments at campouts and ceremonies. You’ll learn bugle history, proper care of the instrument, and how sound is made on brass. Most of your time will go into practicing calls until you can confidently perform them for others. This badge is especially valuable if you enjoy music and want a meaningful role in your unit.
Overall Difficulty: 9/10. Bugling is one of the hardest badges because it demands real musical skill, daily practice, and performing in front of your troop over several months. Unless you already play a brass instrument, this will be one of the most difficult badges.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3, sounding 10 different bugle calls cleanly, is the toughest because it takes strong embouchure and lots of repetition. Requirement 6, serving as troop bugler for three months, also requires commitment and consistency.
Camping
Overview: The Camping merit badge is all about learning to live comfortably and safely outdoors. You’ll practice real skills like planning trips, pitching tents, cooking, and staying warm and dry in different weather. Along the way you’ll become more confident outside and a huge asset to your troop on every campout. This badge is Eagle‑required and sets the foundation for almost every other outdoor adventure in Scouting.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Camping takes many months because you must complete 20 qualifying nights of camping plus multiple camp-cooked meals and trek activities. The skills are very learnable, but the time commitment and physical effort on trips make this badge challenging.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 9a, camping at least 20 qualifying nights, is the biggest hurdle since it depends on your troop’s outing schedule. Within 9b, some options (like 9b(5) overnight snow camping or 9b(6) rappelling) can be tough, but you can choose easier alternatives such as 9b(3) a 15‑mile bike ride. The hardest mandatory requirement is still 9a because every Scout must complete those 20 nights.
Canoeing
Overview: Canoeing lets you get out on the water and actually paddle a real boat, not just read about it. You’ll learn how to handle a canoe safely, perform rescues, and work together with a partner to control your craft. This badge builds confidence, teamwork, and real-life outdoor skills that are awesome for campouts and high-adventure trips.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. The requirements are very hands-on and physical, and you’ll need solid swimming skills plus time on the water to master all the strokes and rescues.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 9 is the toughest, since it asks you to perform multiple precise tandem maneuvers (like 9a pivots, 9d straight-line steering, and 9h a figure-eight course) from both bow and stern, on both sides, while keeping the canoe balanced.
Chemistry
Overview: Chemistry lets you explore the science behind everyday things like cooking, cleaning, camping gear, and even first aid. In this badge you’ll run simple experiments, learn how to read safety data sheets, and see how molecules behave in the real world. It’s a great option if you’re curious about science or thinking about STEM careers. You’ll come away more confident working safely with common household chemicals.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most requirements are hands-on and explanation-based, with no long tracking logs, but you will need access to some materials, supervision, and time to set up and discuss several experiments.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 can be toughest because options like 4c (flame tests of five elements) or 4d (synthesizing nylon) require equipment, a knowledgeable adult, and careful safety. Among the mandatory items, Requirement 7’s research on three government agencies and their responsibilities can also take focused effort.
Chess
Overview: The Chess merit badge turns a classic board game into a chance to build serious brainpower. You’ll learn the rules, openings, tactics, and endgames well enough to teach others and record full games using notation. Along the way, you’ll practice patience, planning ahead, and good sportsmanship—skills that carry over to school, work, and leadership in your troop. This badge is especially fun if you enjoy friendly competition and improving through practice.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is mental, not physical, and there are no long tracking logs, but truly understanding the strategies and checkmating patterns can take focus and repetition.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 can be tough because it asks you to explain advanced strategy and tactics, demonstrate several forced checkmates, and solve five direct-mate problems. Requirement 7 also takes effort, since you must either play and analyze at least three scored games or help organize a small tournament.
Citizenship in Society
Overview: Citizenship in Society is all about learning how to be an inclusive, ethical leader in today’s world. Instead of tests or big projects, you’ll have thoughtful conversations, do a bit of research, and reflect on your own experiences. This badge helps Scouts understand diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how the Scout Oath and Law guide our actions. It’s a powerful badge for growing your character and leadership.
Overall Difficulty: 3/10. There’s no long-term tracking or heavy physical work, but it does require honest reflection, several discussions, and some research and interviews.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 asks you to identify and interview someone who has significantly promoted diversity, equity, and inclusion, then discuss what you learned. For many Scouts, Requirement 6—connecting with another youth with a different identity and having a deep conversation—can also feel challenging but very rewarding.
Citizenship in the Community
Overview: Citizenship in the Community helps you understand how your town actually works and how regular people can make a difference. You will explore local government, important services, and issues that matter to your neighbors. Along the way you will practice communication skills, do real community service, and learn how to be a more active citizen. This badge is Eagle-required and gives you a solid foundation for leadership in and out of Scouting.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most of the work is discussion and research-based, but the required meeting, interview, presentation, and 8 hours of service take planning and several weeks to complete.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7c asks you to coordinate and complete at least eight hours of volunteer work with a local organization, which can be tough to schedule. Requirement 8, creating and presenting a detailed public presentation about your community, also takes focus and preparation.
Citizenship in the Nation
Overview: Citizenship in the Nation helps you understand how the U.S. government really works and where you fit into it. You will study the Constitution, key documents, and famous speeches that shaped our country. Along the way, you will follow national news and connect big national issues to your own life. This badge builds your confidence to speak up and be an informed citizen.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is reading, thinking, and discussing, with a few days of news tracking and at least one visit or research project. It takes steady effort but no advanced math or intense physical activity.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 can be tricky because it asks you to either visit a historic site, capitol, or federal facility, or deeply research a national monument, which takes planning and time. The most demanding mandatory part is Requirement 6, where you must analyze a historically important speech in detail and explain why it matters.
Citizenship in the World
Overview: Citizenship in the World helps you understand how countries interact and how your choices connect to people across the globe. You will explore governments, international organizations, and current world events. Along the way, you will practice researching news, thinking critically, and sharing your opinions clearly with adults. This badge builds strong awareness for Scouts who want to be informed, responsible global citizens.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is discussion and research-based, but it takes focus to understand world issues and compare different governments. There is no long-term log, yet you will spend solid time reading, mapping, and preparing for thoughtful conversations.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4b can be tough because it asks you to follow a complex international trade issue and explain terms like tariffs and balance of payments. For many Scouts, the most challenging mandatory part is Requirement 5c, where you must correctly identify on a world map countries that use at least five different forms of government.
Climbing
Overview: Climbing is an awesome hands-on badge where you get to learn real rock and wall skills while staying safe on rope. You will practice knots, belaying, rappelling, and how to spot hazards before you ever leave the ground. Along the way, you will build trust with your belay partner and grow your confidence with each route you complete.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most of the work is physical and skills-based, and you need access to a safe climbing area plus qualified supervision. It usually takes multiple sessions to get in all the required climbs, rappels, and belays.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 10 can be challenging because you must competently belay and backup-belay multiple different climbers and rappellers, which takes practice and focus. Requirement 12, rappelling three different routes with solid technique, is the hardest mandatory skill for many Scouts.
Coin Collecting
Overview: Coin Collecting lets you turn spare change into a real hobby as you learn how coins are designed, minted, and preserved. You will study U.S. coins from different time periods, explore special quarter and dollar programs, and see how money reflects history. This badge is great for detail-oriented Scouts and can easily grow into a lifelong collection.
Overall Difficulty: 3/10. Most of the work is knowledge-based and involves gathering coins that are still common in circulation or inexpensive to buy. There are no long tracking logs or physical challenges, just steady effort and organization.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 can be the trickiest, especially 7a, 7b, or 7c, which ask you to collect and accurately identify 20 different world coins, notes, or tokens. If collecting is tough, you can choose 7d, where the hardest mandatory part is arranging and completing a visit or virtual tour and then explaining what you learned.
Collections
Overview: The Collections merit badge lets you turn something you already enjoy collecting into a structured Scout project. You will learn how to organize, protect, and explain your collection so others can understand why it matters to you. Along the way, you will also explore value, condition, and even careers related to collecting. This badge is great for Scouts who like details and already have a hobby they care about.
Overall Difficulty: 2/10. Most of the work is discussion and showing what you already own, with no long tracking logs or intense physical effort. The biggest challenge is being organized and prepared to explain your collection clearly.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 can take the most time because you must learn at least 10 hobby terms, organize and show two groups from your collection, and understand how grading and values work.
Communication
Overview: The Communication merit badge helps you get comfortable speaking, writing, and leading in front of others, which is huge for school, work, and life. You will practice giving a speech, running a ceremony, interviewing someone, and sharing information in different formats. Along the way you will learn how to listen actively, organize your thoughts, and communicate clearly with all kinds of people.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most requirements are activity-based and do not take months, but they do demand preparation, confidence, and coordination with meetings or events. This badge can feel challenging if you are shy or not used to public speaking.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 8 asks you to plan a troop or crew court of honor, campfire program, or interfaith service, write the script, prepare the program, and serve as master of ceremonies, which takes planning and courage. Many Scouts also find Requirement 3 tough because writing and delivering a five-minute speech to a real group can be stressful at first.
Composite Materials
Overview: Composite Materials lets you get hands-on with fiberglass, carbon fiber, and resins to create strong, lightweight projects. You will learn how modern products like bikes, boats, and aircraft parts are designed and built. Along the way you will practice real shop safety skills and see how science and engineering show up in everyday gear. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy building, crafting, and understanding how materials work.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the written work is moderate, but planning and completing two safe, quality projects takes time and focus. Access to tools, workspace, and supervision can also add to the challenge.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5a-c is usually toughest because you must plan, build, and evaluate two composite projects under proper supervision. Requirement 3a-b can also be challenging since it requires studying multiple SDS documents and comparing several reinforcement materials and resins.
Cooking
Overview: Cooking lets you turn basic ingredients into meals that fuel your adventures and impress your family. You will learn kitchen and camp safety, nutrition using MyPlate, and how to plan balanced menus for home, camp, and backpacking. Along the way you will practice real-life skills like budgeting, shopping, time management, and cleaning up correctly. By the end, you will be able to feed a group confidently in the kitchen and on the trail.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. This badge is very time-intensive because you must plan, shop for, cook, and serve many different meals in several settings. The skills are straightforward but there are lots of steps, coordination with adults, and careful nutrition planning.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5d-g is usually toughest since you must plan, cook, serve, evaluate, and clean up four patrol meals plus a snack and dessert outdoors. The backpacking-focused cooking in requirement 6d can also be challenging, but 5d-g is mandatory for every Scout.
Crime Prevention
Overview: Crime Prevention helps you understand why laws exist and how communities work to stay safe. You will study real crimes, learn how police, courts, and citizens respond, and see how choices can lead toward or away from trouble. Scouts also practice protecting homes, camps, and themselves, both in person and online. This badge is great for building awareness, judgment, and leadership in your troop and community.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most requirements are discussion and research based, but you will need to complete a safety survey, prepare and teach a short lesson, and arrange an interview with a law enforcement or public safety professional.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4(b)-(c) asks you to conduct a full security survey of a home, neighborhood, park, or camp building, then use the EDGE method to plan and present a crime prevention lesson. Requirement 10 can also be challenging since you must schedule and complete an in-depth interview.
Cybersecurity
Overview: Cybersecurity lets you turn your computer and phone into a safer place instead of an easy target. You will learn how hackers operate, how to lock down your accounts and devices, and how encryption keeps data protected. Along the way you will connect the Scout Law to online behavior and explore real cyber incidents and careers. This badge is great for any Scout who uses the internet, which is basically everyone.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most work is discussion and short hands-on tasks, with no long tracking logs or intense physical effort. The challenge comes from learning new tech terms and carefully completing several small demonstrations.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5c can be tricky because you must choose three security tasks, such as setting up a password manager, running a virus scan, or backing up data, and clearly explain each step. The most demanding mandatory piece is Requirement 4e, which requires you to study a real cybersecurity incident or media and explain what happened in detail.
Cycling
Overview: The Cycling merit badge is all about building endurance, confidence, and real-world transportation skills on a bike. You will learn how to ride safely in traffic or on trails, maintain your bike, and handle common emergencies. Along the way, you will get in great shape and become much more independent. This badge is a solid choice for Scouts who enjoy outdoor fitness and want a challenge.
Overall Difficulty: 10/10. Cycling requires multiple long rides that demand serious time, planning, and physical effort. The skills and knowledge parts are manageable, but the mileage and conditioning push this badge into the “tough but rewarding” category.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6, where you choose the Road Biking or Trail or Mixed Surface Biking option, is the toughest because each path includes several progressively longer rides and one very long capstone ride. These rides are mandatory and must be completed safely using the buddy system, which takes commitment and preparation.
Dentistry
Overview: The Dentistry merit badge gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how dentists keep our teeth healthy. You will study tooth structure using X-rays, learn what really causes cavities and gum disease, and see how diet and habits affect your smile. A visit with a real dentist helps you connect what you learn to an actual checkup, which can make future appointments less stressful and more interesting.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is knowledge-based and done through discussion, a dentist visit, and a few simple projects. There are no long tracking logs or intense physical requirements, but you will need to pay attention to details and do some health-related research.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 asks you to research three dentistry-related careers, then fully investigate one in depth, including training, costs, and job outlook, and discuss your findings with your counselor. For some Scouts, arranging and completing the dentist visit in requirement 3 can also be a bit challenging.
Digital Technology
Overview: Digital Technology helps you understand the devices you use every day and how they actually work. You will learn how data is stored and shared, how apps and networks function, and how to stay safe and responsible online. The projects let you practice real skills like building a spreadsheet, making a presentation, or creating a blog or webpage. This badge is great preparation for school, future jobs, and smarter tech use at home.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is knowledge-based and project-focused, with no long tracking logs or heavy physical effort. It does take some focused time at a computer and careful explanations to your counselor.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6 can be the toughest because you must complete three separate digital projects and back them up. Requirement 9a or 9b also takes effort since you need to research a tech-related career or hobby and discuss training, costs, and goals.
Disabilities Awareness
Overview: Disabilities Awareness helps you understand how people with different abilities live, work, and have fun. You will visit organizations, talk with people who have disabilities, and learn respectful language and etiquette. This badge builds empathy and confidence so you can be a better friend, leader, and ally in your troop and community.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most requirements are conversation and observation based, but they take planning, scheduling visits, and preparing short presentations or discussions.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 can be challenging, especially 5b, which asks you to volunteer with a disabilities awareness program or agency for eight hours. If you choose 5a or 5c instead, the hardest mandatory part becomes Requirement 4, where you must visit two locations and carefully evaluate accessibility or accommodations, then explain your findings to your counselor.
Dog Care
Overview: Dog Care is perfect for Scouts who love dogs or are thinking about getting one. You will learn how to choose a breed, train and groom a dog, and keep it healthy with proper nutrition and vet care. The badge also covers safety, first aid, and what it really means to be a responsible owner. By the end, you will understand how much daily commitment a dog truly needs.
Overall Difficulty: 8/10. Most requirements are discussion and knowledge-based, but caring for a dog and keeping records over time adds a real-life commitment.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 asks you to care for a dog and keep a detailed log for two months, which takes steady follow-through. Requirement 8, visiting a veterinary hospital or animal shelter and writing a report, can also be challenging if scheduling is tricky.
Drafting
Overview: Drafting lets you turn ideas into precise drawings that builders, engineers, and manufacturers can actually use. While working on this badge, you will learn how to lay out drawings by hand, create CAD designs, and understand how real companies communicate through technical plans. Scouts come away with stronger attention to detail, better spatial thinking, and a taste of careers in design and engineering.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is project based and can take several meetings to complete, especially if you are new to CAD. There is very little physical effort, but the careful measuring, neat lettering, and software learning curve make it moderately challenging.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3 is usually the toughest because it asks you to produce a full CAD drawing for manufacturing and correctly fill in the title block. Requirement 4 can also be challenging since you must revise your drawings from requirements 2 and 3 using redline feedback and add a proper revision block.
Electricity
Overview: Electricity lets you explore how power gets from the plant to your light switch and phone charger. You will learn safety skills for handling electrical emergencies, inspect your home for hazards, and build simple circuits and devices. Along the way, you will get a solid foundation in basic electrical terms, meters, and how to conserve energy at home.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is hands-on and knowledge-based with no long tracking logs, but you will need access to your home’s electrical panel and some simple materials for projects.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 asks you to create a detailed floor plan wiring diagram for a room, including which fuse or breaker protects each part. Requirement 6b can also be tricky since it requires calculating or measuring current on a branch circuit to check for overloads.
Electronics
Overview: Electronics lets you explore how the gadgets you use every day actually work. You will learn to read schematics, understand components, and safely solder real circuits. This badge is great for Scouts curious about STEM careers or who enjoy taking things apart and putting them back together. Expect some hands-on work at a bench along with a bit of math and theory.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the badge is hands-on and concept-based, with light math and no long tracking logs. The biggest challenge is understanding new terms and carefully building a working circuit.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4c asks you to build and explain a control, digital, or analog circuit, which takes careful wiring and understanding of how the schematic works. The most challenging mandatory part for many Scouts is requirement 4b, where you must convert numbers between decimal and binary.
Emergency Preparedness
Overview: Emergency Preparedness helps you think clearly and act safely when things go wrong, from house fires to hurricanes. You will learn how to plan ahead with your family, prepare emergency kits, and understand how real response systems like NIMS and ICS work. This badge builds confidence so you can protect yourself, help others, and support your troop or community during a crisis. It is a great follow-up to First Aid and ties directly into real-world emergencies.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. The badge is mostly planning and discussion based but has many detailed requirements, a family meeting, a service project, and the prerequisite of earning First Aid first.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 1b is tough because you must analyze 10 different emergency situations using all five preparedness aspects, which takes serious thought and time. Requirement 8d is also challenging since you must participate in an actual or practice emergency service project.
Energy
Overview: The Energy merit badge helps you see how power gets from sources like the sun, fuels, and wind into the lights, phones, and cars you use every day. You will study how energy is converted, where it is wasted, and how to use it more wisely at home and in your community. Along the way, you will practice real-world skills like tracking data, making charts, and explaining your findings. This badge is great for Scouts who like science, technology, or just want to lower their utility bills.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most of the work is research and explanation, but the 14 day home audit and detailed charts take steady effort and organization.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 asks you to conduct a home energy audit and keep a 14 day log of changes your family makes, which takes planning and consistent follow through. Requirement 6 can also be tricky since you must gather data and create five pie charts about national and global energy use.
Engineering
Overview: Engineering lets you look at everyday objects and huge projects through the eyes of a problem-solver. You will study how products work, talk with a real engineer, and design a useful device or piece of patrol gear. Along the way you will explore different branches of engineering, ethics, and careers so you can see where your own interests might fit. This badge is perfect for Scouts who enjoy building, tinkering, and asking how things work.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most requirements are discussion and research based, but designing a project and completing two hands-on options in requirement 6 takes planning and effort.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 asks you to use a systems engineering approach to design an original device, which can be tricky if you are new to planning and documenting projects. In requirement 6, options like 6b or 6f can also be time-consuming because they involve measurements, data, and real-world observation.
Entrepreneurship
Overview: The Entrepreneurship merit badge is all about turning ideas into real-world businesses. You will study what makes entrepreneurs important to the U.S. economy, then talk with a real business founder to see how they made it happen. From there, you will brainstorm your own business ideas and build a complete plan that covers products, customers, money, and marketing. This badge is great for Scouts who like creating things, solving problems, and taking initiative.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is planning and thinking, but the business plan in requirement 5 takes focus and several hours to complete well. There are no long time logs or physical challenges, just careful writing and discussion.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 asks you to create a detailed written business plan, including product or service design, market analysis, finances, personnel, and promotion. Requirement 3 can also be tricky since you must find and interview a real entrepreneur, which takes some scheduling effort.
Environmental Science
Overview: Environmental Science helps you understand how air, water, land, and living things all connect, starting with ecosystems you can explore right near home. You will investigate real issues like pollution, endangered species, and invasive plants or animals, then think through practical solutions. Along the way you will get practice observing nature like a scientist, keeping notes, and explaining what you learned to others. This badge is a great choice if you care about protecting the outdoors or are curious about science careers.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most requirements are research and discussion based, but there are several in-depth investigations that take planning and careful note taking. Expect multiple meetings with your counselor and a fair amount of writing.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2 asks you to observe an ecosystem over two days and record detailed notes on living, nonliving, and formerly living components, including interactions and human impacts. Many Scouts also find Requirement 10 challenging because it requires you to think through environmental impacts and alternatives for a construction project.
Exploration
Overview: The Exploration merit badge helps you think like a real explorer, whether you are heading into a forest, a city museum, or a science lab. You will learn how explorers plan missions, manage risks, and turn curiosity into real discoveries. Along the way, you will research famous expeditions and connect them to modern science and technology. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy planning trips and asking big questions about our world.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is research, discussion, and planning, but requirements 6 and 7 expect detailed thinking and careful preparation with adults.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 asks you to prepare for an actual expedition using all the planning steps from requirement 6, including equipment lists, safety checks, and the Scouting America SAFE Checklist. This level of planning takes focus and several meetings with your counselor and a qualified expedition leader.
Family Life
Overview: Family Life helps you understand how your home runs and why you matter so much to it. You will track chores, plan projects, and talk through some real-world topics with your family. Along the way, you will build better communication skills and learn how strong families handle challenges together. This badge is a great chance to grow closer with your parents or guardians while building responsibility.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. The badge is conceptually simple but has a long time commitment, especially the 90-day chore tracking and planning family meetings. Most of the work happens at home and requires consistent follow-through.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3 asks you to do at least five regular home chores for 90 days and keep a clear record. Requirement 6b is also challenging because you must plan and carry out one or more family meetings that cover several serious discussion topics.
Farm Mechanics
Overview: Farm Mechanics is all about learning how real farm equipment works and how to keep it running safely. You will explore shop safety, tools, and basic maintenance on engines and machines that many farms rely on every day. This badge is great for hands-on Scouts who like fixing things and want practical mechanical skills. Along the way, you will also meet professionals and see how this knowledge can turn into a future career.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most requirements are short, hands-on tasks and discussions, with no long tracking logs or intense physical work. You will need access to farm tools or machinery and a bit of coordination to visit a dealer.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 can be the toughest, since option 4a asks you to perform a full service on an engine-powered machine, while 4b and 4c are easier alternatives. The hardest mandatory part is Requirement 5, which requires arranging and completing an interview at an implement dealer, then clearly reporting what you learned.
Fingerprinting
Overview: Fingerprinting lets you explore how tiny ridges on your fingers can help identify people and solve crimes. You will learn how fingerprints are formed, how they are used in security systems, and what makes every person’s prints unique. Scouts also get hands-on practice taking and reading real fingerprints. This is a great badge to earn in a single meeting or merit badge fair.
Overall Difficulty: 1/10. Fingerprinting is very quick to complete and mostly involves simple explanations plus a short hands-on activity. There are no long-term logs, physical challenges, or tricky concepts.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 asks you to take a clear set of fingerprints using either an ink card or the pencil-and-tape method, which can be a little messy but is straightforward with practice.
Fire Safety
Overview: Fire Safety helps you understand how fires start, how they spread, and how to keep your family and campsite safe. You will learn about home hazards, smoke and CO alarms, safe use of stoves and campfires, and what to do in an emergency. This badge is very practical for Scouts who camp often and want to be trusted leaders around open flames. Expect a mix of hands-on practice and talking things through with your family and counselor.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most requirements are straightforward and done at home or camp, but there are many detailed steps and demonstrations to complete carefully.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5g asks you to create a full home fire-escape plan, draw a floor plan with exits, set a drill schedule, and run an actual family fire drill, which takes coordination. Requirement 8h can also be challenging because you must plan and teach a fire safety skill to another Scout using the EDGE method.
Fish and Wildlife Management
Overview: Fish and Wildlife Management is all about how people care for animal populations and their habitats. You will learn why conservation matters, what threatens wildlife in your state, and how professionals manage species and ecosystems. Expect a mix of research, observation outdoors, and a hands-on project that helps real animals. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy nature and want to understand how science guides hunting, fishing, and habitat protection.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most requirements are knowledge-based, but you must complete at least one multi-day observation or project that takes planning and consistent follow-through.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 can be challenging because options like 5a, 5c, or 5d require building a project, checking it regularly, and keeping records for a full season. The longest mandatory time commitment is in requirement 7d, which asks you to maintain and observe a freshwater aquarium for 60 days.
Fishing
Overview: The Fishing merit badge is perfect if you enjoy being outdoors and want a relaxing but hands-on badge. You will learn how to choose gear, tie fishing knots, follow local regulations, and care for the fish and environment. Along the way, you will actually go fishing, identify what you catch, and practice safe handling. This badge builds outdoor confidence and skills you can use for life.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is done in a single outing plus some discussion and knot practice. The main challenge is having access to a place where you can realistically catch a fish.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 9 can be tricky because you must catch and identify at least one fish, which depends on time, location, and conditions. If conditions allow, Requirement 10 also takes effort since you must clean and cook a fish you caught or acquired.
First Aid
Overview: First Aid is one of the most important badges you will ever earn, because it trains you to stay calm and helpful when someone is hurt. You will learn how to handle everything from simple cuts and blisters to heart attacks, strokes, and serious injuries. Scouts practice real-world skills like CPR, using an AED, splinting, and moving patients safely. This badge builds confidence so you can take charge in emergencies at home, on campouts, and in your community.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. There is a lot to memorize and demonstrate, but most of it is hands-on practice instead of long-term tracking. Expect several meetings or sessions to cover all the scenarios and skills.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3 through 13 each list many conditions where you must describe signs, prevention, and first aid, which is a big amount of knowledge to learn. For many Scouts, Requirement 7d and 7f, correctly demonstrating CPR and AED use, are also challenging but mandatory.
Fly Fishing
Overview: Fly Fishing lets you learn a classic angling skill that feels almost like an art form. You will study fish behavior, practice casting, and learn how to choose and tie flies that match what fish are actually eating. Along the way, you will build patience, coordination, and a stronger respect for aquatic ecosystems. This is a great badge for Scouts who enjoy time on the water and want a lifetime hobby.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most requirements are hands-on and fun, but they do take practice, access to water, and some specific gear. The trickiest parts are casting well enough and actually catching a fish on a fly.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 10 can be challenging because you must catch a fish on a fly and identify it, which depends on skill, timing, and conditions. For many Scouts, requirement 5 is also tough since it requires consistently casting 30 feet with both overhead and roll casts.
Forestry
Overview: Forestry is all about understanding the forests you hike and camp in, from the trees themselves to how people manage them. You will learn to identify local species, spot damage or hazards, and see how forests support wildlife, water, and clean air. This badge also connects you with real foresters or forest managers so you can see how this knowledge becomes a career. It is a great choice for Scouts who enjoy being outdoors and looking closely at nature.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is field-based and observation-heavy, with several short written reports. The time commitment comes from tree identification, taking notes, and arranging visits with forestry professionals.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 1 asks you to prepare a field notebook and accurately identify 15 species with detailed descriptions, which can take multiple outings. Requirement 5 also takes effort because you must arrange a visit or campaign and write a solid report afterward.
Game Design
Overview: Game Design lets you turn your favorite hobby into a real creative project. You will study different types of games, learn how rules shape player choices, and see what makes a game fun or frustrating. By the end, you will have designed, tested, and refined your own original game. This badge is awesome for Scouts who enjoy creativity, strategy, and working with friends.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most of the work is creative and discussion-based, but designing, prototyping, and playtesting your own game takes solid planning time and multiple play sessions.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6(b-c) is the toughest because you must test your prototype several times, fix problems, change at least one rule or mechanic, then replay and record results. Requirement 7 adds another challenge since you must write clear instructions and run a blind playtest where players understand your game without your help.
Gardening
Overview: Gardening lets you turn a patch of dirt or a few containers into real food and flowers you grew yourself. While working on this badge, you will learn safety, plant nutrition, pest control, and how pollinators like bees support our food supply. You will also practice planning, patience, and responsibility as you care for plants over time. This is a great badge for Scouts who like hands-on projects and seeing visible results.
Overall Difficulty: 8/10. Most requirements are straightforward, but growing plants and maintaining a project for up to 90 days takes steady effort and planning around seasons.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 8 can be tough because you must build and maintain a compost bin, vermicompost bin, hydroponic garden, water garden, honey super, or full garden for 90 days with weekly observations, and there is no shortcut around that time commitment.
Genealogy
Overview: The Genealogy merit badge helps you explore your roots and understand the stories behind your family. You will learn how to build a family tree, collect records, and interview relatives to preserve important memories. Along the way, you will get practice using both physical documents and online tools. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy research and talking with family members.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is research and writing, with very little physical effort. The main challenge is staying organized and following through on a few tasks that stretch over several weeks.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2b can be tough because it asks you to keep a journal for six weeks and write in it regularly. If you choose 2a instead, the hardest mandatory part is requirement 4, which requires you to locate and evaluate real genealogical documents.
Geocaching
Overview: The Geocaching merit badge turns hiking into a real-world treasure hunt using GPS. You will learn how GPS works, practice map and compass skills, and use online tools to search for hidden caches. Along the way, you will practice safety, Leave No Trace, and planning skills that apply to any outdoor trip. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy gadgets, puzzles, and exploring new places.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most requirements are hands-on and fun, but you will need access to GPS units, geocaching.com, and time to complete trips and a group geohunt.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 8 can be the trickiest, especially 8b or 8c, which ask you to either track a Travel Bug or maintain a public cache for 30 days. Requirement 9 is also a big project since you must plan and run a full geohunt with at least four waypoints for a group.
Geology
Overview: Geology lets you read the story written in rocks, fossils, and landscapes. While earning this badge, you will learn how Earth’s crust formed, how resources like minerals and energy are found, and how streams and plate tectonics shape the world. You will also practice real scientific skills such as using maps, observing rock layers, and possibly building a rock, mineral, or fossil collection.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of Geology is knowledge-based and hands-on, but several options require detailed projects, collections, or field visits that can take planning and time.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 can be tough, especially Option B or D, where 4(4) and 4D(5) ask you to create a subsurface structure map or collect/identify 10 to 15 different fossils using at least 20 data points or specimens.
Golf
Overview: The Golf merit badge lets you choose between traditional golf and disc golf, so you can match the badge to the kind of game you enjoy most. You will learn safety, rules, etiquette, and the basics of a solid swing or throw. Along the way, you will see how golf or disc golf can support fitness, focus, and patience. This badge is great for Scouts who want a lifetime sport they can play with friends and family.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work happens on the course and is skill-based, with only moderate written or research requirements. The biggest factor is scheduling time to play the required rounds with your counselor or another approved adult.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2A(6) or 2B(6) can be toughest because you must complete either two 9-hole or one 18-hole round of traditional golf, or 18 holes of disc golf, while following all rules and etiquette. This takes planning, focus, and enough practice to play confidently.
Graphic Arts
Overview: Graphic Arts lets you turn creative ideas into real printed pieces like shirts, flyers, or programs. You will learn how modern printing works, from digital files to ink on paper, and see how different printing methods are used every day. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy art, design, or technology and want to see how those skills can become real-world projects and careers.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the badge is hands-on and concept based, with a moderate time commitment to design and produce your printed project plus a visit or online research.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 can be challenging because you must actually produce your design using offset, screen, digital, or relief printing and create 20 to 50 copies. The toughest mandatory part is planning and executing that full print run so everything lines up and prints correctly.
Health Care Professions
Overview: Health Care Professions lets you explore what it is really like to work in medicine, nursing, therapy, and other clinical careers. You will compare different roles, schooling paths, and licensing so you can see which jobs might fit your interests and strengths. This badge is great for Scouts thinking about a future in health care or who are just curious about how a medical team works together. Expect a lot of conversations, research, and a real-world visit with a health professional.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is research, discussion, and a short volunteer experience, but there are many sub-requirements to cover and a workplace visit to arrange.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 can be challenging because you must set up and complete a workplace visit, then discuss details of that person’s career. Requirement 9 is also mandatory and may take planning to find and schedule a health-related volunteer opportunity.
Hiking
Overview: Hiking merit badge is all about building the stamina and skills to handle real trail adventures. You will learn safety, first aid, outdoor ethics, and how to plan routes that match your ability. Along the way, you will discover how your body responds to longer distances and how to prepare for bigger treks. This badge is a great choice if you enjoy being outdoors and want to push yourself in a healthy way.
Overall Difficulty: 9/10. The knowledge requirements are reasonable, but the distance hiking takes serious time and physical effort. You will need multiple full days and consistent conditioning.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4e asks you to complete one continuous 20-mile hike in a single day, which is a big mental and physical challenge. The mandatory four separate 10-mile hikes in requirements 4a-4d also demand planning, transportation, and strong legs.
Home Repairs
Overview: Home Repairs lets you become the go-to fixer in your house, learning how to safely handle tools and tackle real projects. You will practice skills like patching drywall, fixing plumbing issues, doing simple electrical work, and maintaining furniture and doors. This badge builds confidence, saves your family money, and prepares you for living on your own. It is very hands-on, so expect to get a little dirty and learn by doing.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. The requirements are practical and straightforward, but you must complete many separate repair tasks that can take planning, supplies, and adult supervision.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6 can be the toughest because you must do three different interior repair projects, such as 6b or 6d, which may require careful measuring and finishing. The most demanding mandatory part is Requirement 5, where you must locate and operate the main water shutoff, then successfully complete two plumbing-related repairs.
Insect Study
Overview: Insect Study is perfect if you are curious about the tiny creatures crawling and flying all around you. You will learn how insects are built, how they grow and change, and how they fit into food webs and pollination. The badge also has you safely observe ants or bees and think about conservation and endangered species. By the end, you will see insects as an important part of nature instead of just pests.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is observation, research, and simple explanations, but it takes time to find 20 different species and build a clear scrapbook.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4b and 4c are usually toughest since you must observe 20 live insect species in at least four orders and then create a labeled scrapbook with photos or drawings for each one.
Inventing
Overview: The Inventing merit badge is all about spotting real problems and creating your own solutions. You will learn how patents work, what intellectual property is, and how inventors turn ideas into useful products. Along the way you will interview users, sketch designs, and build something that actually functions. This badge is perfect for Scouts who like to tinker, build, and think creatively.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most of the work is hands-on and creative, but designing, modeling, and building a working prototype takes planning, time, and persistence.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 asks you to build, test, and evaluate a working prototype of the invention you designed in requirement 6, then compare it to your original vision. This mandatory step can be challenging because it requires real construction skills, problem solving, and careful reflection on cost and usefulness.
Journalism
Overview: Journalism lets you step into the role of a reporter, telling real stories that matter to your community. You will learn how the First Amendment protects the press, how to separate fact from opinion, and how ethical decisions affect what gets published. Scouts practice writing news and feature stories, taking photos, or creating broadcast-style reports. This badge is great if you enjoy writing, asking questions, or creating content online.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is writing and interviewing, with no long-term logs or major physical effort. The biggest challenge is setting up visits and putting real thought into your articles.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2 can be tricky because it requires arranging and completing a visit to a news organization or station, which can take planning and coordination with adults.
Kayaking
Overview: The Kayaking merit badge gets you out on the water learning real paddling skills. You will study safety, gear, and boat types, then practice strokes and rescues in a controlled setting. This badge builds confidence, coordination, and smart decision-making around water. It is a fun option for Scouts who enjoy active, hands-on learning.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is on-the-water practice and basic safety knowledge, but you must already pass the Swimmer test and be comfortable in deep water. Expect a few focused sessions to learn and demonstrate all the strokes and rescues.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 8 can be challenging because you must control your kayak through straight lines, tight turns, sideways movement, backing up, and a buoyed figure-8 course. Requirement 6, which includes wet exits and kayak-over-kayak rescues, is the hardest mandatory safety skill set for many Scouts.
Landscape Architecture
Overview: Landscape Architecture lets you see how parks, campuses, and public spaces are planned so they feel welcoming and useful. You will visit a real project, study how plants and paths shape the space, and then try some basic design work yourself. Along the way, you will practice observation, drawing, and planning skills that can help with future design or engineering interests.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of this badge is field observation, plant identification, and simple drawings, so it is not very technical, but it does take some focused time outdoors and at a drafting table.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4a-c can be the toughest because you must measure a real site, draw it to scale, map drainage patterns, then redesign the area to be safer and more comfortable. This design work is mandatory and takes the most time and thought.
Law
Overview: The Law merit badge gives you a clear look at how rules, courts, and lawyers actually work in real life. You will compare civil and criminal law, learn about famous legal documents, and see how laws protect both buyers and sellers. Along the way, you will talk with legal professionals and explore different law-related careers. This badge is great for Scouts curious about justice, government, or future careers in law.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is discussion and research based, plus at least one visit or event, so it takes planning but not months of tracking. The biggest challenge is organizing interviews and a court visit or mock trial.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6a or 6b is usually toughest since you must either attend a court session and write 250 or more words about it, or plan and run a full mock trial. The hardest mandatory part for many Scouts is Requirement 7, arranging and completing an in depth visit with a lawyer and reporting what you learned.
Leatherwork
Overview: Leatherwork is a fun, hands-on badge where you turn plain leather into something you can actually use, like a belt, wallet, or keychain. You will learn how leather is made, what types exist, and which ones work best for different projects. Along the way you will practice safe tool use, basic first aid, and creative design skills. This is a great badge for Scouts who like crafting and seeing quick results from their effort.
Overall Difficulty: 3/10. Most of the work happens in a single workshop or a few short sessions, with no long tracking logs or advanced research. The main challenge is using tools carefully and taking your time so the project looks clean.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3 can be tricky because you must make a leather article that uses at least five different steps, such as cutting, stamping, dyeing, and stitching, which takes patience and attention to detail.
Lifesaving
Overview: Lifesaving teaches you how to safely help someone in serious trouble in the water. You will practice reach, throw, and swim rescues, plus learn how to protect yourself so you do not become a second victim. Scouts also review CPR skills and how to handle spinal injuries and other water-related emergencies. This badge is challenging but builds confidence every time you get in the pool or lake.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Lifesaving demands strong swimming ability, stamina, and repeated in-water practice of rescue techniques. The skills are physical and can be stressful to learn, especially when working with active or unconscious “victims.”
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 13 is usually the toughest because it has you rescue an unconscious subject from 30 feet away using several approaches, then remove them from the water and position them for CPR. Requirement 2b can also be demanding since you must swim 400 yards with four strokes using strong form and rhythmic breathing.
Mammal Study
Overview: Mammal Study is a great badge if you enjoy watching wildlife and want to understand what mammals are doing out there in the woods. You will learn how mammals are classified, how they fit into food chains, and how humans affect their habitats. Expect a mix of outdoor observation, short research projects, and a small conservation-focused project with your counselor. This badge builds solid nature skills you can use on every campout.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is observation and writing, with some flexible options for how you complete the field requirements. The time commitment is moderate, especially if you choose the longer outdoor observation options.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3b can be tough because it asks for three hours on five different days in at least a 4-acre area, which totals 15 hours of observation. If you choose another option for requirement 3, the hardest mandatory part is requirement 5, where you must plan and carry out a real project that influences the numbers of one or more mammals.
Metalwork
Overview: Metalwork lets you heat, shape, and join metal to create real, useful projects. You will learn about alloys, safety around hot tools, and how metals change when they are hardened or softened. Scouts can choose from paths like sheet metal, silversmithing, founding, or blacksmithing, each with hands-on projects. This badge is great for anyone curious about trades, crafting, or just making cool gear.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. The concepts are understandable, but the badge takes solid workshop time, access to tools, and close attention to safety. Expect several sessions with your counselor or a shop to finish the required projects.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5, especially Option D (Blacksmith) 5(3)-(4), demands hot-forging multiple pieces of steel and completing two finished objects with twists and a hammer-riveted joint. All Scouts must complete one full option in requirement 5, so planning shop time is essential.
Mining in Society
Overview: Mining in Society helps you see how minerals shape almost everything you use each day, from phones to roads. You will learn where key minerals come from, how mines operate, and what safety and environmental protections are needed. The badge also highlights reclamation and how old mine lands, like the Summit Bechtel Reserve, can be restored for people and wildlife. Along the way you will explore careers and future directions like ocean or space mining.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is research, maps, and discussions, plus one field trip or virtual tour option, so the time commitment is moderate but not intense.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 can be challenging, especially 5c or 5f, since they may require arranging a visit, taking photos, and preparing to share what you learned. The most demanding mandatory part is often requirement 6c, which expects a thoughtful discussion of land restoration values and the Summit Bechtel transformation.
Model Design and Building
Overview: Model Design and Building is perfect if you like creating things with your hands or using design software. You will plan and build detailed models that can be architectural, structural, mechanical, industrial, or even a sci-fi spacecraft. Along the way, you will practice scale drawing, tool safety, and basic engineering concepts. This badge is a fun way to turn creativity into real-world design skills.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is project based and can be done at home, but building two original models and planning them carefully takes focused time and patience.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4, especially options 4a or 4e, requires you to design and build a detailed scale model from scratch without a kit, which can be time consuming. Requirement 5 is also mandatory and challenging because you must fully design a fantasy spacecraft with researched details and multiple views.
Motorboating
Overview: The Motorboating merit badge lets you get out on the water and actually operate a powerboat under real conditions. You will learn how to stay safe, read local boating laws, and handle emergencies so every ride is a smart one. Along the way, you will practice knot tying, anchoring, and basic engine care that can transfer to many other boating skills.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the written work is straightforward, but you must pass the Scouting America swimmer test and spend time on the water demonstrating real boat-handling skills.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5d requires you to run a course of at least a mile while correctly passing other boats, following right-of-way rules, and using navigation aids. The mandatory swimmer test in requirement 2a can also be challenging if you are not yet a strong swimmer.
Moviemaking
Overview: Moviemaking lets you turn your ideas into real videos you can share with your troop, friends, or even online. You will learn how to tell a clear story with pictures, plan scenes, and use camera angles and lighting to make things look sharp. Along the way you will practice writing, basic directing, and some simple technical skills. This badge is fun for creative Scouts and can be a great first step toward media or film interests.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most requirements are hands-on and creative, with no long tracking logs or intense physical work. The main challenge is organizing your project and following through on planning, shooting, and showing your finished video.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2d is usually the toughest because you must plan, shoot, and present a complete program using proper techniques. Requirement 2a and 2b can also take effort since you must write a clear treatment and create a storyboard before filming.
Multisport
Overview: The Multisport merit badge lets you experience what it is like to be a triathlete, duathlete, or other multisport athlete. You will learn about safety, training plans, nutrition, and how to combine swimming, biking, and running in one event. Along the way, you will build real endurance, confidence, and healthy habits that can carry into other sports and life.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. The badge is very active and requires consistent training over at least four weeks, plus completing a full multisport event in one day. It is manageable if you already swim, bike, or run, but can feel challenging if you are new to endurance sports.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5a-d asks you to follow a four-week training plan with tracked workouts and a personal improvement goal, which takes discipline. Requirement 7 then requires you to complete your chosen multisport event distances consecutively, which is physically demanding and cannot be skipped.
Music
Overview: The Music merit badge is perfect if you enjoy singing, playing an instrument, or just listening to songs that fire you up. You will learn how music is written, how different instruments create sound, and how to perform with proper technique. Along the way you will explore music history, careers, and how to share music with others. This badge is a fun way to turn something many Scouts already love into real skills.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is knowledge-based and performance focused, with flexible options that fit your current musical level. The time commitment can grow if you choose long-term options, but there are shorter alternatives.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3c can be demanding because it asks you to perform in a band, choir, or other organized group for six months, or perform solo in public six times. If that feels like too much, you can choose 3a, 3b, or 3d instead, where the hardest mandatory part is Requirement 1, which requires you to sing or play a piece accurately with good technique and musical expression.
Nature
Overview: The Nature merit badge gets you outside paying attention to the details most people walk right past. You will study how plants, animals, rocks, and soil all connect, and practice identifying real species in the field. Along the way you will learn about food chains, succession, and how to explore responsibly using Leave No Trace. This badge is perfect for Scouts who enjoy hikes, camping, and observing wildlife.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most requirements are hands-on and take multiple outings to complete, but there are no long tracking logs or intense physical challenges. Expect several trips outdoors plus time to research local species.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 is toughest because you must fully complete five different fields, such as identifying 15 wild plants in 4g(1) or tracking birds for a month in 4a(2), and every Scout must do this section.
Nuclear Science
Overview: Nuclear Science lets you explore how atoms, radiation, and reactors really work instead of just hearing about them in the news. You will learn key safety concepts, build simple experiments, and see how nuclear technology supports medicine, power, and space exploration. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy science projects and are curious about modern technology. Expect some hands-on builds plus careful reading and explanations to your counselor.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most requirements are knowledge-based but the concepts are advanced, and several activities involve building models or experiments that take planning and patience.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 can be tough because building an electroscope or cloud chamber or running a half-life experiment takes materials, setup, and clear explanations. Among the mandatory work, Requirement 6b is also challenging since it asks you to research real power data and create a graph after visiting or virtually touring a reactor.
Oceanography
Overview: Oceanography lets you explore how the ocean works, from waves and currents to tiny plankton that support almost all sea life. You will learn how seawater chemistry, temperature, and motion shape weather, climate, and coastal landscapes. This badge is great for Scouts who like science and want to understand real-world topics like storms, beaches, and marine life. Expect a mix of hands-on experiments, simple fieldwork, and written or spoken reports.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most requirements are knowledge-based and can be learned with steady study, but the projects in requirements 7 and 8 take planning, time, and some careful data collection or writing.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7c can be tough because it asks you to measure water and air temperature, turbidity, and weather four times a day for five consecutive days and then graph and explain your results. If you choose a different 7 option, the hardest mandatory part is requirement 8, which requires either a 500-word report or a prepared 5-minute speech.
Orienteering
Overview: Orienteering turns the outdoors into a giant navigation puzzle where you race the clock using only a map and compass. Scouts learn to read terrain, plan smart routes, and stay found in unfamiliar areas. This badge builds confidence for hiking and camping and can lead into local orienteering club events. It is a great choice for Scouts who like being active and solving real-world problems.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most requirements are hands-on and require multiple trips to real orienteering events plus time to plan and set up a course. The skills are very learnable, but you will need access to maps, land, and organized events.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7a-b is toughest because you must complete three orienteering events and write detailed reports with maps and route analysis after each one. Requirement 8, where you design and set up your own full orienteering course, is the hardest mandatory planning task.
Painting
Overview: Painting is a very hands-on merit badge that teaches you how to safely prep, paint, and clean up like a pro. You will learn the differences between common types of paints and finishes, plus how to choose colors that look good together. Along the way, you will practice real skills you can use on home projects, service work, or even a future job.
Overall Difficulty: 3/10. Most of the work is practical and can be finished in a few dedicated sessions, with light reading and explanations. There are no long tracking logs or advanced technical concepts, but you will need access to painting supplies and suitable projects.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3 asks you to prepare and paint two different surfaces using patching or caulking plus proper primers and topcoats, which can take planning and several hours of work. Requirement 4 also takes effort since you must plan and paint an item using harmonizing colors from the color wheel.
Personal Fitness
Overview: Personal Fitness helps you build healthy habits that can stick with you for life. You will learn how exercise, sleep, nutrition, and avoiding harmful substances all connect to your overall health. Along the way, you will plan and follow your own workout and nutrition program, then see your progress through repeated fitness assessments. This badge is a great way for Scouts and parents to work together on real-life health goals.
Overall Difficulty: 8/10. The badge is conceptually straightforward, but the 12-week fitness and nutrition program takes steady effort and organization. Expect a solid time commitment, especially for logging workouts and food.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 is the toughest because it requires you to follow your planned program for 12 consecutive weeks, log your exercise and diet, repeat assessments in 7b, and show measurable improvement. Requirement 6, where you design a realistic and detailed plan with your counselor, is the hardest mandatory planning step.
Personal Management
Overview: Personal Management teaches you how money, time, and planning all work together in real life. You will practice budgeting, smart shopping, saving and investing, and even basic project planning. This badge is a huge help for future college, careers, and living on your own. Scouts and parents can work together on the long-term tracking parts, which can make it a great family project.
Overall Difficulty: 9/10. The concepts are understandable, but the 13-week tracking and detailed discussions take serious commitment and organization. Expect steady work over several months rather than a quick weekend badge.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2 asks you to create a budget and then track every bit of income, expenses, and savings for 13 consecutive weeks, then compare it to your plan. Requirement 8 can also be challenging because you must plan and follow a full one-week schedule, then review how well you used your time.
Pets
Overview: The Pets merit badge is all about proving you can be a responsible animal owner day after day. You will show how you care for your pet, explain its needs, and learn some local rules that apply to owning it. Along the way, you will practice writing, research, and even a bit of training or public speaking. This badge is a great fit if you already love your pet and want credit for the work you are doing.
Overall Difficulty: 3/10. Most of the work is based on your existing pet care, plus some writing and simple research. The main challenge is the four-month time commitment and staying consistent.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 1 asks you to care for a pet for four months and show evidence of your daily responsibility, which takes planning and patience. For some Scouts, Requirement 4b, where you train a pet in three or more tricks, can also be tricky, but you may choose 4a instead.
Photography
Overview: The Photography merit badge lets you turn everyday moments into powerful images. You will learn how light, composition, and camera settings work together so your photos actually match what you pictured in your head. Along the way you will practice taking portraits, action shots, and nature photos, then polish them using basic editing tools. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy being creative and want skills they can use on every campout.
Overall Difficulty: 3/10. Most of the work is hands-on and can be done in a weekend or two if you plan your photo shoots. The trickiest part is understanding the camera terms well enough to use them on purpose, not just by guessing.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 is the toughest because you must plan and shoot a full photo story, then select and present 8 to 12 images that clearly tell that story. This takes thoughtful planning, time with your counselor, and careful editing of your best shots.
Pioneering
Overview: Pioneering lets you turn ropes and spars into real structures like bridges, towers, and camp gadgets. You will sharpen your knot-tying, lashing, and planning skills while learning how to work safely with a team. This badge is perfect for Scouts who enjoy hands-on projects and building useful gear around camp. Expect a lot of outdoor time and some solid practice to get everything right.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Pioneering is very hands-on and takes multiple sessions to learn knots, lashings, and then build full-size structures. The skills are not overly complex, but gathering materials and completing the larger projects can be time and energy intensive.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 9 asks you to plan and help build a full size pioneering structure such as a monkey bridge or tower, which takes teamwork, careful safety planning, and several hours of focused work.
Plant Science
Overview: Plant Science is a great badge if you like being outdoors and are curious about how plants grow, feed us, and shape ecosystems. You will study plant parts, photosynthesis, pollinators, soils, and ways to grow new plants. Then you choose a focus area like agronomy, horticulture, or field botany to go deeper through real hands-on projects. This badge builds strong science skills and can connect directly to gardening, conservation, or even future careers in agriculture or biology.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most requirements are observation and project based, but the badge takes a full growing season for many options and involves detailed plant ID, recordkeeping, and some technical vocabulary.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 8 (any option) is the toughest, since growing plots, maintaining gardens, or completing field botany studies and inventories over a season demand steady work and planning. Within that, options like 8B(5)(d) Home Gardening or 8C(6)(b) Transect Study can be especially time intensive.
Plumbing
Overview: Plumbing lets you see how water safely enters, moves through, and leaves a home. You will learn how different pipes, fittings, and valves work together to protect health and prevent leaks. Along the way you will practice real repair skills that can save your family money. This badge is very hands-on and great for Scouts who like tools and fixing things.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is done in a single day if you have a good counselor and access to tools, but the hands-on projects in requirement 6 take focus and careful supervision.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6 can be the most challenging because you must complete four tool-based tasks such as 6b solvent welding PVC, 6c making PEX connections, or 6d soldering a copper joint. The hardest mandatory part for many Scouts is requirement 2, which requires accurate drawings and clear explanations of home water supply and drainage systems.
Pottery
Overview: Pottery lets you turn a lump of clay into something you can actually use, like a mug or bowl. Along the way you will learn studio safety, basic clay science, and how different kilns and clays affect your work. You will practice several hand-building methods and also get time on a potter’s wheel. This badge is perfect for creative Scouts who like working with their hands and seeing quick results.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most requirements are hands-on and fun, but you will need access to a wheel, kiln, and an experienced adult, which can take some planning and multiple meetings.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5c asks you to throw a functional form on a potter’s wheel, which can be tricky to learn and may take several tries. The most demanding mandatory knowledge piece is Requirement 2a and 2b, where you must explain clay bodies and how three types of potter’s wheels work.
Programming
Overview: The Programming merit badge introduces you to the language that computers understand and obey. You will learn how software is created, how different programming languages are used in real jobs, and how to protect code with intellectual property rules. Along the way, you will write simple programs, fix bugs, and see how code can power devices you use every day. This badge is a great starting point if you are curious about apps, games, or tech careers.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the written requirements are straightforward, but writing and debugging three working programs takes real focus and time, especially if you are new to coding.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 is the toughest because you must create, debug, and explain three separate programs in three different languages and environments. Requirement 5c is usually the most challenging part since it is your third full program and often uses the least familiar tools.
Public Health
Overview: Public Health helps you understand how communities protect people from disease, pollution, and unsafe conditions. You will study real illnesses like COVID-19, Lyme disease, and foodborne infections, and see how they spread and can be prevented. This badge is great for Scouts interested in medicine, science, or emergency response because it connects everyday habits to community health systems. Expect a lot of learning, plus at least one visit or in-depth online review of a real health-related facility or agency.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is research and discussion, but there are several detailed explanations to prepare and a required visit or virtual study that takes coordination and time.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 1(d) is usually the toughest because you must explain type, transmission, prevention, and treatment for 10 different diseases in detail. Requirement 7(b)(1) can also be challenging, since you must compare leading local causes of death and disease and explain how a public health agency responds.
Public Speaking
Overview: Public Speaking helps you get comfortable talking in front of a group, which is a huge skill for school, work, and leadership in your troop. You will practice short speeches, an impromptu talk, and a longer, organized presentation. Along the way you will learn how to use body language, visual aids, and clear structure so your message actually connects with your audience.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. The badge does not take a long time and has no long tracking requirements, but it can feel challenging if you are nervous speaking in front of others. Most of the work is preparation and practicing your talks.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 asks you to research a topic, create an outline, write, practice, and then deliver an eight to ten minute speech, which is a big step up in length and organization from the earlier talks.
Pulp and Paper
Overview: Pulp and Paper lets you see how everyday items like notebooks, cardboard boxes, and tissues are created from trees. You will learn how forests are managed, how wood is turned into pulp, and how recycling fits into the process. Scouts also explore pollution control, coated papers, and real career paths in the industry. This badge is great for anyone curious about manufacturing, sustainability, or engineering.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most work is research and explanation with one simple hands-on project, so the time commitment is moderate. The main challenge is understanding technical terms and arranging a visit or deeper research for requirement 7.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 can be toughest because it asks you to visit an industrial site or conduct detailed research on how paper products are developed. The hardest mandatory part is requirement 4, which requires you to describe the papermaking process, explain recycling, and make a sheet of paper by hand.
Radio
Overview: The Radio merit badge is perfect if you are curious how signals jump from antennas to phones, walkie talkies, and car radios. You will learn how radio waves travel, how different services like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and amateur radio work, and how stations stay within FCC rules. Along the way you will practice real communication skills and see how radio can help in emergencies and careers.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is learning concepts and discussing them with your counselor, plus some hands-on listening or operating. The time commitment comes from logs, a 10-minute contact or recorded program, or multi-hour listening sessions, depending on the option you choose in requirement 8.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 8 can be the toughest because every option has a bigger project. For example, 8A(6) requires a 10-minute amateur radio contact and log, while 8B(2)-(3) has you create and record a 30-minute broadcast and log 15 stations. These are mandatory within the option you pick.
Railroading
Overview: Railroading lets you explore how trains move people and freight across huge distances. You will learn how locomotives work, how railroads stay safe, and how passenger systems like Amtrak and light rail are planned. Scouts can also choose hands-on paths like model railroading or railfanning trips, which makes this badge really fun for train fans. Along the way, you will pick up safety habits that matter any time you are near tracks.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most requirements are research, explanations, and simple planning, with no long tracking logs or major physical challenges. The main work is understanding rail systems and completing a few detailed discussions or projects.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 can be the most time-consuming, especially 7a(6) if you help build and wire a model railroad layout, or 7b(4) if you plan and actually take a rail trip. The hardest mandatory piece is Requirement 2a, where you must study an Amtrak timetable and plan a 500 mile rail journey with full details.
Reading
Overview: The Reading merit badge turns your everyday reading habit into a real skill set. You will explore how libraries work, try out different genres, and see how reading connects to hobbies and future careers. Along the way you will practice sharing what you read through reviews, talks, and discussions, which builds confidence and communication. This is a great badge for Scouts who want to read more with a clear goal in mind.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is reading and simple discussions, with one small hands-on project and a four-hour service requirement. There are no long tracking logs or advanced concepts, but it does take steady effort and planning.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6 asks you to complete at least four hours of reading-related service, which can take coordination with a library, school, or group. Requirement 3 can also be challenging since you must read four different types of books and then either review, compare to a movie, or present each one.
Reptile and Amphibian Study
Overview: Reptile and Amphibian Study is perfect if you are curious about snakes, frogs, lizards, and turtles and want to understand them instead of just fearing them. You will learn to identify local species, explain their role in the environment, and clear up common myths. The badge also pushes you to observe live animals and think about conservation and responsible care.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most requirements are research and observation based, but the long-term animal care or 3-month observation in requirement 8 takes planning and consistent effort.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 8a or 8b is usually the toughest, since both involve at least a month (often three months) of regular observation and detailed recordkeeping. The hardest mandatory piece for many Scouts is requirement 1, which requires careful identification, sketches or photos, and habitat research for 10 different species.
Rifle Shooting
Overview: Rifle Shooting lets you learn how to handle firearms safely while building real marksmanship skills. You will cover safety rules, local laws, hunting ethics, and how rifles and ammunition work. Then you will head to a range with a certified instructor to practice shooting and cleaning a rifle. This badge is great for Scouts interested in shooting sports, hunting, or just learning to be safe around firearms.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the classroom material is straightforward, but the range work takes focus, patience, and access to a proper range with certified supervision.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2 (any option) is the toughest because you must fire tight shot groups that can all be touched by a quarter, especially in 2A(10)-(11) or 2B(9)-(10). These accuracy standards are mandatory and can take several range sessions to achieve.
Robotics
Overview: The Robotics merit badge lets you turn ideas into a real working robot, which is pretty awesome if you enjoy building and tinkering. You will learn how robots sense the world, move, and follow programmed instructions. Along the way, you will practice safety, basic engineering, and problem solving that can carry into school, hobbies, and future careers. This badge is especially fun if you like LEGO robots, VEX, or coding.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Robotics takes a solid time commitment to design, build, program, test, and document a robot of your own design. The concepts are understandable for most Scouts, but the build and troubleshooting can be challenging if you are new to coding or electronics.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 (a-e) is the toughest because you must plan a task, design a robot with sensors and at least 2 degrees of freedom, build it, then program or flowchart its behavior and test it while keeping a detailed engineering notebook. Requirement 5, demonstrating the robot and explaining improvements, is also mandatory and can take extra time to get right.
Rowing
Overview: The Rowing merit badge gets you out on the water learning real boat-handling skills. You will practice safety, rescue techniques, and how to control a rowboat in different conditions. Along the way, you will also learn about equipment, types of rowing craft, and how to care for a boat. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy being active and want strong water skills.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most requirements are hands-on and skill-based, but you must already pass the Scouting America swimmer test and be comfortable in deep water. Expect several sessions on the water plus study of safety and equipment.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4b can be tough because it asks you to practice with a rowing team for at least 10 hours and then compete in a meet. If you choose 4a instead, the hardest mandatory part is requirement 7, which requires you to control a rowboat alone while safely towing a swimmer to shore.
Safety
Overview: The Safety merit badge helps you think ahead so you can avoid injuries, crime, and emergencies at home, online, and in public. You will look at real risks that teens face and learn simple habits that keep you and your family safer. Along the way, you will practice making emergency plans, checking buildings for hazards, and talking about tough topics like abuse and assault. This badge builds practical awareness that you will use every day.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is discussion, checklists, and planning with your family, so it does not take months of tracking. The challenge is staying thoughtful and thorough as you walk through each safety situation.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2f can be the most involved because you must develop a family emergency action plan, assemble or inspect an emergency kit, and explain how it would be used. Requirement 2e is also a bit demanding since it asks you to draw a full home fire-escape plan and run a drill.
Salesmanship
Overview: Salesmanship helps you get comfortable talking with people, understanding their needs, and offering real solutions. You will learn how sales support businesses, customers, and the overall economy. Along the way you will practice planning, communication, and follow-up skills that are useful in almost any career. This is a great badge if you want to get better at speaking confidently and working with others.
Overall Difficulty: 3/10. Most of the work is conversation-based and involves simple planning plus a small real-world sales project. It takes some time and courage to approach customers, but there are no long tracking logs or advanced concepts.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5, where you choose a real sales activity and keep a cost sheet, is usually the toughest because you must actually sell and then review customer satisfaction. Requirement 3, creating and presenting a sales plan, is the hardest mandatory requirement since it requires organized thinking and a clear presentation.
Scholarship
Overview: The Scholarship merit badge rewards you for working hard in school and thinking about your future. You will review your grades, talk about how you learn, and explore how education connects to real careers. Along the way, you will practice time management, communication, and goal setting that can help you in every class.
Overall Difficulty: 2/10. Most of the work builds on school you are already doing, plus a short written report and a few simple discussions or interviews. The main challenge is meeting the grade or improvement requirement and staying organized.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 1a or 1b can be tough because you must either maintain at least a B average for a term or show clear grade improvement. The other significant piece is Requirement 5a or 5b, which asks you to write a focused 250 to 300 word report.
Scouting Heritage
Overview: Scouting Heritage lets you trace how your troop’s traditions connect back to Lord Baden-Powell and the very first campouts. You will learn about key founders, explore how programs like Cub Scouting and Venturing came to be, and see how Scouting has changed over time. Along the way you will visit a museum, collection, or historian and build your own small memorabilia collection. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy stories, history, and talking with people.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the work is research, interviews, and short reports, with no long tracking logs or intense physical requirements. It does take planning to schedule visits and talk with several adults.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 8 can be tricky because you must arrange and complete interviews with at least three former Scouts over age 40 and then share what you learned. For some Scouts, requirement 5 is also challenging since it involves researching and presenting the history of your unit, council, camp, or lodge.
Sculpture
Overview: Sculpture lets you get your hands messy while turning blocks of material into real 3D art. You will learn how to work safely with clay, plaster, or digital tools and understand how artists plan and shape their designs. Along the way, you will also explore how sculpture connects to culture, museums, and possible careers. This badge is great for creative Scouts who like building and seeing quick results.
Overall Difficulty: 3/10. Most of the work is hands-on and fun, with no long tracking logs or intense physical effort. The main challenge is taking your time to complete quality projects and explain your methods clearly.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2a can be tough because it asks you to model a life-size human head in clay, which takes patience and attention to detail. If you choose a different option in requirement 2, the hardest mandatory part is carefully completing and explaining your chosen sculpture project.
Scuba Diving
Overview: The Scuba Diving merit badge lets you explore the underwater world while learning how to stay safe and prepared. You will study first aid for diving-related injuries, understand aquatic ecosystems, and talk through the Scuba Diver’s Code with your counselor. The biggest part of this badge is earning a recognized Open Water Diver certification, which gives you real-world skills you can use long after Scouts.
Overall Difficulty: 9/10. This badge requires professional training, multiple class and pool sessions, and open-water dives, which can take several weekends and involve significant physical effort.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 requires you to earn an Open Water Diver certification from an approved scuba organization, which includes written tests, confined-water practice, and open-water checkout dives. Requirement 1b can also be challenging since you must correctly demonstrate CPR using a training device.
Search and Rescue
Overview: Search and Rescue shows you how real SAR teams find and help people in trouble outdoors. You will learn first aid for common field injuries, how to stay found, and how to signal for help if something goes wrong. Along the way you will practice using maps, compasses, and GPS, and see how organized teams work together during emergencies. This badge is great for Scouts who enjoy the outdoors and want to be prepared to help others.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is hands-on and knowledge-based, with no long tracking logs, but it does take focus to understand SAR procedures and complete a full practice search.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 asks you to plan and carry out a realistic practice SAR exercise with a team, including creating an Incident Action Plan, giving a PAUSE briefing, running the search, and leading a full debrief afterward.
Shotgun Shooting
Overview: Shotgun Shooting lets you learn how to safely handle powerful firearms while breaking flying clay targets, which is a huge confidence boost. You will study safety rules, local laws, and hunting’s role in wildlife management, then spend real range time with certified instructors. Along the way you will pick up skills in focus, coordination, and responsibility that carry over to many outdoor activities.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the bookwork is straightforward, but you must schedule range time with NRA-certified instructors and a range safety officer, which can take planning. Hitting the required number of moving targets also takes practice and good coaching.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2 Option A(10) or Option B(13) is toughest, since you must hit specific scores on moving clay targets over a minimum of 50 or 30 shots. Requirement 1g also takes effort because you must learn your state’s hunting laws and identify game species.
Signs, Signals, and Codes
Overview: Signs, Signals, and Codes introduces you to the many ways people communicate without speaking, from Morse code to emojis. You will explore emergency signaling, trail signs, and how people with disabilities read and share information. This badge is fun for Scouts who enjoy puzzles, patterns, and learning new “languages.” By the end, you will be able to send and understand several different signaling systems in real situations.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is hands-on practice and short explanations, with no long tracking logs or big projects. It takes focus to learn multiple codes, but requirements can usually be finished in a few meetings and an outing.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 can be the most demanding because it requires planning and laying out a one-mile trail with at least six different signs, then restoring the area afterward. For many Scouts, requirement 3a or 4c(1), sending or receiving a six to ten word message in Morse or semaphore, also takes some patient practice.
Skating
Overview: Skating merit badge lets you build real skills in your choice of ice skating, roller skating, in-line skating, or skateboarding. You will learn safety, gear care, and solid technique so you can control your movements and avoid injuries. This badge is great for coordination, balance, and confidence, and it can turn a casual hobby into a serious skill. Expect to spend time practicing on a rink, pavement, or at a skatepark.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is physical practice and coordination instead of written requirements. It can be challenging if you are new to skating, but there are no long tracking logs or outside certifications.
Hardest Requirement: The toughest part is Requirement 2, where you must choose one full option and complete every skill. For example, Option C Requirement 2-13 asks you to perform one-footed downhill slaloms, which takes balance and practice, and Option D Requirement 2-14 requires landing three different skateboard tricks.
Small Boat Sailing
Overview: Small Boat Sailing lets you learn how to harness the wind and confidently handle a sailboat on the water. You will study safety, weather, knots, and boat parts, then put it all together through real sailing practice. This badge builds strong skills in teamwork, focus, and decision making that are useful in many outdoor adventures. It is a great choice if you enjoy being active and want to spend time on the water.
Overall Difficulty: 8/10. The badge is very hands-on and requires solid swimming ability plus multiple on-the-water sessions. Most of the challenge comes from the time needed to practice sailing skills in real conditions.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6 asks you and a buddy to fully handle a sailboat, including getting underway, sailing all basic points of sail, tacking, jibing, capsize recovery, and man-overboard rescue. Requirement 2 is also mandatory and can be tough if you are not yet ready to pass the Scouting America swimmer test.
Snow Sports
Overview: Snow Sports lets you earn a merit badge while skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing at a real winter area. You will learn how to stay safe in cold weather, understand trail markings, and prepare your body with strength and flexibility exercises. This badge is a great excuse to get outside in winter and build real confidence on the snow. It is especially fun if your troop or family already takes ski or snowboard trips.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most classroom parts are straightforward, but you must access a snow resort or trail system and spend several hours on-snow demonstrating skills. The time and cost of getting to the slopes can be the biggest challenge.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 is the toughest, especially Option B 10 or Option D 9, which require a 4-mile ski tour or 2-mile snowshoe hike in varied snow conditions. These distance trips are mandatory within their chosen options.
Soil and Water Conservation
Overview: Soil and Water Conservation helps you see how dirt, rain, and roots all work together to keep our world alive. You will learn how soil forms, how watersheds and aquifers work, and how pollution and erosion affect your community. This badge is great for Scouts who like science, maps, and getting outside to observe real land and water issues. Expect a mix of bookwork, drawings, and hands-on observation.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most requirements are knowledge-based, but there are several drawings, demonstrations, and a larger project or field visits that take planning and time.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 7 can be challenging because you must either complete two substantial conservation activities, such as writing a 500-word report on two site visits (7a) or planting 100 trees, bushes, or vines (7b). The hardest mandatory part for many Scouts is Requirement 4, which asks you to work with contour maps and understand watersheds and river basins.
Space Exploration
Overview: Space Exploration lets you learn how rockets work, why we explore space, and how missions are planned. You will study famous explorers, build a model rocket or NASA rocket, and design your own space base. Along the way, you will connect science you learn in school with real missions to the moon, Mars, and beyond. This is an awesome badge for Scouts who like STEM and big-picture thinking.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is research and creative design, but building and safely launching a model rocket takes planning, money for supplies, and good weather or a suitable alternative.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3 can be challenging because you must build, launch, and recover a model rocket, then launch again with a specific objective, or fully research and build a detailed NASA rocket model. Requirement 7 is also demanding since you design and present a complete inhabited base with energy, construction, life support, and purpose all clearly explained.
Sports
Overview: The Sports merit badge is perfect if you already love playing on a team or want a reason to get more active. You will learn how to train safely, prevent injuries, and understand the rules and strategy behind your chosen sports. Along the way, you will also build habits around fitness, nutrition, and good sportsmanship. This badge is great for connecting Scouting with school or community athletics.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work happens over a full sports season or three months, so the main challenge is staying committed and tracking your progress. The knowledge parts are straightforward if you already play or follow sports.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5, especially 5a, 5b, and 5g, asks you to follow a personal training plan, track your practices, and participate in each selected sport for a full season or three months, which takes the most time and consistency.
Stamp Collecting
Overview: Stamp Collecting introduces you to a hobby that connects history, geography, art, and even world politics through tiny printed pictures. You will learn how to identify different kinds of stamps, use collector tools, and build an organized album you can keep adding to. This badge is great for patient Scouts who like details and discovering stories behind objects. Parents can easily support by helping find stamps in family mail or from local collectors.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is knowledge-based and hands-on, with no physical strain, but building and organizing a qualifying collection takes steady time and attention.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 8 is usually the toughest, since you must mount a sizable collection, such as 250 different stamps from at least 15 countries (8a) or 100 from one country (8c), which can take planning and lots of careful sorting.
Surveying
Overview: The Surveying merit badge lets you use real-world tools to measure land and turn those measurements into a map. You will learn how surveyors mark property corners, work with GPS, and understand legal descriptions on a deed. This badge is great for Scouts who like math, maps, and hands-on outdoor projects. Along the way you will see how surveying connects to engineering, construction, and land ownership.
Overall Difficulty: 6/10. Most of the work is done in a single field session plus some follow-up drawing and research, but using instruments accurately takes focus and patience.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 2a is the toughest because you must correctly set up an instrument, measure angles and distances to each lot corner, and record topographic features. Requirement 3 is the hardest mandatory follow-up since you must turn those field notes into an accurate, neatly drawn scale map.
Sustainability
Overview: Sustainability helps you understand how your everyday choices affect the planet, your community, and future generations. You will look at your family’s water, food, energy use, and “stuff,” then figure out practical ways to reduce waste and live smarter. Along the way you will practice observation, record keeping, and real-world problem solving at home and on campouts.
Overall Difficulty: 8/10. Most requirements are discussion and research based, but several ask you to track habits over time and think carefully about complex environmental topics. Expect multiple sit-down talks with your counselor and some family participation.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3c can be tough because you must measure your household food waste, create a plan, and track results for two weeks. Many Scouts also find Requirement 7 (any option) challenging, since it involves understanding big global issues like climate, population, or species decline and explaining their long-term impacts.
Swimming
Overview: Swimming is a core life skill that keeps you safe around the water and opens the door to tons of outdoor fun. In this badge you will sharpen your strokes, learn how to handle emergencies, and understand how to prevent common water injuries. You will also practice safe rescue techniques and build confidence in deep water. This is an Eagle-required badge for many Scouts and is very achievable with practice.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. The requirements are straightforward, but you must already be a decent swimmer and have spent real time in the pool. Most of the challenge comes from endurance and doing each stroke with good form.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 4 asks you to swim 150 yards continuously using five different strokes, which can be tiring if your endurance is low. Requirement 7c is also tough, since you must complete repeated headfirst surface dives and short underwater swims in water over your head.
Textile
Overview: The Textile merit badge helps you understand the clothes, gear, and fabrics you use every single day. You will learn how fibers become yarn, how yarn becomes fabric, and how different materials perform in the real world. Scouts get some hands-on fun too, like weaving, dyeing, or even waterproofing fabric. By the end, you will be better at choosing and caring for your own clothing and outdoor gear.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most of the badge is knowledge-based with short hands-on activities that you can do at home with basic supplies. There are no long logs or intense physical requirements, but you will need to put in steady effort to understand new vocabulary and complete a couple of small projects.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3 can be the trickiest because you must choose and complete two hands-on options, such as 3b weaving a project on a simple loom or 3e making and using natural dyes. The hardest mandatory part is Requirement 5, where you compare different fiber types and explain at least four ecological concerns related to textile production and care.
Theater
Overview: Theater is a fun, creative badge that pulls you into the world of live performance. You will read or attend plays, write your own short script, and try acting or behind-the-scenes roles. Along the way you learn how a production comes together and how every job onstage and backstage supports the story. This badge is great for building confidence, teamwork, and communication skills.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most requirements are hands-on and creative, but they do take planning and coordination with a theater group or production. There is some vocabulary to memorize, though it is not overly technical.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3 can be the toughest because you must complete three substantial theater jobs, such as acting a major role, directing a 10-minute play, or serving as stage manager, which often means many rehearsals and working with a full cast.
Traffic Safety
Overview: Traffic Safety helps you understand how crashes happen and what you can do to prevent them, long before you get your license. You will learn about impaired and distracted driving, vehicle safety features, and how road design keeps people safe. There are also hands-on checks like inspecting a car, testing tire pressure, and looking at stopping distances. This badge is great for new drivers and younger Scouts who ride in cars every day.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is discussion and simple demonstrations with a family vehicle, plus one small interview, pledge, or event. There are no long tracking logs or intense physical requirements, but you will need access to a car and some focused study time.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 3e can be tricky because you must mark off reaction and braking distances at different speeds and discuss how conditions change them. If you choose it, Requirement 7c can also be challenging since it asks you to initiate and organize a traffic safety activity, while the hardest mandatory part is carefully demonstrating and explaining all the auto maintenance checks in Requirement 3.
Truck Transportation
Overview: Truck Transportation helps you understand how products travel from factories and ports to the stores in your town. You will learn how trucking companies are organized, how shipments are priced and insured, and what keeps trucks and drivers safe on the road. This badge is great for Scouts curious about logistics, business, or professional driving careers. Expect a mix of research, planning, and a real-world visit to a trucking operation.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most requirements are research and discussion based, with one required field visit that can take some scheduling effort. There are no long tracking logs or intense physical challenges.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 8 asks you to plan a 500-pound shipment, compare at least three carriers, and explain how to choose and insure your shipment, which takes careful reading and detailed writing. Requirement 4 also requires arranging and completing a visit to a truck terminal.
Veterinary Medicine
Overview: Veterinary Medicine is a great badge if you love animals or are curious about science and health. You will explore how vets care for pets, farm animals, wildlife, and even marine creatures, plus how they protect human health through food safety and disease control. Along the way, you will learn what it takes to get into vet school and what support roles like veterinary technicians do. This badge is mostly conversation and research based, so it is very doable with good preparation.
Overall Difficulty: 4/10. Most requirements involve discussion, research, and a single visit or shadowing experience. The main challenge is arranging time with a veterinarian and putting together a clear presentation.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6a or 6b asks you to visit or shadow a veterinarian, then prepare and present what you observed. The hardest mandatory part is requirement 3, which requires detailed research into veterinary school prerequisites and nearby colleges.
Water Sports
Overview: The Water Sports merit badge is all about learning to waterski or wakeboard safely while having a blast on the water. You will study hazards, first aid, and key safety rules, then put that knowledge into practice behind a boat. This badge builds confidence, balance, and strong swimming skills that carry over to many other aquatic activities.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. The requirements are fairly short, but they demand solid swimming ability, access to a boat, and enough practice time to gain real control on skis or a wakeboard.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5 is the toughest, since it asks you to deep-water start without help, cross both wakes four times without falling, and show safe falling and stopping skills while maintaining control.
Weather
Overview: The Weather merit badge helps you understand what is happening in the sky before every campout or hike. You will learn how storms form, how to read clouds and fronts, and how climate affects different parts of the world. Along the way, you will practice using forecasts to plan safe outdoor activities and teach others about weather safety. This badge is great for Scouts who like science, maps, and being the “forecast expert” for their troop.
Overall Difficulty: 5/10. Most of the work is reading, drawing diagrams, and explaining concepts to your counselor, plus a short tracking project or visit. It takes focus to learn the science terms, but there are no long time logs or intense physical requirements.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 10a can be challenging because you must build a simple weather instrument and keep a detailed 1-week weather log, or for 10b arrange and complete an interview or visit. The other tougher part is Requirement 11, where you prepare and give a 5-minute safety talk on lightning, flash floods, and tornadoes.
Welding
Overview: Welding lets you melt and fuse metal, which is a pretty awesome skill for building and repairs. In this badge you will learn how to stay safe around high heat, electricity, and fumes while using real welding equipment. You will practice basic welds, understand different processes, and see how welding connects to jobs in construction, manufacturing, and art. This is a very hands-on badge and usually requires access to a shop and a skilled counselor.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. The requirements are straightforward, but you need shop time, close supervision, and enough practice to produce several different welds correctly. Scheduling access to equipment often takes more effort than the written parts.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6 asks you to complete multiple welds, including butt, T, and lap joints in 6(c) through 6(f), all to your counselor’s standards. Getting clean, structurally sound welds on both sides of each joint can be challenging and may take several practice sessions.
Whitewater
Overview: The Whitewater merit badge puts you on fast-moving rivers where you will learn to handle real current, waves, and hazards. You will build on your canoeing or kayaking skills and learn how to read rivers, plan safe trips, and work as a tight team. Along the way, you will practice rescues, safety signals, and smart decision-making that carry over to every outdoor adventure. This badge is exciting and challenging, but also requires serious focus on safety.
Overall Difficulty: 10/10. Whitewater takes solid paddling skills, physical effort on moving water, and at least one 6-hour trip, plus pre-earned Canoeing or Kayaking. Most of the bookwork is reasonable, but the on-water skills and logistics take time and commitment.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 12 asks you to plan and complete one or more whitewater trips with at least six hours of paddling, including a written trip plan, permissions, safety compliance, and a post-trip review. Requirement 3 is also tough since you must first earn either Canoeing or Kayaking before starting the main skills.
Wilderness Survival
Overview: Wilderness Survival teaches you how to stay safe, calm, and resourceful when things go wrong outdoors. You will learn to handle weather, injuries, and getting lost while still taking care of yourself and your group. Along the way you will practice building shelters, making fire, treating water, and planning so emergencies are less likely to happen. This badge builds real confidence for camping, backpacking, and high adventure trips.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Most requirements are hands-on and take solid preparation plus outdoor time, especially the overnight shelter. The skills are very learnable but you must pay attention to safety and details.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 5e asks you to improvise a low-impact natural shelter and spend a night in it, which takes planning, patience, and comfort with being outside in less-than-perfect conditions. Requirement 6 can also be tough since you must successfully build and light three fires using three different methods other than matches.
Wood Carving
Overview: Wood Carving lets you turn a plain block of wood into something you can actually show off. Along the way, you will learn how to use knives and gouges safely, keep tools sharp, and choose the right wood for a project. This badge is very hands-on and is great for Scouts who like creating things they can hold. You will finish with at least two real carvings you designed or selected yourself.
Overall Difficulty: 3/10. Most of the work is done in a meeting or workshop setting and is skill-based rather than time-based. There are no long tracking logs, but you will need patience and focus while using sharp tools.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6 asks you to plan or select and complete a simple carving in the round, which takes careful knife control and time to shape correctly. Requirement 7 then requires a low-relief or chip carving project, which can be tricky because mistakes are hard to fix.
Woodwork
Overview: The Woodwork merit badge is all about turning raw boards into useful projects with your own hands. You will learn shop safety, tool care, and how lumber is grown and prepared before it reaches the store. Along the way you will plan, measure, and build several real projects that you can actually use at home or in your troop. This badge is great for Scouts who like hands-on work and might be interested in trades or DIY projects later on.
Overall Difficulty: 7/10. Woodwork takes solid time in a shop, careful measuring, and multiple completed projects, so it usually cannot be finished in a single meeting. The skills are very learnable, but you must stay focused and work safely with real tools.
Hardest Requirement: Requirement 6 can be tough because you must choose and complete two advanced projects, such as 6c with miter, dowel, or mortise and tenon joints. The hardest mandatory part is Requirement 5, where you design, plan, cost out, and build your own custom project from working drawings.
And there you have it—a complete breakdown of every merit badge in Scouting! 😀
I hope this list helps you balance your schedule so you can mix in some fun, “Easy” badges alongside the “Very Hard” ones without getting overwhelmed. Remember, the goal isn’t just to earn more badges, but learn skills that will last a lifetime. Whether you are tackling Bugling, learning to Leatherwork, or exploring American Cultures, pick the badges that spark your interest and have fun with them.
Before we end things, if you’re looking for a clear strategy to rank up efficiently while maintaining a healthy school-life balance, be sure to check out my in-depth e-course, Your TrailMap To Eagle! It’s packed with my best methods for staying organized and making the most out of Scouting. As always, keep pushing forward, and I’m wishing you all the best on your journey to Eagle and beyond!