Pre-Season (Weeks 0–1)

Goal: Get organized, learn the game, form roles

• Read and understand the game manual

• Watch game reveal and strategy breakdowns

• Form team roles (builders, programmers, CAD, scouts, etc.)

• Set up workspace, tools, inventory

• Download updated firmware, set up coding environment

Phase 1: Strategy & Design (Weeks 1–2)

Goal: Decide what your robot will do

• Brainstorm and analyze game strategies

• Watch early reveals or meta videos (optional)

• Decide on key functions (scoring method, mobility, defense)

• Sketch robot ideas and rough subsystems

• Begin CAD base ideas (if applicable)

Deliverable: Finalized robot strategy + basic design concept

Phase 2: Prototyping (Weeks 2–3)

Goal: Test different designs quickly

• Build simple prototypes for intakes, shooters, lifts, etc.

• Test different gear ratios, wheel types, rubber band tensions, etc.

• Evaluate for speed, power, and reliability

• Adjust design based on test results

Deliverable: Chosen subsystems + refined concept

Phase 3: First Robot Build (Weeks 3–5)

Goal: Build a functional full robot

• Build drive base, mount components

• Construct working intake, lift, scoring mech, etc.

• Install electronics + route wires cleanly

• Start coding drivetrain and basic controls

Deliverable: Full robot that can drive and start testing

Phase 4: Test & Iterate (Weeks 5–7)

Goal: Improve and refine performance

• Stress test mechanisms

• Fix weak points in structure or code

• Tune motor power, gear ratios, PID, etc.

• Record driving tests, fix wiring/weight issues

• Begin driver practice + programming skills

Deliverable: Consistent, reliable robot ready for competition

Phase 5: Finalize for Competition (Week 7–8+)

Goal: Prepare for your first tournament

• Do full inspection checklist (size, legality)

• Label ports, charge batteries, organize tools

• Final polish of autonomous + driving skills

• Practice under match conditions

• Submit judged awards (Engineering Notebook, online challenges, etc.)

Deliverable: Tournament-ready robot + notebook + team

Post-Competition Phase (Every Competition Cycle)

Goal: Improve and adapt after each event

• Reflect on performance (what worked / what failed?)

• Update design, rebuild/upgrade robot

• Retune autonomous or programming skills

• Refresh the Engineering Notebook

• Start preparing for next competition or States

Extra Points

• Build early, don’t wait until the last minute!

• CAD before you build if possible—it saves time.

• Document everything in the Engineering Notebook.

• Leave buffer time in case of rebuilds or setbacks.