Sage-Tips

How do I get started with IOI?

Participation in IOI is not directly open to individuals. Each participating country sends a team of four students and selection is coordinated through a national competition.

What should I do before IOI?

The best web site for preparing to IOI! I believe train.usaco.org is the best web site to prepare yourself to IOI. There is also some contests for example bronze contest, silver contest, gold contest and etc. If bronze contest’s problems was easy for you I am sure that you can take at least bronze medal at IOI.

Should I solve Topcoder problems for IOI?

If you’re serious about doing well on the IOI, don’t solve TopCoder problems. They are nothing like IOI problems and most likely nothing like what you will see on the way up ( i.e. at your country’s team selection contests). I’m not saying they have no value, of course: it’s better to do TC problems than not to do anything at all.

What are some tips for doing well on the IOI?

Here are some general tips. If you’re serious about doing well on the IOI, don’t solve TopCoder problems. They are nothing like IOI problems and most likely nothing like what you will see on the way up ( i.e. at your country’s team selection contests).

Is it true that the IOI board exam is easy to prepare?

Yes it’s true. Trust me the best way to prepare for any exam be it your board exam , be it IMO or IOI is to solve and know past 10 years questions well. Unlike your +2 exam you won’t get exact problems from the question bank but concepts do get carried forward.

How do I start learning how to code?

To recap, if you want to start learning how to code, you should: Work out why you want to start learning and what you hope to achieve. Choose the right languages to help you achieve this. Choose an online course and start learning these languages. Download the right code editors. Practice, practice, and practice some more! Join an online community.