Frequently Asked Questions

    • For group lessons and self-paced classes, we use Google Classroom and Google Drive to share all course materials, including recordings, handwritten notes, homework assignments, unit tests, and midterm/final exams. Please make sure you have a Google account to access these platforms.

    • For private lessons, we primarily use Dropbox to share documents. You do not need a Dropbox account to receive documents, but if you want to share documents with us, you will need to register for a free Dropbox account (2GB). Please click here for a referral link, which will help you earn an additional 500MB of storage.

    • If you are a student or student teacher and need to share documents (worksheets, lesson notes, recordings, etc.), you will need to set up a Dropbox account. A free account (2GB) is sufficient, and by following the steps below, you can earn an additional 500MB of storage.

      • Use the referral link we sent you or click here to register for a free account.

      • Download and install the Dropbox application on your computer.

      • Verify your email by following the instructions in the email you receive from Dropbox.

      Important: Installing Dropbox and verifying your email are required to receive the bonus 500MB of space.

    • Dropbox is simple to use. Once installed, it works like a local hard drive, making it easy to share folders and upload files via drag-and-drop or copy-and-paste. The application can be installed on up to three devices (computers, iPads, or smartphones) for free. If you have any questions, you can refer to this support page.

    • For classes taught or co-taught by Dr. Xue, you can use the Homework Submission Form to submit your homework.

    • For classes taught solely by student teachers, you can just upload images of your work and your Home Study Report to Google Classroom. Please follow your teacher’s instructions.

    • In most cases, not including summer and winter break camps, students spend 1 to 3 hours on homework for every hour of live instruction.

    • If you miss a lesson, you can watch the recording before working on the assigned homework. All class materials will be available in Google Classroom. If you have any questions about the recordings, you can schedule a short Q&A session with your instructor via Zoom or Google Meet within a week of the lesson. These sessions typically last 5–10 minutes for classes under 75 minutes, and 10–15 minutes for classes longer than 75 minutes. Please note that you must notify us of any absence at least 3 days in advance, or submit a doctor's note to schedule a Q&A session. Q&A sessions are not guaranteed for no-shows.

    • Normally, live lecture recordings expire 4 weeks after the lesson. If you need additional time, please don’t hesitate to ask.

    • First, speak with your school’s math teacher, as your school may already be planning to offer these exams. If your school does not offer them, you could offer to cover the exam fee and encourage them to arrange it. This is often the best option, as your school is familiar with your strengths and abilities.

    • Alternatively, you can reach out to the math departments of nearby universities or other schools in your area to inquire about test availability. You can also find a list of schools in your region that have registered to administer these exams here.

    • AMC 8 is for students in 8th grade and below. It covers middle school mathematics topics and is designed to foster a love of math while introducing students to mathematical problem-solving.

    • AMC 10 is for students in 10th grade and below. It focuses on topics typically covered in Algebra and Geometry, as well as Counting, Probability, and Number Theory. It is meant to challenge students with a solid foundation in middle and early high school math.

    • AMC 12 is for students in 12th grade and below. It includes advanced topics in Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Precalculus. It is designed for high school students preparing for college-level math and looking to further challenge their problem-solving skills.

    • AMC 12 results are particularly impressive on college applications, as they demonstrate a high level of mathematical ability and preparation.

    • If a student has not yet completed Geometry, they should take AMC 8.

    • If a student has finished Precalculus, they are encouraged to take AMC 12 directly. For a detailed comparison between AMC 10 and AMC 12, please read this note.

    • If you’re still unsure, you can take practice tests for each level to assess your comfort and skill with the material, submit your test results to us for review (click here), or schedule a consultation session with Dr. Xue (click here).

    • The AIME (American Invitational Mathematics Examination) is a prestigious math competition for high school students, following the AMC 10 and AMC 12. It is by invitation only and is designed to test advanced problem-solving skills in mathematics, covering topics such as algebra, geometry, number theory, combinatorics, and probability. The AIME is a great way to demonstrate strong mathematical ability and problem-solving skills to colleges and scholarship organizations. Qualifying for and performing well on the AIME can significantly enhance your college application, particularly for students applying to STEM programs. High scores will lead to recognition and invitations to more advanced competitions, such as the USA(J)MO.

    • Qualification:

      • AMC 10: The top 5% of students who take the AMC 10 qualify for the AIME.

      • AMC 12: The top 2.5% of students who take the AMC 12 qualify for the AIME.

      The AIME cutoffs are announced in early December each year.

      Another route to qualify for the AIME is through the USA Mathematical Talent Search Program.

    • The AIME is typically held in February each year. Unlike the AMC 10 and 12, students are automatically assigned to take AIME I. If you have a conflict (such as illness or scheduling issues), you can request special permission to take AIME II instead of AIME I. Both AIME I and AIME II are identical in terms of content, difficulty, and structure; the only difference is the test date. The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) prepares two AIME tests each year, and they flip a coin to determine which test will be designated as AIME I and which will be AIME II.