The Indian Olympiad Qualifier in Mathematics (IOQM) 2025-26 is scheduled to be held on 7th September 2025. Conducted by the Mathematics Teachers’ Association of India [MTA(I)], the exam is the first step of the Indian Mathematical Olympiad Programme and a gateway for students aspiring to represent India at prestigious competitions such as the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) and European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO).
With just one week left before the exam, most aspirants feel nervous and confused about how to use their remaining time effectively. This guide will walk you through a last-week preparation strategy for IOQM, covering revision tips, time management, practice methods, and exam-day advice.
Understand the IOQM Exam Pattern
Before diving into revision, it is important to recall the exam pattern.
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Mode of Exam: Offline (Pen & Paper)
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Duration: 3 hours
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Type of Questions: Subjective, single or short-answer type
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Total Marks: 100
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Syllabus Coverage: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Number Theory, Combinatorics, Probability, and more.
Having a clear idea of the exam format helps you prioritize practice and avoid surprises on the final day.
Last Week Preparation Strategy for IOQM
Here’s a day-wise and topic-wise strategy to maximize your preparation in the final week.
1. Revise Core Concepts (Days 1–3)
Focus on brushing up the fundamental topics that frequently appear in IOQM:
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Number Theory – divisibility, modular arithmetic, primes, congruences.
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Algebra – factorization, quadratic equations, inequalities.
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Combinatorics – permutations, combinations, pigeonhole principle, elementary counting.
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Geometry – circles, triangles, coordinate geometry, transformations.
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Trigonometry – identities, equations, properties of triangles.
Tip: Make a short notes booklet with formulas, theorems, and problem-solving tricks. Carry it for quick revision daily.
2. Solve Previous Year Papers (Days 3–5)
The best way to prepare in the last week is by practicing past year IOQM papers.
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Attempt at least 2–3 papers under timed conditions.
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Identify recurring question patterns.
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Analyze your mistakes and reattempt incorrect problems.
Solving previous year papers builds accuracy, speed, and confidence.
3. Focus on Problem-Solving Speed (Day 5–6)
Time management is critical in IOQM since students often get stuck on lengthy problems.
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Practice short-answer type questions for quick calculations.
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Work on mental math techniques and quick factorization tricks.
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Prioritize easy-to-moderate problems first in the exam, then move to challenging ones.
Remember: Attempting all questions is not necessary; accuracy matters more than quantity.
4. Mock Test Simulation (Day 6)
Take at least one full-length mock test before the exam.
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Sit for 3 hours in exam-like conditions.
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Use OMR sheets if available (for rough marking practice).
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After completion, evaluate your answers carefully.
Mock tests improve stamina, focus, and exam temperament.
5. Light Revision + Relaxation (Day 7)
The day before the exam should be reserved for light revision and mental relaxation.
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Revise key formulas, theorems, and shortcuts.
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Go through your mistake notebook to avoid repeating errors.
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Avoid solving new or very tough problems.
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Sleep early to stay fresh on exam day.
Time Management Strategy for IOQM Exam Day
Even with the best preparation, exam-day strategy plays a big role.
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Scan the Paper First: Spend the first 5 minutes quickly going through all questions.
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Categorize Problems: Mark them as Easy, Medium, or Difficult.
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Start with Easy Ones: Secure marks on questions you are confident about.
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Avoid Sticking to One Problem: If stuck for more than 10 minutes, move ahead.
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Keep 15 Minutes for Revision: Check calculations, units, and final answers.
Mistakes to Avoid in the Last Week
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Starting new topics now – focus only on revision.
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Ignoring health – maintain proper sleep, diet, and hydration.
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Overconfidence – even if you’re well-prepared, revise thoroughly.
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Neglecting admit card/ID proof – keep documents ready 2–3 days before the exam.
Quick Subject-Wise Revision Tips
Number Theory
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Revise modular arithmetic properties.
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Practice problems on divisibility and congruences.
Algebra
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Review inequalities and quadratic equations.
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Focus on factorization shortcuts.
Geometry
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Go through circle theorems and coordinate geometry basics.
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Practice diagrams neatly for accuracy.
Combinatorics & Probability
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Revise permutation and combination basics.
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Practice probability with simple cases.
Trigonometry
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Memorize standard identities.
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Revise properties of triangles.
Final Exam Day Checklist
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Admit Card + School/Valid ID proof
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Stationery (Pens, Pencils, Eraser, Ruler)
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Water bottle (if allowed)
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Reach centre at least 30–45 minutes early
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Stay calm and confident
Conclusion
The last week before IOQM 2025-26 is all about smart revision, focused practice, and staying calm. Instead of chasing new topics, dedicate your time to strengthening fundamentals, solving past papers, and practicing under timed conditions.
Remember, IOQM is not just a test of knowledge but also of problem-solving skills and time management. With the right last-week strategy, you can boost your chances of success and move one step closer to representing India at the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO).
Last Week Preparation Strategy for IOQM Exam 2025-26 FAQs
1. What should I focus on in the last week before IOQM 2025-26?
In the final week, prioritize revision of key topics like number theory, algebra, geometry, and combinatorics. Practice previous years’ IOQM questions, work on speed and accuracy, and avoid starting any new topics. Stick to your short notes and formula booklets for quick revision.
2. Is it advisable to attempt new problem types in the last week?
No. The last week should be reserved for consolidation and practice, not for learning entirely new topics. Attempting unfamiliar problems at this stage can cause stress. Instead, revise solved examples and reattempt questions you struggled with earlier.
3. How many hours should I study daily in the last week?
Ideally, 5–6 focused hours per day are sufficient in the last week. Break your study into smaller sessions — revision (2–3 hrs), problem-solving (2 hrs), and mock practice (1 hr). Ensure you also take breaks, eat well, and sleep properly.
4. Should I take mock tests in the final week?
Yes, but in moderation. Take at least 1–2 full-length mock tests under exam conditions to improve time management and stamina. After the test, analyze mistakes carefully instead of rushing into more practice papers.
5. How should I prepare a day before the IOQM exam?
The day before the exam, avoid heavy study. Revise only formulas, theorems, and shortcuts. Keep your admit card, ID proof, and stationery ready. Sleep early, stay hydrated, and stay calm. A fresh and focused mind will perform far better than one stressed with last-minute cramming.
