Tarun Aarya
The International Math Olympiad (IMO) is one of the oldest sciences Olympiad organized globally. Its first exam was held in 1959 in Romanic and since then IMO has been taken place every year.
The exam consists of questions on mathematical topics ranging from a variety of topics, like algebra, functional equations and complex geometry. Undoubtedly, the exam is a tough nut to crack, and the problems are set in such a way so that the solution is difficult to find.
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Every year around one hundred countries participate in this exam which tests the art of problem-solving of the participants.
To help aspirants prepare in a better way for IMO, here are a few smart ways.
Revision is very important part of the preparation for Math Olympiad. In fact, regular assessment is required while preparing for any examination. As you study, make sure to take notes and create cue cards. It not only will help to imbibe the concepts easily but also make the revision part in future easier. Cue cards are a quick way to revise what you have studied. They don’t need to be elaborate, instead, they should consist main points which can help you recall the topics. Work more on your weaker part where you feel difficulty and revise them frequently. Also, watch for the common mistakes you usually make. Be careful with symbols and calculations.
An early start is necessary to combat the intensity of this competitive mathematical exam. Therefore, students should ideally start their preparations several months before. It will allow the participants to create a timetable which is not crammed with back to back study duration for the entire day. Instead, a good amount of break is also necessary. In addition, students need to spare time for revisions and mock tests. Always remember than Math Olympiad is taken by millions of students all over the world which naturally shows that the questions are going to be trickier than what you expect. Therefore, one needs sufficient time to delve deep into every concept.
Go through the IMO syllabus thoroughly and collect all the materials required for the preparation. You can also take help of other aspirants to make sure that you have not overlooked a key aspect of the syllabus. From books to online sources, gather all the things required and convert them to some easy format to grasp them.
If you are finding it difficult to prepare without the help of a mentor, take help of a good educational institute which especially helps students to prepare for Olympiad exams. Such institutes usually provide face-to-face, online classes, recordings of live classes, curriculum books for practice in problem-solving and good educational experts to assist the aspirants. However, before signing up for any course or institute, make sure that it is capable of fulfilling your needs.
Set aside a fixed time form your everyday schedule to go through sample papers. Mock-up tests will help you assess the progress and will mentally prepare you for the examination. Practice, practice and more practice will help you achieve excellence. Studying smart is important. Follow the patterns in the sample papers and take advantage of them. Find an easier way to solve problems rather than taking a long path going through elaborate calculations.
While solving mathematical problems, it is important to give doses of relaxation to your brain so that it doesn’t get tired. Make sure you take regular breaks. Good exercise, healthy food, and occasional breaks are important fuels that will help you concentrate and focus in a better way.
Tarun is a Digital Marketing enthusiast who loves to write about all things digital, tech, and marketing.
