This year is the 20th Annual Pamona-Wisconsin Mathematics Talent Search.

What Is the Talent Search?

The Pomona College Mathematical Talent Search sends out five sets of problems each school year. These problems are unusual and challenging but also enjoyable. Although these problems are difficult, their solutions do not require advanced mathematical knowledge - just talent in problem solving. The talent search promotes mathematical talent which they describe as a combination of ingenuity, insight, creativity, the willingness to experiment, and persistence; it is not merely a skill in manipulation. By working on problems, you can develop your talent for mathematical thinking and problem solving.

What Are the Problem Sets Like?

The contest consists of 5 problem sets. Each set consists of 5 problems. Problems are non-routine mathematics problems that often differ from the type of problems students normally encounter in their classes. Contestants have between three and four weeks to complete each set and may enter in their answers as either an individual or a team. A team consists of 2 - 4 individuals. One of the team members acts as the coordinator and will receive the problem sets and will be responsible for sending in the solutions. For the first solution set attach a sheet that has the name, grade, high school and home address of each team member and that clearly designates the coordinator. Scoring is separate for teams and individuals.  Answers are scored based off of complete explanations and proofs, not just a correct conclusion. Participants do not have to answer all of the questions in the set, even if they can only answer one they can send it in for scoring.

How Do I Receive the Problem Sets?

The problems for each set will be available around the first of October, November, December, January and February. You may access the problems online at http://www.math.pomona.edu/talentsearch.html and print them out from there or you can add your name to a mailing list by sending an email to pomtalsrch@pomona.edu and they will mail you the problem sets each month.

How Do I Sumbit My Solutions?

You can either submit solutions by mail to- Talent Search, Department of Mathematics, Pomona College, 610 N. College Ave., Claremont, CA 91711-6348 or by emailing them to mathsearch@pomona.edu. Make sure to keep a copy of your solutions for your records.

Honors Day at Pomona

At the end of the year there is a reception for the top participants and their teachers at Pomona College. They invite both the top teams and the top individuals. Recognized entrants will get to talk to professors and other mathematics students, listen to lectures, go on a tour of the campus, attend an Honors Luncheon and receive prizes. Again, the top participants do not have to solve all of the problems to be invited.

For more information on the Pomona-Wisconsin Mathematics Talent Search, please visit the Official Talent Search Website.