Top Preparation Strategies to Ace the AMC 10 and AMC 12 Exams

Top Preparation Strategies to Ace the AMC 10 and AMC 12 Exams

The American Mathematics Competitions (AMC 10 and AMC 12) are among the most competitive high school math exams in the world. Thousands of students from over 100 countries appear for these prestigious tests every year, with one goal: to qualify for the AIME (American Invitational Mathematics Examination) and progress toward the USAMO or international Olympiads.

AMC isn’t just about solving problems. It’s about thinking differently, mastering strategy, and managing time under pressure.

In this blog, we break down the top strategies you need to ace AMC 10 and AMC 12—from expert tips to resource recommendations.

What Are AMC 10 and AMC 12?

Scoring well can qualify you for the AIME, which is the next step in the path to the International Math Olympiad (IMO).

Top Preparation Strategies for AMC 10 and AMC 12

1. Master the Syllabus – Know What to Expect

While AMC doesn’t follow a rigid syllabus, here's what typically appears:

AMC 10 Topics:

• Algebra I & II
• Euclidean and Coordinate Geometry
• Number Theory (basic modular arithmetic, primes, divisibility)
• Counting & Probability
• Logic and Word Problems

AMC 12 Topics (includes everything in AMC 10 plus):

• Trigonometry
• Pre-Calculus concepts (functions, complex numbers)
• Advanced Number Theory
• Functional Equations
• Inequalities

Note: AMC 12 may test Pre-Calculus topics, but Calculus itself is never tested.

2. Don’t Just Memorize – Learn to Think

AMC questions aren’t about formulas; they’re about creative problem-solving. You must learn to:

• Recognize patterns
• Eliminate answer choices logically
• Visualize problems geometrically
• Approach problems from multiple angles

3. Use the Right Preparation Materials

Recommended Books:

• The Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) Volume 1 & 2
• Competition Math for Middle School (for AMC 10 basics)
• Introduction to Algebra, Counting & Probability (AoPS series)
• Intermediate Algebra and Geometry (for AMC 12 aspirants)

4. Target Your Weaknesses

• Keep a mistake log. Every time you get a problem wrong:
• Identify why it went wrong (concept, carelessness, misreading?)
• Review the concept
• Solve 3–5 similar problems

Focused improvement yields better results than mindless repetition.

5. Manage Your Time Smartly

• With 75 minutes and 25 questions, you get about 3 minutes per problem. But not all problems are equal.
• First 10 questions: Should take you <1 minute each
• Middle 10: Average 2–3 minutes
• Last 5: Take time, but only if you're confident
• If stuck beyond 2 minutes, skip and come back later.

6. Use the Scoring System Strategically

• Blank answers fetch 1.5 points, incorrect ones fetch 0.
• If unsure, it's better to leave a question blank than guess randomly.
• Smart skipping is a scoring strategy, not a weakness.

7. Take Mock Tests in Exam Conditions

• Simulate real test conditions at least 2–3 times per week in the last month before the exam. No distractions, Strict 75-minute timer, No calculators
• Analyze your performance after each mock:
• How many were careless mistakes?
• How much time did you waste on certain questions?

8. Build Mental Math and Logic Daily

AMC is calculator-free. Practice:

• Quick factorization
• Modular arithmetic tricks
• Estimation
• Visual pattern recognition
• Probability via logical trees or Venn diagrams

When Should You Start Preparing?

For most students, 6–9 months in advance is ideal, especially for AMC 12 aspirants. Starting in April–May gives you enough time for:

• Concept building (3 months)
• Practice (3 months)
• Intensive mocks and review (2–3 months)

Conclusion

Scoring well in the AMC 10 or 12 isn’t about luck or being a math genius. It’s about discipline, strategy, and smart preparation. The students who qualify for the AIME don’t always get every question right—but they get the basics solid, manage time well, and avoid careless errors.

Whether you're aiming to boost your college profile, compete nationally, or simply challenge yourself—the right preparation can make all the difference.

We hope this article helps you. Reach out to us by filling out our assistance form if you need any help with the preparations.