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The Guild

Who are we?

We, the Mathematics Guild, are a group of enthusiastic and dedicated students who share a passion for competitive mathematics. With a keen interest in problem-solving and critical thinking, we represent IIT Madras in various competitions all year round. 

Through our collective efforts, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts, develop problem-solving skills, and cultivate a sense of camaraderie among our members.

What do we do?

  • Upskilling: Learn new concepts and ways of problem solving and teach one another.
  • Problem Solving: Attempt a Problem Set periodically, set in rotation by 2-3 members of the contingent.
  • Competitions: Train for and participate in competitions, both at the national and global level.

Targeted Competitions

Simon Marais Mathematics Competition (SMMC)

NSU Crypto

Inter IIT Tech Meet (Math Bowl)

Mathlete Melee (Polygon IIT Guwahati)

Mimamsa (IISER Pune)

Here’s a question for you!

In how many ways can 2 knights be placed on an 8×8 chess board such that they attack each other?

Click below if you want to pack and look at the solution

The correct answer is 168.

The number of 3 × 2 rectangles on a chessboard:

7 * 6 * 2 = 84

In each rectangle, there are 2 attacking pairs. Therefore:

64 * 2 = 168

Too easy? Try this one now!

Pranjal and Pratyaksh are playing a game on a chess board. Pratyaksh starts 1st and places a knight. After that they alternatively take turns and move the knight to a square (according to chess rules) it has not been on before. If a player is unable to move the knight to a new square, he loses the game. If both Pranjal and Pratyaksh play optimally, who wins the game and what is his winning strategy?

Player 1’s turn: pick start square