AMC/AIME/USAMO?

TeamRocketGrunt
Sat, 15 Feb 2014 08:26:29 +0000

How does one study for these exams? I’m currently a sophomore, and it’ll be my first time taking the AMC (10) this week. I haven’t practiced at all, so I’m probably not going to make AIME this year, but I’d really like to qualify for AIME next year. How does one prepare for these exams? I’ve heard the Art of Problem Solving stuff is good (is it a book, or a site?). If I do AoPS starting in the summer with other prep, do you think it’s possible for me to qualify for AIME through the AMC 12 my junior year? It’ll be in February in my junior year as well. I have a perfect score in SAT II Math, if it helps any…?

Also, is qualifying for AIME considered impressive? Or do you have to get to USAMO to be considered “good at math”? Is the AMC something that only “natural talent” geniuses can do well in? Is it even possible to prep for it?

Thanks!