If you wish to learn swimming you have to go into the water and if you wish to become a problem solver you have to solve problems. G. Polya

There is no better way to learn mathematics than through problem solving. Mastery of problem solving techniques guarantees significantly better results on the SAT and other tests. Additionally, students can showcase their expertise in problem solving at various Math Olympiads and competitions, and win admissions and scholarships to various national talent search programs. Admission to these programs is highly competitive and participation in such programs is both a great reward and a practical first step towards admissions to top universities.

The Problem Solving and Math Olympiad Coaching Program at Math Illuminated concentrates on the development of abstract and critical thinking skills and is built to provide a solid foundation in:

• Number Theory is essential for the development of mental computation skills and mathematical intuition
• Algebra Problem Solving Techniques that focus on understanding methodology rather than memorization
• Geometry Problem Solving Techniques that focus on the development of deductive and inductive reasoning skills, as well as  on the development of spatial visualization skills

In addition to gaining specific knowledge of advanced problem solving techniques, students at the MI Coaching program benefit from participating in regularly scheduled mini-competitions where they have a chance to develop their test-taking skills. Depending on age and readiness, each student practices solving MOEMS, Math League, MATHCOUNTS and AMC8 competition problems.