Structured Rubric Scoring
for Hackathons
Define weighted criteria, set custom scoring scales, and let judges evaluate every dimension that matters. Scores calculate automatically and update in real time.
How It Works
You define criteria like Innovation, Technical Execution, and Presentation. Each criterion gets a weight that determines its importance. Judges see a clean scoring interface on any device, rate each criterion on your chosen scale, and results calculate automatically.
You control the weight of each criterion
Set each criterion's weight as a percentage, like 50%, 30%, 20%. The system validates they add up to 100% and includes a quick "Equal" button to distribute weights evenly. Adjust at any time before judging starts.
Capabilities
Per-Track Scoping
Assign criteria to specific tracks so judges evaluate what matters for each category. An AI track might include "Model Accuracy" while a Design track includes "User Experience." General criteria apply across all tracks automatically.
Customizable Scales
Choose 1-5, 1-10, 1-100, or define your own range per criterion. Combined with percentage-based weights, each criterion contributes exactly how much you want to the final score.
Judge Feedback
Judges can leave optional written feedback alongside their numerical scores. Share this feedback with teams after judging to help them improve, or keep it internal for organizer review.
Live Score Dashboard
Monitor judging progress from your dashboard. See which judges have completed their reviews, per-criteria score breakdowns, and overall rankings, all updating as scores come in.
Rubric Scoring vs Top Picks
Use rubric scoring when...
- You have fewer than 50 submissions to review
- Multiple dimensions matter (technical, design, impact)
- You want granular, criteria-level feedback for teams
- Running technical or academic competitions
Use top picks when...
- You have 50+ submissions and speed is the priority
- Running audience or community voting rounds
- Demo day first-round screening
- Detailed criteria are not necessary for the format
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Build Your Judging Rubric?
Define your criteria, set weights, and let HackHQ handle the math. Fair, transparent results your participants will trust.
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