8-Week AMC Preparation Plan for Australian Students

The Australian Mathematics Competition rewards students who can think flexibly across unfamiliar problems. An 8-week plan is enough for many Years 7-8 students to build momentum, provided the work is consistent and the review is honest.

The goal is not to memorise hundreds of question types. The goal is to build three habits: read precisely, choose a strategy, and learn from every wrong answer.

Week 1: Diagnostic And Topic Map

Start with a short diagnostic set. Use a mix of number, algebra, geometry, measurement, data and probability questions. Do not start with a full paper if the student is anxious; a smaller set gives cleaner information.

After the diagnostic, sort mistakes into four groups:

• did not know the concept;
• knew the concept but chose the wrong method;
• made a reading error;
• ran out of time.

This mistake map becomes the plan.

Week 2: Number And Arithmetic Reasoning

Focus on factors, multiples, fractions, percentages, ratios, estimation and number patterns. AMC number questions often look simple but reward careful structure.

Useful practice:

• explain the fastest method after solving;
• solve one problem two different ways;
• write down the key condition before calculating.

Week 3: Algebra And Patterns

Students should practise translating words into expressions, spotting sequences, and using simple equations. The best AMC algebra preparation is not heavy symbolic manipulation. It is clear modelling.

Ask after each question: what was changing, what stayed fixed, and what did the problem actually ask for?

Week 4: Geometry And Measurement

Cover angles, area, perimeter, volume, symmetry, coordinates and visual reasoning. Many students lose marks here because they rely on diagrams without checking scale or hidden information.

Preparation should include redrawing diagrams and labelling known facts.

Week 5: Data, Probability And Logic

Practise tables, graphs, averages, probability and combinatorial reasoning. Students should learn to test cases systematically rather than guessing.

This week is also a good time to introduce short timed sets. Use 10 to 15 minutes at a time.

Week 6: Mixed Problem Solving

Move into mixed sets where the student does not know which topic is coming. This is closer to the real exam and reveals whether topic knowledge transfers.

Review should be slower than the attempt. For every missed question, write one sentence: "The trick was..."

Week 7: Past Paper And Mock Exam Practice

Use a full or near-full timed paper. The first goal is not a perfect score. The goal is pacing, stamina and decision-making.

Students should practise skipping a question when stuck, returning later, and checking answer reasonableness.

A realistic timed check such as the AMC mock exam works best once the student has built enough topic coverage.

Week 8: Final Review

Do not cram new topics in the last few days. Revisit the error log, repeat important questions, and review the cheat sheet.

Final week priorities:

• reread common traps;
• practise 2-3 short timed sets;
• sleep properly before the exam;
• check official exam details through the school or organiser.

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