Merit Badge Pamphlets: An official Boy Scout merit badge pamphlet has been created for the BSA by topic authorities for each merit badge. The pamphlets contain requirements, introductory information and supplemental reference text. A scout can purchase pamphlets from BSA, find them in a troop library, or often-times check them out from a public library. There is also a Requirements Booklet with a merit badge list for quick reference.

Each merit badge has a pamphlet that outlines the badge's fulfillment requirements. While a scout does not need to have a pamphlet to earn a badge, the pamphlet suggests activities and demonstrations to help the scout earn a badge. Counselors use pamphlets to learn a scout's requirements and create projects that are not listed in the pamphlet.