<p>Well, I've seen enough people mention these things to be interested in them. All I know so far is that they are both 75 minute long 25 question math competitions that, if you get higher then a certain score, you are invited to the next-level up competition. </p>
<p>So, I have some questions:</p>
<p>Would I be able to do decent on these if I'm just in Adv Alg w/Trig?</p>
<p>Is it too late to register to take either of these? From what I've read, I would need to have the school register and send it off. I think the second testing date is the 23rd - would that give me enough time to get the school to register? The school might even be registered now, but I can't ask until I get back. I'll assume they aren't, and also that I'll be able to take it if they are.</p>
<p>Which test should I take? Remember, I'm in Trig in 10th grade currently.</p>
<p>What's the best strategy for these tests? Do as many as I can or constantly double check?</p>
<p>According to the website, there's no calculator allowed. Would I spend most of my time multiplying numbers together?</p>
<p>Again, from what I've read, these tests are based on Pre-Cal concepts. If I'm able to take these tests (I'm going to assume I am, until told otherwise), should I focus on doing practice problems or studying Pre-cal or maybe just have my Dad walk me through the the problems I don't get? What are some key concepts that I should definitely know? </p>
<p>Sorry for posting this in HSL. I'm new here and haven't yet found a better forum for this. Also, sorry for any grammar mistakes - I'm typing this on my iPhone. Thank you in advance if you've taken the time to read this and reply.</p>
<p>I don’t think it’s too late to register; my school still hasn’t.</p>
<p>Your current math knowledge is enough for either one. Though, if you’re like most high school students, you probably don’t know any discrete mathematics (combi + NT), which is going to cost you 5 questions or so. Be sure to get a basic education on that.</p>
<p>The goal of taking these is to make it to the AIME, and then the level after that, the USA(J)MO. Here’s a breakdown:</p>
<p>AMC 10: 120+ or top 2.5%
AMC 12: 100+ or top 5%</p>
<p>Even so, I suggest you take the 10, because the 12 is significantly harder.</p>
<p>Don’t worry about spending time crunching numbers; they design the test fairly well so that’s not a problem.</p>
<p>Studying any sort of school textbook will be a waste of time. You already know the concepts; they’ll just use them in unusual ways. Spend your time getting used to the questions, by doing tons of practice problems. Art of Problem Solving has a good archive of all the past AMC problems as well as solutions. You can get explanations from them or from your father; what really matters is that you understand the idea behind each one.</p>
<p>When the test comes around, I quickly go through the first 15-20 questions, and then spend the rest of my time on the last few, checking over at the end. You want to be practiced enough to go through first half questions extremely quickly, so you can save time for the last few. They’ll make or break your score.</p>
<p>I won’t answer all of your questions, but yes, I believe that your school can register still if they want to. Question is, how many people would be interested in taking the test? It might be worth you contacting other local schools to see if you can take the test there.</p>
<p>You have enough math, although yes, the test gets easier with more, but more isn’t necessary for success. </p>
<p>It’s easier to qualify with the 12. </p>
<p>Find previous exams online and practice those specifically.</p>
<p>Remember that there is a guessing penalty if you are wrong. Taking the AMC is definitely a question of strategy as well as knowing the answers.</p>
<p>Oh, I forgot to mention that if you’re the only one taking it, it would cost you more than a hundred dollars (tests are ordered in sets of ten). Try to get some other people to help spread that cost!</p>