Most of them will require only basic arithmetic. However, some problems will not be routine textbook exercises, they are designed to test the contestants' ingenuity and ability to apply what they have learned. Students of all ability levels can benefit from taking the test and from working the problems in the practice test. Abraham P. Hillman, who has decades of experience preparing mathematics competition tests, has written the problems for this contest. This experience has shown that a well constructed contest of this nature can significantly increase interest in mathematics.
Participation can improve prospects for success in college study and later careers.
The contest will not be based on any particular book, however, the text Algebra Through Problem Solving and the Mathematics Curriculum and Problems Section of the The Web of Learning should help sharpen your general mathematical problem solving skills. All students in grades 7 through 12 are eligible. No pre-registration is needed but teachers are urged to return the enclosed form with an estimate of the number of participants. Students should bring several sharpened pencils to the contest, but NO calculators, papers, or any other items will be allowed. A prize will be awarded in each of grades 7 through 12.