How Hard is AMC 10 in Comparison to AMC 8 and In-School Math?

These two math competitions—part of the American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) series—are designed to challenge students at different stages. While AMC 8 introduces younger learners to problem-solving, AMC 10 raises the bar with advanced content and stricter scoring. This article compares the two, helping families understand how AMC 10 differs from AMC 8 and from typical school math.

AMC 10 vs. AMC 8

The AMC series comprises various levels, with the entry level being AMC 8 for students in grade 8 or below. To learn more about AMC 8 problems, you can refer to this article. Next in line is AMC 10, tailored for students in grade 10 or below. It is a 25-question, 75-minute, multiple-choice examination designed to promote the development and enhancement of problem-solving skills. In addition to AMC 8 and AMC 10, there are more advanced-level math competitions such as AMC 12, AIME, and USAMO/USAJMO.

To understand the difficulty of the AMC 10 compared to AMC 8, let’s examine three key aspects:

1. Exam Length and Scoring Rules

Understanding the scoring systems of AMC 8 and AMC 10 is essential for students aiming to perform well. These differences not only affect test-taking strategy but also highlight the increasing level of difficulty from AMC 8 to AMC 10.

AMC 8 Scoring (Grade 8 and below, under age 14.5)

• Total Questions: 25
• Time Limit: 40 minutes
• Scoring:
  • 1 point for each correct answer
  • 0 points for either an incorrect or unanswered question
• Maximum Score: 25 points
• Strategy Note: Since there is no penalty for incorrect answers, students are encouraged to attempt all questions.

AMC 10 Scoring (Grade 10 and below, under age 17.5)

Strategy Note: Students are advised to skip questions they are unsure about, as the scoring system rewards unanswered questions over incorrect guesses.

• Total Questions: 25
• Time Limit: 75 minutes
• Scoring:
  • 6 points for each correct answer
  • 1.5 points for each unanswered question
  • 0 points for each incorrect answer
• Maximum Score: 150 points
• Strategy Note: Students are advised to skip questions they are unsure about, as the scoring system rewards unanswered questions over incorrect guesses.

The AMC 8 promotes a more aggressive approach, where guessing carries no risk. In contrast, the AMC 10 requires a more strategic mindset, prioritizing accuracy and calculated decision-making. As such, students transitioning from AMC 8 to AMC 10 must adapt to a more rigorous standard, both in content and test-taking approach.

2. Exam Content and Preparation

AMC 8 focuses on math concepts up to Grade 8, closely aligned with the middle school Common Core curriculum. It primarily covers Pre-Algebra—such as arithmetic, proportions, basic algebra, and introductory geometry—making it suitable for students with strong school math performance.

AMC 10, on the other hand, includes the full scope of Algebra 1 and Geometry, and introduces more advanced topics like coordinate geometry, number theory, and proof-based reasoning. The problems require greater depth of understanding and more flexible problem-solving strategies.

Due to this broader and more abstract content, students generally need 2 to 3 years of preparation for AMC 10, especially if they haven’t formally studied Algebra 1 and Geometry. In contrast, AMC 8 typically requires 1 to 1.5 years of preparation time.

The shift from AMC 8 to AMC 10 is not just a matter of difficulty—it represents a move from middle school math to high school-level thinking, where logic, multi-step reasoning, and conceptual fluency become essential.

3. Difficulty of Questions

The difficulty of the questions is a critical aspect when comparing the AMC 8 and AMC 10 exams. While the length of the AMC 8 exam can be a challenge, the primary obstacle in taking the AMC 10 lies in the complexity of the questions. Even if students have sufficient time to answer the questions, they may struggle to score high if they are not adequately prepared for the difficulty level.

The AMC 10 presents a higher level of difficulty than the AMC 8 in all aspects. It covers a broader range of mathematical modules, and its problems are significantly more challenging. The most complex problem on the AMC 8 is roughly equivalent in difficulty to the first 10 problems on the AMC 10. The AMC 10 exam typically features a mix of questions, with the first 10 questions being relatively easy, questions 11 to 17 falling into the medium difficulty range, and Questions 18 to 25 classified as challenging or difficult.

To illustrate this, let’s look at an example:

AMC 8

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AMC 10

As we can see, both problems test the area of similar triangles. The AMC 8 problem provides students with the diagram of similar triangles, making it relatively straightforward for students to calculate and obtain the result directly. However, the AMC 10 problem requires students to draw auxiliary lines themselves, and it provides fewer conditions than the one in AMC 8. Solving this AMC 10 problem demands a strong familiarity with the logic of solving such problems, requiring more thinking and careful consideration before proceeding with calculations.

AMC 10 vs. In-School Math

If you have already participated in the AMC exam, you likely understand the differences between AMC 8 and AMC 10. However, if you have not yet taken the AMC exam, it would be a good starting point to first understand the distinctions between AMC 10 and in-school math. The biggest disparity between in-school math and competition math is the depth of thinking and creativity required. This is why many students who can easily earn an A in their school’s fast-track math classes might struggle to score 60-70 on the AMC 10 without preparation.

To highlight the differences between AMC 10 and in-school math, let’s examine four problem types across various modules:

1. Algebra

In-School Math

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AMC 10

While school-level algebra tends to focus on computation, the AMC 10’s assessment of algebra leans more towards analysis and integrated application. It introduces equations with parameters, demanding additional critical thinking from students.

2. Geometry

In-School Math

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AMC 10

In school-level mathematics, geometry questions often test students’ understanding and memory of concepts without emphasizing problem-solving skills. However, in the AMC 10, geometry questions frequently assess multiple knowledge points simultaneously, requiring students to synthesize and apply these concepts effectively.

3. Number Theory

Number theory is rarely covered in school-level mathematics, but it appears in the AMC 10. As a result, students need to undertake additional study to master problem-solving techniques and basic conclusions. This preparation can significantly reduce the time consumed by the trial-and-error method.

This number theory question from the Think Academy 2023 AMC 10 preparation group serves as an excellent example to highlight the importance of problem-solving techniques:

2018 AMC 10B, Question 11

Student 1’s Solution

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Student 2’s Solution

The first student demonstrated a deep understanding of number theory, employing a common conclusion regarding perfect squares: when “p” is a prime number and not equal to 3, the remainder of the square of “p” divided by 3 is 1. Armed with this insightful knowledge, the student efficiently calculates the result within a mere 20 seconds.

The second student attempted to solve the problem through trial and error, which, while feasible for this relatively straightforward question, may prove cumbersome and inefficient for more challenging problems. In such cases, relying solely on trial and error would consume a significant amount of time, hindering the student’s ability to tackle other questions within the given time constraints.

4. Permutations, Combinations, and Probability

2018 AMC 10B, Question 9

In terms of permutations, combinations, and probability, students get a brief introduction when studying Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 in school, but the depth of these topics is far from what is required in the AMC 10. Many school teachers use the probability of the sum of two dice as an experimental question to facilitate student exploration. However, in the AMC 10, the number of dice can reach up to seven, far exceeding the scope of in-school mathematics. This requires students to learn to summarize and draw inferences from one example to others; otherwise, they might be completely at a loss when encountering such problems. 

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Understanding these distinctions between AMC 10 and in-school math is crucial for your successful preparation and approach to the exam. To support students in their journey, Think Academy offers specialized courses tailored for the AMC 10. These courses follow a systematic approach, covering essential questions, easy questions, and the final, more challenging questions. Don’t miss this opportunity to excel in the AMC 10 and boost your problem-solving skills in mathematics! 

To access more free AMC 8 prep resources,

To access more free AMC 10 prep resources,

Recommended Readings

• All About 2026 AMC 8: Dates, Registration, Scores and Prep Tips
• All About 2025 AMC 10: Dates, Registration, Scores and Prep Tips
• How to Prepare for AMC 8 Math Competition
• How to Prepare for AMC 10 Math Competition

About Think Academy

At Think Academy, a subsidiary of TAL Education Group, we specialize in advanced coaching and rigorous preparation for math competitions, including AMC 10 and AIME. Guided by experienced educators and supported by partnerships with renowned institutions, Think Academy empowers high-school students to reach their full competitive potential in mathematics. Notably, in 2024, our students achieved exceptional recognition, including selections for prestigious programs such as USA(J)MO (17 students), the Mathematical Olympiad Program (3 students), and the International Mathematical Olympiad teams for the U.S. and South Africa. Explore our AMC 10 training programs to help your child excel.

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