Maths olympiad is the best choice for all maths enthusiasts. Class 8 maths olympiad exam prepares students for the biggest competitive exams in the future. It is always better to take part in the maths olympiad as it establishes a strong foundation in maths and its practical knowledge. The main aim of the exam is to test the logical thinking ability and computational skills of the students. Students can develop a good knowledge of the concepts. And it is very advantageous to even perform in academic level exams. But sometimes students become anxious and tense as they don’t know how to manage academics along with maths olympiad exams. It is not much difficult to qualify for the maths olympiad if one studies concepts by heart and understands concepts in depth.
Some tips to qualify and score high marks in the maths olympiad is discussed here:
- Start early
Start preparation as early as possible, so that one can complete the whole syllabus at the time. There won’t be any last-minute rush. And will get enough time to revise topics as much as possible. Try to balance both academics and maths olympiad preparations. Prepare a schedule and stick to it.
- Update syllabus and pattern of exam
The exam is conducted in two levels. Those who qualify level-1 with good scores are eligible to attend the level-2 exam. First, get to know the syllabus and the pattern of the exam. Maths olympiad is a multiple choice and numerical answering-based exam with a duration of one hour. There are a total of 50 questions for 60 marks with 4 sections. level -1 consists of the following sections:
- Logical reasoning
- Mathematical reasoning
- Everyday Mathematics
- Achievers Section
Each section consists of questions of different weightage. Most of the questions carry one mark. Generally, more questions will be asked from the current syllabus of class 8 only and the rest 40 to 35 percent from previous classes of 6 and 7.
Students with good scores will be eligible for attending level-2. Class-wise top 5% of candidates from the First Level Exam and top 25 ranks per class zone-wise will be qualified for attending level-2.
The level has only two sections with a duration of one hour for 60 marks with 50 questions.
· Exam pattern for level 1
| Sections | Number of questions | Total marks |
| 1. Logical Reasoning | 15 (1 mark per question) | 15 |
| 2. Mathematical Reasoning | 20 (1 mark per question) | 20 |
| 3. Everyday Mathematics | 10 (1 mark per question) | 10 |
| 4. Achievers section | 5 (3 marks per question) | 15 |
| Grand Total | 50 | 60 |
· Exam pattern for level 2
| Sections | Number of questions | Total marks |
| Mathematics | 45 (1 mark per question) | 45 |
| Achievers section | 5 (3 marks per question) | 15 |
| Grand Total | 50 | 60 |
Understand the syllabus thoroughly. Divide chapters according to your comfort and Plan the study time accordingly. Spend more time on difficult chapters. Prepare notes daily and begin the day by revising early portions. The entire syllabus for the class 8 maths olympiad is based on the academic syllabus only. Syllabus for the class 8 maths olympiad is given:
| Section | Topics |
| Section-1 (Logical Reasoning) | Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. |
| Section-2 (Mathematical Reasoning) | IntegersExponents and PowersAlgebraic ExpressionsSimple Linear EquationsLines and AnglesComparing QuantitiesFractions and DecimalsThe Triangle and its PropertiesSymmetryCongruence of TrianglesPerimeter and Area, Data HandlingRational NumbersVisualizing Solid Shapes Practical Geometry. |
| Section-3 (Everyday Mathematics) | Refer to the mathematical reasoning section |
| Section 4 – Achievers Section | Higher Order Thinking Questions (HOTS) + Refer to Section–2 for the syllabus. |
- Practice previous year papers
To get more familiar with questions and patterns, practice and solve as many questions as possible. Many sample papers and previous papers are available on the internet, students can refer to them or can refer to IMO Maths Olympiad Sample Question Paper 1 Class 8 for the syllabus. Make it a daily schedule to practice workbooks in a more effective manner. Practicing more papers can boost confidence and help them to improve their computational skills. Most of the questions asked will be to test the numerical and problem-solving skills of the students. Always set a time limit for solving question papers and try to solve it within the specified time. It will be more beneficial if one does so, as it improves the speed of solving problems. Try to solve as many as questions possible by themselves. Students can discuss the books to choose from with teachers or parents. Also, students can organize group study sessions to share their answers and questions. It can give an even more clear picture of your understanding. Take part in monthly tests and mock tests.
- Flowcharts and diagrams
Use flow charts or any charts to note down some important concepts. Use color codes to highlight certain theorems, equations, and formulas. Pictorial representation can make it easier to memorize topics. Prepare separate notes for formulas and theorems.
- Stay motivated and healthy
Challenge and compete with yourself. It can improve your skills and confidence to a greater extent. Do something creative every day as it will freshen your mind. Have some good sleep and drink plenty of water. Eat healthy food. Don’t study continuously a day, take some short breaks. It is better to study for 2 hours continuously, not more than that. Students may get exhausted if they study longer hours without any breaks. Stay focussed and believe in yourself. Before a week from the exam, one should begin checking their notes and revise thoroughly. Analyzing strengths and weaknesses before attending exams is very crucial so that students can concentrate more and improve their weaknesses.
- Organize time
Time is the king. There is no use in rushing at the last moment. Utilize time effectively and plan every day. Set a time limit for completing certain chapters. Don’t spend too much time playing video and computer games. Prepare a proper timetable, consult teachers or parents to help them to prepare a suitable timetable. Learn to manage time.
Have some good sleep before the night of the exam. It is very essential as it will boost memory. Relax well before exam night.
