If you have the desire and motivation to do your best in Maths Olympiad we have compiled the best 10 tricks to help you improve your skill. While these are only tricks for self-study but a proper class may place you in a better place.
1. Know the whole syllabus- This might look obvious but the Maths syllabus is vast and questions will come from a wide range of topics, so it’s very important the allotment of the time to your topics and knowing the subjects in great detail. Be very, very careful about small mistakes—like forgetting a negative sign, accidentally moving a decimal point, or making a basic arithmetic error. You could get the meat of a problem correct but still, answer a problem wrong if you make a tiny mistake. Get in the habit of being hyper-vigilant and careful when you practice, so you don’t make these mistakes when you take the exam for real. Never assume you’re too smart for a silly mistake!
2. Visit the website of Olympiad- Whether you are applying for the first time or have applied before, it’s very important to update yourself if there are any changes happened in rules. Visit the website on regular basis and know when and whats about the Maths olympiad. The website has a How to prepare and how to participate tab as well. make a habit to visit the site at least once a week.
3. Make the Internet your best friend- The Internet can be your best friend if you use it properly. You can find the best and relevant materials across many platforms like youtube or many sites that also offer practice tests. In this covid time, many online e-learning platforms and apps have come up. You can get all the essentials for your preparation in the InstaPreps app as well. Download to give tests on a daily basis. The app has a feature of 5 minutes test as well. just give your 5 minutes time and get to know where you should focus on.
4. Understand the level- It’s very important to understand the level of the Maths Olympiad as it’s not a regular school exam. More in-depth learning of each concept with a higher level of theoretical and practical knowledge is required. If there is a math team or club at your school, join for the practice! Doing smaller competitions can help you learn to deal with nerves and will give you more opportunities to practice. It will also help you find a community of students with similar interests with who you can study. Also, the earlier you can start, the better. Some middle schools and even elementary schools have math clubs that expose you to tricky problem-solving questions in a way your standard math classes will not.
5. Time is precious, use it effectively- Time is very crucial as it gives time to prepare effectively and well in advance. Prepare a plan or schedule and go accordingly. Understand the importance of every single second is very crucial. Discipline is the key.
6. Stick to your study planner- It is extremely important that you stay motivated and stick to your timetable prepared for your Maths Olympiad. Everyone struggles to make this works out but this is a step in the right direction. Re-adjust your timetable if you have to cover any backlog of work. Don’t stress yourself if anything is left for the day. Always try, give your best and redetermine for the next day. Consistency is most important.
7. Online Tests are important- It gives the idea to prepare well in advance. You will get to know about the pattern and work out in your weaker area. It gives you an idea of which are to focus on. When studying, spend the most time focusing on your weak areas. As you work through practice problems, keep track of problems you didn’t know how to solve or concepts you’re shaky on. You can log your mistakes into a journal or notebook to help focus your studying and keep giving tests to know your improvement.
8. Practice makes perfect- Practice till you become perfect or till you meet the expectations that you have set for yourself for your Math Olympiad score. Every question and exercise can be practiced and perfected. As we all know that means practice work being repeated regularly to achieve success.
9. Prepare under the right guidance- Remember at the end of the day right guidance and the best teachers are most likely to be your best resources and they understand your strengths and weaknesses well from teaching you. The right platform from where to prepare will help your performance substantially during your Math Olympiad. As we have many good options, one of the best online platforms for maths olympiad training online is 7 Classes. Learn more about 7 Classes. You can first take a free demo class.
10. Stay Calm- Stress will only cloud your judgment during an Olympiad. Just remember it’s just another test. Don’t let the pressure play into your head. Do what you like and love whether it’s dancing, sketching, having tea, or going for a walk. Most important part is to enjoy the whole process so that you can cherish this your whole life.
All the best for your exam and read this inspiring story https://blog.7classes.com/2021/07/03/even-in-difficult-times-you-must-learn-to-trust-yourself/ .
