by stupidityismygam » Tue Apr 10, 2007 5:59 pm
well currently it isn't and it definitely shouldn't
under the current system usamts->AIME and gives you 100 index pts (which is not good)
the problems and grading of USAMTS are way too easy to merit qualification to USAMO using solely the contest...
its current system is very good, even though the index points they give you are very shabby....
I think it would be better to give about 120 index points personally, but still it works
The point of the contest is to give people an introduction to proofs, while the USAMO is supposed to test your mathematical ability and advanced proof writing (completely differnet expectations)
USAMO also scorns brute forcing on problems and gives a lot more respect and credit to the elegant solution...
USAMTS on the other hand, allows brute forcing actually suggests brute forcing (if necessary)...the only perk of having an elegant solution is the potential of a commended solution, which are few and far between
Moral of the sto-ry, USAMTS != USAMO and thus should not lead to USAMO