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The Scout method is the principal method by which all Scouting organizations operate their units. The World Organization Of The Scout Movement (WOSM) describes the Scouting movement as "...a voluntary nonpolitical educational movement for young people open to all without distinction of origin, race or creed, in accordance with the purpose, principles and method conceived by the Founder and stated below..."

It is the goal of the Scouting movement "to contribute to the development of young people
in achieving their full physical, intellectual, social and spiritual potentials as individuals,
as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities."

The principles of the Scouting movement describe a code of behavior that likewise applies to all members and characterizes therewith the movement. WOSM designates the three basic principles as obligations:

  • Duty to God (or a higher power)

  • Duty to others

  • Duty to self


The Scout method, which aids the Scouting movement to achieve its goals and fulfill its principles, is a progressive system comprised of four elements:


The Scout Law embodies the joint values of the Scouting movement all over the world binds all Scouting associations together. The emphasis on "Learning by doing" provides experiences and hands on orientation as a practical method of learning and confidence building. Small groups build unity and a close-knit fraternal atmosphere to develop responsibility, character, self-reliance and self-confidence, reliability, and readiness; which eventually leads to collaboration and leadership. A program of progressive and attractive varying activities expands a Scouts' horizons and bonds the Scout even more to the group. Activities and games develop dexterities and provides a fun way to develop skills. In an outdoor setting, these also provide contact with nature and the environment.

These principles are equally applicable to boy and girl Scouting.

Common ways to implement the Scout method include:

  • Regular hours spent in firm groups

  • Development of joint ritual

  • Joint clothing

  • Tenting together

  • Camping, hiking, backpacking, and other activities done together in the outdoors

  • Domestic and international travel in a group, especially when encountering other Scout groups ---Equal participation of all in decision-making processes at the youth level

  • Service to the community and developing good citizenship

  • Cultivating a love of the outdoors

  • Scoutcraft


The Scout Law is a code of living based on Scouting’s principles. It is a personal code of
living in that it serves as a reference, guiding the way in which each member of the movement
lives his or her life today, and guiding the direction of development for tomorrow. It is also a collective code of living in that it is the basis on which the Scout unit functions. The Scout Law is therefore at the heart of the Scout Method.

The concept of doing a "Good Turn" is key component of all Scouting movements. In many Scouting associations it is embodied in their Scout oath, law, motto, or slogan; such as the Boy Scouts Of America 's (BSA) Scout Slogan, which is ''Do a Good Turn Daily''.


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