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Edition 2026Active Merit Badge
Programming
Official Requirements & Fillable Workbook · 2026 Edition
Programming is about solving problems through structured code, algorithms, and logical flow. You will study intellectual property, security vulnerabilities, and software architecture. Requirement 5 asks you to write and debug working programs in three distinct programming languages, showing how each approach handles data and user input.
Key Requirements Covered:
- Algorithm Design, Logic & Flowcharts
- Programming in Three Diverse Languages
- Debugging, Code Testing & Optimization
- Intellectual Property, Open Source & Careers
4Printable Pages
6Requirements
2026Reqs Revised
What is on the worksheet: Programming Requirements
Every requirement for the Programming merit badge, word for word as published, with room to write under each one on the printed worksheet.
1Safety
Safety. Do the following:
- a View the Personal Safety Awareness "Digital Safety" video (with your parent or guardian's permission.)
- b Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries that could occur during programming activities, including repetitive stress injuries and eyestrain.
2History
History. Discuss with your counselor the history of programming and the evolution of programming languages, including at least three milestones related to the advancement or development of programming over time.
3General Knowledge
General Knowledge. Do the following:
- a Create a list of five popular programming languages in use today and describe which industry or industries they are primarily used in and why.
- b Describe three different programmed devices you rely on every day.
4Intellectual Property
Intellectual Property. Do the following:
- a Explain the four types of intellectual property used to protect computer programs.
- b Describe the difference between licensing and owning software.
- c Describe the differences between freeware, open source, and commercial software, and why it is important to respect the terms of use of each.
5Project
Project. With your counselor's guidance, select three different programming languages and development environments. For each subrequirement below, do the following: Write or modify a program using the indicated programming language and development environment. The program must take input and produce output based on computations and decisions made on the input. Debug and demonstrate the program to your counselor. Explain how each program processes inputs, makes decisions based on those inputs, and provides outputs based on computations and decision making.
- a In the first language and environment, write or modify a program, debug and demonstrate, and explain as above.
- b In the second language and environment, write or modify a program, debug and demonstrate, and explain as above.
- c In the third language and environment, write or modify a program, debug and demonstrate, and explain as above.
6Careers
Careers. Do ONE of the following:
- a Explore careers related to this merit badge. Research one career to learn about the training and education needed, costs, job prospects, salary, job duties, and career advancement. Your research methods may include—with your parent or guardian's permission—an internet or library search, an interview with a professional in the field, or a visit to a location where people in this career work. Discuss with your counselor both your findings and what about this profession might make it an interesting career.
- b Explore how you could use knowledge and skills from this merit badge to pursue a hobby or healthy lifestyle. Research any training needed, expenses, and organizations that promote or support it. Discuss with your counselor what short-term and long-term goals you might have if you pursued this.
Two dates, two different things
Requirements Revision vs. Worksheet Date
Scouting America last revised the Programming requirements in 2026. That is the badge, not this sheet — an older year does not mean the worksheet is out of date.
Verbatim Fidelity & Verification
This worksheet was checked against https://www.scouting.org/merit-badges/programming/ in Aug 2026 and reproduces the requirements word for word. Both dates are printed on the sheet, so a copy in a binder can always be placed in time.
Requirement text is © Scouting America, reproduced verbatim. The worksheet layout and design are original to this project.
Spotted a discrepancy on this sheet? Tell us and we will re-check it against the official requirements.
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