From the years I've been competing, here's some mistakes that I've seen many teams, including ours, fall to. Once you become an established team (6+ years), you can be more tolerant to not following my two cents.
- Never underestimate the power of KISS. Everyone wants to make the awesome creative robot, but especially at this young of an age, realize what you can do and do that very well. Then you can focus on the other factors.
- It is unwise for the Baker to starve himself. It's harmful for both teams if you try to help others without having anything worthy and expendable to offer.
- Many teams get easily impressed by the top tier teams and make the mistake of trying too many things in one year. Instead, dedicate one team-making component to one year. Start off with the drive train. This way, even if you hit a bump later on, you still have a reliable drive.
- Whatever strategy you vote on, stick to it. Do not look back for too long, especially in Week 6. Which leads to the next point:
- The best solution to a problem during competition is rarely the most radical. Commit and improve, not invent.
- Avoid the oligarchy.