I want to get into the International Maths Olympiad – how to start

Getting into the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) is a dream for many math enthusiasts. It requires passion, dedication, and systematic preparation because the selection process is rigorous and highly competitive. Here’s how you can start your journey from scratch.

Understand the Olympiad Pathway (for India)

To reach the IMO, you must qualify through several stages organized by HBCSE (TIFR, Mumbai):

1. Pre-Regional Mathematical Olympiad (PRMO) – First level screening, usually based on school-level concepts and problem-solving.
2. Regional Mathematical Olympiad (RMO) – More challenging problems in algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics.
3. Indian National Mathematical Olympiad (INMO) – National-level contest with tougher subjective problems.
4. International Mathematical Olympiad Training Camp (IMOTC) – Shortlisted INMO toppers undergo intensive training.
5. IMO – Final 6 students represent India at the International stage.

Build Strong Fundamentals

• Start with NCERT Mathematics (Class 6–12) and NCERT Exemplar Problems to strengthen basics.
• Focus on the four pillars of Olympiad math:
  • Algebra – inequalities, polynomials, functional equations
  • Geometry – Euclidean geometry, circles, triangles, constructions
  • Number Theory – modular arithmetic, divisibility, primes
  • Combinatorics – counting, probability, graph theory basics

Use Olympiad-Specific Books

Some must-read books include:

• Challenges and Thrills of Pre-College Mathematics – Venkatachala
• An Excursion in Mathematics – Bhaskaracharya Pratishthana
• Problem Solving Strategies – Arthur Engel
• Mathematical Olympiad Challenges – Titu Andreescu
• Mathematical Circles – Fomin, Genkin, Itenberg

Solve Past Papers

• Practice RMO, INMO, and IMO past papers regularly.
• Time yourself and attempt full sets to build exam stamina.
• After solving, study official solutions to learn advanced techniques.

Join Online Communities and Resources

• Art of Problem Solving (AoPS): International forum for Olympiad learners.
• Brilliant.org: Conceptual practice with problem-solving focus.
• HBCSE official website: For syllabus, resources, and past papers.
• Discussion groups (Discord, Telegram, Math forums) to exchange problems and ideas.

Build a Study Routine

• Start with 1–2 hours a day, gradually increasing to 3–4 hours.
• Dedicate weekly slots for each subject area (Algebra, Geometry, Number Theory, Combinatorics).
• Maintain a problem diary: note tough problems, strategies, and tricks you learn.

Mindset for Success

• Be patient: Olympiad problems can take hours to solve.
• Focus on learning the process, not just answers.
• Treat every unsolved problem as training for creative thinking.

To get into the International Mathematical Olympiad, start by strengthening basics, move to advanced Olympiad-level resources, solve past papers, and follow the official pathway (PRMO → RMO → INMO → IMOTC → IMO). With consistency, curiosity, and a problem-solving mindset, self-study can take you from a beginner to representing your country at the IMO.