instructions

[Ethancheese123]

are we allowed to have instructions when using a kit?

[JasperKota]

Yes, and most kits come with instructions.

[Nesh]

Someone told me you are not supposed to use kits with instructions on how to build them, is that true?

[SahilS]

OK, that's not true. Logically... I don't think someone would buy a kit that doesn't have instructions. Nore would someone sell a kit that doesn't come with instructions.

[SPP SciO]

are we allowed to have instructions when using a kit?

When you're building, you can use all the instructions you can find: from a kit, from a coach, from YouTube, etc.

When you're flying, however, in competition - you can't get any instructions. You and your partner need to make all decisions independently.

[coachchuckaahs]

SPP:

I would amend that position on flying a little. You cannot receive any active outside help. However, you can have "instructions" with you, as you are allowed to bring any tools, equipment, logs, etc. into the competition. The logs from prior flights are not just a box-checking item, but provide informed decision-making during the event. Our students highlight particularly relevant flights from the log. We also develop a "game plan", which is a written outline, based on these logged entries, and based on the specifics of the contest venue. this outline includes our baseline plan (first flight rubber, winds, torque, prop, etc.), decisions to be made for second flight based on first-flight observations (what rubber is available, items to consider in selection based on first flight), and backup plans (starting point for second plane if disaster strikes on first plane, again based on log entries).

Having a well-thought game plan, with or without coach input, is crucial to making informed decisions in the limited time available.

Coach Chuck

[SPP SciO]

SPP:

I would amend that position on flying a little. You cannot receive any active outside help. However, you can have "instructions" with you, as you are allowed to bring any tools, equipment, logs, etc. into the competition. The logs from prior flights are not just a box-checking item, but provide informed decision-making during the event. Our students highlight particularly relevant flights from the log. We also develop a "game plan", which is a written outline, based on these logged entries, and based on the specifics of the contest venue. this outline includes our baseline plan (first flight rubber, winds, torque, prop, etc.), decisions to be made for second flight based on first-flight observations (what rubber is available, items to consider in selection based on first flight), and backup plans (starting point for second plane if disaster strikes on first plane, again based on log entries).

Having a well-thought game plan, with or without coach input, is crucial to making informed decisions in the limited time available.

Coach Chuck

Yes, I agree with all of this. I was referring to oral instructions, which are prohibited. But the game plan idea sounds like a good one. We have similar routines for other build events; writing them out is probably a logical next step.

[jander14indoor]

Think of it this way. A professional pilot wouldn't think about flying without following detailed checklists. Military pilots can be grounded forever, even court martialed if they do. Commercial pilots fired. And you don't want to be in a plane with a pilot that doesn't use one.

Checklists are invaluable tools in high stress environments, and that includes science olympiad tournaments. If the rules don't forbid them (and they don't in most of the building events, on purpose), not using them is like not studying or practicing flying.

Jeff Anderson
Livonia, MI