A clear research question
Define what you want to understand and keep the scope focused.
QUEST International Research Competition
Investigate a question. Explain what you found.
Choose a research question, explore it with appropriate sources and methods, and explain the evidence behind your analysis and conclusions.
2026 submissions closed
Research and writing competitions for students aged 12–18 worldwide.01 / The approach
A question, carefully explored.
Research can draw on humanities and social inquiry, as well as STEM and data analysis. The strength of a project lies in how well its question, methods and evidence work together, rather than how expensive its equipment is. Official submission categories and permitted research scope will be stated in the relevant competition guidance.
02 / What the work should show
Let the thinking show.
Appropriate methods and sources
Explain how your approach fits the question you are investigating.
Evidence for your findings
Show how your analysis supports the conclusions you draw.
An understanding of limitations
Recognize what your sources and methods can and cannot establish.
Your own contribution
Be ready to explain your decisions, your work and what you found.
The current season
2026 submissions closed
The 2026 conference took place on October 11, following research submission and online preparation. Visit the conference record for award recipients, five student papers, and presentation slides. Research submissions remain closed.