Competition Math
About this free Competition Math course
Competition Math is a free training program for aspiring mathletes preparing for contests like the AMC 8, AMC 10, AIME, and MATHCOUNTS. It covers the advanced problem-solving techniques in number theory, algebra, geometry, and combinatorics that school math often skips, and builds the speed and creativity contest problems demand.
Each of the 15 weekly lessons mixes concept tutorials, contest-style practice problems, and competition strategies for recognizing patterns and avoiding common traps. The course was built by STEM for Others volunteers who have competed in these contests themselves, and it's designed to give you the skills and confidence to move up the ranks.
Who this course is for
The course is for students in grades 5 through 9 who enjoy math and want a challenge, whether they're preparing for a first contest or aiming to raise their AMC 8 score. You should be comfortable with pre-algebra. Strong younger students are welcome too.
Course outline
- Week 1: What is competition math? An overview of the major contests, scoring, and problem-solving strategies.
- Weeks 2-4: Algebra and number sense. Equations, fractions and ratios, and number sets and sequences.
- Weeks 5-9: Geometry. Area and perimeter, types of triangles, triangle similarity, angles, and circles and quadrilaterals.
- Weeks 10-12: Probability and counting. Probability, Venn and tree diagrams, and counting techniques and their applications.
- Weeks 13-15: Number theory. Prime and composite numbers, GCD and LCM, and prime factorization techniques.
What you'll learn
- Solve contest-style problems across algebra, geometry, counting, and number theory
- Use counting principles, Venn diagrams, and tree diagrams to solve probability problems
- Apply triangle similarity and angle relationships to geometry problems
- Use prime factorization, GCD, and LCM to crack number theory problems
- Manage time and choose strategies under contest conditions
How long it takes
Expect about 20 hours across 15 weeks, around 80 minutes per lesson. For the best results, add timed practice with past AMC 8 or MATHCOUNTS problems each week.
Frequently asked questions about Competition Math
Is Competition Math really free?
Yes. Competition Math is completely free, with no fees, subscriptions, or account required. STEM for Others is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and every course in our curriculum library is free for students, families, and teachers.
Which math competitions does this course prepare for?
The course targets the AMC 8, AMC 10, and MATHCOUNTS, and the skills also carry over to contests like Math Kangaroo and local math leagues. Students aiming for the AIME should treat it as a foundation and add advanced practice.
How do I start the course?
Click Begin Course at the top of this page to open the full slide deck in a new tab. You can also flip through the slides embedded above. Work through one unit at a time and try the practice questions before moving on.
Do I get a certificate?
The self-paced Competition Math materials don't include an official certificate. If you're taking the course through a STEM for Others chapter program, ask your chapter leader about recognizing your completion.
Can teachers and clubs use this curriculum?
Yes. Teachers, homeschool families, libraries, and after-school clubs are welcome to use the Competition Math materials with their students at no cost. STEM for Others volunteers also teach our curriculum in partner schools and libraries. You can find a chapter near you or start one at your school.
Related free courses
Related free webinar
Watch Game Theory Basics, a free STEM for Others webinar, to see how math models strategy and decision-making. Browse all free STEM webinars.
