Since a few of us might not be familiar with entering a model at Expo, I thought some useful tips from someone who's been judging for 15 years might come in handy.
* Always include the kit instruction sheet. If you have used any details sets that have instructions, include those too.
* Be concise with reference material. If your model is out of the box then the instructions will be fine. If you have changed the colour scheme from that supplied in the box, include the decal sheet reference too. If you've modeled and aircraft off a picture, supply those pictures with a note on the markings ie; markings from spares box, or painted on, whatever that may be. Don't leave whole books with 30 tabs in it, because judges won't have the time to look through it all. It's always an idea to include a little justification on the colours used if the picture is black and white.
* If you have done any modifications or added any parts, leave a note in your reference.
* Use dot points when explaining the above ie; photoetch seat belts added or quick boost exhausts used or even; painted in IJA Green as most fighters of this period were most likely to be. Don't write paragraphs, there is not time to read it.
* Be aware that your model might be picked up, especially if you make the first cut. If you like your kit to be picked up in a certain way, leave a note. If you'd like it not picked up, leave a note, but it would be nice to put a mirror under it so the judges can see underneath. I do this often.
* Check your leading and trailing edges of your model. I knock out more models for construction problems in these areas than another other single reason.
* Make sure your undercarriage is aligned properly. This is another point that knocks models out of the first cut eaisly.
* Take as much time on the lower surface construction as the top surface joints. You'd be surprised how many models you pick up only to see a massive panel line down the center of the fuselage.