Wood Badge is advanced training in leadership development. There are two parts to Wood Badge training: learn the material in six days on course, and then practice the leadership skills in your Scouting position. This combination of hands-on, direct experience and application of leadership skills is incredibly effective. Wood Badge has served as a source of training and inspiration to thousands of Scouters, who, in their turn have affected the lives of millions of America's youth. Most participants also discover ways to not only to use the leadership skills in their Scouting positions but also to better their personal lives.

For six days in two 3-day weekends, you live, learn, and work with other Scouters, while being exposed to the leadership skills applicable to the development of both Scouters and Scouts. Through this living and working experience, you develop knowledge and practical understanding of these leadership skills. You will clarify what you want to accomplish in your Scouting position, and learn how to apply these skills to your Pack, Troop, Crew, Team, Ship, District or Council.

Subsequently, you practice these leadership skills to help make you successful in your Scouting position (you complete a ticket you write). A Guide helps you as a resource, a counselor, and a friend. Your Guide will assist you in fully understanding what you learned from the course, and will help you accomplish your goals in your Scouting position by applying that understanding.