History Day Basics

From spark to state (and beyond!)

How It Works

Texas History Day (THD) is a research program and competition for grades 6–12. Students choose a topic tied to the annual theme, investigate primary and secondary sources, then present their findings in one of five categories. Projects advance from regional contests to the Texas state contest and National History Day.

Six Ways to Tell Your Story

Project Categories

Historical Paper (Individual only)
Formal essay with footnotes/endnotes and bibliography. Emphasis on argument, analysis, and sources.
Exhibit (Individual/Group)
Museum-style display with visuals and captions. Balance images, labels, and narrative; credit all media.
Documentary (Individual/Group)
Short film using narration, interviews, and archival footage; include on-screen citations.
Performance (Individual/Group)
Live, scripted portrayal grounded in research; props/costumes serve the argument.
Website (Individual/Group)
Interactive site built with the approved platform. Integrate media, captions, and annotated bibliography.
Poster (Individual/Group)
A scaled-down version of the exhibit category. Elementary Division only (grades 3 through 5).

Need specifics? See the Theme & Rules page for category checklists, rubrics, and the official Rule Book.

Plan with prizes in mind. See our Special Awards page for extra submission notes.

Start Local. See our Dates & Registration page to find your local regional coordinator and school-specific deadlines.

Supplies & Merchandise. See our Merchandise page to find supplies like exhibit boards, honor cords, and more!


FIVE KEYS TO HISTORY DAY SUCCESS

By Danny Corbett


TEACHER INVOLVEMENT / PARENT SUPPORT
Stay engaged from start to finish. Invite colleagues to review drafts or view run-throughs, and encourage parent help with materials, transportation, and guidance.
TOPIC SELECTION
Help students choose a unique, well-researched topic that truly fits the annual theme—avoid overdone subjects and “stretch” fits.
RESEARCH
Emphasize primary sources. Use public and college libraries, archives, and special collections; build a strong, varied bibliography.
TIME
Meet regularly—after school or on Saturdays—and encourage steady at-home progress to keep momentum.
POLISH
Refine the final product: creative exhibits/performances, papers with thoughtful openings and hard-hitting conclusions, and effective use of technology for documentaries.
See the full post.