Reasons for participating.

The primary incentive for entering this competition for many will be intellectual curiosity. However, there can be a number of motivating factors and practical considerations which may include those listed below.




1. Problem solving is a significant part of what professional mathematicians and scientists do. This competition provides an opportunity for trying your hand at creative problem solving.

   
   

2. If you are planning to apply to graduate school, your application needs to be exceptional as the competition for admittance to top schools is intense. Your competitors will have taken a variety of math classes and earned high grades. If you have successfully participated in a mathematics problem-solving contest, such as Hanf Competition, this will distinguish you from some other applicants and it will enable your professors to write stronger letters of recommendations.

   
   

3. If you are planning to participate in the Putnam exam, solving the Hanf problems is a good way to prepare for this competition. Indeed, experienced problem solvers definitely perform better on the Putnam exam.