Mathematics is of central importance to the mission of the National Security Agency, an agency of the Department of Defense. After the envelope containing the contest problem is opened, the team may not discuss any aspect of the problem with the advisor or anyone else. The competition intends to allow participants to use all information that is currently available, but to disqualify any teams that discuss the problems with people in a position to supply them with information reflecting experience or professional expertise. Participants may use computers, software packages, libraries, or any other inanimate sources. The MCM packet will provide requirements and suggested procedures.
Problems tend to be open-ended and are unlikely to have a unique solution.
Attention must be paid to clarity, analysis, and design in attempting a solution. The narrative part of the solution papers must be typed and in English. Partial solutions are acceptable. Two copies of each paper must be submitted. In order to assure timely judging, no additional time is provided for translation apart from the contest.