The benefits of participating in math competitions
By Katy Bowman
Anyone who’s participated in MATHCOUNTS, The American Mathematics Competitions, Math Prize for Girls, or a similar math contest knows the experience can be just as thrilling as any extreme sport. In many of these tournaments, top winners take home cash prizes or scholarships — and participants also develop important life skills along the way.
“There are a lot of disappointing moments in math competitions: maybe you guessed wrong or didn’t manage your time well, or feel like you let your team down,” says Mark Spindler, assistant math program manager for CTY Online Programs. “But you’ll learn that it’s really about enjoying the mathematics, and trying, even when it doesn’t go exactly as you’d like. Just like in any sport, these competitions instill drive and perseverance.”
Math competitons also help students develop problem-solving skills and learn to think outside the box, handle pressure, and be a team player — traits that will serve them well in any future endeavor. The best part? They’re a great way to meet other kids who love math.
Want to learn more?
- Visit our math competition resources page for a list of math, computer science, and game competitions held throughout the year.
- Watch our webinar “How to Win $20,000 through Mathematics Competitions.”
- Explore CTY’s online math competition prep courses.
