Category: Blog

AMC8 Key Topics

Basic Arithmetic: Integer operations, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios

Elementary Geometry: Pythagorean theorem, area/perimeter, angles, simple solid figures

Counting & Probability: Basic permutations and combinations, classical probability

Word Problems: Modeling real-life scenarios such as travel, work, concentration

Data Interpretation: Graph reading, mean, median

Limited Extensions: Simple linear equations, coordinate systems, quadratic function graph recognition

Characteristics: Emphasizes fundamentals, speed, and attention to detail. The first 15 questions are mostly extensions of school curriculum, while the last 10 questions begin to reflect differentiation in thinking.

AMC10 Key Topics

Advanced Algebra: Quadratic equations, inequalities, function properties, sequences

Advanced Geometry: Similar triangles, circle properties, coordinate geometry, trigonometric identities (excluding trigonometric functions)

Introduction to Number Theory: Prime factorization, modular arithmetic, GCD/LCM

Probability & Statistics: Conditional probability, expected value, combinatorial counting (including inclusion-exclusion principle)

Logic & Strategy: Game theory, optimization, recurrence relations

Note: Does not include advanced high school topics such as trigonometric functions, calculus, complex numbers, vectors, etc., but places extremely high demands on logical reasoning and the integration of multiple knowledge points.

1. Expanding Knowledge Breadth: Supplement Core Middle School Modules

Quadratic functions and graph analysis

Geometric properties of circles (chords, tangents, inscribed angles)

Basic number theory (congruence, Fermat's Little Theorem concepts)

Advanced combinatorial counting (permutations vs. combinations, classification discussion)

2. Upgrading Your Thinking: From "Calculating Correctly" to "Thinking Thoroughly"

AMC8 approach: Know the formula → plug in numbers

AMC10 approach: Understand the essence of the problem → build a model → choose the optimal solution

Example: AMC10 often tests strategies such as "simplification through symmetry," "analysis of extreme cases," and "reverse construction."

3. Practicing with Past Papers: Familiarize Yourself with the Style of A and B Versions

AMC10 offers both A and B versions each year. Although the difficulty fluctuates slightly, the question types are consistent. Recommendation: Complete 2 sets each of the A and B versions from the last 5 years, summarizing high-frequency test points (e.g., Question 23 of the 2024 B version tested recurrence sequences combined with modular arithmetic).

AMC8

Builds mathematical confidence for upper elementary students

Serves as a reference for international school admissions and class placement

Lays the computational and thinking foundation for AMC10

AMC10

Top 2.5% receive an AIME invitation, the first step toward USAMO

Recognized STEM ability credential for Oxbridge, Ivy League, G5, and Top 30 US universities

Reference for scholarships at top Canadian universities such as Waterloo, University of Toronto, and UBC

Core Differences Between Domestic Olympiads and AMC10

Challenges of Olympiads:

Deep dive into single knowledge points: Olympiad problems often focus on exploring a specific knowledge point in depth, with designs that are obscure and tricky, requiring students to have exceptional talent and long-term knowledge accumulation.

Talent-driven, hard to break through: For most average students, even after spending a lot of time solving problems, it's still difficult to break through their bottlenecks, leading to a loss of confidence.

Advantages of AMC10:

Emphasis on breadth of knowledge and flexible application: Organized by the Mathematical Association of America, AMC10 places greater emphasis on students' understanding of a wide range of knowledge points and their flexible application, with problem designs that do not exceed the syllabus and avoid obscure or tricky questions.

Fits the learning pace of average students: According to statistics, the correct rate for the first 10 basic problems of AMC10 exceeds 60%. As long as students can master in-school knowledge and extend it slightly, they can solidly earn most of the points, gaining the confidence to aim for awards.

1. An Authoritative Proof of Academic Ability

Beyond standardized tests: For Chinese students, standardized test scores are generally high, making AMC10 scores an important indicator to distinguish academic potential. Excellent AMC10 scores can strongly prove a student's mathematical ability and thinking level in application materials.

2. Cultivation of Deep Mathematical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Application of creative thinking: The knowledge covered by AMC10 is basically within the middle school math syllabus, but the problem designs are flexible and varied, requiring students to use creative thinking to solve problems. This differs from the "test-taking formulas" of domestic math competitions, placing greater emphasis on deep understanding and flexible application of mathematical concepts.

3. Globally Recognized Achievements

Recognition by international universities: In addition to top US institutions, universities in the UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and other countries and regions also value AMC10 scores. In Hong Kong, prestigious schools such as Diocesan Boys' School and St. Paul's Co-educational College view AMC as a benchmark for selecting outstanding students.

A bridge to higher-level competitions: Top performers in AMC10 will have the opportunity to be invited to participate in the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), an important selection competition leading to the USA Mathematical Olympiad (USAMO).

4. A Threshold for Elite Domestic International Schools

In some elite international middle schools in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, AMC10 scores have become an implicit criterion for student selection. Furthermore, the AMC10 competition not only helps students build academic confidence among their peers but also enhances self-awareness.

5. Suitable for Students at Different Levels

AMC10 does not require all students to pursue top awards. In fact, students at different levels can find suitable goals within it. For example, for 7th-8th grade students, earning an Honor Roll certificate is itself a commendable achievement.

Systematic learning and training: Preparing for AMC10 helps students build a complete mathematical knowledge system and develop rigorous logical reasoning habits. These abilities will benefit students' academic development in the long term.

1. Students Transitioning to International Schools After the Zhongkao (High School Entrance Exam)

International curriculum systems such as IGCSE/A-Level/AP/IB: These curricula emphasize mathematical thinking and interdisciplinary application. The AMC10 covers modules including algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics, helping students build a logical framework in advance and adapt to the requirements of international curricula.

Proof of "hard skills" in application materials: Awards from the AMC10, especially top 1% or 5%, can serve as strong evidence in application materials, enhancing admission competitiveness.

Example: The entrance exam for Guanghua Cambridge International School in Shanghai directly includes original AMC10 problems. The entrance exam syllabus for WLSA also explicitly requires mastery of core AMC10 concepts such as polynomial factorization and quadratic function extrema.

2. Students Aiming for China's Top Four High Schools

Top high schools value mathematical ability when selecting top students: The AMC10 is more difficult than school exams and can quickly identify students with outstanding mathematical aptitude.

Advantage in independent enrollment and special class selection: The problem design of AMC10 aligns with competition thinking, helping students stand out in independent enrollment and special class selection, while the habit of rigorous reasoning cultivated can be transferred to other subjects.

Example: Shanghai's top four high schools and Shenzhen's top four high schools reference AMC10 scores in their independent enrollment processes.

3. Students Currently Enrolled in International Schools Planning to Advance to AIME

One path to advancing to AIME: The AMC10 is an important pathway to advancing to AIME. Therefore, most students choose to begin preparing for AMC10 in 8th grade and strive to reach the AIME qualification cutoff.

Extended preparation period to improve speed and accuracy: Starting preparation in 8th grade extends the preparation timeline, allowing students to improve problem-solving speed and accuracy through systematic training, accumulate experience for subsequent higher-level competitions, and avoid the rushed preparation that can result from academic pressure in higher grades.

1. Knowledge Scope Comparison

AMC10 Exam Content: Covers elementary algebra, basic geometry, elementary number theory, and probability problems. Does not include trigonometry, advanced algebra, or advanced geometry.

Corresponding Level in Chinese Mathematics: 70% middle school mathematics + 30% high school compulsory content. Specifically, the algebra section corresponds to the level of grade 9 to grade 10 in China, and the geometry section is close to grade 8 to grade 9 plane geometry.

Key Differences: AMC10 emphasizes number theory and combinatorics, whereas the Chinese curriculum only briefly touches on "properties of integers." AMC10 requires systematic mastery of concepts such as congruence and divisibility, and places greater emphasis on classification discussion and constructive ability.

2. Thinking Logic Comparison

Chinese Mathematics Education: Emphasizes standardized steps, problem-type classification, and computational accuracy.

AMC10: Values multi-angle approaches, methodological innovation, and time efficiency, requiring students to have strong creative thinking and the ability to apply knowledge flexibly.

3. Score-to-Ability Mapping in the Chinese Context

~100 points (approx. global top 25%): Equivalent to the level of an outstanding math student in a Chinese key high school, with a solid grasp of in-class knowledge and the ability to solve complex comprehensive problems.

~120 points (approx. global top 5%): Equivalent to the level of a provincial third prize in a Chinese math competition, with competition thinking and the ability to solve non-routine problems.

135+ points (approx. global top 1%): Equivalent to the level of a provincial first prize in a Chinese math competition, with systematic competition training and strong creative problem-solving ability.

1. Question Types and Difficulty

AMC10: 25 multiple-choice questions, maximum score 150 points, to be completed in 75 minutes. The problems are flexibly designed, emphasizing the integrated application of multiple knowledge points, and testing students' creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

Chinese Math Competitions: Typically primarily fill-in-the-blank and problem-solving questions, with relatively fixed question types, focusing on formula application and computational accuracy.

2. Scoring Standards

AMC10: 6 points for a correct answer, 1.5 points for an unanswered question, 0 points for an incorrect answer. This scoring method encourages reasonable guessing, adding to the fun and challenge of the competition.

Chinese Math Competitions: Typically deduct points for incorrect answers, with no points for unanswered questions, placing greater emphasis on accuracy and stability.

1. Seamless Alignment with School Curriculum: Mutual Promotion of Learning and Competition

International Curriculum	Overlapping Knowledge Points with AMC10	Reinforcing Effect
IGCSE (incl. Additional Mathematics)	Linear/quadratic equations, function graphs, triangle properties, basic circle theorems	AMC10 training improves IGCSE math score stability
IB Math AA/AI HL	Polynomials, complex numbers, trigonometric transformations, probability distributions, vector geometry	Competition thinking strengthens IB IA (Internal Assessment) modeling ability
A-Level Maths + Further Maths	P1–P3 Pure Mathematics (functions, calculus fundamentals), S1–S2 Statistics (probability, distributions)	A-Level emphasizes computational accuracy, directly supporting fast AMC10 problem-solving

Conclusion: AMC10 is not an "extra burden" but an advanced extension and ability validation of school learning.

2. "Hard Currency" for Overseas Undergraduate Applications

In an era where standardized test scores are generally high, a high AMC10 score = a visual proof of mathematical ability:

US Top 30 (MIT, Stanford, Caltech, etc.): The application system explicitly requires AMC/AIME scores — without a competition background, applicants are easily filtered out;

UK G5 (Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, UCL): Although not mandatory, top 5% in AMC10 can significantly enhance the persuasiveness of the Personal Statement, especially for Maths/Econ/CS majors;

Top Hong Kong and Singapore universities (HKU, NUS, NTU): AMC10 serves as an important reference for mathematical potential, with some major interviews following up on competition experience;

Even liberal arts applicants: AMC10 scores can demonstrate logical rigor and quantitative thinking, making the application profile more multidimensional.

3. "Invisible Door-Opener" for Domestic Academic Advancement

Within Shanghai's local academic advancement system, AMC10 is equally valuable:

"Top Four Schools" Science Class Selection (Huaer, Shangzhong, Fufu, Jiaofu): AMC10 score of 110+ can directly qualify for an interview invitation for the science/technology class;

Municipal Key High School Independent Enrollment (Qibao, Jianping, Nanmo, etc.): Clearly regard top 25% in AMC10 (approx. 100 points) as a priority admission condition, with some schools offering "score-based direct admission";

The ceiling for middle school competition: AMC10 is one of the few high-value international competitions that middle school students can participate in, establishing an early academic advantage;

International school entrance exams: Schools such as Ulink, World Foreign Language School, and Pinghe incorporate AMC10 scores into their evaluation, and AIME qualifiers may be exempted from the math addition test.

4. Building the "Golden Ladder" of International Competitions

AMC10 is the starting point of the global math competition system, with a clear subsequent path:

The standard path for top Shanghai international students:

8th grade: First attempt at AMC10 →

9th grade: Aim for AIME →

10th grade: Prepare for AMC12 + Euclid →

11th grade: Receive offers from Ivy League/G5

Reason 1: Rigid Thinking, Inability to Adapt to Flexible Question Types

Domestic training style: "Identify problem type → Apply template" (e.g., geometry always requires auxiliary lines, equations always require elimination).
AMC10 problem design: Deliberately breaks conventions! For example:
- A "geometry problem" might be solved more efficiently using number theory congruence.
- An "algebra problem" might be solved intuitively by constructing a function graph.
Coping strategy: Train the ability to identify the essence of a problem — ask "What idea does this problem test?" rather than "What type of problem is this?"

Reason 2: Time Pressure + Reading Traps

Extremely fast pace: Average ≤ 3 minutes per question, with the last 5 questions often requiring 10+ minutes each.
Complex problem statements: Real-life scenarios (e.g., game rules, map paths) + long text + hidden conditions.
Common mistakes:
- Overlooking keywords such as "positive integer" or "distinct".
- Misreading units (miles vs km) or graph axes.
- Being overly cautious on easy questions, leaving insufficient time for difficult ones.

Coping strategies:
- Timed mock exams: At least 1 full set of past papers per week, strictly timed to 75 minutes.
- Marking method during reading: Circle key conditions, units, and limiting words.
- Learn to skip: If no idea after 5 minutes on questions 21–25, decisively move on to protect accuracy on the first 20 questions.

1. Students Who Performed Well in AMC8

Characteristics: Scored around 20 points in the AMC8 held in January of the current year, indicating a solid mathematical foundation;
Advantages: Already possess good calculation accuracy and basic logic, enabling faster adaptation to the breadth and depth of AMC10 knowledge;
Recommended Path: Directly advance to higher-level study of Algebra and Geometry modules, strengthening skills in Number Theory and Combinatorics.

2. Students Preparing to Apply for International Schools

Target Groups: Prestigious schools in Shanghai (San Gong, YK Pao School, Pinghe Bilingual School), Beijing (RDFZ, Tsinghua High School), Shenzhen (Shenzhen Middle School), Chengdu (No. 7 High School), etc.;
Advantages: AMC10 scores serve as an important reference for international school entrance exams, offering significant bonus points, especially in elementary-to-middle school transitions and transfer exams;
Recommended Path: Begin systematic preparation half a year to one year in advance to secure an ideal score before entrance exams.

3. Students in Grades 7–10 Looking to Strengthen Their Mathematical Foundation

Characteristics: Wish to reinforce in-school knowledge and enhance mathematical thinking through competition preparation;
Advantages: AMC10 covers all middle school to early high school mathematics topics, with a focus on logical thinking, effectively addressing gaps in school curricula;
Recommended Path: Start with basic problems, gradually progress to intermediate difficulty levels, and develop problem-solving techniques and time management skills.

1. Algebra Remains a Core Testing Area

Changes: No longer tests only basic operations, but places greater emphasis on deep conceptual understanding and flexible application;
Strategy: Master the essence of algebra, including advanced applications of equations, functions, and sequences.

2. Geometry: Increased Proportion and Computational Demands

Changes: The proportion of geometry problems continues to increase, with higher demands on calculation accuracy and speed;
Strategy: Practice classic problem types such as auxiliary line construction, similar triangles, and the Power of a Point theorem to improve proficiency and accuracy.

3. Number Theory and Combinatorics Should Not Be Overlooked

Changes: While the number of number theory problems has decreased, it remains crucial for AIME; probability and combinatorics problems cover a wide range and require long-term accumulation;
Strategy: Systematically summarize fundamental theorems in number theory (e.g., prime factorization, properties of congruences) and gain experience through practice.

1. Enhance Competition Techniques

Advantages for Domestic Students: School curriculum content overlaps significantly with AMC10, allowing quick progress using in-school foundations;
Competition-Specific Techniques: Learn auxiliary line construction, number theory problem-solving techniques, etc., to achieve dual improvement in school and competition performance.

2. Targeted Practice with Past Papers

Practice Strategy: Repeatedly work through AMC10 past papers from 2010 to 2024, categorizing problems by module;
Basic Problems: Ensure all are correct to solidify fundamentals;
Intermediate Problems: Enhance problem-solving speed and efficiency;
Difficult Problems: Summarize problem-solving models, maintain an error log, and target weak areas for breakthrough.

3. Improve Test-Taking Skills

Essential Formulas and Theorems: Memorize commonly used tools such as geometric area formulas, number theory congruence properties, etc.;
Reading Problems in English: Master essential mathematical vocabulary to improve English reading efficiency;
Mock Exams: Familiarize yourself with the test rhythm through multiple simulations, allocate time wisely, and avoid losing points due to time pressure.

Pre-AMC10 Express Training Course

Target Audience: Students in grades 6–8 or those with no prior competition experience;
Course Structure:
- 20 hours: Pre-AMC10 Algebra Fundamentals
- 50 hours: Systematic review of basic knowledge points by chapter
- 30 hours: Topic-based classified instruction
- 30 hours: Gap filling and review + past paper mock exams and analysis
Goal: Help students build a solid AMC10 math foundation and bridge the knowledge gap between AMC8 and AMC10.

AMC10 Express Training Course

Target Audience: Students in grades 9–10 or those requiring systematic learning;
Course Structure:
- Foundation Stage (50 hours): Systematic review of basic knowledge points by chapter
- Intensive Stage (30 hours): Advanced AMC10 course covering Algebra, Geometry, Number Theory, and Probability
- Sprint Stage (30 hours): Gap filling, past paper mock exams and analysis, exam techniques
Course Selection Advice:
- Beginners: Recommended to start with Pre-AMC10 and progress step by step;
- Students with some foundation: May directly enter the Foundation or Intensive Stage for targeted training on weak modules.

Problems 1–10: Basic Questions (Score Protection Zone)

Content: Integer arithmetic, percentages, simple equations, basic properties of triangles and circles.
Goal: Complete all correctly within 30 minutes (≤3 minutes per problem).
Strategy: Quickly identify the test points; avoid careless mistakes; if stuck, skip and return later.

Problems 11–20: Intermediate Questions (Score Differentiation Zone)

Content: Quadratic functions, similar triangles, probability, basic permutations and combinations.
Goal: Aim for 80% accuracy (8 correct answers yield 48 points).
Strategy: Integrate multiple knowledge points; focus on logical chains; use special values, symmetry, and elimination methods to save time.

Problems 21–25: Hard Questions (Decisive Zone)

Content: Complex sequences, advanced geometry, combinatorial optimization, number theory constructions.
Goal: Solving 1–2 problems correctly gives a significant advantage.
Strategy: Don't force full solutions; even writing down key ideas may inspire the correct path. Never dwell too long!

Step 1: Knowledge Coverage (1–2 months)

Review the four modules: Algebra, Geometry, Number Theory, Combinatorics. Recommended materials: Art of Problem Solving Vol.1, AMC10 Problem Series.

Step 2: Focused Drills (2–3 months)

Practice by problem type, such as “Geometry Optimization,” “Recurrence Sequences,” “Inclusion‑Exclusion Principle.” Keep an error notebook recording the “thought bottlenecks,” not just copying the correct answers.

Step 3: Past Paper Simulation (2–3 months)

Intensively work on past papers from 2015 to 2025 (20 sets covering both A and B versions). Each set must be strictly timed to simulate the real exam pressure.

Step 4: Final Sprint (1 month)

Take two mock exams per week; analyze time allocation and strategic errors. Pay close attention to wording traps (keywords like “positive integer,” “distinct,” etc.).

On the surface: AMC12 > AMC10
The toughest problems on AMC12 (questions 21–25) often involve pre-college content such as complex number rotations, nested trigonometric identities, and advanced recurrences—known as the "genius filter."

Actual advancement difficulty: AMC10 > AMC12

Competition	2025 AIME Cutoff Score	Characteristics of Participants
AMC10	Version A: 105 / Version B: 99	A large number of 8th–9th graders "testing the waters" lower the average, but top competitors are extremely strong, pushing cutoff scores higher
AMC12	Version A: 96 / Version B: 100.5	Primarily 11th–12th graders with complete knowledge, but higher margin for error (max score 150, 96 points ≈ 16 correct + leaving some blank)

Scenario 1: Your child is still building a foundation (Grades 8–10, competition beginner)

Recommendation: AMC10
Reason: Fewer knowledge gaps, avoiding frustration from "not having learned trigonometry/complex numbers"; focus on stability in the mid-front problems (1–20) to build confidence; the goal is not to win awards but to establish a competition thinking framework.
For parents: At this stage, focus on "experience + accumulation." Do not judge success or failure by scores alone.

Scenario 2: Your child is stuck at an AMC10 bottleneck (consistently getting 12–16 questions correct, hard to break through)

Recommendation: Switch to AMC12
Reason: The last 5 questions of AMC10 require exceptional talent and significant time to polish; in contrast, the first 20 questions of AMC12 are more "routine" for high school students with complete knowledge; with the same ability, it is easier to obtain AIME qualification through AMC12 (96 points vs. 105 points).

Scenario 3: The clear goal is to achieve an AIME score (for Ivy League / strong STEM applications)

Recommendation: Directly prepare for AMC12
Reason: AMC12 is the only path to USA(J)MO; many elite universities explicitly require AMC12 scores; a high AIME score + AMC12 forms a more complete competition profile.

1. Knowledge Breadth

AMC8: Mainly consolidates elementary school mathematics foundations and inspires students' mathematical thinking; the problems are relatively easy, suitable for beginners.

AMC10: Adds advanced algebra (e.g., Vieta's theorem, Factor theorem), advanced plane geometry (congruent triangles, trigonometric applications), in-depth number theory problems (modular arithmetic, congruence equations, Diophantine equations), and combinatorics (permutations and combinations, probability models), etc.; the knowledge coverage is broader, requiring students to master mathematics up to the first year of high school and middle school level.

2. Depth of Thinking

AMC8: Focuses on the application of basic knowledge, with relatively straightforward problems; emphasizes basic training in logical reasoning.

AMC10: Places more emphasis on the integration of multiple knowledge points and flexibility in logical reasoning; a single problem may involve number theory, algebraic manipulation, and geometric construction, testing students' comprehensive application ability.

3. Time Pressure

AMC8: Exam duration is 40 minutes for 25 questions; time is relatively ample, suitable for beginners to get used to the competition pace.

AMC10: Exam duration is 75 minutes for 25 questions; the requirements for proficiency and strategic selection are significantly higher, with an average of only 3 minutes per question.

1. Expansion of Knowledge Breadth

Advanced algebra: e.g., Vieta's theorem, Factor theorem, etc.

Advanced plane geometry: e.g., congruent triangles, similar triangles, Power of a Point theorem, trigonometric applications, etc.

In-depth number theory: e.g., modular arithmetic, congruence equations, Diophantine equations, etc.

Combinatorics: e.g., permutations and combinations, probability models, recurrence relations, etc.

2. Enhancement of Depth of Thinking

Integration of multiple knowledge points: A single problem may involve the comprehensive application of multiple knowledge points.

Flexibility in logical reasoning: Requires students to have strong abstract thinking and creative problem-solving abilities.

3. Coping with Time Pressure

Timed practice: Improve answering speed and accuracy through timed mock exams.

Strategic selection: Learn to allocate time reasonably, prioritizing problems you are confident about.

1. Fill Knowledge Gaps

Practice test with past papers: It is recommended to have students take an AMC10 practice test to accurately assess their mathematical foundation.

Supplement knowledge points: If a student achieves a top 5% or top 1% score in AMC8, it indicates a solid mathematical foundation. They need to supplement missing AMC10 knowledge points, such as sequences, linear functions, permutations & combinations and probability, overall operations, and other high-frequency topics.

2. Practice Problems to Develop Problem-Solving Thinking

Categorized training: Conduct categorized training on AMC10 past papers, focusing on medium-difficulty problems to improve problem-solving approaches and accuracy.

Cross-knowledge thinking: From problem 16 onward in the AMC10 competition, flexibility increases, and a single problem may involve multiple knowledge points. Therefore, while practicing, summarize thought processes and cultivate the ability to think from cross-knowledge perspectives.

3. Train Answering Techniques

Timed mock exams: Arrange timed mock exams to simulate the real exam environment, improving answering speed and accuracy.

Answering techniques: Master some common answering techniques, such as quick estimation, elimination method, special value substitution, etc., to help students save time.

1. Pre-AMC10 Express

Target Audience: G6-8 students

Course Content: Advance learning of four major middle school math topics: algebraic operations, functions and graphs, similar triangles, circles; advanced learning of two major in-school sections: algebra, geometry.

Course Duration: 120 hours

2. AMC10 Express Training

Target Audience: G9-10 students

Course Content: Systematically review AMC10 competition test points; train AMC10 problem-solving approaches and answering techniques.

Course Duration: 110 hours

3. Specific Class Settings

Class Name	Class Size	Hours
AMC10 Full Course	3-8 students	110 hours
Pre AMC10 Full Course	3-8 students	120 hours
AMC10 Foundation Course	3-8 students	50 hours
AMC10 Intensive Course	3-8 students	30 hours
AMC10 Sprint Course	3-8 students	30 hours
AMC10 Personalized Course	1V1/1V2/1V3	Customized

4. Course Features

Stratified, staged teaching: Different course offerings based on students' foundation levels.

Online and offline synchronous classes: Convenient for students to choose the learning method that suits them.

Recorded sessions: Support repeated learning to ensure mastery of knowledge points.

Misconception 1: Thinking "a few practice tests will get an award"

Reality 1: Many tested topics aren't covered in school!

High-frequency AMC10 topics not covered in school include:

Inclusion-exclusion principle

Permutations & combinations (addition/multiplication principle, grouping/insertion method)

Congruences & modular arithmetic

Similarity in geometry, power of a point theorem, coordinate geometry

Recursive sequences, Vieta's formulas (comprehensive applications)

These topics are precisely concentrated in problems 16–25, the key scoring area!

Advice: If a student hasn't systematically studied the above topics, at least 3–6 months of targeted remediation is necessary.

Misconception 2: Treating AMC10 as "AMC8 upgraded"

Reality 2: The difficulty jumps dramatically!

Dimension	AMC8	AMC10
Problems / Time	25 problems / 40 min	25 problems / 75 min
Time per problem (avg.)	1.6 min	3 min
Difficulty of hardest problems	Middle school extension	Approaching AIME level
Depth of knowledge	Elementary + 7th grade	8th–10th grade + competition mindset

The truth: Problems 21–25 of AMC10 are almost a "chasm" for average students and require long-term training to overcome.

Misconception 3: Underestimating the intensity of competition

Reality 3: Average score is only 57 points, 90% of test-takers are "just participating"!

Perfect score: 150 points

Global average: ~57 points

AIME cutoff (2025): 105+ points

This means: You need to outscore 90% of global test-takers by nearly 50 points!

1. Foundation Building Phase (March–July)

Goal: Fill knowledge gaps, build a competition thinking framework.
Actions:
- Work on past papers from 2013–2018 (focus on problems 1–20).
- Focus on: algebraic identities and transformations, geometric auxiliary lines, elementary number theory.
- Do 2 full sets per week, analyze errors, and build a "knowledge – problem type" mapping table.

2. Skill Sharpening Phase (September–October)

Goal: Increase speed + conquer intermediate problems.
Actions:
- Work on past papers from 2019–2023 (timed full sets).
- Targeted practice: permutations & combinations, congruences, geometry optimization problems.
- Simulate test pacing: first 10 problems ≤15 min, problems 11–20 ≤35 min.

3. Final Sprint Phase (November, before the exam)

Goal: Fill gaps + solidify strategies.
Actions:
- Work on the most recent past papers from 2024–2025.
- Return to your error log, memorize high-frequency formulas (e.g., Pythagorean triples, difference of squares, combinatorial identities).
- Solidify test-taking habits: circle keywords, skip stuck problems, strategically leave blanks.

1. Golden time allocation ratio

Problems 1–10: ≤15 minutes (aim for perfect score)

Problems 11–20: ≤35 minutes (minimize mistakes)

Problems 21–25: ≤20 minutes (aim for 2 correct)

Last 5 minutes: check bubble sheet + recalc

2. Learn to strategically skip

AMC10 scoring rules: Correct: +6 points, Blank: +1.5 points, Wrong: 0 points.

Strategy: For uncertain problems, better to leave them blank! If you answer 16 correctly and leave 9 blank → 16×6 + 9×1.5 = 109.5 points → secure AIME qualification!

3. Use elimination to increase guess rate

Use:

Parity (e.g., the answer must be even)

Range estimation (e.g., side length cannot exceed 100)

Unit / dimension checks

Special value substitution (e.g., test with x = 0, 1, 2)

This can quickly eliminate 2–3 options, raising the chance of a correct guess from 25% to 50%!

4. Mindset management: Allow yourself to "not know"

When you encounter a stuck problem, remind yourself: "This problem is designed to filter people, it's normal to skip it." Prioritize ensuring 100% of the problems you know are correct — that's wiser than stubbornly grinding on one tough problem.