How to Plan Your Next Big Project

A step-by-step guide to turning your big ideas into a real, finished project using planning and testing. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Draw your master plan. Grab your paper and sketch out what you want to make. Don't worry about it being perfect—just draw the shapes and label the parts so you know what goes where.
2. Make a materials list. Look at your drawing and list everything you need to build it. If you don't have something, think about what else you could use instead, like using cardboard boxes instead of wood.
3. Build a mini version. Before you use all your supplies, try making a tiny version of your project out of paper or clay. This helps you see if the pieces fit together the way you think they will.
4. Test and adjust. Start building your real project one piece at a time. If something falls over or doesn't fit, don't worry! This is the 'trial-and-error' part. Change your plan and try a different way to attach the pieces.