Maths Olympiad Tricks for 2026 Exam Preparation
Maths Olympiads are competitions that promote creativity in young minds in a manner that goes beyond what is taught in class. With the aid of unique tricks or logic puzzles, children are able to solve difficult problems with lightning speed accuracy. In this way, even the toughest mathematical problems are reduced to puzzles for a child to solve.
Check Out: Olympiad Books
Unlocking Success in the Maths Olympiad with Smart Tricks
Preparing for a maths olympiad is not about memorizing long formulas; it's about learning the "shortcuts" that experts use. Whether you are appearing for a maths olympiad grade 2 or a more advanced level, the secret lies in mental math. Many students feel worried about the maths olympiad 2026 dates, but with trick-based learning, you can finish your paper much faster than others. If you're a beginner starting with a maths olympiad for grade 1, learning how to double numbers or find patterns will make you stand out.
Mental Math Magic for Quick Calculations
One of the best maths olympiad tricks is learning how to calculate without a pen and paper. This is especially helpful for younger kids in a maths olympiad grade 2 or class 4. When you can solve a sum in your head, you save valuable minutes for the harder "Achievers Section" questions.
-
Multiplication by 5: Don't do long multiplication! Just multiply the number by 10 (add a zero) and then divide it by 2. For example, 46 \times 5 becomes 460 \div 2, which is 230.
-
The "Rule of 9": To multiply any number by 9, multiply it by 10 and subtract the original number. So,37 \times is just 370 - 37 which equals 333.
-
Left-to-Right Addition: Instead of starting from the right, try adding from the left. For 45 + 34 add 40 + 30 first (70) and then 5 + 4(9) to get 79. This is a game-changer for speed!
-
Squaring Numbers Ending in 5: To find 35^2, multiply the first digit (3) by the next number (4) to get 12, then just write "25" at the end. The answer is 1225!
-
Learning Geometry and Pattern Recognition
-
Geometry is difficult sometimes, but visualization is the best trick a person could use for a math olympiad. It is not enough to observe the figures; one could attempt to decompose them into simpler shapes that are easier to visualize.
-
Drawing Diagrams
-
A good picture can sometimes give you the solution before you start calculating. This is an important aspect of a strategy to solve math Olympiads where you are tested on your "spatial" thinking.
-
Seeing Patterns: There is always an underlying rhythm in numbers that goes unnoticed by most people. When you look at an example like 2, 4, 8, 16, you should be able to notice that each number is doubling.
-
Symmetry Tricks: Math olympiad problems for grade 1 involving symmetry often ask you to determine the other half of an object.
-
Fold the shape in your mind to see if both sides match perfectly.
Check Out: JEEnius Edge 11 Mathematics (Part 1) For JEE, ISI-CMI & Olympiad Maths Book
Time Management Tips for the 2026 Exams
The maths olympiad 2026 level-1 exams usually happen between November and December. To succeed, you must manage your 60 minutes wisely.
-
Start with the Easy Wins: Solve the direct questions first to build your confidence and "buy" time for the harder ones.
-
The 2-Minute Rule: If you get stuck on a question for more than two minutes, skip it! You can always come back to it at the end.
-
Estimation Trick: In multiple-choice questions, use rounding to guess which answers are definitely wrong. This helps you pick the right one faster.
-
Use Scratch Paper Wisely: Keep your rough work organized so you don't have to re-solve a problem if you need to check your answer later.
Preparation for Younger Learners (Grade 1 & 2)
Even for a maths olympiad for grade 1, starting with small habits makes a big difference. At this age, the maths olympiad focuses on "Number Sense."
-
Everyday Math: Ask your child to calculate the total bill at a grocery store or count the change.
-
Vedic Maths Basics: Use simple finger-counting tricks to make addition and subtraction feel like a game.
-
Flashcards: Use cards with formulas or shapes to make daily revision a 5-minute fun activity before bed.
The Final Step: Mock Tests and Revision
When it all boils down to the final month, revision is your best friend. Don't try to learn new tricks two days before the exam. Instead, solve previous year papers. This helps you get used to the OMR sheet and the pressure of the clock. If you are preparing for a maths olympiad grade 2, keep it light and fun with puzzles. For older students, the goal is to reduce errors. Use a "Mistake Journal" to write down why you got a question wrong. Was it a calculation error or a logic error? Fixing these small things will help you win a medal in the maths olympiad!
Read: How to Prepare for Maths Olympiad for Class 3?
Benefits of PW Olympiad Study Material
Concept Clarity
PW Olympiad Study Material explains concepts in simple language, helping students build strong fundamentals required for Olympiad-level questions.
Exam-Oriented Content
The material is designed as per the latest Olympiad syllabus and pattern, focusing on logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Practice with Variety
It includes topic-wise questions, previous-year examples, and mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
Expert Guidance
Content is created by experienced educators to ensure quality learning and reliable preparation.
Confidence Building
Regular practice with structured material boosts confidence and improves overall exam performance.
|
PW Olympiad Books |
Maths Olympiad Tricks FAQs
1. Is the maths olympiad 2026 only for top students?
Not at all! Any student from classes 1 to 12 can participate.
3. What is the difference between school math and a maths olympiad?
School math teaches you "how" to solve a problem, but a maths olympiad teaches you "why" it works and how to solve it in the fastest way using special tricks.
3. Are there separate books for a maths olympiad for grade 1 and grade 2?
Yes! A maths olympiad grade 2 book will have simpler words and more pictures than a book for older students.
4. How does preparing for Olympiads help with future exams like NEET?
The logical thinking you learn now is very useful later. Many students who use pw modules for neet 2026 find that their early maths olympiad training made them much faster at solving physics and chemistry problems!
