Australian Mathematics Competition Syllabus
The AMC tests problem-solving skills rather than a fixed curriculum. The topics are drawn from the standard Australian school mathematics syllabus, but applied in creative and non-standard ways.
A Focus on Problem Solving
There is no official syllabus to memorise for the AMC. Instead, it assesses your ability to use familiar mathematical concepts to solve unfamiliar problems. Questions are designed to be solvable with logic and creativity, not just rote learning. The competition is divided into five papers based on year level, with topics becoming progressively more advanced. However, the underlying mathematical domains remain consistent across all levels.
Number and Algebra
- Number Theory Properties of integers, prime numbers, divisibility, factors, and remainders.
- Algebra Solving equations, working with indices, manipulating expressions, and functions.
- Sequences and Patterns Recognising and describing patterns in numbers, including arithmetic and geometric sequences.
- Ratios and Percentages Applications in problems involving rates, proportions, and financial mathematics.
Measurement and Geometry
- Euclidean Geometry Properties of triangles, circles, polygons, and angles, including congruence and similarity.
- Mensuration Calculating lengths, perimeters, areas, and volumes of 2D and 3D shapes.
- Coordinate Geometry Using coordinates to solve problems involving points, lines, and simple curves.
Combinatorics, Probability, and Logic
- Counting Methods Systematic counting, permutations, combinations, and the pigeonhole principle.
- Probability Calculating the chance of events, often combined with counting techniques.
- Logical Deduction Solving problems that require careful, step-by-step reasoning from given information.