The AMC 10 (American Mathematics Competitions, Grade 10 and below) is a prestigious math competition that tests students’ problem-solving skills across algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics. With changing trends and growing competition, strategic preparation is more critical than ever. This guide analyzes recent exam trends—particularly the 2024 AMC 10—and provides a phased plan for students of all levels aiming for high scores or AIME qualification.

2024 AMC 10 Exam Analysis

Module Breakdown

The exam is structured across four main mathematical domains, with the following approximate weightings:

• Algebra – 42%
  Topics: Arithmetic, algebraic expressions, equations/inequalities, functions, sequences
  Algebra remains the most heavily weighted module on the AMC 10, reflecting its central role in the U.S. math curriculum. The exam draws heavily from the foundational concepts learned in Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Precalculus, making algebra essential for a wide range of question types.

• Geometry – 16%
  Topics: Plane and solid geometry, coordinate geometry
  An interesting trend is the inverse relationship between geometry and algebra: when the number of algebra questions decreases, geometry questions increase slightly. Combined, these two modules consistently make up around 60% of the exam.

• Number Theory – 22%
  Topics: Integer properties, prime factorization, congruences, base systems
  Over the past five years, Number Theory has risen from the least weighted module to the second-highest in recent years. Once overlooked, it has gained importance since 2022, and all AMC 10 candidates must now give more attention to it.

• Counting & Probability – 20%
  Topics: Counting principles, permutations, combinations, basic probability
  The Counting & Probability module has been the most stable in terms of its weight, consistently maintaining around 20% since 2021. It is expected that this trend will continue in future exams.

Difficulty Trends in the 2024 Exam

Shift in Question Difficulty

One notable trend in the 2024 exam was a change in the difficulty distribution across the 25 problems. Traditionally, the first 10 questions are considered entry-level, while the last five are reserved for the most advanced students. However, this year the first 10 problems were more challenging than usual, while the final five were somewhat easier, even comparable to AMC 8-level difficulty in some cases. This created a smoother, more even progression in problem difficulty and reduced the jumps in complexity that students have seen in past years.

Strategic Implications

This shift in question difficulty implies that more students now have the opportunity to attempt all 25 problems. As a result, doing well is no longer solely about reaching the final questions, but rather about answering all questions both quickly and accurately. The ability to work efficiently and avoid careless errors becomes the defining trait of top scorers.

Three-Phase AMC 10 Preparation Plan

Phase	Content	Duration	Goal
Phase 1	School-level Algebra and Geometry (above school standards) Basic Number Theory and Combinatorics concepts	2 years	Master all core concepts tested on the AMC 10
Phase 2	Common question types and solving strategies for the first 15 problems	1 year	Complete the first 15 questions within 45 minutes; reach Achievement Roll (AR) level
Phase 3	Focus on question types and solving techniques for the last 10 problems	—	Complete 20 problems within 70 minutes; reach AIME qualification level

Depending on the student’s current academic level, here’s a phased roadmap to approach AMC 10 effectively:

Phase 1: Foundation Building

For Pre-Algebra Students (AMC 8 Level)

• Current Stage: Not yet within AMC 10 scope
• Goal: Focus on mastering AMC 8 topics; start AMC 10 prep after AMC 8 exam (late 2025)
• Target: AMC 8 score of 15+
• Timeline: Begin AMC 10 preparation in 2026

For Algebra 1 Learners

• Current Stage: Learning core AMC 10 material
• Goal: Finish foundational topics in Algebra, Geometry, Number Theory, and Combinatorics before AMC 10 in November 2025
• Target: 70–80 on first AMC 10 attempt
• Focus Areas: Strengthen underrepresented modules (Number Theory & Probability)

Phase 2: Core Problem Solving Practice

• Who it’s for: Students scoring ~70 with foundational knowledge complete
• Timeline: 1 year
• Spring Goal: Master problem-solving for questions 1–15
• Summer Goal: Begin practice on questions 16–25
• Performance Target:
  • Spring: 45 minutes for questions 1–15 (AR level)
  • Summer: 70 minutes for questions 1–20 (approaching AIME level)

Phase 3: Advanced Preparation & AIME Push

• Who it’s for: Students scoring 90+ who have already prepared once
• Goal:
  • Analyze past mistakes
  • Fill conceptual gaps in weak modules
  • Strengthen accuracy and speed for complex problems (Q16–25)
• Summer Strategy: Focus on high-difficulty problems and timed full mocks
• Performance Target:
  • Fall 2025 AMC 10: Qualify for AIME or earn a Distinguished Honor

Summary & Final Tips

Key Conclusions from 2024 Analysis

1. Algebra remains the most important module, but all four topics are necessary for success—students must prepare comprehensively.
2. Difficulty has shifted: the beginning is no longer “easy,” and the end is more accessible. This rewards well-prepared, fast, and accurate test-takers.

Final Recommendations

• Build conceptual strength early—especially in Algebra and Number Theory.
• Don’t neglect Geometry or Probability, even if their question counts vary.
• Practice under timed conditions, focusing on accuracy under pressure.
• Use past exams to track progress and identify weak areas.

If you’re new to AMC 10, read these articles for a smooth and efficient start:

All About 2025 AMC 10: Your Ultimate Guide to Top FAQs
Conquering the Leap from AMC 8 Achievement Roll to AMC 10 Honor Roll

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.

Want more insights on math education and parenting tips? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly expert advice and updates on the latest learning tools.