Unlocking Mathematical Excellence: A Comprehensive Guide to the AMC 10

What is the AMC 10?

The American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) 10 is a national-level mathematics competition aimed at students in grades 10 and below. The contest consists of 25 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 75 minutes, testing students' problem-solving abilities, logical reasoning, and mathematical creativity.

Unlike traditional math exams that focus on routine calculations, the AMC 10 features non-routine, multi-step problems that require deep mathematical understanding and strategic thinking. While the contest is designed to be accessible to high school students, many problems go beyond what is typically covered in standard math curricula, making it an exciting challenge for those eager to explore advanced concepts.

The AMC 10 serves as a qualifier for the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME). Students who achieve high scores on the AMC 10 have the opportunity to progress to elite-level competitions, such as:

• AIME (American Invitational Mathematics Examination)
• USA Mathematical Olympiad (USAMO)
• International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)

By participating in the AMC 10, students enhance their problem-solving skills, build mathematical confidence, and gain national recognition for their talents.

Why Compete in the AMC 10?

The American Mathematics Competition 10 (AMC 10) is not just another math test—it is a rigorous and intellectually stimulating challenge that encourages students to think beyond textbooks, develop problem-solving intuition, and engage with mathematics in a meaningful way. Designed for students in Grade 10 and below, the AMC 10 bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world mathematical reasoning, pushing participants to analyze, strategize, and apply concepts creatively.

Participating in the AMC 10 offers a range of academic and personal benefits, helping students build confidence, sharpen their critical thinking, and gain recognition for their mathematical abilities.

Elevate Your Mathematical Thinking Beyond School Curricula

The AMC 10 is not a standard high school math test—it introduces students to non-routine problems that require a deeper level of analysis and logical reasoning. Unlike school exams, which often focus on formulaic calculations, the AMC 10 challenges students to:

• Think critically about problems that do not have straightforward solutions.
• Identify hidden patterns and relationships within algebra, geometry, and number theory.
• Apply problem-solving strategies rather than simply memorizing formulas.

This shift in thinking helps students become more flexible and strategic in their approach to mathematical challenges, preparing them for more advanced studies and competitions.

Build Strong Foundations for Future STEM Success

Mathematical problem-solving is a fundamental skill in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The AMC 10 provides students with:

• A competitive edge in STEM fields, where logical reasoning and analytical thinking are highly valued.
• Skills applicable beyond mathematics, including data analysis, software engineering, economics, and physics.
• Preparation for university-level courses, as many concepts covered in the AMC 10 align with those found in rigorous academic programs.

The ability to approach problems with creativity, persistence, and adaptability is what distinguishes top performers in STEM careers—and the AMC 10 helps students develop these essential qualities early on.

Strengthen College Applications & Scholarship Opportunities

Many top universities, including MIT, Harvard, Stanford, and the University of Waterloo, recognize math competition experience as a marker of intellectual curiosity, perseverance, and mathematical aptitude.

• Demonstrates commitment to academic excellence, especially for students applying to competitive STEM programs.
• Enhances eligibility for math-based scholarships, particularly for universities that offer financial awards for top math students.
• Signals strong problem-solving ability, an important skill in college admissions beyond just mathematics.

Additionally, students who perform well in the AMC 10 and qualify for the AIME (American Invitational Mathematics Examination) stand out even more in university applications, as fewer than 5% of AMC 10 participants earn this distinction each year.

AMC 10 Competition Dates & Registration Details

Competition Dates for 2024:

• AMC 10A: November 6, 2024
• AMC 10B: November 12, 2024

Registration Deadlines for 2024:

• Early Bird Registration: Extended to October 8, 2024 ($33 fee)
• Regular Registration: October 22, 2024 ($76 fee)
• Late Registration: October 30, 2024 ($116 fee)

Competition Bundle Pricing 2024:

• One bundle (10 students): $27 per bundle
• A/B Double Bundle (10 students for AMC 10A & 10 students for AMC 10B): $50

Competition Dates for 2025-2026:

• The official 2025-2026 AMC 10 test dates have not yet been announced, but students can expect similar scheduling based on past years. Referencing the 2024 timeline, the competition is typically held in early to mid-November.
• AMC 10A and AMC 10B are equal in prestige and difficulty; the primary difference is in the distribution of topics and exam dates. Students should select the version that best fits their schedule and preparation strategy.

For future AMC 10 competitions, students should monitor official announcements from the MAA to confirm exact dates and deadlines.

Register via the official portal here AMC Registration

Exam Format & Scoring System

Exam Format:

• Questions: 25 multiple-choice questions
• Time Limit: 75-minute
• No calculators allowed (students must rely on analytical thinking and problem-solving techniques).

Scoring System:

• Correct answer: 6 points
• Unanswered question: 1.5 points
• Incorrect answer: 0 points
• Maximum score: 150 points

How to Prepare for the AMC 10

Master Key Math Concepts

• The AMC 10 focuses on fundamental high school mathematics typically taught in grades 9 and 10, testing students’ ability to apply these concepts in non-routine problem-solving scenarios. The competition excludes advanced topics such as trigonometry, advanced algebra, advanced geometry, and calculus, making it an excellent starting point for students looking to strengthen their mathematical foundation.
  • Algebra – Covers quadratic equations, inequalities, sequences, exponents, polynomials, and basic functions. Problems often require manipulating algebraic expressions, solving equations efficiently, and recognizing patterns.
  • Geometry – Focuses on basic geometric principles, including the Pythagorean Theorem, area and volume formulas, transformations, and coordinate geometry. Students must be comfortable working with shapes, symmetry, and spatial reasoning.
  • Number Theory – Includes properties of integers, prime numbers, divisibility rules, greatest common divisors (GCD), least common multiples (LCM), and modular arithmetic. Many problems involve pattern recognition and logical deduction.
  • Probability & Combinatorics – Tests fundamental counting principles, permutations, combinations, and probability calculations. Students must understand binomial coefficients, basic probability rules, and problem-solving strategies for discrete scenarios.

Success in the AMC 10 requires more than just knowledge of these topics—it demands the ability to apply concepts creatively and strategically, making connections between different areas of mathematics.

Practice with Past Papers & Timed Mock Exams

• Solve past AMC 10 exams to familiarize yourself with question styles and difficulty.
• Simulate exam conditions by taking timed practice tests.
  • Access Past AMC 10 Problems:AMC 10 Practices

Seek Expert Coaching & Personalized Tutoring

• Working with an experienced tutor helps refine strategies and improve weaknesses.
• Structured coaching programs focus on both conceptual understanding and test-taking strategies.

How Myls Tutoring Helps You Succeed in the AMC 10

Preparing for the AMC 10 isn’t just about memorizing formulas—it’s about thinking critically, applying concepts in new ways, and developing problem-solving intuition. At Myls Tutoring, we understand that every student learns differently, so we take a personalized, expert-led approach to help students succeed. Myls one-on-one online coaching platform connects students with former AMC high scorers and Olympiad participants who break down complex problems, share insider strategies, and guide students through challenging concepts. Rather than just reviewing material, we focus on interactive learning, active problem-solving, and strategic thinking to help students gain confidence and improve efficiency. Our AI-powered performance tracking ensures students make steady progress by providing real-time feedback, targeted problem recommendations, and adaptive difficulty levels based on their strengths and weaknesses.

Myls Tutoring also emphasize exam strategy by offering full-length timed mock exams, helping students improve time management, decision-making, and test endurance while developing techniques to manage stress and minimize errors. More than just test prep, our goal is to help students develop a deeper appreciation for math, build resilience in problem-solving, and enjoy the challenge of competition. Whether you’re aiming for AIME qualification, improving your problem-solving skills, or simply growing your confidence in math, we’re here to support and guide you every step of the way.

Start preparing for the AMC 10 today with Myls Tutoring!