The 2026 AMC 8 Mathematics Competition will take place tomorrow. After months of preparation, success now depends on how effectively students perform on exam day. In this article, we share proven time allocation strategies and final problem-solving techniques to help students maximize their scores.
1. How Should You Allocate Time in the AMC 8?
The AMC 8 allows 40 minutes to complete 25 multiple-choice questions, with difficulty increasing progressively. For this reason, students are not advised to rush through the exam or divide time evenly across all questions.
Time allocation should be adjusted based on the student’s target score.
Target Score: 15 Points (First-Time Test Takers)
For students taking the AMC 8 for the first time, a realistic goal is 15 points, which is sufficient to qualify for the Achievement Award for lower-grade students.
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Focus primarily on Questions 1–15, which test fundamental math concepts
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These questions are relatively straightforward and form the core scoring section
Recommended Time Allocation:
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Questions 1–10: approximately 1.5–2 minutes per question
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Questions 11–15: approximately 2–3 minutes per question
After completing these questions, use the remaining time to attempt later problems and earn additional points where possible.
Target Score: Top 5%
To reach the Top 5%, students typically need to answer 18–20 questions correctly. In addition to securing accuracy and speed on the first 15 questions, more time should be invested in the remaining problems.
Recommended Time Allocation:
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Questions 1–15: about 20 minutes
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Questions 16–25: about 20 minutes, focusing on problems with clear solution paths
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Careful verification is essential to maintain accuracy
Target Score: Top 1%
Students aiming for the Top 1% usually need to solve 23 or more questions correctly.
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Straightforward problems should be completed quickly and accurately
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Aim to finish Questions 1–15 within 15 minutes
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Allocate approximately 25 minutes to Questions 16–25
For more challenging problems, remain calm. Read the question carefully, break down the given information, identify relevant concepts, and then determine an efficient solution approach.
2. AMC 8 Problem-Solving Tips for Exam Day
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Prioritize problems you know how to solve and focus on maximizing accuracy
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If no clear solution emerges after two minutes, consider skipping the question and returning later
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After completing all attempted questions, review solved problems before tackling unsolved ones
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Do not restrict yourself to a single method. Techniques such as answer choice substitution, elimination, or assigning special values are all valid and often save time
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Avoid leaving questions blank. If unsure, make an educated guess—incorrect answers are not penalized
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With one day remaining, avoid learning new material. Instead, review high-frequency AMC 8 topics and common mistake patterns
With thoughtful time management and strategic problem selection, students can significantly improve their AMC 8 performance—even in the final 24 hours. Staying focused, calm, and disciplined during the exam is often the difference between an average score and an excellent one.