Planning a Record Attempt
How a world record attempt is typically planned and verified, from choosing a category to submitting evidence for review.
Record attempts succeed or fail long before the day itself. Here is the general path most attempts follow.
1. Choose your category
Pick an existing record with published rules, or propose a new one. Existing categories are easier to plan. See creating a new category.
2. Get the current rules
Request or download the latest guidelines from the record-keeping body you are working with. Read every line. Rules cover equipment, timing, breaks, venue and evidence.
3. Recruit witnesses and specialists
You will usually need independent witnesses, plus timekeepers, surveyors or other experts depending on the category.
4. Plan the evidence
Decide camera positions, backup power, who logs what and how measurements will be proven. Read what evidence an attempt needs.
5. Rehearse
Run through the whole attempt with cameras and witnesses in place. Fix the gaps.
6. Make the attempt
Follow the rules exactly. Keep the log running. If something goes wrong, record it rather than hiding it.
7. Submit and wait
Send your evidence pack for review, or have an adjudicator confirm the result on the day. Learn how records are verified.
Famous categories, in general
- Fastest times over set distances or tasks
- Longest durations of continuous activity
- Largest gatherings doing one thing together
- Biggest constructed objects or collections
- Most repetitions of a skill in a fixed time
A practical guide to world records: verification, planning, attempts