When a Scout does a merit badge, he is responsible for learning the information found in the Merit Badge manual, which is available at the Scout shop (or borrow from the troop library).  This manual defines the requirements and provides most if not all of the information needed.  The books are about $6. 

The free, on-line worksheets are printed forms that provide a nice, organized way to write out answers and keep track of evidence showing completed requirements. 

To complete some merit badges at camp, some requirements must be done beforehand, i.e. prerequisites.  The list of prerequisites is obtained a few months prior to camp. Many merit badges can be done all at camp, no prerequisites other than read the merit badge manual. 

MB cards are to be taken to camp for the Scout to have signed by the MB counselor at camp.  So, before camp, a Scout needs the merit badge manual(s), worksheet(s) printed, the prerequisites completed, and the merit badge blue card signed by his Scoutmaster. 

Several rank advancement requirements up to first class can also be done at camp, including Tot'n Chip and Firem'n Chit.

Do not focus on getting as many merit badges at camp as possible.  Doing a good job on a few is much more important.  To earn the Eagle Scout rank, a Scout must complete 21 merit badges, 15 are specifically identified as Eagle Required.  The others are of the Scouts choosing.  A Scout should plan to complete 5 to 7 merit badges per year.

Use these links to help with MB research:

• US Scouting Service Project

• MB Resources

• MB Worksheets

• Counselors Guide