FAQ

Our main activities and events include taking part in international student mathematics competitions and preparing for them through regular training sessions.

The club focuses on the kind of mathematics often referred to as competition mathematics (Wettbewerbs-Mathematik). Its goals include:

• Developing sharp problem-solving skills through elegant, non-routine challenges that train students to approach unfamiliar, complex problems systematically;
• Fostering creativity, perseverance, and logical precision in tackling abstract questions.

At its core, it is driven by a passion for deep thinking and intellectual challenge.

While competition mathematics helps develop skills that are widely applicable in the real world, the tasks themselves are frequently quite theoretical. Typically, in university-level competition mathematics, they come from Analysis, Linear Algebra, Discrete Mathematics, Abstract Algebra, Combinatorics, or Number Theory. For example, areas such as Engineering or Financial Mathematics are not covered.

Exemplary problems can be found on the websites of the IMO, IMC, and VJIMC competitions — the latter two of which club members prepare for extensively.

The club does not presently organize mathematics competitions.

Typical meeting times and locations for the current semester can be found on the Calendar page. If prospective members plan to attend upcoming training sessions—or if no information has yet been posted for the next session—we kindly ask that they send us an email (see the Contact page). Knowing more precise numbers of expected attendees helps us book rooms of appropriate size. Once a prospective member has attended a training session, they may be added to our internal communication group to participate in meeting time votes.

Meetings are conducted in English if at least one attendee expresses a preference for English; otherwise, they are conducted in German.

Yes, if exceptional circumstances apply.

The most common formats are as follows:

1. Problems from past competitions are solved; useful hints might also have been prepared.
2. A presentation on a specific topic is delivered, followed by solving problems related to that topic.

The club is open to all students enrolled at a university in Munich. Prospective members are simply asked to send an email expressing their interest in attending a training session (see Contact). Knowing more precise numbers of expected attendees helps us book rooms of an appropriate size. A brief introduction is appreciated but not necessary. There is no formal application process or documentation needed. If the typical meeting times (see Calendar) are not fitting, mentioning this along with suitable times could prompt a time change.

Once a prospective member has attended a training session, they may be added to our internal communication group to participate in meeting time votes.

A foundation in Analysis and Linear Algebra is highly recommended. Familiarity with Discrete Mathematics, Abstract Algebra, Combinatorics, Number Theory, and other areas is also beneficial but not necessary. Lack of knowledge in certain topics may limit the problems one can solve but still leaves a wide range of tasks in other areas available.