I was able unofficially score 109.5 (16 right, 9 blank) and 114 (18 right, 3 wrong, 4 blank) as a sophomore with only a normal math education in school (precalculus). To my fellow high schoolers, it's definitely possible to do very well as long as you master your high school material! But make sure not to panic under the pressure and don't be afraid to spend several minutes on a problem if you need more time to think. @TheBeautyofMath I feel very inspired by your videos and I plan to spend some time working on the AOPS books over the summer so I can do even better next year.
Thank you for this feedback Kevin. It is encouraging to read. That kind of performance with no history of Competition Math prep is freaking phenomenal. It is as impressive to me as a well studied student getting a 140+. Outstanding job. I strongly feel the B score and possibly the A score will qualify you for AIME. I would begin preparation for it immediately as you won't know until a week before the test or so that you qualified for sure. At least based on how it went last year. I would start with the channel of Osman Nal. He has a lot of AIME content. Pause the video to attempt the problem before watching his solution.
This helps very much! I am in 8th grade going to 9th in 2 -3 months. I only have math knowledge till Algebra 1 and I'm very excited to start, regardless of if I do well or not. I do have experience in competitive programming, which might help.
I think it will definitely help Swayam, the competitive programming, especially with managing test anxiety and performance anxiety, the more we take upon ourselves such timed events, the more we become applicated to time based performance pressure. I wish you luck in the journey of mathematical discovery. It's a fun one. :) Thank you for the comment!
Hey, I don't know if you still comment on old videos but here I am. I just participated in the amc 8 earlier today and have been using your videos for some guidance. First I just wanted to say thank you for giving me a sense of direction for where I should go for the amc 8, however as I am in 8th grade right now, I should probably be aiming for the amc 10 if I want to pursue this math journey (as you said people above 8th grade cannot participate in the amc.8). In my opinion, I think terribly at the amc 8 earlier today, and honestly I feel demotivated even though I only had one month of practice (which I'm guessing is not enough at all for me to be proficient at these tests). Along with that, I feel like I don't really fit into this type of mathematical rigor due to how I just don't feel good enough, even though I aspire to be and enjoy the joy and satisfaction. So I was just wondering, what type of direction should I go in now? Should I get some of the AOPS books and start learning the fundamental concepts that I couldn't grasp while only studying for a month or do you think I should go down a different route as I felt like I started too late as you said that 7th graders should be considering the AMC 10.
I try to respond to every comment of substance when time permits. Even on old videos. My personal opinion is...do you enjoy the act of learning? Do you enjoy the Ah-Ha moments when intricate problems just click and come together? Will you pursue anything in the STEM fields? If the answer to any of those questions is yes...then...stop competing. Don't do the AMC as a Competition. Don't try to be better than your peers. Just try to improve yourself. Do it for fun. Do it for the beauty of the problems. For their careful design. So yes. I would start absolutely self studying or with a tutor the AoPS books. For entering 9th grade. The 2 I would most focus on is Into to Counting and Probability, and Intro to Number Theory. Do them not to dominate in Competition Math. But to learn fascinating ideas and logical concepts. Then who knows. I know a student who never did amy Comp Math until the summer of her 8th into 9th grade year. She still qualified for AIME just 9 months after the first began to prepare. It's never too late if you find the ideas fun to learn.
Hi! I’m a 7th grader who is going to take the AMC 10 in less than 2 weeks. I haven’t taken the practice competition yet because I wanted to wait until I feel like I am ready for it. When I was told that I qualified for the AMC 10, I studied with my sister (25) to prepare myself. However, I have been given a lot of school work recently. I haven’t been able to study for the AMC 10 in an entire week. I don’t even know why I am here. I’m just stressed and overwhelmed. I think I lost all my motivation to study over the past few days. Your videos have been very helpful for me, thank you so much! I’m still having trouble understanding some things, so I really need to continue studying. Well, umm, bye for now!
Priority One: Stop Stressing. It will achieve nothing. You explained that you didn't really study for it. This is ok. Many people start in the same boat, thrust into taking the test with no prep because their school selected them based on school performance. Honestly, don't stress. Let's say you completely "fail". I will low ball your score and say you get a 60. For a 7th grader, that would mean you did better than roughly 40% of all 7th graders and 50% of all students from all grades. That is honestly not bad for a first time test taker with no prep whatsoever. Most people who do well have studied for at least a year, often for several years, and have done every test from 2000 to 2020. You haven't. That means...don't worry about your score. Do not take the test in less than 2 weeks stressing about what your score means. You know what it means? It means you had the courage to take the test. That's it. Just do the best you can with your limited knowledge and understand that many of the other competitors have had several years of experience. So what. If I played golf with a seasoned pro...I would get destroyed. So what? Just have fun. Enjoy the problems. Make a decision if you like these kind of problems to begin preparation for your 8th grade year competition. This year should be just about getting a feel for the timing, the difficulty...and most important...the mistakes. The mistakes are what teach us. Get ready to make a lot. That's what rookies do. Make mistakes and learn from them. Stop stressing...enjoy the competition and forget about your score. Then in subsequent years begin a journey of improvement. Don't be scared. Don't be intimidated. You got this. Have fun, and feel free to share your thoughts about the test in another comment after you take it. But you should definitely do a few recent tests to get your feet wet before jumping in the pool.
@@TheBeautyofMath Hello again! I didn’t expect that you would reply to me. Your inspiring words have definitely helped reduce my stress. I recently took the practice competition, and just like you predicted, I got a score of 60. At least it gave me a better idea of what I need to study. I will come back after the day of the competition!
@@procrastinatingcat6195 I make it a point to reply to every substantive comment on my channel. Some day perhaps I will not have time to do so, but I do now, so I will always make the effort until it is no longer possible. But some comments it does take me a few days to respond if I am really busy. Glad to hear of the change in perspective. Good luck!
This is the tracking form my students use, I will explain it more fully in a future video, but for now you can access it here: docs.google.com/document/d/1cDguzR8ktpsE1z_ClVCu0AsLB_T28JADFEu3tHYdUcQ/edit?usp=sharing
Hello, I am currently a 9th grader taking Algebra 2 and Geometry and I want to understand math intuitively. I searched up the best way to learn math intuitively and I found someone who suggested the AoPS books and courses. I looked at some of the AoPS courses and textbooks and am interested in doing some of them. I asked my algebra 2 teacher at my school who has taught both the schools geometry and algebra 2 curriculum and she said that we won't be going as in depth as the content in the AoPS courses. I tried taking the post-tests for the introduction to algebra courses and did well on the Intro to Alg A test but the Intro to Alg B test gave me some trouble. I also tried taking some of the tests for the Intro to Counting + Probability and the Intro to Number Theory. Honestly, I had even more trouble on these tests than the Intro to Alg B test because my school hasn't really covered any of these topics. I want to learn the content in both of these Number Theory and Counting + Probability books as well as an in-depth course on Algebra. I want to be ready to take the Intermediate Algebra course during the summer, however, I'm not sure if I will be ready since I had trouble with the Intro to Alg B test and I know that my Alg 2 class won't go in-depth enough to cover this, so do you think it would be a good idea to enroll in the Intro to Alg B course and self-study the Intro to Number Theory and the Intro to Counting + Probability books so that I will be ready for the Intermediate Alg course in the summer, or should I enroll in a different course and then self-study the other two in order to be prepared for Intermediate Alg in the summer. Thank you so much!
Have a lot going on with the tests right around the corner. But the Number Theory and Counting and Probability are not just not taught at your school. It's virtually every school with maybe an exception here and there in some elite district or private school. It's a tough call on the AoPS course to take. I am not as familiar with their courses as their texts. I would not be the best one to give advice then on that aspect, and so will refrain from doing so. I offer classes using both the Intro to Counting and Probability and the Intro to Number Theory book which you can find at my website: www.thebeautyofmath.net In my course I go through virtually every problem in the text with the students with a mixture of assigned problems and problems done together. The self study can also work though, I would just highly recommend if going through as self study that you skip nothing. There are a handful of sections at the beginning of each text that you probably could gloss over. But I would be really careful as there are extremely important connections made in non-descript passages that really help tie it together. So that means doing the gray box questions AND reading their solutions even if you got it right. The reading passages surrounsing those solutions are really important also to gaining better mastery. Also definitely attempt all the challenge problems at end of chapter, along with review and section and exercises. Basically: Don't skip anything to get the maximum benefit. Shoot me an email if you have further questions, as sometimes I set comments aside that are important to respond later but then it gets buried in to do list and I forget. Check AoPS forums to see what others recommend about classes: Middle School forum and Contest Forum. Try doing searches. :) Good luck!
hello, thank you so much for the helpful video! I'm currently in 8th grade this year, and last year i scored a 91.5 for the 10a, but I didn't have any practice for it at all. so far, I've done Counting and Probability and Intro to Algebra on aops, and I'm hoping to score about a 105 this year, and I've just purchased the volume 1 aops book! besides that, would you recommend anything else to score higher? also, by 9th or 10th grade, I'd like to qualify for AIME, so would you have any tips to increase my chances of qualifying? thank you so much!
I'd say with that base score you have an excellent shot to achieve all that you have listed. Don't skip any reading in Volume 1. A lot of really important concepts are hidden in nondescript passages. There will be times when the reading is boring and feel you probably know everything on the page, read it anyway just in case. Do all problems. If you struggle at proofs and end up just reading the solution...that's ok but make a list of all proofs, and if you ever qualify for USAJMO then revisit those fornexyra practice. For studying techniques, watch this and see if it helps. I recommend using the highlight/organized detail method on minimum 1 to 2 questions per past test. ruclips.net/video/Kku2CzkoboA/видео.html
Hi! This video helped a lot with my prep for the AMC 12. I don't know if you still comment on old videos I'm an incoming junior preparing for the AMC 12 to hopefully qualify for the AIME. I'm super new to competition math, but from what I've seen from it so far it seems really fun and interesting, and so I really want to get better at it and hopefully make the AIME. Last year, I took the AMC 10 as a sophomore without practicing at all and was super lost as I've never seen a lot of those types of questions before (I scored a 75/150, bad I know, and every question after #15 I couldn't answer). I'm starting to learn using AOPS volume 1, but I can't afford buying all the other AOPS books (like intro to geo, algebra, nt, etc.) to prepare. I was just wondering what else I should and can do after that in order to prepare fully and hopefully get a good score on the AMC 12 this fall. Also, for 100% knowing when you are right, how do you make sure you do this? Is it just familiarity and practice with those types of problems?
Hi, thank you. Yes I try to respond to all comments of substance when I can even on old videos. Send me an email on my channel email or through my website and we can set up time for a zoom consultation to answer more in depth. Your experience of being very lost is quite normal for the uninitiated and everyone has that feeling when they are first exposed to this kind of thinking. It's not like school math at all, and imo is a lot more fun. You might try the budget version of this video( ruclips.net/video/e_dA6XH5lVM/видео.html ) also for those with less ability to afford classes and books. I think I make suggestions in there about how to ethically acquire the texts without having to resort to piracy(Libraries, math clubs, etc.) For knowing you are right, there isn't one way but rather it's unique to each problem type and how many associated mental tools you have mastered in order to approach the problem in more than one way and have your answers confirm each other along with your ability to calculate quickly. Getting a late start is a major challenge, but if you make the sacrifice (don't doom scroll apps, have a VERY focused summer with time dedicated while still maintaining a healthy enough family/social life, but fight laziness at every turn-see the self-discipline videos series, especially the 3rd one). Finally the NUMBER one resource is the past competitions. It gets a lot of tried and true problem types and concepts exposed to your mind in a short time frame. Study all available solutions even the ones you got right to learn different techniques. If they mention something you don't know about, then search that up on Khan Academy or other YT channels etc. But I would start back in the year 2000 tests and even though they are easier, start building a mental database of problem formats and get exposed to more concepts. You can even do AMC 8's now and then to learn concepts. Hope this helps. Let me know how it goes.
I’m a sophomore in Calc BC, but I’ve never done math competitions and am thinking of getting into it this year. I have 2 main questions: 1. Would you recommend for me to take the AMC 10 or 12? I’ve heard that there are many overlapping questions and the curve on the 12 is more generous. 2. What resources would you recommend for me to use in order to prepare for the test?
I would start with AoPS PreAlgebra. It will build a solid core. Don't skip any challenge though. The first chapter should be calculated only mentally. If you cannot do the calculations in your head, it's most likely because you are the lacking the correct thought process by which it is done. Some chapters might be easier but you should at minimum do the challenge from each chapter. If you don't get 90% plus right on the first attempt then do the whole chapter. After that Intro to Counting and Probability is the next best topic. Then perhaps NT/Algebra/Geo in either order. Volume 1 is a decent summary of the intro series and a great problem set but more geared towards AMC 10 fundamental ideas. It evem has AMC 12 only topics like logs. But if you have time to do the Intro series it collectively is better than Volume 1 as it goes deeper into the topics. I did not find Competition Math for Middle School to be that worthwhile, but not a waste of time. Just minimal value comparatively. I found a few good problems in there and concepts but 95% of the content is covered in the Intro Series.
@@TheBeautyofMath As I have only two month left away from AMC 8, I think I can not finish the remaining intro series ( CP and NT ). Do you recommend volume 1 or Competition math for middle school as a summary of those remaining intro series? I have done some of the parts of volume 1 and competition math for middle school. I personally felt competition math for middle school's combinatorics part had more detail then volume 1's.
Hi, I just want to say that all your content is very helpful. I'm currently in 9th grade and I have never done any AMC or competition math. In 2 years I would like to be able to do the AMC 12 and do well on it. I feel like I lack some fundamental skills to do the questions like all the formulas and things. When I watch your videos on questions I sometimes get really confused because I just didn't learn the concepts. My current study method is just to read a questions and most of the time I don't know how to do it so I just watch one of your videos then do it again by myself. I'm not sure if this is the best method to study but solving a question on my own Is basically impossible. Would you be able to give me some advice on how to study , some resources that I could use and how I could catch up to everyone and be able to do AMC 12?
There are unfortunately a LOT of concepts and techniques used in Competition Math that are simply not taught in traditional school in traditional classes. Sometimes Honors teachers will touch upon them, but the main resource I would use for beginning your journey to Competition success would be Volume 1 from AoPS. This is the most essential piece of foundational wide coverage material that every preparing student should use in my opinion. (This is an affiliate marketing link, so I could get paid if you use it to purchase) artofproblemsolving.com/store/item/aops-vol1?TheBeautyofMath AIME is essentially the 2nd Round of the AMC 10 and AMC 12. If you score in around the top 2.5% or better on the AMC 10, or in the top 5% or better on the AMC 12 then you are invited to take the American Invitational Mathematics Examination(AIME). 3 hour test. 15 questions. 12 minutes per question. It's a pretty prestigious accomplishment. In my opinion. You can read more about it here: www.maa.org/math-competitions/invitational-competitions As for a method of organizing the study process and getting the most out of it, I suggest the methodology I demonstrate in this video, with maybe diagramming 1 or 2 questions of choice per test, if there is no time for that, then the small formula and concept notebook is absolutely essential. That video can be found in this playlist(HOW to STUDY) here, along with other great info like the tracking form to track progress. ruclips.net/p/PL-27w0UNlunw0THga8IJPD4CjSMP9lxnk If you put forth the effort and are diligent, and most importantly enjoy the journey, I think you have a great shot at scoring well on the AMC 12 in 2 years time. I hope you continue on your path to success, and please comment on the channel to ask advice whenever you like. I hope this helps. Enjoy your day. :)
You can try using amc trivial, it's good for changing the difficulty of the problems, and the category that you are trying to study. You can start from easier problems and slowly work your way up. Good luck!! :D
I'm currently a freshman at my high school and I intend to take the AMC 10 at 10th grade. I currently have no prior math competition experience nor have I studied properly for such exams before. I only have just started studying the Art of Problem Solving Volume 1 book and I feel concerned about being incompetent as I think I won't have enough time to properly prepare (I also plan to solve a lot of past year AMC 10 problems later on when I am familiar with the AoPS Vol 1 topics). Personally, I am pretty good at math (evident from grades and my mathematical learning pace), but AMC 10 math is giving me a lot of anxiety. I feel like I'll fail miserably during the test and miss my shot with AMC 10, and this feeling worries me to death. I really want to do good on this test to not only include it in my college application, but to improve my math skills and going through the journey of accomplishing a task such as this. I would like to know if studying the AoPS Vol 1 book first then doing a lot of past year problems is an appropriate study plan to achieve a good score on the AMC 10. Thank you for taking the time to read this long comment.
Hi Seonguk, thank you for the comment. I did not reply right away, mostly because of lack of time. When I reply, I want to make sure I can respond with an authentic thought and that amount of time when other responsibilities were not of higher priority just did not materialize. I understand exactly these feelings of anxiety and fear of "failing". They are not abnormal. I can say only that...if you don't take the test at all, if you don't try to accomplish the goal, or to climb the mountain, then you would in fact have already failed. Throughout life, you will face many daunting tasks. They don't all have checklists about which to navigate them, but the most important thing we can do is take them on. To not allow the fear of failure to defeat us before we begin. You are incompetent. All of us are. When we start. We worry then that though we invest the time we will not achieve the desired outcome. The secret then is to change the desired outcome. Or at least modify it. Give additional parameters. The "award" is but one reason to begin the journey. Beginning the journey IS the success. Paradigm shift. Other videos I have that will help you with all of this are primarily AIME Mindset: ruclips.net/video/oXqhZBhGAcs/видео.html , and from this last fall "The only way out is through": ruclips.net/video/bJZcp4Ip0j0/видео.html What you suggest is a fine study plan. The most important thing is to do it 5 or 6 days out of 7 for 30 minutes to an hour, or about 5-6 hours a week. Regardless of your performance on the test, your critical thinking, and creative problem solving, and mathematical acumen will grow by leaps and bounds. Good luck, and let me know in comments if I can help, I have classes also if interested(you can find more info on my website). :)
I think so. I did one MathCounts video if you search my channel and an AMC8 livesolve last year with somewhat poor lighting. There is honestly just so much to film and so little time. It won't be a focal point, but here and there I definitely will add a problem or two.
Hi! First I want to say this video was incredibly informative, and I plan to engage in many of the courses and resources mentioned. My only question is this: I’m currently a sophomore in high school. I have very little math competition experience, and I struggle a lot with geometry and combinatorics. I recently tried an old AMC12 test, only to find I struggled with a majority (3 to 4 out of 5 questions per page). I was wondering whether or not you think I’d be able to manage studying enough until next October to manage a decent score on the AMC12 in the fall of 2022 (
I personally taught a competent student with no Competition Math experience heading into their Freshman year started studying same time as you about 6 months before. Had never done an AoPS book or any tests. She qualified. So yes it's possible. You will need to really focus on it though with a minimum average daily investment of 1 hour. The more the better. Take some days off here and there. Add extra time on some other days. I would start with Volume 1. It's the best catch all foundational material. After that Intro to Counting and Probability is my recommendation followed by Intro to NT. If you finish all of those by end of summer then throw in Geometry maybe, but that one coming in at your age...you might want to skip some of the early reading and just do the questions. I also will have a class beginning in first or 2nd week of June that covers every past AMC 12 from year 2000 to present, if you are interested just email me at the email on my about page. But you can absolutely do this. If you don't achieve it...then the worst that happens is you got much better at math and improved your critical thinking and creative problem solving skills. Not a bad deal.
Hi, I come from a working class family in the Midwest. I do really well in school and I want to challenge myself. However because I am not an economically privileged middle class student I am not sure if I can afford those books you mentioned from the AOPs website. I do have some money saved up from garage sale and I work part time (20 hours per week) and would love to buy all them books. Is it possible for someone from a working class background to succeed in AMC 12? My goal is to be USAMO qualified.
Absolutely. I myself had no tutors or classes. You will be at a disadvantage...accept it...carry it like a chip on your shoulder if need be...then overcome it. Check out the BUDGET version for tips: ruclips.net/video/e_dA6XH5lVM/видео.html
Hey man. I loved this video, and you seem to be a great man who is truly dedicated to helping kids. I took the AMC 8 in the eighth grade and scored an abysmal 7/25 without studying. It's now the summer before my ninth grade and I want to qualify for AIME. How should I prepare over the summer? I'm doing geometry and algebra 2 in the ninth grade. Thanks for replying if you do
Of course. I try to reply to everyone when I am able. Thank you for the compliments. Don't worry about the AMC 8 score. But my guess is without seeing how fast you learn of course, but based on experience I would say you have a much better chance qualifying for AIME as a 10th grader. It will be very difficult to acquire AIME level skills in only 8 months time. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't try. You will need to likely abandon all nonessential time consumers like social media/video games if you are to qualify as a freshman. That's a tough sacrifice for many to make. Even then, no guarantee, but it will increase your chances. Start with AoPS Volume 1. Cover to cover. Ver batim. Skip nothing. There are many gems hidden in passages with no attention drawn to them. First chapter is easy, will lull you into thinking you can skip content. To be safe, don't. Start with AMC 10 year 2000. March through all tests until 2020 tests. 2 a week in the summer, 1 a week once school starts. Guess in nothing. Not worth it. Only 2 things. Know. Or don't know. If you know, read other solutions any way to see if there are time saving shortcuts or different interesting approaches. If you don't know, then seek to learn. If you must guess on the actual test, you do so at your own peril. But never do so in practice. Watch from my channel the Tracking Form video and use it to keep track of progress. After watch the AIME Mindset video. Try not to skip around in those videos. Lots of useful thoughts and information are given. After Volume 1 attack your weaknesses. Usually this is probability. Do the intro to probability book. Whatever you can't afford try to buy used. Let me know if this helps. Leave me comments to tell me about your progress. Stay safe.
@@TheBeautyofMath thanks for the advice. I have volume 1, but I find some portions advanced cuz I haven't studied those topics in school. But yes it is a great book. Edit: subbed for great content. Please do more AMC 10 walk-throughs, I found them extremely thorough and helpful
Absolutely. Please make specific test requests or problem requests. If I am able to understand the concept I will prioritize the request. Thanks for the sub.
@@TheBeautyofMath hey. So I was thinking that since some people may not be able to get their hands on an AOPS book, due to the price or some other problems. I was wondering if you could do an educational series on different topics that come up on these tests. Like combinatorics, probability, algebra, geometry, etc. If you want an example of what I'm talking about, maybe check out 3blue 1brown's series on the essence of calculus. I hope to see you do something like that, but more geared towards competition math. Obviously, I understand if you don't want to do this. It was just a video suggestion that I think might help all AMC test takers. Thanks for reading, really hope you consider doing this(but I understand if you don't wanna!)
You are absolutely correct Viradeus. This is on my creation list. I did one for a couple topics, one being Heron's formula derivation. But the primary goal is to get for starters every single AMC 10 problem from 2000 to present in video format as these problems have the highest demand and get the most views and watch time. However now that I am getting a significant number uploaded inbetween other requests I intend to do exactly as you have suggested. Thank you for the channel check out suggestion, I will indeed look at their videos and see how they develop the concepts for reference. 👍
This is a great video, but I'd argue that your preparation need not be this intense (or start in elementary school) just to qualify for the AIME. I tutor US sophomores and juniors for the AMC, and here's what I'd say to you viewers in that age group: A solid US high school math curriculum will get you great algebra and good precalc. You'll need to review some things, but you can do that with your strong foundation. What you really need to learn on the side is as much counting/probability and geometry as you can, and number theory if you have time. You probably can answer next to zero on these topics just with your high school curriculum. Counting and probability is not too bad. The AoPS intro volume is great and slim, and once you get a feel for how to count, you'll fly through it. Geometry is more challenging, however. Most students do basically nothing in their 8th/9th grade geometry class, and the AoPS intro book is thick and difficult. You have a lot to learn. But it will put you over the top if you can get through it. Many questions in that crucial #10-19 range of the AMC12 require geometry. Then use AoPS vol. 1 and previous AMCs for practice problems. Vol. 1 is great, but there's not much explanation, so it's tough to use it to learn new material.
Great feedback. Yes the opinions expressed in the video are my own, and by no means the only plan of attack. I only wished to provide a rough outline of a potential plan of attack. But different people with different ability levels and financial resources should adjust as necessary. I just know, most of my AIME qualifiers and those who make it beyond the AIME, nearly all started in 6th grade or sooner with some kind of prep. But there is a handful that yes, began studying only in 8th grade for like 1 year and qualified this year as a freshman. So certainly there is room for other individual plans. Great comment, and thanks for being a teacher also, the world needs more of that.
@@TheBeautyofMath Fair enough. I'd argue that there's a significant gap between AIME qualification and actually being able to do AIME problems (or the hardest AMC problems). 14 questions right (and everything else blank) on the AMC12 is basically an auto-qualify, and this year 11 right was enough. That's not an impossible goal for a strong student with a few months of preparation. But in any case great channel man, will def be sending some students to your videos
You are exactly correct. The difference between qualifying for the AIME and performing well on it(10+) or even performing moderately well (5+) is quite significant. It's why I tell most students preparing that qualifying for AIME is actually a significant accomplishment. Well slightly diminished this year as they accepted over 5% for both the A and B test on the AMC 10. But still top 5% amongst the top math students in the country(my guess is all of them have very high grades in their math classes at minimum) is really likely top 0.1% of msth students in the nation. On the other hand many great mathematicians did not perform well in competition math. So no one should think they cannot be a math major simply because they never qualified for AIME or USAMO etc. Not saying you think that, moreso, if anyone else reads this comment, I wish not to discourage any future Mathematicians. To be honest the 14 questions right tactic was the one I used on my Senior year to qualify. Back then though, there was no AoPS, or access to previous tests. I sometimes get jealous of the amount of content available to study for today's generation lol. Anyhow, as you are a fellow educator I really appreciate you offering feedback. If you have any other suggestions for content or opinions to offer I will value it highly. Thank you again.
Hi. I am in 9th grade, and I had about 2 weeks of amc10 practice, and I did 2017-2023A practice tests and understood the problems. Even though I spent so much time, I did horribly on AMC10B 2023, not even scoring a 10/25. What do I do now?
Sorry for late reply on this. Not sure why I didn't get a notice. Contact me through my website or the email shown on my RUclips profile, I am happy to meet with you on Zoom at no cost and discuss a plan of either self study, or working with any tutor, me or otherwise. I think the question is too open ended to answer in comments, and is better answered conversationally. Good luck in your studies either way.
Hi, I'm going into 9th grade and i'm taking the AMC 10B in about 2 1/2 months. In 8th grade I did the test and I didn't do that good. I want to start from scratch and make an entirely new plan for these upcoming months. I have many resources including you but I was wondering If you could tell me how I can budget my time wisely. Ex. 1 or 2 months of learning or exploring topics I struggle and a 1/2 month doing practice contests. Thank you so much and I love your content!
Send me an email on my channel about page, and I will give a free zoom consultation and give you a plan, you don't need to sign up for classes, I will help regardless, but easier to do that way. You can also message through my website found on my channel page too.
Great question. I will make a video explaining the tracking form in detail soon. ANS is an abbreviation for total questions ANSWERED. I advocate not guessing on the test. There is only 2 things. Know or don't know. If you know the concepts/strategy be sure to not make mistakes. If you don't know, then you have identified a topic for further study. So if you are answering 20 questions but getting 7 wrong...then the number Answered should be going down on average. Try answering only the first 15 under timed conditions. Check and double check all answers with extra time. Answer other questions to challenge yourself and grow later not under timed conditions. If you get all 15 right or you get 1 or no more than 2 wrong, consider attempting 16 on the next test, and then 17 and so on. The goal is to build confidence gradually. Answering 23 to 25 questions in 75 minutes might create too much pressure for some students to go faster and make silly mistakes. If we reduce the goal to 15 questions when we are in training, then do those silly mistakes still occur when the time pressure is significantly reduced? 15 questions is 5 minutes per question average whereas 25 questions is 3 minutes per question average. Forcing the student to spend more time per question reduces mistakes. Once we get down to 1 or 0 mistakes...we increase the time pressure and number of questions slightly. Always in increments. The most important skill on the test is the skill of not making mistakes. Example if you feel you will need to answer 16 questions with no mistakes for a total score of 109.5 and you end up making 2 mistakes there goes your AIME qualification. So we want to track the total number of questions ANSwered for the above reason. Test code is just like 2012A meaning the 2012 AMC 10A. Or 12A if using it for AMC12 tracking. Usable means this: 1. Did you cheat to get one of the questions correct? (Google etc.) If so then it's not a usable score because it tells us nothing about your true ability. 2. Did your dog die the day before you took the test and you are shedding tears while answering the questions? I.e. were you under severe emotional duress during the mock test that would cause you to not perform up to your ability level? Then you put N for No. It's not a usable test for tracking purposes because you were not yourself. 3. Did you take it on the car ride to Vegas while suffering car sickness from reading while driving? Then not a usable test. Basically anything out of the ordinary that would affect your performance. If none of those things apply and the majority of the time they shouldn't unless you live a dramatic life...then put Y for yes.
Thanks very much for your detailed reply. I have a question regarding your statement about guessing. What if I was able to eliminate 1 or 2 answers from the choices. Would you recommend guessing then?
In practice tests definitely no. Unless you are going to make a note that you guessed and go back later to learn the underlying concepts. Reason: If you guess and get it right, you might not go back to learn the proper way. As for during an actual test with AIME qualification riding on the result...I know someone who as a Sophomore thought they needed to guess in order to qualify on one problem. Turned out the cutoff was lower than they were expecting. They had eliminated 3 answers and took the 50/50 chance. They got it wrong and missed qualifying by 1.5 points. That's a nightmare scenario for sure, but are you willing to risk it? I think in some situations it is plausible. I.e. you just answered 24 questions and are confident in your responses, you have definitely qualified for AIME and have a strong foundation for a USAMO push. If you guess right on 25 you accomplish the ever elusive perfect score. Maybe then. In general, I think it's too much risk. Other teachers/coaches might think differently. I can tell you what I think and advocate for you to not guess. But what if you miss qualifying by 3 points and the answer you thought it was was correct? I don't want to be blamed for that either, so I leave it up to the student to use guessing in very specific situations as determined by the student. The general rule to go by though is don't guess unless you feel you have a very valid reason to do so. I.e. you are extremely experienced and feel you have a really good idea of what the cutoff will be and this one question is the difference in your mind of qualifying or not. Just be careful.
I loved ur video, and it helped sooo much!! I am in 9th grade, and I have access to a lot of resources (thank goodness!). I have finished all 5 years of Beast Academy books (
I think first, doing every problem in each of the books is important. The harder the problem the more important it is usually. So all Challenge problems from the Intro series at least should be done to completion. Preferably the review as well. If you want to set up a free Zoom consultation after this year's AMC's(I am too busy prior)I would be happy to talk with you and your parents about a plan for the next year and how to better utilize the materials mentioned. Just have them or you can send me an email at the email listed on my about page and I will respond when I am able to set up a consultation time.
Hi, I recently discovered your channel and it's soo helpful! I would like to qualify for the AIME by taking the AMC 10 next year or the year after, but I feel like I'm too slow. In 8th grade, I got 20 questions right on the AMC 8 (I didn't really study oops), and I'm an incoming freshman. I took the AoPS Intro to Counting and Probability and Intro to Number Theory classes recently, as well as school geometry last year. What should I do next? How do I improve quicker? When I look at the practice test, it takes me too long.
Ok so finally getting to this. I am sorry for the delay. I know compared to some AoPSer's a 20 on the AMC 8 might seem not good. But it's actually a really good score. Have you done any practice AMC 10's? If so, which years, and what were your scores? Definitely Volume 1. Cover to cover. Don't skip anything, no matter how easy...there are some things I habe students skip...like 1 or 2 pages in chapter 1, but that's about it. There are many things hidden in nondescript paragraphs that are very important that can be easily missed if you are skim reading. If your goal is AIME qualification and possibly USAMO, maybe don't stress the proofs? Attempt them, and read there solutions, but if you can't think of anything at all concerning it, consider just reading the solution to save time as there are no proofs on either of the AMC 10 or AIME, at the same time they are still important for connecting various concepts in your mind, so attempt them, but don't get discouraged if you don't do well with the proofs. I am unfamiliar with those classes at AoPS. I know the books...but in the class do they cover all the content in the books? Start with the year 2000 AMC 10's. They are easier, and will slowly build your skill base and confidence. Read solutions to all problems, not just ones you got wrong or skipped. The reason? Learn different ways of thinking about problems. It will increase your speed and give you more access to more tools on difficult problems. Hope this helps. :) thanks for patience.
Thank you so much for this video! I am a current sophomore, and took the AMC 10 this year for the first time. However, I struggled with a lot of the problems. I'm currently taking calculus and doing well in the class, but I didn't prepare much for the AMC this year and scored poorly. How would you suggest preparing for the AMC 12, given I'm starting math olympiads later in high school? How much would you recommend studying each day? If I start now, is there a chance of making it to AIME? Thank you!!
I had a student about 5 years ago who started preparing summer of her 8th grade year. At this time the test was in Jan/Feb. She had never done any AMC prior. She prepared from May through January doing past tests and completing most of Volume 1. She qualified as a Freshman in her first attempt. 100% it can be done, you even have a small advantage of being slightly older, and therefore can learn harder concepts easier, or their Competition Level modifications. Calculus doesn't really help. once every 1000 problems Calc could be used like a derivative or something as a solve process, but it's NEVER needed. School math doesn't help that much other than basic familiarity. I would target all past AMC 12's from 2000 to present. I would also target Volume 1 COVER TO COVER no skipping anything. Even the reading. If you only have time for one book that is the one. If you can afford to work with a tutor/teacher then that will increase your returns on time investment, and show you solving mechanics that goes beyond the solution shown in the book discussing many other aspects for problem solving on Competitions such as speed, being sure you are correct, managing thoughts and stress, etc. I currently have an AMC Fundamentals class that uses Volume 1 as the text on Saturdays from 4-6 Pacific time that is discounted almost 50%($35 for 2 hour class). We are just starting Chapter 4. You can try the class before deciding(risk-free trial). There are still 3 spots left as of now. If you are going to achieve the result, whether you work with me, someone else, or self study...it doesn't matter. Set your determination and be disciplined and pursue it with all you can. In the end whether you succeed or failed, you gain in comprehension, and you will have given your best shot. Believe that you can do it. If you think you can't...you can't. Think you can...then you can. My email is on my about page under business inquiry email. You have to click for it to show to protect from spammers. Either way...good luck. You can do it.
Is it possible to qualify for the AIME if I start preparing in the summer of my sophmore year. I am in 10th grade and I have finished AP calc BC. I have done a couple of practice tests before in 8th grade but didn't do any intensive prep. Thanks!
Possible: yes. An easy feat? Not by any means. It will require an immense sacrifice of time and dedication and resolve. Tbh school math ability while important as it is the foundation Competition Math is built on, isn't going to be nearly enough. You will be taking the AMC 12 Junior and Senior year if you choose to. You need to be in about the top 5% of test takers to qualify. So out of every hundred people you need to score better than 95 of them. Extremely naturally talented students(and it sounds like you may be one of those) have been able to accomplish AIME qualification with only one year prep. While Calculus is not required for any question, there have been instances where using it might save a couple minutes on a problem. I would probably start by completing the contests from 2000 to 2010, both A and B versions which began in 2002 and keep track of your scores. The old tests will be easier but a fair portion of the test is built on historical concepts or new twists on old procedures used to solve a particular problem. So being aware and understanding what those processes looked like will give a distinct benefit when approaching next years test. Ideally for all of those tests or the majority of them you should score over 100.(6 points for each right, 0 points for each wrong, 1.5 points for each skip) The higher the score the better. Whatever you don't get right or that takes too long to solve consult the solutions and seek to understand them. Even for things you get right, consult solutions to see if a faster method of solving exists. I would do 2 tests a week at minimum starting as soon as possible. After you get to 2010, switch gears and study concepts by starting with Volume 1 from AoPS as it covers a majority of topics lightly. Don't skip any chapters, or content, even the easy stuff, there are often hidden gems of concepts with no attention drawn to them, hidden in an example in the middle of a chapter on a nondescript page. Try to cover 2 chapters or so a week, give or take some content depending on length of chapter and amount of free time available. Make decisions about other AoPS books you want to prioritize. Remember that Competition level thinking is really different from school level thinking so even doing books like Geometry or intro to Counting and Probability are not a waste of time. All of it will benefit you in your quest. Beginning about October or November begin test taking again starting with 2011 and working through 2020 again tracking progress. If you exhaust all of the content, there is always more content to consume, many students report doing AIME questions greatly helped them prepare for AMC12 as well. If you set your mind to it, something tells me you are someone who can make it to AIME and possibly even USAMO, but you must be committed to the task and believe in yourself.
@@TheBeautyofMath I should finish all of the AMC 10/12 practice tests and also complete AoPS volume 1. If I do so, will that be sufficient prep for AIME qualification. I will probably start my preparation today, but I will have a TON more time over the summer.
@@prathambabaria5834 yes and no. It will kind of depend on how well you score. If you are always getting above 130 on AMC 10 and always above 120 on AMC12, it just might be enough, if you are getting lower than that, you should use other resources to shore up weaknesses as they occur by topic. But what you describe is an excellent foundation. Some questions are the same on both tests, so I would do the 10's first if you are going to do both, then go back and do the 12's after time has passed and your brain is able to forget at least some of the solution paths. Use the tracking form or multiple copies that is linked in the description to try and track progress.
This is very helpful. I really appreciate this help and believe I can qualify AIME by this plan. I never had such a good idea of what I should do for the next 3 months before the test until now. I need a small tip from you. I have 3 months to prepare for AMC 10. I'm in 8th grade right now and my foundation for AMC 8 is pretty solid. On all of the past year exams I got 23-25. If I want to get about 110-120 on the AMC 10 in February of 2021, how many hours should i spend per day?
It is different for every person. To make that call I would need to know you pretty well. A rough guess of an answer? You have really solid foundation with the good AMC 8 scores. The 2 most important things to do is every AMC 10 between 2000 and 2020. We have about 10 weeks. If you do 2 a week, that would only be about 10 years. But doing and processing 40 tests in 10 weeks would be obscene. I doubt you could really retain all of it. As such I would say, from now until then do 2 tests a week using the tracking form(video of it on my channel) start from 2010. However, after the real tests in January, go back and do 2000-2010 as rhey are still needed to build your foundation. In addition to 2 tests a week, you should 100% complete Volume 1 AoPS. Ver batim. Every word. Every problem. That will give you a solid chance at qualifying depending rate of improvement and knowledge retention. You also REALLY need to watch the "How to Study" video to learn about the notebook usage, especially the small formula notebook. Once Volume 1 is done, if there is still time...hit your weak spots. Likely intro to C and P or Intro to Number Theory. I hope this helps, if you need tutoring/guidance shoot me an email located on my about page. Having said all that, I would say if you can do 1.5 hours a day or more that would be great. But don't force it...you really want to avoid the burnout feeling so many students get. Also...consider Thanksgiving and Christmas break as times to amp up the hours per day. Try to enjoy the process.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks. Is it okay if i just watch video solutions for all of those AMC 10's since 2000-2020 along with doing the entire Basics Volume 1 book? Will that prepare me well enough? Basically I will first watch the video solutions to all of the problems. After that, I will solve all of the problems. Is this good enough? Also, I am thinking about qualifying USAJMO for the 2022 year. Is this possible if I study everyday and dedicate a lot of time to qualify USAJMO in 9th grade?
Not really. A question looks different inside the mind when you are seeing it from your in front of your own thought process. The challenges and difficulty of the landscape shift when you are watching someone else explain it. You don't realize how challenging some of the maneuvers are to see when there is not a narrator explaining what to do next. It's like the difference between doing a real life maze in person in 3D(like a challenging corn maze) and doing the same maze on a piece of paper. The paper version would be far easier because you have a top down view. You can see the dead end around the next corner and just don't gonthat way. Not so when you are in the 3D maze. You don't know what lies around that corner and so you have to explore it to see. Solutions should only be watched after personal attempts have been made so that the subtlety and nuancr of the problem is not lost. You will need to skill of perceiving a dead end without taking it on the real test, and that skill will not be developed watching solution videos.
Depending on your skill and speed of learning...it is definitelt possible to acquire that accomplishment within 2 years time. But it does need to become your "sport" if you will. You must dedicate to the cause if you hope to achieve that. This means minimal time on social media and video games or tv shows. Some is ok. But you must master time management or it will be impossible. Part of that will be managing motivation by not burning yourself out.
I feel Pre-Calculus does help a lot as a lot of foundational concepts covered in a Pre-Calc course are used in AMC 12 problems. De Moivre's Theorem, Complicated Function type problems, More in depth solid Trig Understanding and more difficult logarithmic problems than an Algebra 2 course would typically provide. So you don't have to get it from a high school course. You can self teach Pre Calc with a solid honors level text book. Khan Academy can help. A tutor could help go through the book with you if you aren't comfortable self studying it or intermittently if you have questions. But in my opinion yes. A solid grasp of Pre-Calc concepts would likely more than double the chances of getting AIME qualified compared to someone with no deeper understanding. It depends on available time for the Volume 1 question. If you have only 2 to 4 hours a week to throw at studying...you will find it difficult to get through all the Intro Series in a year's time. Volume 1 is better done first for such a student to gain at least above average grasp of a myriad of fundamental Competiton Math Concepts. But if you have 8 hours plus a week to throw at it...it likely is better to do all of the intro series first...or if say the student is a 6th grader and has much time to develop...then even 2 to 4 hours a week is plenty of time to get through all the Intro series before 9th grade starts. Volume 1 would then be used as like a summary review of all the books yet without the depth. 2 to 4 hours a week for a Sophomore going into Junior year would likely want to start with a thorough read of Volume 1 and then identify weaknesses and use the Intro books to attack the weaknesses as time permits. Hope this helps. 😀
Hello. I have signed up to take the AMC10 test at my school as a sophomore. I was wondering for a student like me as a sophomore, would buying Volume 1 and Intermediate Algebra from the AOPS store be a good idea? As of right now, I'm currently working through the AMC10 tests and going through the solutions after I take them in order to understand everything better, however, I know that it's a little too late this year to read through the AOPS books. I still plan on taking the AMC12 tests next year after I take the AMC10 this year so would purchasing these books right now still be useful? Also, if there are any other books you would recommend I read before or after these 2 books, which ones would they be? Thank you! Note: I've never really had any experience with general competition math. The only competitive math I've ever done was mental math competitions when I was in middle school.
I think Volume 1 is Priority 1. Will give blanket coverage of many of the concepts on the test, but not at huge depth. But enough depth that it's the best book by itself. I would personally wait on Intermediate Algebra until after you complete two other far more prioritized books: 2. Intro to Counting and Probability(do not skip anything except some early parts, but definitely all challenge, and review, and the gray box questions are actually really important also, but there are some parts early in the book that you can skim read and/or not do, but look over at a glance at least.) 3. Intro to Number Theory. Same advice as above. Both of these books are essential as there is virtually no coverage of these in middle school and high school. and you can be sure about 3-6 of them will be on every test between the 2 books combined. After those 3, then yes, I think Intermediate Algebra would be a great choice.
I am currently a sophomore getting into competition math, so quite behind, but over a few years I have repeatedly tried to use the AOPS books - from both the online classes and self-learning. I just cannot seem to do it. Every book and online course I used was a massive struggle, and I am currently trying to do volume 1 and I am already stuck on the second half of the chapter 1 problems. Should I even try to continue?
Hi, I actually saw your other comment, and had bookmarked it to reply, but then just had a really busy few days at like 10 hours plus per day in lessons and then other life requirements. Apologies for the delay, and I always try to make an effort to respond to any substantive comment. Are you able to meet over Zoom for a conversation/consultation? It would be easier to discuss things verbally than a long comment, and I could give advice for self study and/or discuss options to remedy the difficulty. The most important thing is what you just did. You left a comment seeking advice. You could have just given up. You didn't. That will serve you well. Never give up. Send me an email at my account email and I will help you make a plan that works for you. There is no cost for the consultation. I just like to help.
I am currently scoring 18+ on the AMC 8. As of right now, I am trying to finish the AOPS introduction series and I am in grade 7. I have heard of alcumus but never bothered doing it. I am wondering if doing alcumus is helpful with my current score on the AMC 8.
Ok so from what I have been told Alcumus has good content covering all the way up to Intermediate or even Hard level AMC 10 questions. You absolutely should do it. Pick whatever topic is your weakest. Play around with the difficulty levels and when you find a section where you have at least 20% of problems you don't know...then work through all problems at that difficulty level. But 100% yes...do Alcumus.
I know it’s a bit early to ask right now, but how does Awesome math summer camp compare with Alphastar Academy summer course? Or which one would be beneficial to me? I got 14 right in the AMC 8. I’m planning to take the level 1.5 Algebra and Elements of Geoemtry if I choose to go to Awesome math. If I go to Alphastar I think I will choose the AMC 8 advanced C&P and Geo. I heard that both of these are extremely good (from AoPS) so I want to choose one of them. Any reply would be great full.
For camp comparisons. I have no personal experience of the classes and so cannot give proper advice on how they compare. A good forum to ask in would be AoPS. But before asking use the search feature as this queation gets asked a lot there amd probably already has multiple threads!
@@TheBeautyofMath Ok, also I have an alternative question... I am doing intro to Number Theory, and I can’t understand chapter 12 and chapter 10 with modular arithmetic and units digit. Any tips on how to get through these chapters?
@@jajajasoak8812 Hmmm on one's own? I think they are essential chapters. I would either get a tutor for like 3 or 4 1.5 hour sessions or you do have solutions yes? I would try to work through the solutions line by line to see what they did? You did all the gray box questions and thoroughly read their explanations? That would be essential reading in order to prepare for exercises and end of chapter problems.
It is worth it to start regardless of whether you qualify. The rewards are being a more creative problem solver. The problems are fun and the solutions elegant. That doesn't mean you won't qualify, but you will only get 2 shots. A and B test. Just Do not feel like a failure if AIME qualification doesn't happen. 1. Buy with solutions Volume 1. 2. Do 2 tests a week under testing conditions. No phones etc. Use all tests from year 2000 for AMC 12. The older tests are easier. Don't get hyped by good scores on pre 2014 tests. A and B versions did not start until 2002. But future questions are often based on concepts explored on previous tests. Do Volume 1 cover to cover. Don't skip anything no matter how easy. It's not worth it to risk missing the hidden content in the book which sometimes appears in the middle of paragraphs in regular style print. After do intermediate algebra. When you get that part caught up, check back and let me know how the progress is going. Good luck. Enjoy the journey.
I'm currently a 10th grader who has had past experience with the AMC competition, however I stopped really studying around a year ago. Is it possible for me to qualify for a competition like AIME? I have the entire summer to study and would be willing to spend hours on it, but I don't really know where to start. How should I start preparing (If I should)
You would of course have a shot. I have seen some dedicated students go from where you are at now to USAMO in 6 months, but they lived, ate, breathed Competition Math for those 6 months. I think to get to AIME would not require that level of dedication, but could be done with focused investment of time. Top priorities 1. Every past test 2000 to present day with solid review of correct and incorrect answers both looking for increased efficiency and alternate solve methods. (I have a class for this if interested) 2. Your book priorities should be A. Intro to Counting and Probability B. Intro to NT C. Volume 1 from AoPS. The first 2 have highly limited coverage in school, the 3rd is an excellent approximate summary with decent depth of the entire intro series of AoPS books with excellent coverage of many geo problems, word problems, and algebra concepts and problems and techniques. Do every problem and example and exercise in all texts. Take notes of very insightful approaches, and use the small notebook I discuss in my small notebook video for any ideas or concepts that stand out in your studies. Let me know if you have any questions or need additional direction. But the above would be my priorities. You 100% have a chance. I had another student who she did not start any competition prep until 9 months before first taking the AMC's and she qualified for AIME in her first attempt as a freshman. So be diligent, study with intent(see Building Mathematical Intuition Video for an example of this) and fully commit and believe you will achieve it. Then comment again in November when you find success. :)
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks for the response, I did the intro into probability in the past, but I didn’t really try my best on it. So should I start on that book, and once I’m done go to number theory?
Sorry for the late response. I think that would be exactly what I would do. Redo the book you did not try hard on the first time, and the second time through will be easier, and you will pick up things missed the first time.
100%. That is the best way. You need to grow confidence in your ability to solve it on your own. Even if you can't think of the best solution. After solving you seek to improve upon your methodology. Or even your algorithmic approach. You should be investigating all solutions even on problems you got right so that you can: 1. Gain additional insight 2. Learn faster or more beautiful methods 3. Improve upon your knowledge of various approaches. The more approaches to a problem you know, the higher the likelihood that you will think of ONE of those methods under pressure. But first you must gain the confidence over time that you can solve almost ANY question, even if you don't perceive the best solution under pressure. That confidence only comes when facing a truly unknown adversary(problem type) and overcoming the fear of the problem in order to succeed. This objective is never achieved when you know how to solve the problem in advance.
I have heard of it, but I would not be able to provide an adequate review as none of my other students have done the course. However you might try asking at Art of Problem Solving forums for their opinion. Many of them have done several classes like that and might be able to provide first hand knowledge. My guess is the course is worth doing, and will bring you improvement. But that is a guess, and not based on much of anything other than I remember someone on a forum saying they liked the course.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks, the thing is that the course is problem-oriented and so you have to know at least something about a particular concept before you can really get going with what the course offers. The way the course works is that they have a small section going over ‘all’ the required theory needed for solving a problem from a particular genre (such as floor and ceiling functions) and then they present various methods of solving differently styled problems. What I'm trying to do is fill in the gaps in my knowledge in certain areas by supplementing material from their other math courses. Can you suggest other resources or, perhaps, better ways (more importantly, faster ways) to quickly cover everything essential before continuing in the course? :)
I wish I could but I completely unfamiliar with how to go about what you seek. My knowledge of their courses and the like is now the extent of your two comments. 😞 But I highly recommend going on AoPS forums and asking there. I am sure many of the users there have actually taken the course and can tell you exactly what you would need to preview before attending. I am sorry that I was of little help. 🙁
@@krishshah3974 brilliant is not that great,atleast for it's price. I found the stuff to be quite boring. The only course I really enjoy and recommend is the logic course.
Hi, I have a question. What is the most important to do to get into AIME. I am in 8th grade right now and I have got a decent score but not enough to make AIME. What is the most important resource to do in my summer for Freshman year. I have done Intro to Algebra and most of Intro to geometry so far and I have got Volume 1, are there any other reccomendations so I can raise my score the fastest. Thanks and great video again.
I am not as aware of the CTY camp efficacy. I know this summer most in person camps were cancelled. Not sure about online. My advice for that would be to ask CTY directly or pose the question on AoPS forums and see what students who went to the camps say. As for Most Important? I would say it's Volume 1 cover to cover hands down. It has the most coverage of any of the books over major or common concepts.
Can I start competing in the AMC 12 as a junior in high school? I have never competed seriously in competition math but did the AMC 10 as a diagnostic earlier this year and got a 78 with zero prep. Is it worth it for me to try to qualify for AIME so late in the game? Where do I even start?
Honestly? Absolutely. Ask yourself what happens if you don't make AIME despite a massive outpouring of effort on your part in the next 10 weeks? Answer: You gain incredible insight into really enjoyable mathematical problem types. You learn a ton of various mathematical concepts you never knew before and see them applied in ways you had never dreamed of. You discover how mathematics can be fun, and though you never qualify for AIME you gain a new appreciation for Mathematics and decide to pursue a Computer Science Degree. You earn your degree, make a tech startup and dethrone Google becoming the world's richest person(Sorry Bezos). I mean that sounds like failing up to me. lol. Ok slightly tongue in cheek and exaggeration of what would likely occur. But everything but the last sentence was an entirely realistic outcome. Don't worry or judge yourself on the lack of the AIME qualification. Judge yourself by progress made, and self improvement. You still could qualify for AIME. But that's not the real prize. The real prize is the the first 3 sentences of what happens if you don't make AIME and the progress you make, and the journey you take. My advice: Go for it. Throw everything you have at it. Every free minute for the next 10 weeks(it's how many weeks are left til the A test at the time of this comment). Leave everything on the floor, and you have NOTHING to be ashamed of if you don't make AIME. Also update me either here or by my email on my about page about how you did. Or go play video games and watch Netflix. Up to you I guess. :)
Hi, I’m a year 10 (which is like 9th grade ) student currently studying in the UK, and preparing for AMC 10. Is there a significant difference in curriculum between the two countries? And if so, what topics should I cover?
So this question is quite difficult for me to answer. I am not at all knowledgeable about curriculum differences across the pond. I would imagine most of the in school fundamentals are the same as over here. However...the majority of the AMC relies on concepts not taught in most schools as it's advanced level curriculum. So things like Stewart's Theorem are never taught in any school I have ever heard of. To learn these more advanced concepts you have to learn them either through videos, tutors, or Artofproblemsolving.com forums or from the books from Art of Problem Solving or similar type books. The list of topics needed is far too great to list in one comment. It's literally over 1000. A test consists of perhaps 60 implicit concepts. So let's say from a pool of 1500 concepts you get a combination of 1500C60 possible tests. This number is astronomically large. Therefore one would want to add as many concepts to their repetoire as possible so that they can increase the chances they will know the underlying implicit concepts for as many questions as possible. As such the best book you could do is Volume 1 from AoPS. Get the solutions with it. This will give a blanket coverage of many concepts and serves as the fastest way to get acclimated to the test's difficulty.
hey i am also year 10 um not really same stuff i asume you take the senior math challenge just learn all the concepts and practice all the past papers. if your in the uk you can try to take smc and qualify for BMO
I am an eighth grader who has done math counts and finished 51st in Ohio and am looking to prepare for the amc 10 next year. My previous studying for math competitions has just been mathcounts club where we solved handbook problems. I took the 2023 amc 10 unofficially and got 81(10 right, 1 wrong, 13 blank) I got AoPS volume 1 and am now studying it. I also signed up for the AoPS amc 10 problem series over the summer. I am also currently taking geometry in school and algebra 2/ trigonometry next year. Do you think this preparation plus doing past amc 10s will be sufficient for AIME qualification or should I try reading the other AoPS books for more preparation.
Nothing is sufficient. That's the short answer. A lot of it is your ability to respond to a concept presentation that has never been seen on the test. Ad Hoc problem solving. The ability to adapt and respond to adversity has to be present, and all the knowledge in the world will not be enough if you don't have that element. You can think of it as a percentage chance of qualifying, and the more you know the better your percent chance. The greater your experience level in responding to adverse problem presentations the better your percent chance etc. Essentially, you should add as much to your arsenal of knowledge as you possibly can to put yourself on the best footing. I suggest you watch the Small Notebook Justified and Explained video as well before undertaking any plan to get the most out of that plan. ruclips.net/video/7KglZ7MUUpY/видео.html All that you named will be a good starting platform. The two books I would MOST recommend you do in conjunction with Volume 1(do every single problem in that text imo) is Intro to Counting and Probability, and Intro to NT. I have a class for the Counting and Probability currently going on Thursdays 5PM Pacific. You can sit in on one session with no commitment and no payment unless you stay in the course to see what you think, if it's beneficial or not. I am 100% confident in the quality of the instruction, which is why I offer that. But I am not offended at the same time by anyone who finds it's not in their best interest to join such a class. I have a Past Test Review Course you are welcome to sit in on one as well and see what you think. It's on both Tuesdays and Fridays for AMC 10. Shoot me an email if you would like. Even if you don't join one of my courses, I am happy to respond and give advice at no cost. As a teacher my number one priority is to help and to put you on the best footing to accomplish your goals regardless of whether it benefits me. So feel free to set up a free Zoom consultation and discuss further, with zero pressure to take a class. Happy to help if I can. Besides that I hope the content on my channel is of aid. Feel free to share a comment if you reach your goals in the future as well. Love to hear it.
Tough call. Tests are the best resource for fast acquisition of knowledge, but the texts should NOT be neglected. Maybe this close to the exams do an 80/20 split of your time. 4 hours towards past tests and 1 hour towards finishing one text to it's fullest extent. meaning all problems and high comfort levels with the challenge problems methods. That will make you much more likely to get the 2-4 combinatorics questions on each test you will see while also giving broad coverage of other concepts.
is it normal to struggle with the "challenge problems" section in the aops books?? (specially the ones with the stars and hints), im in 10th grade and not even a bad student and can't do these supposedly 6~8th grade problems (i don't have any prior olympiad math experience)
Yes. Highly normal. Seen students who are in Calc BC in 9th grade and take on the competition problems and get wrecked. It doesn't have to do with general school thought processes but rather creative thought processes and deeper insight into the concepts applied in way school textbooks never do. Why don't they? Cause Creative Problem solving has all but been removed from most school curriculum. That's why it's generally quite boring. They have removed the fun aspects of it. It used to be prevalent in textbooks in the 90's with all kinds of AMC like problems in the texts. Current era textbooks have largely removed that...cause the people designing our education system think it's "helping". I will leave it to you to determine how much it helped. I will end my rant on that, though I could go on for hours. Do not feel bad. Instead recognize this as a challenge unlike ones you have faced before. You will grow smarter going through this challenge. You will find the problems solutions far more "beautiful" if you will, and enjoyable when you see some of the unique way they apply general knowledge in something as simple as knowing what an odd number or even number is, and what primes are. School math lacks in both Number Theory(there is none taught) and Combinatorics(There is virtually none, and the problems are simplistic in comparison). I would not go straight to the challenge in any chapter. What book are you doing currently? email me and set up a free consultation. I will give you advice on how to self study at no cost, just cause I care and desire to do so.
@@TheBeautyofMath I'm currently doing intermediate algebra and almost finishing introduction to counting and probability, I'd love your advice on how to self-study, but i'm not preparing for the AMC (i don't live in the US), is it ok?? What's your email?
@@user-wc3qj9kb2lHi, so if you go to my page at the top when you first visit my channel page, under the banner at the top is a phrase that will look like this: "This is a channel initially focusing on all Competition Mathematics such as American Mathematics..>" Click that > key and it will open up more information. After it opens up click "View Email Address" and it will show it. I don't place my email in comments, because bots surf comments for email addresses and then I get tons of spam. It's fine if you don't live in the US and if you are not preparing for AMC. Just let me know your time zone when you email, and what times of day your time are good for you, and I will try and find a time slot.
Hi, I currently have completed Intro to Algebra, Intro to CP, and am mostly done with Intro to Geo, and Intro to NT. Will be done with those by March for sure. In addition, I've completed Volume 1 (except the Geo part because I'm taking Intro to Geo right now). I've already signed up for AoPS' Intermediate Algebra course which will start in March. I want to make the AIME next year. Currently, I scored a 93 on the AMC 10 mock from AOPS that came out a month or so ago. I do admit that I must review these books and do more problems. So, how do you think I should continue? Would rereading these books and take classes be better (I've read Intro to Algebra at least 3 times and Intro to CP at least twice), or solving questions on Alcumus? What about mocking past AMC 10's? Basically I'm trying to ask if solving questions is better, or reviewing books and materials. Can you give me a plan to make sure I make the AIME? I am willing to study for 1:30 hours every day excluding weekends and in Summer, I am willing to study 3 hours daily for at least 3/4 of the summer. My current strategy is just reading the book, and doing the problems in the chapters. I do some alcumus after that and I continue. I don't really mock tests that much and I don't complete the challenge problems at the end of the books. Any help or response would be greatly appreciated.
@@ihasnoobs8068 sorry. Forgot this one was hear. This is really hard to answer without typing a wall of text. Do you have time for a free Zoom consultation where I can explain a lot better? Parents welcome to join. If so please send me an email from the email on my about page and we can set up a time. Thank you.
Wow 4th-6th prealgebra! I'm in 7th and that's the textbook my school is using. I personally have had 0 trouble with school math so I'm mainly doing it on my own. I most likely haven't made it to AIME, but I'm definitely gonna follow this for next year. How necessary is Intro to Algebra? I'd say algebra is my strong suit, but is it still necessary? (Same goes for P&C and Number Theory). I currently have Volume 1 and am planning on getting Geo. For context, I got an 18 on the AMC 8, most likely a 99 on the 10A and a 93 on the 10B. Is there anything I should go for first that you recommend?
I think if you do a bunch of Algebra handouts and maybe all of Alcumus Algebra content that you can probably skip the Intro to Alg book. I would not skip Number Theory or Probability and Counting however(I don't know you but a lot of people underestimate the value of these books, I personally learned priceless information from them). First? The Volume 1. It would give broad spectrum coverage and improve your foundation. Afters, for the Geo...you might be able to skip some reading in the early chapters, but don't skip any problems(end of section and end of chapter). I would then do the NT, and C and P. I definitely don't recommend Intermediate C and P to anyone who has not completed the Intro. Let me know if this helps. My guess is you will never have to worry about school math. In general(sometimes we get teachers who are super Extra). With your normal effort you can probably pull A's in most classes if you are adept at Comp Math. PreCalc Honors though often gives more trouble for students than Calc AB.
@@TheBeautyofMath thanks! So it’s probably better to just do the intro to alg book instead of having to search for handouts, or are both equally effective?
@@sabe607 Maybe better to just do the book I guess, it's just it's a long book, so for chapters you know...only do challenge problems. You can probably do that for most of the first half of the book. Second half might have interesting content. Any section that gives you trouble in the Challenge problems, look over the sections and see which parts could benefit you. Second half of the book, probably do most of the content.
Hi TheBeautyofMath! I'm trying to get top 2.5 percent on AMC 10, and one method is using your "Extraction" method. I just started using a little notebook, and it seems helpful. However, I can't seem to overcome the sillies whenever I mock. I always make 2-3 sillies on mock tests and it's starting to frighten me that I might completely fail this years AMC 8 and 10 due to some dumb sillies. I tried double checking every problem, but that ended up wasting lots of time. Is there any tips you can give?
I would say...the focus should be on speed without carelessness. Basic calculation speed along with recognition of potential strategy in the first 5 to 10 seconds. The recognition speed can only be increased by experience. This is why people who rise to the top (The Evan Chen's of the world) have literally solved thousands upon thousands of questions...each one adding to their concept knowledge base along with their knowledge of potential errors from mistakes they made along the way. This allows them to be aware of times when a question is tricky and avoid trap answers that the novice has yet to fall into. So this close to the AMC 8...there is likely not much you can do to alter your score. However let's say you are in 6th grade or 7th grade, then now you know the importance of solving many questions. Use Alcumus. Use FTW! On AoPS website. Each has thousands of problems. Do all of them in the next year. Practice every day. Experience breeds speed. You don't just have speed. You become experienced and that leads to faster mental actions. There is no substitute for experience. If you want the success, you must sacrifice time every day to achieve the objective. So choose. How bad do you want it? This year do the best you can. Next year, go for glory. Between now and then...put in the work.
Hi TheBeautyOfMath! Last year, when I was in 7th grade, I was unable to take the AMC 10A but got ~90 on the practice tests at that time. Now, I'm about to go into 8th grade, and I'm scoring at least a 100 (if not higher like 110 sometimes) on the AMC 10 practice tests. I believe, in part, this is because of the Volume 1 AoPS book I started doing during the summer. I really want to qualify for AIME, but I have a question about the AoPS books. Do you believe it is worth it to read the intro/some of the intermediate books other than volume 1 (and maybe volume 2 if I get to that one day)? If so, what should I start on? I've heard that I should have a strong foundation, so should I start on the intro to prealgebra, even though I think I know 99% of the book, just to get a recap? Or, should I just start with what I'm unfamiliar with? Thank you so much!
While I think AoPS PreAlgebra is a fantastically written book, I feel at your level that all of it's content is covered again in the other intro books in various capacities. I would only cover it if you took it upon yourself to tutor a family member, friend, or lower grade student(5th or 6th grade or younger) and went through the book with them. By yourself in self study it would not be the best use of your time. However the Intro Series in General is ABSOLUTELY 100% worth your time. Especially C and P and Number Theory. If you are in Algebra 2 equivalent or higher in school, I would start with Intro to Counting and Probability, followed by Intro to Number Theory. You can likely skip some passages in both books, but if you can't do at least 80% of challenge problems without help in any chapter, definitely do that whole chapter. For additional challenge, try doing any problems that seem to easy mentally. It will build your calculation speed. Afters I think you could benefit from Intro to Alg/Geo but I would not necessarily cover them straight through. Do Challenge questions from each chapter until you find a chapter that you can only do like 80% or less of without help. Spot solve the sections of that chapter that deal with that content. If you are under 50% on the challenge without help then do the whole chapter. Next, the first book I would do in Intermediate Series is probably Intermediate Algebra(It will also greatly help with your Pre-Calc understanding for school) Finally I would use Volume 2 only as something to fill in gaps that other books don't cover...like Cauchy or AM-GM or use it for topical searches on topics you are weak on. Hope this helps. Best of luck!
When I started watching your channel, I thought you were a really nice and genius high school student. I also have a question. I'm in 8th grade right now, so should I start using alcumus(I've not used it before), or should I get started with the AoPS books? I don't have much free time to use both resources, so I'd like to know which resource I should take as priority and do.
lol at the high school student part. I am glad I look young on video. Been out of HS for more than a minute though. But I take your impression as a great compliment. As for your question. It would depend on a few things. Highest AMC 8 score in practice or official. Same for AMC 10? Those scores would give me more info. Also please tell me what years they were. If you don't want to say them publicly, email me at thebeautyofmath13@gmail.com Let's say you are getting at least 18 on average AMC8, then Alcumus would be less impactful. Let's say you are getting average of 8 on AMC8, then Alcumus would be very beneficial to shore up your knowledge base. If you are averaging over 18, and basically the AMC8 is behind us, then our focus is really AMC10. It is better to start with Volume 1. Cover to Cover, ver batim. don't skip a single paragraph unless an experienced tutor tells you it's ok to skip some part based on their knowledge of your strengths and weaknesses. The reason? So many really important concepts appear in nondescript paragraphs where a skim reader will never see it. Have a firm grasp of Volume 1, then begin targeting weaknesses with other Intro Series books, the two most important of which are going to be Counting and Probability and Number Theory as these topics are barely touched upon in school math and are not even close to a competition level difficulty. At the same time, begin going through AMC 10 starting from year 2000. Use the tracking form. Do 1-2 tests a week. Do not expect AIME this year. Take both A and B no matter what. (School only offers one? too bad, take it through a college or math circle etc.) It is possible you hit AIME this year, but don't expect it. True target will be Freshman year depending on your performance on Jan 2021. Let me know if you have any questions, or need tutoring via my email. Hope this helps.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thank you so much for the very informative response! My only official AMC 8 test was in 2019(in grade 7). I scored 14. I took the same test a few days back and scored 21.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks, I have done several chapters of the Volume 1 book, and I have scored 79.5 on 10a and 73.5 on 10b this year, so will the plan you elaborated still work for me? Or will there be any changes needed?
@@anvithkakkera7196 yes. Complete Volume 1 entirely. Then check back in. Also you should be doing 2 past tests a week right now starting with 2000, 2001. If you do this you should be able to finish all past AMC 10's right before the November test.
Hello TheBeautyOfMath, hope you are having a good day! as a rising eighth grader, I am currently managing to score a 100-118 on Amc10's alone, seeing as I am nearly done with Intro to Geometry on aops, I am looking for some higher level material. So should I purchase AOPS Intermedieate algebra? Or volume 2? Thank you!
My personal feeling is Volume 2 isn't as useful as intermediate Algebra fro AMC 10. Definitely Intermediate Algebra. It will also basically preview Algebra 2 and PreCalc. To be completely fair to Volume 2 though, I have never worked all the way through it with many students who have qualified for AIME. I usually use it for individual chapters. For one thing, from what I have noticed the problem selection for every single chapter doesn't have a single problem sourced to either AMC or AIME. A lot of other competitions are sourced, but not those. So I would say it may help on say questions 16 thru 25 on an AMC 12. That's just opinion. Other experts may offer different advice. Have you done Intro to Counting and Probability and Intro to Number Theory? Those are probably just as essential if not moreso than Int. Alg. Imo compared to the average competitor you are way ahead of the curve. I know there are likely some kids you know ahead of your development but don't worry about that. 100-118 on AMC 10 coming out of 7th grade is likely top 0.1% for 7th graders. Keep it up. 👍
Ok so for both of you, the challenge is each of the last 7 to 10 questions would contain tolics spread out from about 7 different books usually. Perhaps there might be 2 from one book like Geo, or Probability/Counting. Your best bet is to use this summer to pick the two biggest weaknesses you have and attack them with AoPS book coverage. Each book will get you the necessary knowledge and practice to get 1 or 2 more of the last 10. In addition after you have spent a lot of time on the problems, consult solutions. Do they mention something there that you could then study, like say Stewart's Theorem? Then look up problems that have Stewart's Theorem in it and practice them. Etc. Always use the solutions as a Spring board for studying topics. Don't just read it and go, "oh that's how it's done!" But rather use it to begin a new line of study.
Also please see this video for one method of study that I think you should both use on all of those last 7 to 10 questions. Let me know if it helps? ruclips.net/video/Kku2CzkoboA/видео.html
Volume 1 will definitely be the most help for gaining fundamentals of all the books because it covers so many various types of topics in one book. Do it cover to cover. Don't skip anything. Even the easy stuff. Read every passage in it, as they hide really good stuff in the middle of nondescript paragraphs. The hard problems are all built on fundamental concepts, it's just being able to recognize the potential of applying that concept is harder. They disguise it from the test taker usually. The more experience you have with the underlying concepts, the higher the likelihood of recognizing it's potential application in a problem.
Great video! I watched it several times! Thank you. I am a rising 10th grader. I got 75 in AMC in 9th grade and my goal is to qualify for AIME. I just finished vol 1. I was just wondering if mathcounts state would help me qualify for AIME. What do you think? Should I go directly to past AMC 10/12 tests or should I spend time on Mathcounts State first, like sprint/target/team? Thank you for your advice!
I would absolutely do both. Each will help the other. MathCounts contains many of the same fundamentals as AMC. So my recommendation is to alternate between them.
Thank you so much for your quick response! In terms of level of difficulty, Are the last few questions on mathcounts state more comparable to AMC 10 problems 10-20?
The comparable difficulty I am not as confident in answering as I haven't taught MathCounts as extensively. But my guess is no? Actually I was just seeing again that you are in 10th grade. MathCounts usually has the same fundamentals but at slightly lower levels of difficulty than AMC as it's a middle school contest. So maybe do them in a 2 to 1 ratio or 3 to 1 ratio. Meaning 3 AMC's for every 1 MathCounts practice. For example they will have same concepts but applied differently. On the other hand, I am guessing a little here. My recommendation would really be to ask this same question on AoPS forums or to look for similar questions using the search feature. I just feel, it can't hurt to do the MathCounts. The more problems the better.
I feel like the 2021 will be much much harder than the practice test. I scored a 141 on the practice test, but I feel that the actual test will be very hard.
This is a good score. I cannot predict if it will be harder or easier than the practice test. The actual test will always have problems appearing in the mathematical community with underlying mechanisms never seen before on an AMC. It happens every year. Expect it. Resolve yourself to remain calm and take baby steps. See the AIME Mindset video. Especially watch it before Thursday.
Hi TheBeautyofMath, I'm a high schooler who's looking to take the AMC 10 and am looking for some guidance/tips. I'm a current high school sophomore and looking to get top 2.5% on the AMC 10 (looking to qualify for AIME). I kind of procrastinated these starting months of school, but now it kinda dawned on me on how close the AMC 10 is. I finished half of the AOPS Volume 1 book over the summer. I score high 80s on the AMC 10 currently. Is it too late to get in and get top 2.5%? What do you recommend I do? I'm also kind of busy with school and other extracurriculars, but I can make time on the weekends. Please give me some guidance! Should I do practice exams or do the AOPS workbook?
Always most important is problem solving(past exams from 2000 to present in order preferably). Do 2 a week minimum. The past is the past. Forget it. Everyone battles procrastination except for psychopaths. Focus on what you are going to do now, not what you should have done. You should do 2 exams with review and 1 hour of Vol 1 a week if possible. If not possible then do 1 exam with review and then finish Vol 1 at 1 hour a week. It is not too late to get top 2.5%. Have had students in your situation accomplish it before. Choose to win. Every day. If you need a coach/tutor to guide the process email me at thebeautyofmath13@gmail.com. We could meet once a week or once every 2 weeks, or once a month via Zoom. Do not have regret about past procrastination. It does absolutely nothing to change the future. Choose to win today. That's what matters.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks so much! Your videos are really helpful. I kind of don't know some concepts on the test, so I should learn them through the book, correct? I can also skip the stuff about proofs? I'll see if I need a tutor, but if I do, I'll email you. I'm gonna donate some money to you (on the coffee website in the coming days) for the help!
@@RPG1234ninja correct, but the book will slowly fill in your ability to recognize nuanced concepts that are not obvious to the uninformed on the test. So you should complete it to add to your knowledge base. As for proofs, they are important to your overall development mathematically. So skipping them if time is of the essence might be good, but in the off-season (right after next years tests) put sticky bookmarks by them and come back and revisit them to make your theoretical foundation more solid. And thanks. All donations are very appreciated. I understand too if you don't need a tutor, that's great, just making sure you are aware of all potential resources but I trust you will know what is best for you. Happy Studying. Get that AIME qualification.
Hi, I am an incoming 11th grader and scored 93 on the 2020 AMC 10B as a sophomore. Also, I have done math competitions in middle school, so I am pretty used to the concepts tested on the AMC 10. I am taking AMC 12 this year and hoping to qualify for AIME. I have worked through about 6 chapters of the AOPS Volume 1 book. When do you think it is the best time to start taking the practice AMC 12s? Also, what aops books do you suggest I go through after I complete AOPS Volume 1? Also, great video, I really appreciate it.
Hey man. I am currently a Sophomore and taking AP Calculus BC. I have also started self learning linear algebra as well as Multivariable Calculus because I love math and i am very curious about it. I have been doing AMC 8 and 10 through my middle school and high school. I have never moved on to AIME because the truth it I never prepared for the test so I just went it and took it with 0 preparation. I want to change that though. I hope that my junior and senior year I can finally move on to AIME or even further. but to be honest im not to sure where to start or like how long I have to study everyday. I have volume one of AOPS but never even opened it. Should I start with that book? or should I take a practice AMC to see my weaknesses or should I first develop skills and then take tests? Please help man. I am no stranger to hard work and dedication but I would love to have a guide through this journey.
Volume 1 is exactly where you want to start. Complete it cover to cover. It gives about 25% coverage of everything important from the intronseries. Maybe a little more coverage of Geo. Do not skip anything, even the easy stuff. Ok maybe like section 1.1 pr whatever is the very first thing it covers, but there often hidden gems in the middle of innoculous passages of writing material that has no highlight as to it's importance. Nothing draws attention to it, and it's easy to miss. In the first chapter there is a section of writing or two you can skip, but because you won't know where that section is you might accidentally skip important sections that are not really covered anywhere else. After that, I would begin with year 2000 and 2001 AMC 12's. Continue working your way up tracking your scores. Never guess on amything. There is only 2 things: You know, or you don't know. That is it. If you don't know for sure the answer you want then learn to figure out how to be sure. How to know before you answer that it is correct. It is a necessary skill. If you must guess, wait til the actual competition. In practice if you guess and get it right, sometimes you won't go over it in depth because it was a correct answer, and no one needs practice guessing. Goal one: get everything you know or suspect you know how yo answer correct. Skip everything else. You want Zero wrong on most tests. Challenge yourself to learn the underlying concepts for everything you don't know that you know.(not sure you are correct). After you get to about 2006 doing all tests A and B versions, switch it up. Pick the intro book that you had most trouble with in the tests you completed. Most likely counting and probability. The intro book for that starts out really easy. For the first few chapters maybe pick the problems that aren't painfully obvious at a glance, and then do the challenge for all chapters for sure. By the middle of the book you should be reading and doing most problems. I think Intermediate Algebra is where I would go next. It's basically equivalent to a lot of difficult precalc work from a competition math level of difficulty. I don't think I would do intro to Algebra or Geo, because of time constraint. AoPS forums have some good geo work you can ask there about. You might do intro to number theory if time permits. Also while all the AoPs content is continuing, do at least one test a week. Let me know if this helps, or if I can help further. ❤
I was able unofficially score 109.5 (16 right, 9 blank) and 114 (18 right, 3 wrong, 4 blank) as a sophomore with only a normal math education in school (precalculus). To my fellow high schoolers, it's definitely possible to do very well as long as you master your high school material! But make sure not to panic under the pressure and don't be afraid to spend several minutes on a problem if you need more time to think. @TheBeautyofMath I feel very inspired by your videos and I plan to spend some time working on the AOPS books over the summer so I can do even better next year.
Thank you for this feedback Kevin. It is encouraging to read. That kind of performance with no history of Competition Math prep is freaking phenomenal. It is as impressive to me as a well studied student getting a 140+. Outstanding job. I strongly feel the B score and possibly the A score will qualify you for AIME. I would begin preparation for it immediately as you won't know until a week before the test or so that you qualified for sure. At least based on how it went last year. I would start with the channel of Osman Nal. He has a lot of AIME content. Pause the video to attempt the problem before watching his solution.
thank you so much ugh I haven't done any of this prep stuff
@@TheBeautyofMath You got a 140 on the AMC
@@wowyok4507 Not sure what you mean. I did not get a 140 on the AMC.
"It is as impressive to me as a well studied student getting a 140+."@@TheBeautyofMath
This helps very much! I am in 8th grade going to 9th in 2 -3 months. I only have math knowledge till Algebra 1 and I'm very excited to start, regardless of if I do well or not. I do have experience in competitive programming, which might help.
I think it will definitely help Swayam, the competitive programming, especially with managing test anxiety and performance anxiety, the more we take upon ourselves such timed events, the more we become applicated to time based performance pressure. I wish you luck in the journey of mathematical discovery. It's a fun one. :) Thank you for the comment!
Hey, I don't know if you still comment on old videos but here I am. I just participated in the amc 8 earlier today and have been using your videos for some guidance. First I just wanted to say thank you for giving me a sense of direction for where I should go for the amc 8, however as I am in 8th grade right now, I should probably be aiming for the amc 10 if I want to pursue this math journey (as you said people above 8th grade cannot participate in the amc.8). In my opinion, I think terribly at the amc 8 earlier today, and honestly I feel demotivated even though I only had one month of practice (which I'm guessing is not enough at all for me to be proficient at these tests). Along with that, I feel like I don't really fit into this type of mathematical rigor due to how I just don't feel good enough, even though I aspire to be and enjoy the joy and satisfaction. So I was just wondering, what type of direction should I go in now? Should I get some of the AOPS books and start learning the fundamental concepts that I couldn't grasp while only studying for a month or do you think I should go down a different route as I felt like I started too late as you said that 7th graders should be considering the AMC 10.
I try to respond to every comment of substance when time permits. Even on old videos. My personal opinion is...do you enjoy the act of learning? Do you enjoy the Ah-Ha moments when intricate problems just click and come together? Will you pursue anything in the STEM fields? If the answer to any of those questions is yes...then...stop competing. Don't do the AMC as a Competition. Don't try to be better than your peers. Just try to improve yourself. Do it for fun. Do it for the beauty of the problems. For their careful design.
So yes. I would start absolutely self studying or with a tutor the AoPS books. For entering 9th grade. The 2 I would most focus on is Into to Counting and Probability, and Intro to Number Theory. Do them not to dominate in Competition Math. But to learn fascinating ideas and logical concepts. Then who knows. I know a student who never did amy Comp Math until the summer of her 8th into 9th grade year. She still qualified for AIME just 9 months after the first began to prepare. It's never too late if you find the ideas fun to learn.
Hi! I’m a 7th grader who is going to take the AMC 10 in less than 2 weeks. I haven’t taken the practice competition yet because I wanted to wait until I feel like I am ready for it. When I was told that I qualified for the AMC 10, I studied with my sister (25) to prepare myself. However, I have been given a lot of school work recently. I haven’t been able to study for the AMC 10 in an entire week. I don’t even know why I am here. I’m just stressed and overwhelmed. I think I lost all my motivation to study over the past few days. Your videos have been very helpful for me, thank you so much! I’m still having trouble understanding some things, so I really need to continue studying. Well, umm, bye for now!
Priority One: Stop Stressing. It will achieve nothing. You explained that you didn't really study for it. This is ok. Many people start in the same boat, thrust into taking the test with no prep because their school selected them based on school performance. Honestly, don't stress. Let's say you completely "fail". I will low ball your score and say you get a 60. For a 7th grader, that would mean you did better than roughly 40% of all 7th graders and 50% of all students from all grades. That is honestly not bad for a first time test taker with no prep whatsoever. Most people who do well have studied for at least a year, often for several years, and have done every test from 2000 to 2020. You haven't. That means...don't worry about your score. Do not take the test in less than 2 weeks stressing about what your score means. You know what it means? It means you had the courage to take the test. That's it. Just do the best you can with your limited knowledge and understand that many of the other competitors have had several years of experience. So what. If I played golf with a seasoned pro...I would get destroyed. So what?
Just have fun. Enjoy the problems. Make a decision if you like these kind of problems to begin preparation for your 8th grade year competition. This year should be just about getting a feel for the timing, the difficulty...and most important...the mistakes. The mistakes are what teach us. Get ready to make a lot. That's what rookies do. Make mistakes and learn from them. Stop stressing...enjoy the competition and forget about your score. Then in subsequent years begin a journey of improvement. Don't be scared. Don't be intimidated. You got this. Have fun, and feel free to share your thoughts about the test in another comment after you take it. But you should definitely do a few recent tests to get your feet wet before jumping in the pool.
@@TheBeautyofMath Hello again! I didn’t expect that you would reply to me. Your inspiring words have definitely helped reduce my stress. I recently took the practice competition, and just like you predicted, I got a score of 60. At least it gave me a better idea of what I need to study. I will come back after the day of the competition!
@@procrastinatingcat6195 I make it a point to reply to every substantive comment on my channel. Some day perhaps I will not have time to do so, but I do now, so I will always make the effort until it is no longer possible. But some comments it does take me a few days to respond if I am really busy.
Glad to hear of the change in perspective. Good luck!
This is the tracking form my students use, I will explain it more fully in a future video, but for now you can access it here: docs.google.com/document/d/1cDguzR8ktpsE1z_ClVCu0AsLB_T28JADFEu3tHYdUcQ/edit?usp=sharing
Thank you so much for this video, it is very helpful, Thank you again
Very welcome!
We are on the way. Qualified AIME... though looking for ways to break through to get to JMO
Hello, I am currently a 9th grader taking Algebra 2 and Geometry and I want to understand math intuitively. I searched up the best way to learn math intuitively and I found someone who suggested the AoPS books and courses. I looked at some of the AoPS courses and textbooks and am interested in doing some of them. I asked my algebra 2 teacher at my school who has taught both the schools geometry and algebra 2 curriculum and she said that we won't be going as in depth as the content in the AoPS courses. I tried taking the post-tests for the introduction to algebra courses and did well on the Intro to Alg A test but the Intro to Alg B test gave me some trouble. I also tried taking some of the tests for the Intro to Counting + Probability and the Intro to Number Theory. Honestly, I had even more trouble on these tests than the Intro to Alg B test because my school hasn't really covered any of these topics. I want to learn the content in both of these Number Theory and Counting + Probability books as well as an in-depth course on Algebra. I want to be ready to take the Intermediate Algebra course during the summer, however, I'm not sure if I will be ready since I had trouble with the Intro to Alg B test and I know that my Alg 2 class won't go in-depth enough to cover this, so do you think it would be a good idea to enroll in the Intro to Alg B course and self-study the Intro to Number Theory and the Intro to Counting + Probability books so that I will be ready for the Intermediate Alg course in the summer, or should I enroll in a different course and then self-study the other two in order to be prepared for Intermediate Alg in the summer. Thank you so much!
Have a lot going on with the tests right around the corner. But the Number Theory and Counting and Probability are not just not taught at your school. It's virtually every school with maybe an exception here and there in some elite district or private school.
It's a tough call on the AoPS course to take. I am not as familiar with their courses as their texts. I would not be the best one to give advice then on that aspect, and so will refrain from doing so.
I offer classes using both the Intro to Counting and Probability and the Intro to Number Theory book which you can find at my website: www.thebeautyofmath.net
In my course I go through virtually every problem in the text with the students with a mixture of assigned problems and problems done together.
The self study can also work though, I would just highly recommend if going through as self study that you skip nothing. There are a handful of sections at the beginning of each text that you probably could gloss over. But I would be really careful as there are extremely important connections made in non-descript passages that really help tie it together. So that means doing the gray box questions AND reading their solutions even if you got it right. The reading passages surrounsing those solutions are really important also to gaining better mastery. Also definitely attempt all the challenge problems at end of chapter, along with review and section and exercises. Basically: Don't skip anything to get the maximum benefit.
Shoot me an email if you have further questions, as sometimes I set comments aside that are important to respond later but then it gets buried in to do list and I forget.
Check AoPS forums to see what others recommend about classes: Middle School forum and Contest Forum. Try doing searches. :)
Good luck!
hello, thank you so much for the helpful video! I'm currently in 8th grade this year, and last year i scored a 91.5 for the 10a, but I didn't have any practice for it at all. so far, I've done Counting and Probability and Intro to Algebra on aops, and I'm hoping to score about a 105 this year, and I've just purchased the volume 1 aops book! besides that, would you recommend anything else to score higher? also, by 9th or 10th grade, I'd like to qualify for AIME, so would you have any tips to increase my chances of qualifying? thank you so much!
I'd say with that base score you have an excellent shot to achieve all that you have listed. Don't skip any reading in Volume 1. A lot of really important concepts are hidden in nondescript passages. There will be times when the reading is boring and feel you probably know everything on the page, read it anyway just in case. Do all problems. If you struggle at proofs and end up just reading the solution...that's ok but make a list of all proofs, and if you ever qualify for USAJMO then revisit those fornexyra practice.
For studying techniques, watch this and see if it helps. I recommend using the highlight/organized detail method on minimum 1 to 2 questions per past test.
ruclips.net/video/Kku2CzkoboA/видео.html
@@TheBeautyofMath thank you so much for the advice and for responding so quickly! I really appreciate your advice and tips!
Hi! This video helped a lot with my prep for the AMC 12. I don't know if you still comment on old videos I'm an incoming junior preparing for the AMC 12 to hopefully qualify for the AIME. I'm super new to competition math, but from what I've seen from it so far it seems really fun and interesting, and so I really want to get better at it and hopefully make the AIME. Last year, I took the AMC 10 as a sophomore without practicing at all and was super lost as I've never seen a lot of those types of questions before (I scored a 75/150, bad I know, and every question after #15 I couldn't answer). I'm starting to learn using AOPS volume 1, but I can't afford buying all the other AOPS books (like intro to geo, algebra, nt, etc.) to prepare. I was just wondering what else I should and can do after that in order to prepare fully and hopefully get a good score on the AMC 12 this fall. Also, for 100% knowing when you are right, how do you make sure you do this? Is it just familiarity and practice with those types of problems?
Hi, thank you. Yes I try to respond to all comments of substance when I can even on old videos. Send me an email on my channel email or through my website and we can set up time for a zoom consultation to answer more in depth. Your experience of being very lost is quite normal for the uninitiated and everyone has that feeling when they are first exposed to this kind of thinking. It's not like school math at all, and imo is a lot more fun.
You might try the budget version of this video( ruclips.net/video/e_dA6XH5lVM/видео.html ) also for those with less ability to afford classes and books. I think I make suggestions in there about how to ethically acquire the texts without having to resort to piracy(Libraries, math clubs, etc.)
For knowing you are right, there isn't one way but rather it's unique to each problem type and how many associated mental tools you have mastered in order to approach the problem in more than one way and have your answers confirm each other along with your ability to calculate quickly. Getting a late start is a major challenge, but if you make the sacrifice (don't doom scroll apps, have a VERY focused summer with time dedicated while still maintaining a healthy enough family/social life, but fight laziness at every turn-see the self-discipline videos series, especially the 3rd one).
Finally the NUMBER one resource is the past competitions. It gets a lot of tried and true problem types and concepts exposed to your mind in a short time frame. Study all available solutions even the ones you got right to learn different techniques. If they mention something you don't know about, then search that up on Khan Academy or other YT channels etc. But I would start back in the year 2000 tests and even though they are easier, start building a mental database of problem formats and get exposed to more concepts. You can even do AMC 8's now and then to learn concepts. Hope this helps. Let me know how it goes.
I’m a sophomore in Calc BC, but I’ve never done math competitions and am thinking of getting into it this year. I have 2 main questions: 1. Would you recommend for me to take the AMC 10 or 12? I’ve heard that there are many overlapping questions and the curve on the 12 is more generous. 2. What resources would you recommend for me to use in order to prepare for the test?
I replied by email I believe. Let me know if the response aided you in your quest. :)
Should I try Competition math for middle school or AOPS vol 1 book for AMC 8?
I would start with AoPS PreAlgebra. It will build a solid core. Don't skip any challenge though. The first chapter should be calculated only mentally. If you cannot do the calculations in your head, it's most likely because you are the lacking the correct thought process by which it is done. Some chapters might be easier but you should at minimum do the challenge from each chapter. If you don't get 90% plus right on the first attempt then do the whole chapter. After that Intro to Counting and Probability is the next best topic. Then perhaps NT/Algebra/Geo in either order. Volume 1 is a decent summary of the intro series and a great problem set but more geared towards AMC 10 fundamental ideas. It evem has AMC 12 only topics like logs. But if you have time to do the Intro series it collectively is better than Volume 1 as it goes deeper into the topics. I did not find Competition Math for Middle School to be that worthwhile, but not a waste of time. Just minimal value comparatively. I found a few good problems in there and concepts but 95% of the content is covered in the Intro Series.
@@TheBeautyofMath As I have only two month left away from AMC 8, I think I can not finish the remaining intro series ( CP and NT ). Do you recommend volume 1 or Competition math for middle school as a summary of those remaining intro series? I have done some of the parts of volume 1 and competition math for middle school. I personally felt competition math for middle school's combinatorics part had more detail then volume 1's.
Hi, I just want to say that all your content is very helpful. I'm currently in 9th grade and I have never done any AMC or competition math. In 2 years I would like to be able to do the AMC 12 and do well on it. I feel like I lack some fundamental skills to do the questions like all the formulas and things. When I watch your videos on questions I sometimes get really confused because I just didn't learn the concepts. My current study method is just to read a questions and most of the time I don't know how to do it so I just watch one of your videos then do it again by myself. I'm not sure if this is the best method to study but solving a question on my own Is basically impossible. Would you be able to give me some advice on how to study , some resources that I could use and how I could catch up to everyone and be able to do AMC 12?
There are unfortunately a LOT of concepts and techniques used in Competition Math that are simply not taught in traditional school in traditional classes. Sometimes Honors teachers will touch upon them, but the main resource I would use for beginning your journey to Competition success would be Volume 1 from AoPS. This is the most essential piece of foundational wide coverage material that every preparing student should use in my opinion. (This is an affiliate marketing link, so I could get paid if you use it to purchase) artofproblemsolving.com/store/item/aops-vol1?TheBeautyofMath AIME is essentially the 2nd Round of the AMC 10 and AMC 12. If you score in around the top 2.5% or better on the AMC 10, or in the top 5% or better on the AMC 12 then you are invited to take the American Invitational Mathematics Examination(AIME). 3 hour test. 15 questions. 12 minutes per question. It's a pretty prestigious accomplishment. In my opinion. You can read more about it here: www.maa.org/math-competitions/invitational-competitions As for a method of organizing the study process and getting the most out of it, I suggest the methodology I demonstrate in this video, with maybe diagramming 1 or 2 questions of choice per test, if there is no time for that, then the small formula and concept notebook is absolutely essential. That video can be found in this playlist(HOW to STUDY) here, along with other great info like the tracking form to track progress. ruclips.net/p/PL-27w0UNlunw0THga8IJPD4CjSMP9lxnk If you put forth the effort and are diligent, and most importantly enjoy the journey, I think you have a great shot at scoring well on the AMC 12 in 2 years time. I hope you continue on your path to success, and please comment on the channel to ask advice whenever you like. I hope this helps. Enjoy your day. :)
You can try using amc trivial, it's good for changing the difficulty of the problems, and the category that you are trying to study. You can start from easier problems and slowly work your way up. Good luck!! :D
I'm currently a freshman at my high school and I intend to take the AMC 10 at 10th grade. I currently have no prior math competition experience nor have I studied properly for such exams before. I only have just started studying the Art of Problem Solving Volume 1 book and I feel concerned about being incompetent as I think I won't have enough time to properly prepare (I also plan to solve a lot of past year AMC 10 problems later on when I am familiar with the AoPS Vol 1 topics). Personally, I am pretty good at math (evident from grades and my mathematical learning pace), but AMC 10 math is giving me a lot of anxiety. I feel like I'll fail miserably during the test and miss my shot with AMC 10, and this feeling worries me to death. I really want to do good on this test to not only include it in my college application, but to improve my math skills and going through the journey of accomplishing a task such as this. I would like to know if studying the AoPS Vol 1 book first then doing a lot of past year problems is an appropriate study plan to achieve a good score on the AMC 10. Thank you for taking the time to read this long comment.
Hi Seonguk, thank you for the comment. I did not reply right away, mostly because of lack of time. When I reply, I want to make sure I can respond with an authentic thought and that amount of time when other responsibilities were not of higher priority just did not materialize. I understand exactly these feelings of anxiety and fear of "failing". They are not abnormal. I can say only that...if you don't take the test at all, if you don't try to accomplish the goal, or to climb the mountain, then you would in fact have already failed. Throughout life, you will face many daunting tasks. They don't all have checklists about which to navigate them, but the most important thing we can do is take them on. To not allow the fear of failure to defeat us before we begin. You are incompetent. All of us are. When we start. We worry then that though we invest the time we will not achieve the desired outcome. The secret then is to change the desired outcome. Or at least modify it. Give additional parameters. The "award" is but one reason to begin the journey. Beginning the journey IS the success. Paradigm shift. Other videos I have that will help you with all of this are primarily AIME Mindset: ruclips.net/video/oXqhZBhGAcs/видео.html , and from this last fall "The only way out is through": ruclips.net/video/bJZcp4Ip0j0/видео.html
What you suggest is a fine study plan. The most important thing is to do it 5 or 6 days out of 7 for 30 minutes to an hour, or about 5-6 hours a week. Regardless of your performance on the test, your critical thinking, and creative problem solving, and mathematical acumen will grow by leaps and bounds. Good luck, and let me know in comments if I can help, I have classes also if interested(you can find more info on my website). :)
Howdy TheBeautyofMath, will you do videos on AMC8 or MATHCOUNTS and middle school contests?
I think so. I did one MathCounts video if you search my channel and an AMC8 livesolve last year with somewhat poor lighting. There is honestly just so much to film and so little time. It won't be a focal point, but here and there I definitely will add a problem or two.
Hi! First I want to say this video was incredibly informative, and I plan to engage in many of the courses and resources mentioned. My only question is this:
I’m currently a sophomore in high school. I have very little math competition experience, and I struggle a lot with geometry and combinatorics. I recently tried an old AMC12 test, only to find I struggled with a majority (3 to 4 out of 5 questions per page). I was wondering whether or not you think I’d be able to manage studying enough until next October to manage a decent score on the AMC12 in the fall of 2022 (
I personally taught a competent student with no Competition Math experience heading into their Freshman year started studying same time as you about 6 months before. Had never done an AoPS book or any tests. She qualified. So yes it's possible. You will need to really focus on it though with a minimum average daily investment of 1 hour. The more the better. Take some days off here and there. Add extra time on some other days. I would start with Volume 1. It's the best catch all foundational material. After that Intro to Counting and Probability is my recommendation followed by Intro to NT. If you finish all of those by end of summer then throw in Geometry maybe, but that one coming in at your age...you might want to skip some of the early reading and just do the questions. I also will have a class beginning in first or 2nd week of June that covers every past AMC 12 from year 2000 to present, if you are interested just email me at the email on my about page.
But you can absolutely do this. If you don't achieve it...then the worst that happens is you got much better at math and improved your critical thinking and creative problem solving skills. Not a bad deal.
Hi,
I come from a working class family in the Midwest. I do really well in school and I want to challenge myself.
However because I am not an economically privileged middle class student I am not sure if I can afford those books you mentioned from the AOPs website.
I do have some money saved up from garage sale and I work part time (20 hours per week) and would love to buy all them books.
Is it possible for someone from a working class background to succeed in AMC 12? My goal is to be USAMO qualified.
Absolutely. I myself had no tutors or classes. You will be at a disadvantage...accept it...carry it like a chip on your shoulder if need be...then overcome it. Check out the BUDGET version for tips: ruclips.net/video/e_dA6XH5lVM/видео.html
@@TheBeautyofMath Omg thank you so much!
Hey man. I loved this video, and you seem to be a great man who is truly dedicated to helping kids. I took the AMC 8 in the eighth grade and scored an abysmal 7/25 without studying. It's now the summer before my ninth grade and I want to qualify for AIME. How should I prepare over the summer? I'm doing geometry and algebra 2 in the ninth grade.
Thanks for replying if you do
Of course. I try to reply to everyone when I am able. Thank you for the compliments. Don't worry about the AMC 8 score. But my guess is without seeing how fast you learn of course, but based on experience I would say you have a much better chance qualifying for AIME as a 10th grader. It will be very difficult to acquire AIME level skills in only 8 months time. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't try. You will need to likely abandon all nonessential time consumers like social media/video games if you are to qualify as a freshman. That's a tough sacrifice for many to make. Even then, no guarantee, but it will increase your chances. Start with AoPS Volume 1. Cover to cover. Ver batim. Skip nothing. There are many gems hidden in passages with no attention drawn to them. First chapter is easy, will lull you into thinking you can skip content. To be safe, don't. Start with AMC 10 year 2000. March through all tests until 2020 tests. 2 a week in the summer, 1 a week once school starts. Guess in nothing. Not worth it. Only 2 things. Know. Or don't know. If you know, read other solutions any way to see if there are time saving shortcuts or different interesting approaches. If you don't know, then seek to learn. If you must guess on the actual test, you do so at your own peril. But never do so in practice. Watch from my channel the Tracking Form video and use it to keep track of progress. After watch the AIME Mindset video. Try not to skip around in those videos. Lots of useful thoughts and information are given.
After Volume 1 attack your weaknesses. Usually this is probability. Do the intro to probability book. Whatever you can't afford try to buy used. Let me know if this helps. Leave me comments to tell me about your progress. Stay safe.
@@TheBeautyofMath thanks for the advice. I have volume 1, but I find some portions advanced cuz I haven't studied those topics in school. But yes it is a great book.
Edit: subbed for great content. Please do more AMC 10 walk-throughs, I found them extremely thorough and helpful
Absolutely. Please make specific test requests or problem requests. If I am able to understand the concept I will prioritize the request. Thanks for the sub.
@@TheBeautyofMath hey. So I was thinking that since some people may not be able to get their hands on an AOPS book, due to the price or some other problems. I was wondering if you could do an educational series on different topics that come up on these tests. Like combinatorics, probability, algebra, geometry, etc.
If you want an example of what I'm talking about, maybe check out 3blue 1brown's series on the essence of calculus. I hope to see you do something like that, but more geared towards competition math.
Obviously, I understand if you don't want to do this. It was just a video suggestion that I think might help all AMC test takers.
Thanks for reading, really hope you consider doing this(but I understand if you don't wanna!)
You are absolutely correct Viradeus. This is on my creation list. I did one for a couple topics, one being Heron's formula derivation. But the primary goal is to get for starters every single AMC 10 problem from 2000 to present in video format as these problems have the highest demand and get the most views and watch time. However now that I am getting a significant number uploaded inbetween other requests I intend to do exactly as you have suggested. Thank you for the channel check out suggestion, I will indeed look at their videos and see how they develop the concepts for reference. 👍
This is a great video, but I'd argue that your preparation need not be this intense (or start in elementary school) just to qualify for the AIME. I tutor US sophomores and juniors for the AMC, and here's what I'd say to you viewers in that age group:
A solid US high school math curriculum will get you great algebra and good precalc. You'll need to review some things, but you can do that with your strong foundation. What you really need to learn on the side is as much counting/probability and geometry as you can, and number theory if you have time. You probably can answer next to zero on these topics just with your high school curriculum.
Counting and probability is not too bad. The AoPS intro volume is great and slim, and once you get a feel for how to count, you'll fly through it. Geometry is more challenging, however. Most students do basically nothing in their 8th/9th grade geometry class, and the AoPS intro book is thick and difficult. You have a lot to learn. But it will put you over the top if you can get through it. Many questions in that crucial #10-19 range of the AMC12 require geometry. Then use AoPS vol. 1 and previous AMCs for practice problems. Vol. 1 is great, but there's not much explanation, so it's tough to use it to learn new material.
Great feedback. Yes the opinions expressed in the video are my own, and by no means the only plan of attack. I only wished to provide a rough outline of a potential plan of attack. But different people with different ability levels and financial resources should adjust as necessary.
I just know, most of my AIME qualifiers and those who make it beyond the AIME, nearly all started in 6th grade or sooner with some kind of prep. But there is a handful that yes, began studying only in 8th grade for like 1 year and qualified this year as a freshman.
So certainly there is room for other individual plans.
Great comment, and thanks for being a teacher also, the world needs more of that.
@@TheBeautyofMath Fair enough. I'd argue that there's a significant gap between AIME qualification and actually being able to do AIME problems (or the hardest AMC problems). 14 questions right (and everything else blank) on the AMC12 is basically an auto-qualify, and this year 11 right was enough. That's not an impossible goal for a strong student with a few months of preparation. But in any case great channel man, will def be sending some students to your videos
You are exactly correct. The difference between qualifying for the AIME and performing well on it(10+) or even performing moderately well (5+) is quite significant. It's why I tell most students preparing that qualifying for AIME is actually a significant accomplishment. Well slightly diminished this year as they accepted over 5% for both the A and B test on the AMC 10. But still top 5% amongst the top math students in the country(my guess is all of them have very high grades in their math classes at minimum) is really likely top 0.1% of msth students in the nation.
On the other hand many great mathematicians did not perform well in competition math. So no one should think they cannot be a math major simply because they never qualified for AIME or USAMO etc. Not saying you think that, moreso, if anyone else reads this comment, I wish not to discourage any future Mathematicians.
To be honest the 14 questions right tactic was the one I used on my Senior year to qualify. Back then though, there was no AoPS, or access to previous tests. I sometimes get jealous of the amount of content available to study for today's generation lol. Anyhow, as you are a fellow educator I really appreciate you offering feedback. If you have any other suggestions for content or opinions to offer I will value it highly. Thank you again.
Hi. I am in 9th grade, and I had about 2 weeks of amc10 practice, and I did 2017-2023A practice tests and understood the problems. Even though I spent so much time, I did horribly on AMC10B 2023, not even scoring a 10/25. What do I do now?
Sorry for late reply on this. Not sure why I didn't get a notice. Contact me through my website or the email shown on my RUclips profile, I am happy to meet with you on Zoom at no cost and discuss a plan of either self study, or working with any tutor, me or otherwise. I think the question is too open ended to answer in comments, and is better answered conversationally. Good luck in your studies either way.
Hi, I'm going into 9th grade and i'm taking the AMC 10B in about 2 1/2 months. In 8th grade I did the test and I didn't do that good. I want to start from scratch and make an entirely new plan for these upcoming months. I have many resources including you but I was wondering If you could tell me how I can budget my time wisely. Ex. 1 or 2 months of learning or exploring topics I struggle and a 1/2 month doing practice contests. Thank you so much and I love your content!
Send me an email on my channel about page, and I will give a free zoom consultation and give you a plan, you don't need to sign up for classes, I will help regardless, but easier to do that way. You can also message through my website found on my channel page too.
On the tracking form, what is the A N S, Usable, and test code for?
Thanks very much.
Great question. I will make a video explaining the tracking form in detail soon. ANS is an abbreviation for total questions ANSWERED. I advocate not guessing on the test. There is only 2 things. Know or don't know. If you know the concepts/strategy be sure to not make mistakes. If you don't know, then you have identified a topic for further study. So if you are answering 20 questions but getting 7 wrong...then the number Answered should be going down on average. Try answering only the first 15 under timed conditions. Check and double check all answers with extra time. Answer other questions to challenge yourself and grow later not under timed conditions. If you get all 15 right or you get 1 or no more than 2 wrong, consider attempting 16 on the next test, and then 17 and so on. The goal is to build confidence gradually. Answering 23 to 25 questions in 75 minutes might create too much pressure for some students to go faster and make silly mistakes. If we reduce the goal to 15 questions when we are in training, then do those silly mistakes still occur when the time pressure is significantly reduced? 15 questions is 5 minutes per question average whereas 25 questions is 3 minutes per question average. Forcing the student to spend more time per question reduces mistakes. Once we get down to 1 or 0 mistakes...we increase the time pressure and number of questions slightly. Always in increments. The most important skill on the test is the skill of not making mistakes. Example if you feel you will need to answer 16 questions with no mistakes for a total score of 109.5 and you end up making 2 mistakes there goes your AIME qualification.
So we want to track the total number of questions ANSwered for the above reason.
Test code is just like 2012A meaning the 2012 AMC 10A. Or 12A if using it for AMC12 tracking. Usable means this: 1. Did you cheat to get one of the questions correct? (Google etc.) If so then it's not a usable score because it tells us nothing about your true ability. 2. Did your dog die the day before you took the test and you are shedding tears while answering the questions? I.e. were you under severe emotional duress during the mock test that would cause you to not perform up to your ability level? Then you put N for No. It's not a usable test for tracking purposes because you were not yourself. 3. Did you take it on the car ride to Vegas while suffering car sickness from reading while driving? Then not a usable test. Basically anything out of the ordinary that would affect your performance. If none of those things apply and the majority of the time they shouldn't unless you live a dramatic life...then put Y for yes.
Thanks very much for your detailed reply. I have a question regarding your statement about guessing. What if I was able to eliminate 1 or 2 answers from the choices. Would you recommend guessing then?
In practice tests definitely no. Unless you are going to make a note that you guessed and go back later to learn the underlying concepts. Reason: If you guess and get it right, you might not go back to learn the proper way. As for during an actual test with AIME qualification riding on the result...I know someone who as a Sophomore thought they needed to guess in order to qualify on one problem. Turned out the cutoff was lower than they were expecting. They had eliminated 3 answers and took the 50/50 chance. They got it wrong and missed qualifying by 1.5 points. That's a nightmare scenario for sure, but are you willing to risk it? I think in some situations it is plausible. I.e. you just answered 24 questions and are confident in your responses, you have definitely qualified for AIME and have a strong foundation for a USAMO push. If you guess right on 25 you accomplish the ever elusive perfect score. Maybe then. In general, I think it's too much risk. Other teachers/coaches might think differently. I can tell you what I think and advocate for you to not guess. But what if you miss qualifying by 3 points and the answer you thought it was was correct? I don't want to be blamed for that either, so I leave it up to the student to use guessing in very specific situations as determined by the student. The general rule to go by though is don't guess unless you feel you have a very valid reason to do so. I.e. you are extremely experienced and feel you have a really good idea of what the cutoff will be and this one question is the difference in your mind of qualifying or not. Just be careful.
I loved ur video, and it helped sooo much!!
I am in 9th grade, and I have access to a lot of resources (thank goodness!). I have finished all 5 years of Beast Academy books (
I think first, doing every problem in each of the books is important. The harder the problem the more important it is usually. So all Challenge problems from the Intro series at least should be done to completion. Preferably the review as well. If you want to set up a free Zoom consultation after this year's AMC's(I am too busy prior)I would be happy to talk with you and your parents about a plan for the next year and how to better utilize the materials mentioned. Just have them or you can send me an email at the email listed on my about page and I will respond when I am able to set up a consultation time.
Hi, I recently discovered your channel and it's soo helpful! I would like to qualify for the AIME by taking the AMC 10 next year or the year after, but I feel like I'm too slow. In 8th grade, I got 20 questions right on the AMC 8 (I didn't really study oops), and I'm an incoming freshman. I took the AoPS Intro to Counting and Probability and Intro to Number Theory classes recently, as well as school geometry last year. What should I do next? How do I improve quicker? When I look at the practice test, it takes me too long.
Will get to this comment soon. So busy. Sorry for delay.
TheBeautyofMath No problem, thank you for your help!
TheBeautyofMath Also, I forgot to add that I purchased the AoPS Volume 1 Book that you recommended. :)
Ok so finally getting to this. I am sorry for the delay. I know compared to some AoPSer's a 20 on the AMC 8 might seem not good. But it's actually a really good score. Have you done any practice AMC 10's? If so, which years, and what were your scores?
Definitely Volume 1. Cover to cover. Don't skip anything, no matter how easy...there are some things I habe students skip...like 1 or 2 pages in chapter 1, but that's about it. There are many things hidden in nondescript paragraphs that are very important that can be easily missed if you are skim reading.
If your goal is AIME qualification and possibly USAMO, maybe don't stress the proofs? Attempt them, and read there solutions, but if you can't think of anything at all concerning it, consider just reading the solution to save time as there are no proofs on either of the AMC 10 or AIME, at the same time they are still important for connecting various concepts in your mind, so attempt them, but don't get discouraged if you don't do well with the proofs.
I am unfamiliar with those classes at AoPS. I know the books...but in the class do they cover all the content in the books?
Start with the year 2000 AMC 10's. They are easier, and will slowly build your skill base and confidence. Read solutions to all problems, not just ones you got wrong or skipped. The reason? Learn different ways of thinking about problems. It will increase your speed and give you more access to more tools on difficult problems.
Hope this helps. :) thanks for patience.
TheBeautyofMath Thank you so so much! I will definitely do that!
Thank you so much for this video! I am a current sophomore, and took the AMC 10 this year for the first time. However, I struggled with a lot of the problems. I'm currently taking calculus and doing well in the class, but I didn't prepare much for the AMC this year and scored poorly. How would you suggest preparing for the AMC 12, given I'm starting math olympiads later in high school? How much would you recommend studying each day? If I start now, is there a chance of making it to AIME?
Thank you!!
I had a student about 5 years ago who started preparing summer of her 8th grade year. At this time the test was in Jan/Feb. She had never done any AMC prior. She prepared from May through January doing past tests and completing most of Volume 1. She qualified as a Freshman in her first attempt. 100% it can be done, you even have a small advantage of being slightly older, and therefore can learn harder concepts easier, or their Competition Level modifications. Calculus doesn't really help. once every 1000 problems Calc could be used like a derivative or something as a solve process, but it's NEVER needed. School math doesn't help that much other than basic familiarity. I would target all past AMC 12's from 2000 to present. I would also target Volume 1 COVER TO COVER no skipping anything. Even the reading. If you only have time for one book that is the one. If you can afford to work with a tutor/teacher then that will increase your returns on time investment, and show you solving mechanics that goes beyond the solution shown in the book discussing many other aspects for problem solving on Competitions such as speed, being sure you are correct, managing thoughts and stress, etc. I currently have an AMC Fundamentals class that uses Volume 1 as the text on Saturdays from 4-6 Pacific time that is discounted almost 50%($35 for 2 hour class). We are just starting Chapter 4. You can try the class before deciding(risk-free trial). There are still 3 spots left as of now.
If you are going to achieve the result, whether you work with me, someone else, or self study...it doesn't matter. Set your determination and be disciplined and pursue it with all you can. In the end whether you succeed or failed, you gain in comprehension, and you will have given your best shot. Believe that you can do it. If you think you can't...you can't. Think you can...then you can. My email is on my about page under business inquiry email. You have to click for it to show to protect from spammers. Either way...good luck. You can do it.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thank you so much!!
Is it possible to qualify for the AIME if I start preparing in the summer of my sophmore year. I am in 10th grade and I have finished AP calc BC. I have done a couple of practice tests before in 8th grade but didn't do any intensive prep. Thanks!
Possible: yes. An easy feat? Not by any means. It will require an immense sacrifice of time and dedication and resolve.
Tbh school math ability while important as it is the foundation Competition Math is built on, isn't going to be nearly enough. You will be taking the AMC 12 Junior and Senior year if you choose to. You need to be in about the top 5% of test takers to qualify. So out of every hundred people you need to score better than 95 of them.
Extremely naturally talented students(and it sounds like you may be one of those) have been able to accomplish AIME qualification with only one year prep. While Calculus is not required for any question, there have been instances where using it might save a couple minutes on a problem. I would probably start by completing the contests from 2000 to 2010, both A and B versions which began in 2002 and keep track of your scores. The old tests will be easier but a fair portion of the test is built on historical concepts or new twists on old procedures used to solve a particular problem. So being aware and understanding what those processes looked like will give a distinct benefit when approaching next years test. Ideally for all of those tests or the majority of them you should score over 100.(6 points for each right, 0 points for each wrong, 1.5 points for each skip) The higher the score the better. Whatever you don't get right or that takes too long to solve consult the solutions and seek to understand them. Even for things you get right, consult solutions to see if a faster method of solving exists. I would do 2 tests a week at minimum starting as soon as possible. After you get to 2010, switch gears and study concepts by starting with Volume 1 from AoPS as it covers a majority of topics lightly. Don't skip any chapters, or content, even the easy stuff, there are often hidden gems of concepts with no attention drawn to them, hidden in an example in the middle of a chapter on a nondescript page. Try to cover 2 chapters or so a week, give or take some content depending on length of chapter and amount of free time available.
Make decisions about other AoPS books you want to prioritize. Remember that Competition level thinking is really different from school level thinking so even doing books like Geometry or intro to Counting and Probability are not a waste of time. All of it will benefit you in your quest. Beginning about October or November begin test taking again starting with 2011 and working through 2020 again tracking progress.
If you exhaust all of the content, there is always more content to consume, many students report doing AIME questions greatly helped them prepare for AMC12 as well. If you set your mind to it, something tells me you are someone who can make it to AIME and possibly even USAMO, but you must be committed to the task and believe in yourself.
@@TheBeautyofMath I should finish all of the AMC 10/12 practice tests and also complete AoPS volume 1. If I do so, will that be sufficient prep for AIME qualification. I will probably start my preparation today, but I will have a TON more time over the summer.
@@prathambabaria5834 yes and no. It will kind of depend on how well you score. If you are always getting above 130 on AMC 10 and always above 120 on AMC12, it just might be enough, if you are getting lower than that, you should use other resources to shore up weaknesses as they occur by topic. But what you describe is an excellent foundation. Some questions are the same on both tests, so I would do the 10's first if you are going to do both, then go back and do the 12's after time has passed and your brain is able to forget at least some of the solution paths. Use the tracking form or multiple copies that is linked in the description to try and track progress.
This is very helpful. I really appreciate this help and believe I can qualify AIME by this plan. I never had such a good idea of what I should do for the next 3 months before the test until now. I need a small tip from you. I have 3 months to prepare for AMC 10. I'm in 8th grade right now and my foundation for AMC 8 is pretty solid. On all of the past year exams I got 23-25. If I want to get about 110-120 on the AMC 10 in February of 2021, how many hours should i spend per day?
It is different for every person. To make that call I would need to know you pretty well. A rough guess of an answer? You have really solid foundation with the good AMC 8 scores. The 2 most important things to do is every AMC 10 between 2000 and 2020. We have about 10 weeks. If you do 2 a week, that would only be about 10 years. But doing and processing 40 tests in 10 weeks would be obscene. I doubt you could really retain all of it. As such I would say, from now until then do 2 tests a week using the tracking form(video of it on my channel) start from 2010. However, after the real tests in January, go back and do 2000-2010 as rhey are still needed to build your foundation.
In addition to 2 tests a week, you should 100% complete Volume 1 AoPS. Ver batim. Every word. Every problem. That will give you a solid chance at qualifying depending rate of improvement and knowledge retention. You also REALLY need to watch the "How to Study" video to learn about the notebook usage, especially the small formula notebook. Once Volume 1 is done, if there is still time...hit your weak spots. Likely intro to C and P or Intro to Number Theory. I hope this helps, if you need tutoring/guidance shoot me an email located on my about page.
Having said all that, I would say if you can do 1.5 hours a day or more that would be great. But don't force it...you really want to avoid the burnout feeling so many students get. Also...consider Thanksgiving and Christmas break as times to amp up the hours per day. Try to enjoy the process.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks. Is it okay if i just watch video solutions for all of those AMC 10's since 2000-2020 along with doing the entire Basics Volume 1 book? Will that prepare me well enough? Basically I will first watch the video solutions to all of the problems. After that, I will solve all of the problems. Is this good enough? Also, I am thinking about qualifying USAJMO for the 2022 year. Is this possible if I study everyday and dedicate a lot of time to qualify USAJMO in 9th grade?
Not really. A question looks different inside the mind when you are seeing it from your in front of your own thought process. The challenges and difficulty of the landscape shift when you are watching someone else explain it. You don't realize how challenging some of the maneuvers are to see when there is not a narrator explaining what to do next. It's like the difference between doing a real life maze in person in 3D(like a challenging corn maze) and doing the same maze on a piece of paper. The paper version would be far easier because you have a top down view. You can see the dead end around the next corner and just don't gonthat way. Not so when you are in the 3D maze. You don't know what lies around that corner and so you have to explore it to see. Solutions should only be watched after personal attempts have been made so that the subtlety and nuancr of the problem is not lost. You will need to skill of perceiving a dead end without taking it on the real test, and that skill will not be developed watching solution videos.
Depending on your skill and speed of learning...it is definitelt possible to acquire that accomplishment within 2 years time. But it does need to become your "sport" if you will. You must dedicate to the cause if you hope to achieve that. This means minimal time on social media and video games or tv shows. Some is ok. But you must master time management or it will be impossible. Part of that will be managing motivation by not burning yourself out.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks. That is very helpful. How about watching different was to solve it after getting it wrong>
Is Precalculus absolutely needed in order to do well on AMC12 and qualify for AIME? Is it better to work on vol. 1 after finishing all 4 intro books?
I feel Pre-Calculus does help a lot as a lot of foundational concepts covered in a Pre-Calc course are used in AMC 12 problems. De Moivre's Theorem, Complicated Function type problems, More in depth solid Trig Understanding and more difficult logarithmic problems than an Algebra 2 course would typically provide. So you don't have to get it from a high school course. You can self teach Pre Calc with a solid honors level text book. Khan Academy can help. A tutor could help go through the book with you if you aren't comfortable self studying it or intermittently if you have questions. But in my opinion yes. A solid grasp of Pre-Calc concepts would likely more than double the chances of getting AIME qualified compared to someone with no deeper understanding.
It depends on available time for the Volume 1 question. If you have only 2 to 4 hours a week to throw at studying...you will find it difficult to get through all the Intro Series in a year's time. Volume 1 is better done first for such a student to gain at least above average grasp of a myriad of fundamental Competiton Math Concepts. But if you have 8 hours plus a week to throw at it...it likely is better to do all of the intro series first...or if say the student is a 6th grader and has much time to develop...then even 2 to 4 hours a week is plenty of time to get through all the Intro series before 9th grade starts. Volume 1 would then be used as like a summary review of all the books yet without the depth. 2 to 4 hours a week for a Sophomore going into Junior year would likely want to start with a thorough read of Volume 1 and then identify weaknesses and use the Intro books to attack the weaknesses as time permits.
Hope this helps. 😀
@@TheBeautyofMath Is the aops precalculus book good for self study? It's probably a lot harder than Khan academy.
That is one I haven't actually through yet, but AoPS forum users usually rate it very highly.
Hello. I have signed up to take the AMC10 test at my school as a sophomore. I was wondering for a student like me as a sophomore, would buying Volume 1 and Intermediate Algebra from the AOPS store be a good idea? As of right now, I'm currently working through the AMC10 tests and going through the solutions after I take them in order to understand everything better, however, I know that it's a little too late this year to read through the AOPS books. I still plan on taking the AMC12 tests next year after I take the AMC10 this year so would purchasing these books right now still be useful? Also, if there are any other books you would recommend I read before or after these 2 books, which ones would they be? Thank you!
Note: I've never really had any experience with general competition math. The only competitive math I've ever done was mental math competitions when I was in middle school.
I think Volume 1 is Priority 1. Will give blanket coverage of many of the concepts on the test, but not at huge depth. But enough depth that it's the best book by itself. I would personally wait on Intermediate Algebra until after you complete two other far more prioritized books: 2. Intro to Counting and Probability(do not skip anything except some early parts, but definitely all challenge, and review, and the gray box questions are actually really important also, but there are some parts early in the book that you can skim read and/or not do, but look over at a glance at least.) 3. Intro to Number Theory. Same advice as above. Both of these books are essential as there is virtually no coverage of these in middle school and high school. and you can be sure about 3-6 of them will be on every test between the 2 books combined. After those 3, then yes, I think Intermediate Algebra would be a great choice.
I am currently a sophomore getting into competition math, so quite behind, but over a few years I have repeatedly tried to use the AOPS books - from both the online classes and self-learning. I just cannot seem to do it. Every book and online course I used was a massive struggle, and I am currently trying to do volume 1 and I am already stuck on the second half of the chapter 1 problems. Should I even try to continue?
Hi, I actually saw your other comment, and had bookmarked it to reply, but then just had a really busy few days at like 10 hours plus per day in lessons and then other life requirements. Apologies for the delay, and I always try to make an effort to respond to any substantive comment. Are you able to meet over Zoom for a conversation/consultation? It would be easier to discuss things verbally than a long comment, and I could give advice for self study and/or discuss options to remedy the difficulty. The most important thing is what you just did. You left a comment seeking advice. You could have just given up. You didn't. That will serve you well. Never give up. Send me an email at my account email and I will help you make a plan that works for you. There is no cost for the consultation. I just like to help.
@@TheBeautyofMath I completely understand and thank you so much for your reply. I would be able to and just sent you an email.
I am currently scoring 18+ on the AMC 8. As of right now, I am trying to finish the AOPS introduction series and I am in grade 7. I have heard of alcumus but never bothered doing it. I am wondering if doing alcumus is helpful with my current score on the AMC 8.
Ok so from what I have been told Alcumus has good content covering all the way up to Intermediate or even Hard level AMC 10 questions. You absolutely should do it. Pick whatever topic is your weakest. Play around with the difficulty levels and when you find a section where you have at least 20% of problems you don't know...then work through all problems at that difficulty level. But 100% yes...do Alcumus.
Thank you!
I know it’s a bit early to ask right now, but how does Awesome math summer camp compare with Alphastar Academy summer course? Or which one would be beneficial to me? I got 14 right in the AMC 8. I’m planning to take the level 1.5 Algebra and Elements of Geoemtry if I choose to go to Awesome math. If I go to Alphastar I think I will choose the AMC 8 advanced C&P and Geo. I heard that both of these are extremely good (from AoPS) so I want to choose one of them. Any reply would be great full.
For camp comparisons. I have no personal experience of the classes and so cannot give proper advice on how they compare. A good forum to ask in would be AoPS. But before asking use the search feature as this queation gets asked a lot there amd probably already has multiple threads!
@@TheBeautyofMath Ok, also I have an alternative question... I am doing intro to Number Theory, and I can’t understand chapter 12 and chapter 10 with modular arithmetic and units digit. Any tips on how to get through these chapters?
@@jajajasoak8812 Hmmm on one's own? I think they are essential chapters. I would either get a tutor for like 3 or 4 1.5 hour sessions or you do have solutions yes? I would try to work through the solutions line by line to see what they did? You did all the gray box questions and thoroughly read their explanations? That would be essential reading in order to prepare for exercises and end of chapter problems.
Wow I really thought this was a game plan for the movie theater 😂😂😂
Right? Lol 😂
If i start in 11th grade going on to 12th what should i do?
It is worth it to start regardless of whether you qualify. The rewards are being a more creative problem solver. The problems are fun and the solutions elegant. That doesn't mean you won't qualify, but you will only get 2 shots. A and B test. Just Do not feel like a failure if AIME qualification doesn't happen.
1. Buy with solutions Volume 1.
2. Do 2 tests a week under testing conditions. No phones etc. Use all tests from year 2000 for AMC 12. The older tests are easier. Don't get hyped by good scores on pre 2014 tests. A and B versions did not start until 2002. But future questions are often based on concepts explored on previous tests. Do Volume 1 cover to cover. Don't skip anything no matter how easy. It's not worth it to risk missing the hidden content in the book which sometimes appears in the middle of paragraphs in regular style print. After do intermediate algebra. When you get that part caught up, check back and let me know how the progress is going. Good luck. Enjoy the journey.
I'm currently a 10th grader who has had past experience with the AMC competition, however I stopped really studying around a year ago. Is it possible for me to qualify for a competition like AIME? I have the entire summer to study and would be willing to spend hours on it, but I don't really know where to start. How should I start preparing (If I should)
You would of course have a shot. I have seen some dedicated students go from where you are at now to USAMO in 6 months, but they lived, ate, breathed Competition Math for those 6 months. I think to get to AIME would not require that level of dedication, but could be done with focused investment of time. Top priorities 1. Every past test 2000 to present day with solid review of correct and incorrect answers both looking for increased efficiency and alternate solve methods. (I have a class for this if interested) 2. Your book priorities should be A. Intro to Counting and Probability B. Intro to NT C. Volume 1 from AoPS. The first 2 have highly limited coverage in school, the 3rd is an excellent approximate summary with decent depth of the entire intro series of AoPS books with excellent coverage of many geo problems, word problems, and algebra concepts and problems and techniques. Do every problem and example and exercise in all texts. Take notes of very insightful approaches, and use the small notebook I discuss in my small notebook video for any ideas or concepts that stand out in your studies.
Let me know if you have any questions or need additional direction. But the above would be my priorities. You 100% have a chance. I had another student who she did not start any competition prep until 9 months before first taking the AMC's and she qualified for AIME in her first attempt as a freshman. So be diligent, study with intent(see Building Mathematical Intuition Video for an example of this) and fully commit and believe you will achieve it. Then comment again in November when you find success. :)
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks for the response, I did the intro into probability in the past, but I didn’t really try my best on it. So should I start on that book, and once I’m done go to number theory?
Sorry for the late response. I think that would be exactly what I would do. Redo the book you did not try hard on the first time, and the second time through will be easier, and you will pick up things missed the first time.
Is it good for me to first solve the problems and then watch the video solutions to learn new ways after?
100%. That is the best way. You need to grow confidence in your ability to solve it on your own. Even if you can't think of the best solution. After solving you seek to improve upon your methodology. Or even your algorithmic approach. You should be investigating all solutions even on problems you got right so that you can:
1. Gain additional insight
2. Learn faster or more beautiful methods
3. Improve upon your knowledge of various approaches. The more approaches to a problem you know, the higher the likelihood that you will think of ONE of those methods under pressure.
But first you must gain the confidence over time that you can solve almost ANY question, even if you don't perceive the best solution under pressure. That confidence only comes when facing a truly unknown adversary(problem type) and overcoming the fear of the problem in order to succeed. This objective is never achieved when you know how to solve the problem in advance.
Brilliant has a course on preparing for the AMC 10 and 12, is it worthwhile and effective?
I have heard of it, but I would not be able to provide an adequate review as none of my other students have done the course. However you might try asking at Art of Problem Solving forums for their opinion. Many of them have done several classes like that and might be able to provide first hand knowledge. My guess is the course is worth doing, and will bring you improvement. But that is a guess, and not based on much of anything other than I remember someone on a forum saying they liked the course.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks, the thing is that the course is problem-oriented and so you have to know at least something about a particular concept before you can really get going with what the course offers. The way the course works is that they have a small section going over ‘all’ the required theory needed for solving a problem from a particular genre (such as floor and ceiling functions) and then they present various methods of solving differently styled problems. What I'm trying to do is fill in the gaps in my knowledge in certain areas by supplementing material from their other math courses. Can you suggest other resources or, perhaps, better ways (more importantly, faster ways) to quickly cover everything essential before continuing in the course? :)
I wish I could but I completely unfamiliar with how to go about what you seek. My knowledge of their courses and the like is now the extent of your two comments. 😞
But I highly recommend going on AoPS forums and asking there. I am sure many of the users there have actually taken the course and can tell you exactly what you would need to preview before attending. I am sorry that I was of little help. 🙁
@@TheBeautyofMath You're so kind! Thank you for all your help! :)
@@krishshah3974 brilliant is not that great,atleast for it's price. I found the stuff to be quite boring. The only course I really enjoy and recommend is the logic course.
Hi, I have a question. What is the most important to do to get into AIME. I am in 8th grade right now and I have got a decent score but not enough to make AIME. What is the most important resource to do in my summer for Freshman year. I have done Intro to Algebra and most of Intro to geometry so far and I have got Volume 1, are there any other reccomendations so I can raise my score the fastest. Thanks and great video again.
Also what CTY camps could be beneficial to AMC 10+ AIME, since I am in CTY right now?
I am not as aware of the CTY camp efficacy. I know this summer most in person camps were cancelled. Not sure about online. My advice for that would be to ask CTY directly or pose the question on AoPS forums and see what students who went to the camps say.
As for Most Important? I would say it's Volume 1 cover to cover hands down. It has the most coverage of any of the books over major or common concepts.
Can I start competing in the AMC 12 as a junior in high school? I have never competed seriously in competition math but did the AMC 10 as a diagnostic earlier this year and got a 78 with zero prep. Is it worth it for me to try to qualify for AIME so late in the game? Where do I even start?
Honestly? Absolutely. Ask yourself what happens if you don't make AIME despite a massive outpouring of effort on your part in the next 10 weeks? Answer: You gain incredible insight into really enjoyable mathematical problem types. You learn a ton of various mathematical concepts you never knew before and see them applied in ways you had never dreamed of. You discover how mathematics can be fun, and though you never qualify for AIME you gain a new appreciation for Mathematics and decide to pursue a Computer Science Degree. You earn your degree, make a tech startup and dethrone Google becoming the world's richest person(Sorry Bezos).
I mean that sounds like failing up to me. lol. Ok slightly tongue in cheek and exaggeration of what would likely occur. But everything but the last sentence was an entirely realistic outcome. Don't worry or judge yourself on the lack of the AIME qualification. Judge yourself by progress made, and self improvement. You still could qualify for AIME. But that's not the real prize. The real prize is the the first 3 sentences of what happens if you don't make AIME and the progress you make, and the journey you take. My advice: Go for it. Throw everything you have at it. Every free minute for the next 10 weeks(it's how many weeks are left til the A test at the time of this comment). Leave everything on the floor, and you have NOTHING to be ashamed of if you don't make AIME. Also update me either here or by my email on my about page about how you did. Or go play video games and watch Netflix. Up to you I guess. :)
@@TheBeautyofMath Thank you so much for the advice! I will be studying a whole lot during these coming weeks…
How do you feel about their competition textbooks?
Which ones. I am unfamiliar. Their Book Title?
Isn't the AIME floor like 5% this year or something?
It is virtually the same every year. About top 5% for AMC 12 test takers, and top 2.5% for AMC 10 test takers. But sometimes it is more lenient.
Hi, I’m a year 10 (which is like 9th grade ) student currently studying in the UK, and preparing for AMC 10. Is there a significant difference in curriculum between the two countries? And if so, what topics should I cover?
Will respond soon. Check back later today.
So this question is quite difficult for me to answer. I am not at all knowledgeable about curriculum differences across the pond. I would imagine most of the in school fundamentals are the same as over here.
However...the majority of the AMC relies on concepts not taught in most schools as it's advanced level curriculum. So things like Stewart's Theorem are never taught in any school I have ever heard of. To learn these more advanced concepts you have to learn them either through videos, tutors, or Artofproblemsolving.com forums or from the books from Art of Problem Solving or similar type books. The list of topics needed is far too great to list in one comment. It's literally over 1000. A test consists of perhaps 60 implicit concepts. So let's say from a pool of 1500 concepts you get a combination of 1500C60 possible tests. This number is astronomically large. Therefore one would want to add as many concepts to their repetoire as possible so that they can increase the chances they will know the underlying implicit concepts for as many questions as possible. As such the best book you could do is Volume 1 from AoPS. Get the solutions with it. This will give a blanket coverage of many concepts and serves as the fastest way to get acclimated to the test's difficulty.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thank you so much for the detailed reply. I'll go through the book and let you know how it turned out
hey i am also year 10 um not really same stuff i asume you take the senior math challenge just learn all the concepts and practice all the past papers. if your in the uk you can try to take smc and qualify for BMO
@@danielqiu6186 oo this was helpful! Thank you so much
I am an eighth grader who has done math counts and finished 51st in Ohio and am looking to prepare for the amc 10 next year. My previous studying for math competitions has just been mathcounts club where we solved handbook problems. I took the 2023 amc 10 unofficially and got 81(10 right, 1 wrong, 13 blank) I got AoPS volume 1 and am now studying it. I also signed up for the AoPS amc 10 problem series over the summer. I am also currently taking geometry in school and algebra 2/ trigonometry next year. Do you think this preparation plus doing past amc 10s will be sufficient for AIME qualification or should I try reading the other AoPS books for more preparation.
Nothing is sufficient. That's the short answer. A lot of it is your ability to respond to a concept presentation that has never been seen on the test. Ad Hoc problem solving. The ability to adapt and respond to adversity has to be present, and all the knowledge in the world will not be enough if you don't have that element. You can think of it as a percentage chance of qualifying, and the more you know the better your percent chance. The greater your experience level in responding to adverse problem presentations the better your percent chance etc. Essentially, you should add as much to your arsenal of knowledge as you possibly can to put yourself on the best footing. I suggest you watch the Small Notebook Justified and Explained video as well before undertaking any plan to get the most out of that plan. ruclips.net/video/7KglZ7MUUpY/видео.html
All that you named will be a good starting platform. The two books I would MOST recommend you do in conjunction with Volume 1(do every single problem in that text imo) is Intro to Counting and Probability, and Intro to NT. I have a class for the Counting and Probability currently going on Thursdays 5PM Pacific. You can sit in on one session with no commitment and no payment unless you stay in the course to see what you think, if it's beneficial or not. I am 100% confident in the quality of the instruction, which is why I offer that. But I am not offended at the same time by anyone who finds it's not in their best interest to join such a class. I have a Past Test Review Course you are welcome to sit in on one as well and see what you think. It's on both Tuesdays and Fridays for AMC 10. Shoot me an email if you would like. Even if you don't join one of my courses, I am happy to respond and give advice at no cost. As a teacher my number one priority is to help and to put you on the best footing to accomplish your goals regardless of whether it benefits me. So feel free to set up a free Zoom consultation and discuss further, with zero pressure to take a class. Happy to help if I can.
Besides that I hope the content on my channel is of aid. Feel free to share a comment if you reach your goals in the future as well. Love to hear it.
@@TheBeautyofMathWould you prioritize reading more AoPS books such as intro to counting and probability or doing more past amc 10s
Tough call. Tests are the best resource for fast acquisition of knowledge, but the texts should NOT be neglected. Maybe this close to the exams do an 80/20 split of your time. 4 hours towards past tests and 1 hour towards finishing one text to it's fullest extent. meaning all problems and high comfort levels with the challenge problems methods. That will make you much more likely to get the 2-4 combinatorics questions on each test you will see while also giving broad coverage of other concepts.
is it normal to struggle with the "challenge problems" section in the aops books?? (specially the ones with the stars and hints), im in 10th grade and not even a bad student and can't do these supposedly 6~8th grade problems (i don't have any prior olympiad math experience)
Yes. Highly normal. Seen students who are in Calc BC in 9th grade and take on the competition problems and get wrecked. It doesn't have to do with general school thought processes but rather creative thought processes and deeper insight into the concepts applied in way school textbooks never do. Why don't they? Cause Creative Problem solving has all but been removed from most school curriculum. That's why it's generally quite boring. They have removed the fun aspects of it. It used to be prevalent in textbooks in the 90's with all kinds of AMC like problems in the texts. Current era textbooks have largely removed that...cause the people designing our education system think it's "helping". I will leave it to you to determine how much it helped. I will end my rant on that, though I could go on for hours.
Do not feel bad. Instead recognize this as a challenge unlike ones you have faced before. You will grow smarter going through this challenge. You will find the problems solutions far more "beautiful" if you will, and enjoyable when you see some of the unique way they apply general knowledge in something as simple as knowing what an odd number or even number is, and what primes are. School math lacks in both Number Theory(there is none taught) and Combinatorics(There is virtually none, and the problems are simplistic in comparison). I would not go straight to the challenge in any chapter. What book are you doing currently?
email me and set up a free consultation. I will give you advice on how to self study at no cost, just cause I care and desire to do so.
@@TheBeautyofMath I'm currently doing intermediate algebra and almost finishing introduction to counting and probability, I'd love your advice on how to self-study, but i'm not preparing for the AMC (i don't live in the US), is it ok?? What's your email?
@@user-wc3qj9kb2lHi, so if you go to my page at the top when you first visit my channel page, under the banner at the top is a phrase that will look like this:
"This is a channel initially focusing on all Competition Mathematics such as American Mathematics..>" Click that > key and it will open up more information. After it opens up click "View Email Address" and it will show it. I don't place my email in comments, because bots surf comments for email addresses and then I get tons of spam. It's fine if you don't live in the US and if you are not preparing for AMC. Just let me know your time zone when you email, and what times of day your time are good for you, and I will try and find a time slot.
@@TheBeautyofMath I sent you an email!
hi thank u for your video. I live in Orange County, ca, is there a site or academy I could call to get a tutor for amc 10 or aime?
I do tutoring myself and you can email me at thebeautyofmath13@gmail.com for inquiries. Or I can offer other recommendations by email as well.
Hi, I currently have completed Intro to Algebra, Intro to CP, and am mostly done with Intro to Geo, and Intro to NT. Will be done with those by March for sure. In addition, I've completed Volume 1 (except the Geo part because I'm taking Intro to Geo right now). I've already signed up for AoPS' Intermediate Algebra course which will start in March. I want to make the AIME next year. Currently, I scored a 93 on the AMC 10 mock from AOPS that came out a month or so ago. I do admit that I must review these books and do more problems. So, how do you think I should continue? Would rereading these books and take classes be better (I've read Intro to Algebra at least 3 times and Intro to CP at least twice), or solving questions on Alcumus? What about mocking past AMC 10's? Basically I'm trying to ask if solving questions is better, or reviewing books and materials. Can you give me a plan to make sure I make the AIME? I am willing to study for 1:30 hours every day excluding weekends and in Summer, I am willing to study 3 hours daily for at least 3/4 of the summer.
My current strategy is just reading the book, and doing the problems in the chapters. I do some alcumus after that and I continue. I don't really mock tests that much and I don't complete the challenge problems at the end of the books. Any help or response would be greatly appreciated.
Will try to reply soon
@@TheBeautyofMath That would be great.
Bump, with the AMC 8's coming extremely soon, I really need a response.
@@ihasnoobs8068 sorry. Forgot this one was hear. This is really hard to answer without typing a wall of text. Do you have time for a free Zoom consultation where I can explain a lot better? Parents welcome to join. If so please send me an email from the email on my about page and we can set up a time. Thank you.
Wow 4th-6th prealgebra! I'm in 7th and that's the textbook my school is using. I personally have had 0 trouble with school math so I'm mainly doing it on my own. I most likely haven't made it to AIME, but I'm definitely gonna follow this for next year. How necessary is Intro to Algebra? I'd say algebra is my strong suit, but is it still necessary? (Same goes for P&C and Number Theory). I currently have Volume 1 and am planning on getting Geo. For context, I got an 18 on the AMC 8, most likely a 99 on the 10A and a 93 on the 10B. Is there anything I should go for first that you recommend?
I think if you do a bunch of Algebra handouts and maybe all of Alcumus Algebra content that you can probably skip the Intro to Alg book. I would not skip Number Theory or Probability and Counting however(I don't know you but a lot of people underestimate the value of these books, I personally learned priceless information from them). First? The Volume 1. It would give broad spectrum coverage and improve your foundation. Afters, for the Geo...you might be able to skip some reading in the early chapters, but don't skip any problems(end of section and end of chapter). I would then do the NT, and C and P. I definitely don't recommend Intermediate C and P to anyone who has not completed the Intro. Let me know if this helps.
My guess is you will never have to worry about school math. In general(sometimes we get teachers who are super Extra). With your normal effort you can probably pull A's in most classes if you are adept at Comp Math. PreCalc Honors though often gives more trouble for students than Calc AB.
@@TheBeautyofMath thanks! So it’s probably better to just do the intro to alg book instead of having to search for handouts, or are both equally effective?
@@sabe607 Maybe better to just do the book I guess, it's just it's a long book, so for chapters you know...only do challenge problems. You can probably do that for most of the first half of the book. Second half might have interesting content. Any section that gives you trouble in the Challenge problems, look over the sections and see which parts could benefit you. Second half of the book, probably do most of the content.
Hi TheBeautyofMath! I'm trying to get top 2.5 percent on AMC 10, and one method is using your "Extraction" method. I just started using a little notebook, and it seems helpful. However, I can't seem to overcome the sillies whenever I mock. I always make 2-3 sillies on mock tests and it's starting to frighten me that I might completely fail this years AMC 8 and 10 due to some dumb sillies. I tried double checking every problem, but that ended up wasting lots of time. Is there any tips you can give?
Sorry. Really sick right now. Don't know with what yet. Will try and respond when well.
@@TheBeautyofMath That sucks. I hope you feel better! Stay safe, and best wishes.
I would say...the focus should be on speed without carelessness. Basic calculation speed along with recognition of potential strategy in the first 5 to 10 seconds. The recognition speed can only be increased by experience. This is why people who rise to the top (The Evan Chen's of the world) have literally solved thousands upon thousands of questions...each one adding to their concept knowledge base along with their knowledge of potential errors from mistakes they made along the way.
This allows them to be aware of times when a question is tricky and avoid trap answers that the novice has yet to fall into. So this close to the AMC 8...there is likely not much you can do to alter your score. However let's say you are in 6th grade or 7th grade, then now you know the importance of solving many questions. Use Alcumus. Use FTW! On AoPS website. Each has thousands of problems. Do all of them in the next year. Practice every day. Experience breeds speed. You don't just have speed. You become experienced and that leads to faster mental actions. There is no substitute for experience. If you want the success, you must sacrifice time every day to achieve the objective. So choose. How bad do you want it? This year do the best you can. Next year, go for glory. Between now and then...put in the work.
@@jasonshaye3567 just tagging you, cause I wasn't sure if RUclips ever notified you of the response to this which is the long comment.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thank you so much for tagging me. I really appreciate your response. Keep up the amazing work!
Hi TheBeautyOfMath! Last year, when I was in 7th grade, I was unable to take the AMC 10A but got ~90 on the practice tests at that time. Now, I'm about to go into 8th grade, and I'm scoring at least a 100 (if not higher like 110 sometimes) on the AMC 10 practice tests. I believe, in part, this is because of the Volume 1 AoPS book I started doing during the summer. I really want to qualify for AIME, but I have a question about the AoPS books. Do you believe it is worth it to read the intro/some of the intermediate books other than volume 1 (and maybe volume 2 if I get to that one day)? If so, what should I start on? I've heard that I should have a strong foundation, so should I start on the intro to prealgebra, even though I think I know 99% of the book, just to get a recap? Or, should I just start with what I'm unfamiliar with? Thank you so much!
While I think AoPS PreAlgebra is a fantastically written book, I feel at your level that all of it's content is covered again in the other intro books in various capacities. I would only cover it if you took it upon yourself to tutor a family member, friend, or lower grade student(5th or 6th grade or younger) and went through the book with them. By yourself in self study it would not be the best use of your time. However the Intro Series in General is ABSOLUTELY 100% worth your time. Especially C and P and Number Theory.
If you are in Algebra 2 equivalent or higher in school, I would start with Intro to Counting and Probability, followed by Intro to Number Theory. You can likely skip some passages in both books, but if you can't do at least 80% of challenge problems without help in any chapter, definitely do that whole chapter. For additional challenge, try doing any problems that seem to easy mentally. It will build your calculation speed.
Afters I think you could benefit from Intro to Alg/Geo but I would not necessarily cover them straight through. Do Challenge questions from each chapter until you find a chapter that you can only do like 80% or less of without help. Spot solve the sections of that chapter that deal with that content. If you are under 50% on the challenge without help then do the whole chapter. Next, the first book I would do in Intermediate Series is probably Intermediate Algebra(It will also greatly help with your Pre-Calc understanding for school) Finally I would use Volume 2 only as something to fill in gaps that other books don't cover...like Cauchy or AM-GM or use it for topical searches on topics you are weak on.
Hope this helps. Best of luck!
When I started watching your channel, I thought you were a really nice and genius high school student. I also have a question. I'm in 8th grade right now, so should I start using alcumus(I've not used it before), or should I get started with the AoPS books? I don't have much free time to use both resources, so I'd like to know which resource I should take as priority and do.
lol at the high school student part. I am glad I look young on video. Been out of HS for more than a minute though. But I take your impression as a great compliment.
As for your question. It would depend on a few things. Highest AMC 8 score in practice or official. Same for AMC 10? Those scores would give me more info. Also please tell me what years they were. If you don't want to say them publicly, email me at thebeautyofmath13@gmail.com
Let's say you are getting at least 18 on average AMC8, then Alcumus would be less impactful. Let's say you are getting average of 8 on AMC8, then Alcumus would be very beneficial to shore up your knowledge base.
If you are averaging over 18, and basically the AMC8 is behind us, then our focus is really AMC10. It is better to start with Volume 1. Cover to Cover, ver batim. don't skip a single paragraph unless an experienced tutor tells you it's ok to skip some part based on their knowledge of your strengths and weaknesses. The reason? So many really important concepts appear in nondescript paragraphs where a skim reader will never see it. Have a firm grasp of Volume 1, then begin targeting weaknesses with other Intro Series books, the two most important of which are going to be Counting and Probability and Number Theory as these topics are barely touched upon in school math and are not even close to a competition level difficulty. At the same time, begin going through AMC 10 starting from year 2000. Use the tracking form. Do 1-2 tests a week. Do not expect AIME this year. Take both A and B no matter what. (School only offers one? too bad, take it through a college or math circle etc.) It is possible you hit AIME this year, but don't expect it. True target will be Freshman year depending on your performance on Jan 2021. Let me know if you have any questions, or need tutoring via my email.
Hope this helps.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thank you so much for the very informative response! My only official AMC 8 test was in 2019(in grade 7). I scored 14. I took the same test a few days back and scored 21.
Yeah definitely Volume 1 then. Start there.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks, I have done several chapters of the Volume 1 book, and I have scored 79.5 on 10a and 73.5 on 10b this year, so will the plan you elaborated still work for me? Or will there be any changes needed?
@@anvithkakkera7196 yes. Complete Volume 1 entirely. Then check back in. Also you should be doing 2 past tests a week right now starting with 2000, 2001. If you do this you should be able to finish all past AMC 10's right before the November test.
Hello TheBeautyOfMath, hope you are having a good day! as a rising eighth grader, I am currently managing to score a 100-118 on Amc10's alone, seeing as I am nearly done with Intro to Geometry on aops, I am looking for some higher level material. So should I purchase AOPS Intermedieate algebra? Or volume 2? Thank you!
My personal feeling is Volume 2 isn't as useful as intermediate Algebra fro AMC 10. Definitely Intermediate Algebra. It will also basically preview Algebra 2 and PreCalc. To be completely fair to Volume 2 though, I have never worked all the way through it with many students who have qualified for AIME. I usually use it for individual chapters. For one thing, from what I have noticed the problem selection for every single chapter doesn't have a single problem sourced to either AMC or AIME. A lot of other competitions are sourced, but not those. So I would say it may help on say questions 16 thru 25 on an AMC 12. That's just opinion. Other experts may offer different advice.
Have you done Intro to Counting and Probability and Intro to Number Theory? Those are probably just as essential if not moreso than Int. Alg. Imo compared to the average competitor you are way ahead of the curve. I know there are likely some kids you know ahead of your development but don't worry about that. 100-118 on AMC 10 coming out of 7th grade is likely top 0.1% for 7th graders. Keep it up. 👍
Hi, Im going to 9th grade and I can get 95-110 for past AMC tests, how can I prepare and improve more? I feel like my problems are last tens
right I just kinda struggle on the last seven to eight problems, I need help for the 18-25 problems
Ok so for both of you, the challenge is each of the last 7 to 10 questions would contain tolics spread out from about 7 different books usually. Perhaps there might be 2 from one book like Geo, or Probability/Counting. Your best bet is to use this summer to pick the two biggest weaknesses you have and attack them with AoPS book coverage. Each book will get you the necessary knowledge and practice to get 1 or 2 more of the last 10.
In addition after you have spent a lot of time on the problems, consult solutions. Do they mention something there that you could then study, like say Stewart's Theorem? Then look up problems that have Stewart's Theorem in it and practice them. Etc. Always use the solutions as a Spring board for studying topics. Don't just read it and go, "oh that's how it's done!" But rather use it to begin a new line of study.
Also please see this video for one method of study that I think you should both use on all of those last 7 to 10 questions. Let me know if it helps? ruclips.net/video/Kku2CzkoboA/видео.html
Thanks, do you think volume 1 will help a lot for this situation? I’m starting to record theorems on a small notebook
Volume 1 will definitely be the most help for gaining fundamentals of all the books because it covers so many various types of topics in one book. Do it cover to cover. Don't skip anything. Even the easy stuff. Read every passage in it, as they hide really good stuff in the middle of nondescript paragraphs. The hard problems are all built on fundamental concepts, it's just being able to recognize the potential of applying that concept is harder. They disguise it from the test taker usually. The more experience you have with the underlying concepts, the higher the likelihood of recognizing it's potential application in a problem.
Great video! I watched it several times! Thank you.
I am a rising 10th grader. I got 75 in AMC in 9th grade and my goal is to qualify for AIME.
I just finished vol 1. I was just wondering if mathcounts state would help me qualify for AIME. What do you think? Should I go directly to past AMC 10/12 tests or should I spend time on Mathcounts State first, like sprint/target/team? Thank you for your advice!
I would absolutely do both. Each will help the other. MathCounts contains many of the same fundamentals as AMC. So my recommendation is to alternate between them.
Thank you so much for your quick response! In terms of level of difficulty, Are the last few questions on mathcounts state more comparable to AMC 10 problems 10-20?
The comparable difficulty I am not as confident in answering as I haven't taught MathCounts as extensively. But my guess is no? Actually I was just seeing again that you are in 10th grade. MathCounts usually has the same fundamentals but at slightly lower levels of difficulty than AMC as it's a middle school contest. So maybe do them in a 2 to 1 ratio or 3 to 1 ratio. Meaning 3 AMC's for every 1 MathCounts practice. For example they will have same concepts but applied differently.
On the other hand, I am guessing a little here. My recommendation would really be to ask this same question on AoPS forums or to look for similar questions using the search feature. I just feel, it can't hurt to do the MathCounts. The more problems the better.
TheBeautyofMath thank you so much! I really appreciate your advice!
I feel like the 2021 will be much much harder than the practice test. I scored a 141 on the practice test, but I feel that the actual test will be very hard.
This is a good score. I cannot predict if it will be harder or easier than the practice test. The actual test will always have problems appearing in the mathematical community with underlying mechanisms never seen before on an AMC. It happens every year. Expect it. Resolve yourself to remain calm and take baby steps. See the AIME Mindset video. Especially watch it before Thursday.
@@TheBeautyofMath thanks
The practice test was the 2018 10b I think, my reasoning being, that every year the test gets harder.
Intro C&P isn't tested much on AMC 10 I've seen....
Highly innacurate. Take just the 2020 AMC 10A. Problems, 15, 16, 18, 19, and 25(to a lesser extent) all use it.
I was 0.5 away from the cutoff in 2020 amc 10 ;-;
Man I am sorry to hear that, I know exactly how that feels. It happened my Junior year because of one simple mistake.
Hi TheBeautyofMath, I'm a high schooler who's looking to take the AMC 10 and am looking for some guidance/tips. I'm a current high school sophomore and looking to get top 2.5% on the AMC 10 (looking to qualify for AIME). I kind of procrastinated these starting months of school, but now it kinda dawned on me on how close the AMC 10 is. I finished half of the AOPS Volume 1 book over the summer. I score high 80s on the AMC 10 currently. Is it too late to get in and get top 2.5%? What do you recommend I do? I'm also kind of busy with school and other extracurriculars, but I can make time on the weekends. Please give me some guidance!
Should I do practice exams or do the AOPS workbook?
Always most important is problem solving(past exams from 2000 to present in order preferably). Do 2 a week minimum. The past is the past. Forget it. Everyone battles procrastination except for psychopaths. Focus on what you are going to do now, not what you should have done.
You should do 2 exams with review and 1 hour of Vol 1 a week if possible. If not possible then do 1 exam with review and then finish Vol 1 at 1 hour a week. It is not too late to get top 2.5%. Have had students in your situation accomplish it before. Choose to win. Every day.
If you need a coach/tutor to guide the process email me at thebeautyofmath13@gmail.com. We could meet once a week or once every 2 weeks, or once a month via Zoom.
Do not have regret about past procrastination. It does absolutely nothing to change the future. Choose to win today. That's what matters.
@@TheBeautyofMath Thanks so much! Your videos are really helpful. I kind of don't know some concepts on the test, so I should learn them through the book, correct? I can also skip the stuff about proofs? I'll see if I need a tutor, but if I do, I'll email you. I'm gonna donate some money to you (on the coffee website in the coming days) for the help!
@@RPG1234ninja correct, but the book will slowly fill in your ability to recognize nuanced concepts that are not obvious to the uninformed on the test. So you should complete it to add to your knowledge base.
As for proofs, they are important to your overall development mathematically. So skipping them if time is of the essence might be good, but in the off-season (right after next years tests) put sticky bookmarks by them and come back and revisit them to make your theoretical foundation more solid. And thanks. All donations are very appreciated. I understand too if you don't need a tutor, that's great, just making sure you are aware of all potential resources but I trust you will know what is best for you. Happy Studying. Get that AIME qualification.
Hi, I am an incoming 11th grader and scored 93 on the 2020 AMC 10B as a sophomore. Also, I have done math competitions in middle school, so I am pretty used to the concepts tested on the AMC 10. I am taking AMC 12 this year and hoping to qualify for AIME. I have worked through about 6 chapters of the AOPS Volume 1 book. When do you think it is the best time to start taking the practice AMC 12s? Also, what aops books do you suggest I go through after I complete AOPS Volume 1?
Also, great video, I really appreciate it.
Responded on other comment from other video.
Hey man. I am currently a Sophomore and taking AP Calculus BC. I have also started self learning linear algebra as well as Multivariable Calculus because I love math and i am very curious about it. I have been doing AMC 8 and 10 through my middle school and high school. I have never moved on to AIME because the truth it I never prepared for the test so I just went it and took it with 0 preparation. I want to change that though. I hope that my junior and senior year I can finally move on to AIME or even further. but to be honest im not to sure where to start or like how long I have to study everyday. I have volume one of AOPS but never even opened it. Should I start with that book? or should I take a practice AMC to see my weaknesses or should I first develop skills and then take tests? Please help man. I am no stranger to hard work and dedication but I would love to have a guide through this journey.
Sorry, been a little busy. Give me a day or two and I will respond formally. Not ignoring though. Ty for the comment, and I will respond later.
TheBeautyofMath okay thank you I appreciate it
Volume 1 is exactly where you want to start. Complete it cover to cover. It gives about 25% coverage of everything important from the intronseries. Maybe a little more coverage of Geo. Do not skip anything, even the easy stuff. Ok maybe like section 1.1 pr whatever is the very first thing it covers, but there often hidden gems in the middle of innoculous passages of writing material that has no highlight as to it's importance. Nothing draws attention to it, and it's easy to miss. In the first chapter there is a section of writing or two you can skip, but because you won't know where that section is you might accidentally skip important sections that are not really covered anywhere else. After that, I would begin with year 2000 and 2001 AMC 12's. Continue working your way up tracking your scores. Never guess on amything. There is only 2 things: You know, or you don't know. That is it. If you don't know for sure the answer you want then learn to figure out how to be sure. How to know before you answer that it is correct. It is a necessary skill. If you must guess, wait til the actual competition. In practice if you guess and get it right, sometimes you won't go over it in depth because it was a correct answer, and no one needs practice guessing. Goal one: get everything you know or suspect you know how yo answer correct. Skip everything else. You want Zero wrong on most tests. Challenge yourself to learn the underlying concepts for everything you don't know that you know.(not sure you are correct). After you get to about 2006 doing all tests A and B versions, switch it up. Pick the intro book that you had most trouble with in the tests you completed. Most likely counting and probability. The intro book for that starts out really easy. For the first few chapters maybe pick the problems that aren't painfully obvious at a glance, and then do the challenge for all chapters for sure. By the middle of the book you should be reading and doing most problems. I think Intermediate Algebra is where I would go next. It's basically equivalent to a lot of difficult precalc work from a competition math level of difficulty. I don't think I would do intro to Algebra or Geo, because of time constraint. AoPS forums have some good geo work you can ask there about. You might do intro to number theory if time permits. Also while all the AoPs content is continuing, do at least one test a week. Let me know if this helps, or if I can help further. ❤
Just checking if you saw the reply, RUclips doesn't always update people when someone replies.
TheBeautyofMath Yes I saw it . Thank you so much sir. I will keep you updated how this journey goes.
is this.... irony??
Hmmm...I am unsure. Perhaps you could elucidate your meaning. What is ironic precisely? 🙂