(From the website of the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America.)

The Scouting program has three specific objectives, commonly referred to as the "Aims and Methods of Scouting." They are:

• character development,
• citizenship training, and
• personal fitness.

The methods by which the aims are achieved are listed below. Each equally important

Ideals
The ideals of Boy Scouting are spelled out in the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, the Scout motto and the Scout slogan. The Boy Scout measures himself against these ideals and continually tries to improve. The goals are high, and as he reaches for them, he has some control over what and who he becomes.

Patrols
The patrol method gives Boy Scouts an experience in group living and citizenship. It places responsibility on young shoulders and teaches boys how to accept it. The patrol method allows Scouts to interact in small groups where they can easily relate to each other. These small groups determine troop activities through their elected representatives.

Outdoor Programs
Boy Scouting is designed to take the skills and activities practiced at troop meetings outdoors and make them come alive with purpose. In this setting, Scouts share responsibilities and learn to work together. The outdoors is the laboratory for Boy Scouts to learn ecology and practice conservation.

Advancement
Boy Scouting provides a series of challenges and opportunities for advancement and recognition. The Boy Scout plans his advancement and progresses at his own pace as he meets each challenge. The Boy Scout is rewarded for each achievement which helps him gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Boy Scout grow in his ability to help others.

Personal Growth
As a Boy Scout plans his activities and progresses toward his goals, he  experiences personal growth. He participates in community service projects and does Good Turns for others. The religious emblems program is also a large part of the personal growth method. Frequent conferences with the Scoutmaster help each Boy Scout to determine his growth toward Scouting's aims.

Leadership Development
The Boy Scout program encourages boys to develop leadership skills. Every Boy Scout has the opportunity to participate in both shared and total leadership situations. Understanding the concepts of leadership help a boy accept the leadership role of others and guides him toward the citizenship aim of Scouting.

Uniform
The uniform makes the Boy Scout troop visible as a force for good and creates a positive image in the community. Boy Scouting is an action program, and wearing the uniform demonstrates each Boy Scout's commitment to the aims and purposes of Scouting. The uniform gives the Boy Scout identity in a world brotherhood that share common ideals. The uniform is also practical attire for Boy Scout activities and provides a way for a Scout to wear the badges that show what he has accomplished.