My experience in Math Olympiad

Background
Math Olympiad challenges students with questions, that while are within their syllabus, requires analytical thinking to figure out how to correctly apply concepts learnt to solve the questions.

Process
I was actually recommended to join Math Olympiad by my Math teacher. It was my first year trying out Math Olympiad and I walked into the classroom thinking it was just like any other Math class. I soon realised: it was anything but that. Sure the concepts used were all the same, but the way they are utilised were ones I would have never thought of. Oh this complicated looking variable can actually be simplified to something so easy. Sometimes, the answer is handed to you on a silver platter. You just need to be able to see it. These preparation classes proved how I tend to solve problems with tried and tested methods even when each problem is unique.

I was always confident in my Math ability, always being the top few in my class. These preparation classes was like a bucket of ice cold water dumped onto me followed by throwing me into a freezer. Suddenly, my average of 90% in Math exams had dropped to only being able to solve 50% of Math Olympiad level questions.

The preparation classes only lasted for maybe 8 or so weeks with one class per week. But within those 8 sessions, I found that I started to tackle problems in a new way. Instead of simply trying to solve the problem, I would try and find the most efficient solution. Considering using other methods and formulas that are my other classmates won't think of using. Does this specific variable show up in any other formulas? How can I manipulate these formulas to suit what I need for my next working? So on and so forth.

Outcome
Ultimately, I think Math Olympiad has opened up my eyes on how you cannot solve problems with only 1 way. Even if that 1 way works perfectly, it may not be the best way to solve that problem. It is always best to think critically and outside-the-box. To try come up with your own solutions to problems that already have a solution.