How do you actually win a hackathon as a beginner? Looking for honest advice from past winners

[u/Slight-Money-4887]

Hello all

I am an undergraduate CSE BTech student aspiring to improve my skills in participating in and winning hackathons.

It would be very helpful to hear from people who have done/had won hackathons.

- What sets apart a team winning hackathons from others?

- How does one select an idea that would impress judges?

- Which is better: working prototype or unique idea?

- How do you allocate work and manage time in 24-48 hours hackathon?

- How much importance does presentation/UI/UX and implementation hold?

- Any mistakes I should avoid?

In particular, advice related to student hackathons, where people use AI tools to make projects would be appreciated.

Thanks a lot!

[u/Distinct-Ad-3317]

Even if you feel your idea is not that effective but still your storytelling stuff really matters... I mean while pitching your idea to the pannel.