merit badges

In 2024, there are 138 merit badges.  Here are a couple links to all of them:

• scouting.org

• scoutlife.org

Remember, the badge should be the reward for learning something new, not the goal.

For merit badges worked/earned during some activities (i.e. summer/winter camp, merit badge university, etc.), the sponsoring organization will send a report of scouts' requirements completed.  Once advancement coordinators receive the report, TroopMaster / Scoutbook will be updated accordingly.

How to earn a Merit Badge?

Below are the basic steps outlined to earn a Merit Badge as a scout of Troop 201.  One thing to note about the Troop 201 process that varies from most other troops is that we do not use 'blue cards'.  Instead, we rely upon TroopMaster (TM) / Scoutbook and email exchanges to track progress.

1. Select a merit badge that interests you.

2. Find a buddy(s) who might also like to earn the badge with you.

3. Using TroopMaster or Scoutbook, identify a troop MB counselor for your selected merit badge.

4. Email the selected MB counselor for their approval before starting work on the badge.  Await for their response.  Remember anytime you email the counselor, you should include your parent(s) or another troop adult leader as recipients to your message.

5. Get the Merit Badge pamphlet - either from the Scout Shop, another scout, or an electronic version.

6. Download and print the Merit Badge workbook.

7. Punch holes in it and put it in a folder for record-keeping.

8. Read the Merit Badge pamphlet.  Often, answers to questions can be found within pamphlets.

9. Seek the advice of your counselor as you complete the workbook.   Be NEAT in your work and ON TIME for all meetings with them.

10. Once requirements have been fulfilled and are ready for the MB counselor to review, schedule time with them that is convenient for both of you to meet.  Scouts should be prepared with their completed workbook when meeting with a counselor .  When possible and as a courtesy, share a digital version of the completed workbook with the counselor so that they may review it in advance of the meeting.

11. Upon completion of requirements, the MB counselor will notify, Troop 201 advancement coordinators, you and your parent(s) of your success.

12. An advancement coordinator will update TroopMaster / Scoutbook with your successes.

13. Congratulations! You are done!  The advancement chair will purchase your merit badge and you will be awarded it at an upcoming Troop Meeting or Court of Honor! 

Eagle required merit badges require additional Troop 201 sign-off when these are earned outside of Troop 201 sponsored activities.  This includes summer/winter camps, merit badge university, etc.  The reason being is that these are important merit badges upon which Scouting is founded and require Troop confirmation that the scout has fully learned the material and are worthy of receiving these awards.