A 4-H Record Book is a standard record of your activities in 4-H - your projects, activities, events, skills development and learning experiences. The 4-H Record Book helps you improve your skills in record keeping, goal management and reflection on your achievements and growth in 4-H. You can submit your record book for evaluation at the club, county and state levels.
Why Record Books?
Record-keeping has always been a core part of the 4-H experience. In the early days, 4-H members tracked profits and losses in agricultural and home economics projects. As 4-H expanded beyond farms into suburban and urban communities, the record book evolved too.
When you fill out your Record Book this year, take a moment to imagine a 4-H member nearly 100 years ago doing the same thing. You're taking part in a meaningful, long-standing 4-H tradition.
4-H Exhibitors at the Junior Livestock Show are expected to keep records of their project progress and completion. This requirement is met with the 4-H Record Book. If you are raising an animal for the livestock show, plan to complete a record book.
Record books are judged at the club and county levels, after which members receive recognition at our annual Achievement Night.
Two Record Book Systems
Starting this year, California 4-H offers two types of record books:
- New Achievement Program (for new members)
- Retiring Star Rank Program (for continuing members)
Your 4-H club leader will let you know which version you should use.
Want to learn more about the new Achievement Program?
👉 Visit the California 4-H Record Book information page
Official Manuals
Both systems have their own guidebooks. Be sure you're using the correct one:
| Record Book Type | Link |
|---|---|
| Star Rank Program | Record Book Manual for Youth Members |
| New Achievement Program | 2024–25 Achievement Record Book Manual |
| PDR Event Reference | Where Does it go on my PDR? 2023-2024 |
Important: Use the correct forms for the current program year and record book type.
If you're unsure which record book system applies to you, ask your club leader. Most new members will be using the Achievement Program.
Record Book Covers
You can pick up official 4-H Record Book covers at the office for $5. These covers are not required, but are part of the 4-H tradition.
It is acceptable to use a 3-ring binder to bind your record book together. We recommend getting the type with a slide in cover so that you make a 4-H cover with your name and club information on the outside.
Need Help?
If you have questions:
- Start by asking your club leader
- Project leaders can help with project reports.
- Contact the Inyo-Mono 4-H Office
- Watch our YouTube Record Book Help Videos (Star Rank program) by Callie Peek:
Visit our County 4-H YouTube Channel
We aim to provide formal training for the new Achievement Record Books in the next program year.
Mini-Member Record Books
Primary members (also called “mini-members”) do not have their Record Books judged. However, they are encouraged to complete a simplified form to document their experiences in 4-H.
When a member turns nine or enters the 4th grade, they become a Junior Member and may submit a full Record Book for judging at the club and county level.
Download the Mini-Member form here:
👉 Basic Primary Report (Mini-Members)