logbook
A logbooks keeps an unedited running permanent record of your work. It includes all details of materials and what you did so that someone could recreate your work and results at any point of the process. It is also used for brainstorming and planning. Neatly formatted, handwritten record updated daily if needed.
A bound book so that pages, which are numbered, cannot be added, removed, or left blank. The rules are listed below, with more guidance and an example. Depending on the fair, a digital version of a logbook could be allowed.
MSEF Research process handbook Includes a section providing requirements and some good linked visual examples
Sciencebuddies includes a section on logbooks
lab report
A lab report is just like a report you would do for science class, or a research report that would be for a professional journal. Unlike a logbook, it is typewritten and includes final information not everything you did. It describes things in enough detail to be able to reproduce the results. A lab report includes the introduction, hypothesis, background research, materials, procedures, data analysis, conclusions and a bibliography. You might also include ideas for future research and acknowledgements. The poster board is a summary of this information. Many science fairs do not require a research report, only the logbook combined with the poster board. However, they are very helpful in organizing information even when not required in the rules.
Sciencebuddies includes a section on research reports
JEI Manuscript Guidelines are not specific to science far lab report but provide very helpful guidance
poster board
The poster board has a lot of the same information that may be in a lab report; introduction, hypothesis, background research, materials, procedures, data analysis, and conclusions. You might also include ideas for future research. These are presented in a very visual eye-catching way with pictures, charts and large font which can be viewed a few feet away, typically on a 48" tri-fold board.
Sciencebuddies includes a section on poster boards
MSEF High School Manual gives detailed guidelines on poster boards, as does the ISEF Display and safety regulations
presentation
You will present your work in front of your poster board. You will be able to reference your poster board as you introduce your project to judges and visitors. Your presentation may include visual aids, samples, or project demonstrations.
Script a short 2-5 minute speech that simply and clearly communicates your project.
Prepare a list of questions you think the judges may ask and prepare an answer.
Sciencebuddies includes a section on presenting and judging
