Irish Mathematical Olympiad Manual

This Manual was primarily written to assist Irish secondary-school students who are preparing to compete in the Irish Mathematical Olympiad (held in May each year) or the International Mathematical Olympiad (held each July). It has also proved useful in other countries, and is popular among people who simply enjoy mathematics. The Mathematical Olympiads are written examinations, based on what is called "second--level mathematics". There are significant variations between countries in the content of second--level programmes in Mathematics. Thus, Irish competitors find themselves faced with problems that require background knowledge that is not covered in the Senior Cycle programme for Irish schools. In order to have a reasonable chance of success, they need to master this material. The authors are academics who have many years experience as voluntary trainers of Olympiad contestants and in other mathematical enrichment activities for young people. The selection of material is based on this experience.