International Mental Ability Olympiad for Students of Classes 1 to 10
In a world where competitive exams and real-world problem solving increasingly reward flexible thinking, mental ability is a core skill set — not a nicety. Mental ability combines numerical agility, pattern recognition, logic, and verbal reasoning to help students approach unfamiliar problems calmly and systematically. For school-age learners, strengthening these skills early makes standardized tests, higher-education entrance exams and everyday learning far easier and more meaningful.
What is the SCO International Mental Ability Olympiad (IMAO)?
The IMAO is School Connect Olympiad’s dedicated reasoning and problem-solving competition for students in Grades 1–10. Designed to develop and measure aptitude beyond rote classroom learning, the Olympiad tests logical thinking, pattern recognition, sequencing, spatial reasoning and context-based problem solving using age-appropriate questions and case scenarios. SCO runs both online and supervised offline cycles, and provides free study material, sample papers and practice tests to registered students.
Mental Ability: the two pillars
Mental ability questions in SCO’s IMAO generally fall into two broad categories:
Verbal Reasoning — problems that use language, logic and comprehension: analogies, syllogisms, inference, reading-comprehension-style reasoning and word-based puzzles.
Non-verbal / Visual Reasoning — problems relying on patterns, shapes, sequences and figures: mirror images, paper-folding, series completion, matrix puzzles and spatial arrangements.
These two strands train different neural pathways — verbal reasoning strengthens language and argumentation; non-verbal reasoning sharpens visualisation and abstract pattern recognition.
SCO IMAO — how SCO helps students practise
School Connect Olympiad supports deliberate practice and exam readiness through a layered preparation ecosystem:
- Online chapter-wise practice & tests — progressive difficulty builds competence topic by topic.
- Daily Practice Problems (DPP) — short, regular drills to build automaticity.
- Timed Online Test Series (OTS) — full-length mocks to practise pacing and exam management.
- Free sample papers & model solutions — to familiarise students with question types and marking.
- Teacher guides & school bulk registration — enabling class-wide practice and analytics.
These resources are designed to push accuracy and speed simultaneously — the two ingredients of strong mental ability performance.
IMAO — quick exam highlights (what parents & schools ask first)
- Grades: 1 to 10.
- Mode: Online / supervised offline.
- Registration: Individual & through schools.
- Duration: 60 minutes (per paper/session).
- Question types: MCQs, case studies, reason & assertion items.
- Fee (indicative): INR 200 / ~USD 11–12 (confirm the cycle page for exact local pricing).
- Upcoming cycle examples & dates (example cycles published by SCO): 07-Feb-2026, 13-Mar-2026, 14-Mar-2026, 14-Oct-2025, 11-Nov-2025.
Note: exact dates and fees can vary by cycle and country — always confirm on the SCO registration page for your region.
SCO Mental Ability — Global presence
School Connect Olympiad positions IMAO as an international exam with broad reach. SCO’s official pages list many participating countries for its Olympiad programs and class-level IMAO pages show registrations and dedicated country pages for dozens of nations. Below is a consolidated list of countries SCO references for its global Olympiad reach (useful for parents and school coordinators looking for region-specific registration pages):
Countries (SCO presence / registration pages referenced):
Armenia, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Canada, China, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mauritius, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Romania, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Jordan, Nigeria, Brazil, Mexico, Iran, Korea, Argentina, Kyrgyzstan, Poland, Colombia, Turkey, Japan, Turkmenistan, Russia, Cambodia.
Why this matters:
- Schools can run supervised in-school sessions in most of these countries.
- Students get global benchmarking (regional rank + international rank).
- Teachers and coordinators can request bulk-registration and cohort analytics tailored to their country page.
(If you want, I can extract a country-by-country registration link table for your site.)
With SCO Mental Ability — vs — Without SCO Mental Ability
With SCO Mental Ability (IMAO) — what students gain
- Structured, progressive practice (chapter → topic → timed mocks).
- International benchmarking: scores compared globally.
- Free curated study materials and sample papers aligned to Olympiad pattern.
- School-level analytics (for teachers) and report cards for parents.
- Motivation via certificates, medals, scholarships and recognition.
Without SCO Mental Ability
- Preparation is ad hoc and dependent on the school/class teacher.
- No international ranking or standardised benchmarks.
- Students may practise local question banks that don’t mirror competitive formats.
- Limited access to consistent, graded mock tests and performance analytics.
- Less formal recognition or scholarship opportunities for top performers.
Bottom line: the SCO pathway adds structure, comparability and recognition — which are powerful accelerants for a motivated student. The “with SCO” route is not a magic shortcut; it provides a measured, practice-rich environment that speeds reliable improvement.
How IMAO builds future-ready learners (skills map)
IMAO questions map to practical, transferable skills:
- Critical thinking — analyse data, test hypotheses, justify answers.
- Quantitative reasoning — speed and conceptual numeracy.
- Pattern recognition & spatial logic — useful in STEM and design thinking.
- Decision-making under time pressure — valuable in exams and life.
- Communication of reasoning — clear explanation of steps for multi-part problems.
Chapter-wise Knowledge & Learning Outcomes — Mental Ability Olympiad (Class 1 → 10)
Below are clear, chapter-wise tables for each grade (Class 1 to Class 10).
Each table shows: Chapter No. | Chapter Name | Knowledge (what is taught) | Learning Outcome (what the student can do after learning it).
Use these directly in lesson plans, study guides, or Olympiad prep materials.
Class 1 — Mental Ability Syllabus
|
Ch No.
|
Chapter Name
|
Knowledge (core ideas taught)
|
Learning Outcome (student can…)
|
|
1
|
Reasoning Patterns
|
Recognise simple repeating patterns (AB, AAB), colours and shapes.
|
Identify and continue basic visual and colour patterns.
|
|
2
|
Measuring Units
|
Understand concepts of long/short, heavy/light, big/small using everyday objects.
|
Compare and classify objects by size and weight.
|
|
3
|
Reasoning Geometrical Shapes
|
Identify basic 2D shapes (circle, square, triangle).
|
Name shapes and sort objects by shape.
|
|
4
|
Odd One Out
|
Spot an item that does not belong in a small group.
|
Explain why one object is different from others.
|
|
5
|
Spatial Understanding
|
Basic left/right, in/out, near/far, above/below concepts.
|
Follow simple spatial directions and place objects correctly.
|
|
6
|
Grouping of Figures
|
Group items by one attribute (shape, colour).
|
Make simple groups and explain grouping rule.
|
|
7
|
Analogy and Ranking Test
|
Understand simple analogies (A is to B as C is to ?) and rank small sets by size.
|
Solve one-step analogies and order 2–3 items by a property.
|
|
8
|
Embedded Figures
|
Find simpler shapes hidden inside larger pictures.
|
Detect a given shape within a complex figure.
|
Class 2 — Mental Ability Syllabus
|
Ch No.
|
Chapter Name
|
Knowledge
|
Learning Outcome
|
|
1
|
Patterns
|
More complex visual and numeric patterns (ABBA, ascending).
|
Predict next item(s) in a pattern.
|
|
2
|
Measuring Units
|
Standard comparisons (length, volume concepts using non-standard units).
|
Use informal units to compare lengths/volumes.
|
|
3
|
Geometrical Shapes
|
Recognise 2D shapes and simple properties (sides, corners).
|
Classify shapes and count sides/vertices.
|
|
4
|
Odd One Out
|
Identify odd item using two attributes (colour & shape).
|
Justify the choice of the odd item.
|
|
5
|
Spatial Understanding
|
Simple map-reading and positional phrases.
|
Place objects correctly on a grid/map.
|
|
6
|
Grouping of Figures
|
Group by two attributes (shape + size).
|
Create groups using compound rules.
|
|
7
|
Analogy and Ranking Test
|
Simple verbal analogies and ranking by multiple features.
|
Solve analogies and rank 3–4 items.
|
|
8
|
Embedded Figures
|
More complex hidden shapes and rotated forms.
|
Locate rotated/hidden shapes in pictures.
|
|
9
|
Series Completion
|
Complete basic number and shape series.
|
Fill missing elements in short series.
|
Class 3 — Mental Ability Syllabus
|
Ch No.
|
Chapter Name
|
Knowledge
|
Learning Outcome
|
|
1
|
Patterns
|
Numerical and visual sequences with increasing complexity.
|
Extend numeric and pictorial sequences.
|
|
2
|
Figure Matrix
|
Understand 2×2/3×3 pattern matrices and relationships.
|
Solve missing-element matrix puzzles.
|
|
3
|
Grouping of Figures
|
Group by conceptual relationships (function, symmetry).
|
Group heterogeneous items by logical criteria.
|
|
4
|
Alphabet Test
|
Letter sequences, next-letter logic and simple coding.
|
Predict next letters and follow letter patterns.
|
|
5
|
Analogy and Classification
|
Verbal analogies and class membership.
|
Solve two-step analogies and classify items.
|
|
6
|
Ranking Test
|
Rank by multiple attributes (age, size, speed).
|
Order 4–5 items and explain ranking rule.
|
|
7
|
Coding Decoding
|
Simple symbol/letter-to-number codes and decoding rules.
|
Decode short coded messages using rules.
|
|
8
|
Geometrical Shapes
|
Composite shapes, symmetry and simple transformations.
|
Identify symmetry and composite shapes.
|
|
9
|
Mirror & Water Images
|
Mirror reflection and water-image concepts.
|
Determine mirror/water-image outcomes.
|
|
10
|
Direction Sense Test
|
Cardinal directions and route-following on maps.
|
Follow directions and choose correct turns.
|
|
11
|
Logical Sequence of Words
|
Arrange words logically to form meaningful order.
|
Build sensible sequences (story or instructions).
|
Class 4 — Mental Ability Olympiad
|
Ch No.
|
Chapter Name
|
Knowledge
|
Learning Outcome
|
|
1
|
Patterns
|
Multi-element numeric and visual patterns, rule discovery.
|
Explain pattern rules and continue them.
|
|
2
|
Alphabet Test
|
Complex letter series, gaps, and word formation logic.
|
Solve letter puzzles and form words from clues.
|
|
3
|
Coding-Decoding
|
Two-step and multi-symbol coding systems.
|
Create/decipher multi-step codes.
|
|
4
|
Ranking Test
|
Complex ranking with conditional relationships.
|
Rank items using combined criteria.
|
|
5
|
Mirror & Water Images
|
Rotations plus mirror/water reflections.
|
Choose correct transformed images.
|
|
6
|
Geometrical Shapes & Solids
|
3D shapes basics, nets, faces and edges.
|
Identify solids and their properties.
|
|
7
|
Embedded Figures
|
Faster recognition of hidden shapes in visual clutter.
|
Extract target shapes quickly from complex figures.
|
|
8
|
Direction Sense Test
|
Map inference with obstacles and bearings.
|
Solve multi-step direction problems.
|
|
9
|
Days & Dates & Combinations
|
Calendar logic and simple combinatorics (arrangements).
|
Compute day-of-week and basic count combinations.
|
|
10
|
Analogy and Classification
|
Multi-layer analogies and taxonomic sorting.
|
Solve layered analogies and advanced classification tasks.
|
Class 5 — Mental Ability Olympiad
|
Ch No.
|
Chapter Name
|
Knowledge
|
Learning Outcome
|
|
1
|
Series Completion
|
Numeric, alpha-numeric and picture series of medium length.
|
Infer rules and fill extended sequences.
|
|
2
|
Coding and Decoding
|
Alphanumeric substitution and multi-rule ciphers.
|
Break multi-rule codes logically.
|
|
3
|
Alphabet Test
|
Word patterns, letter positions, and permutations.
|
Solve word-arrangement and position puzzles.
|
|
4
|
Mathematical Operations
|
Number patterns, simple algebraic reasoning.
|
Apply operations to deduce missing values.
|
|
5
|
Puzzle Test
|
Logical puzzles combining facts and constraints.
|
Solve multi-clue puzzles using elimination.
|
|
6
|
Calendar Test
|
Dates, weekdays, leap-year basics and cycles.
|
Compute weekday for given dates and simple calendar logic.
|
|
7
|
Number - Ranking - Time Sequence
|
Complex ordering and time-based sequences.
|
Rank items and sequence events by time.
|
|
8
|
Arithmetical Reasoning
|
Word problems requiring multi-step arithmetic.
|
Model and solve multi-step arithmetic problems.
|
|
9
|
Blood Relations
|
Family tree reasoning and relationship inference.
|
Determine relationships given family clues.
|
|
10
|
Cubes and Dices Test
|
Face counting, net folding and dice patterns.
|
Predict faces/outputs from nets and rolls.
|
|
11
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
Inference, deduction, and comprehension logic.
|
Draw logical conclusions from given text.
|
Class 6 — Mental Ability Olympiad
|
Ch No.
|
Chapter Name
|
Knowledge
|
Learning Outcome
|
|
1
|
Series Completion
|
Complex numeric and non-verbal series with mixed rules.
|
Solve multi-rule sequence completion problems.
|
|
2
|
Coding and Decoding
|
Rule-based encodings including position and arithmetic shifts.
|
Decode and create multi-step codes.
|
|
3
|
Alphabet Test
|
Higher-order letter puzzles and word logic.
|
Tackle letter-sequence puzzles and word codes.
|
|
4
|
Mathematical Operations
|
Number properties, ratio, percentages basics for reasoning.
|
Use numeric properties to solve reasoning tasks.
|
|
5
|
Puzzle Test
|
Constraint-satisfaction and grid-based puzzles.
|
Apply elimination and inference to solve puzzles.
|
|
6
|
Calendar Test
|
Advanced calendar problems and cyclic reasoning.
|
Compute dates for complex calendar queries.
|
|
7
|
Number - Ranking - Time Sequence
|
Timetables, event sequencing and priority ranking.
|
Sequence multi-event scenarios by logic/time.
|
|
8
|
Arithmetical Reasoning
|
Quantitative reasoning in word-problem format.
|
Break down and solve multi-stage arithmetic reasoning.
|
|
9
|
Blood Relations
|
Complex family relations with conditional clues.
|
Map extended family relationships correctly.
|
|
10
|
Cubes and Dices Test
|
Advanced nets problems and 3D visualization.
|
Visualize 3D outcomes from 2D nets and dice statements.
|
|
11
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
Syllogisms, assumptions and inference.
|
Evaluate arguments and identify valid inferences.
|
Class 7 — Mental Ability Olympiad
|
Ch No.
|
Chapter Name
|
Knowledge
|
Learning Outcome
|
|
1
|
Series Completion
|
Interleaved numeric/alphameric series and multi-step patterns.
|
Extract hidden rules and complete complex sequences.
|
|
2
|
Coding and Decoding
|
Mixed positional, arithmetic and symbol codes.
|
Solve and design complex coding schemes.
|
|
3
|
Alphabet Test
|
Permutations and word-sequence puzzles.
|
Arrange words/letters under constraints.
|
|
4
|
Mathematical Operations
|
Algebraic reasoning within reasoning problems.
|
Use algebraic thinking to deduce unknowns.
|
|
5
|
Puzzle Test
|
Multi-variable logical puzzles (scheduling, seating).
|
Solve constraint-based logical arrangement problems.
|
|
6
|
Calendar Test
|
Multi-year calendar reasoning and date arithmetic.
|
Handle complex calendar queries and cycles.
|
|
7
|
Number - Ranking - Time Sequence
|
Advanced ordering and precedence problems.
|
Rank with conditional criteria and multi-step logic.
|
|
8
|
Arithmetical Reasoning
|
Problems integrating ratios, percentages, averages.
|
Reason quantitatively with compound operations.
|
|
9
|
Blood Relations
|
Inference with generational clues and gender logic.
|
Deduce complex kinship relations accurately.
|
|
10
|
Cubes and Dices Test
|
Spatial rotation and net-to-solid reasoning.
|
Predict rotated solids and face opposites.
|
|
11
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
Critical reasoning, synonyms/antonyms, analogies.
|
Apply verbal logic to deduce and justify answers.
|
Class 8 — Mental Ability Olympiad
|
Ch No.
|
Chapter Name
|
Knowledge
|
Learning Outcome
|
|
1
|
Series Completion
|
Non-linear numeric patterns and mixed sequences.
|
Solve advanced sequence puzzles involving rules combinations.
|
|
2
|
Coding and Decoding
|
Multi-rule ciphers and position-based transformations.
|
Reverse-engineer multi-layer codes reliably.
|
|
3
|
Alphabet Test
|
Complex letter logic and embedded word puzzles.
|
Decode embedded word patterns and letter manipulations.
|
|
4
|
Mathematical Operations
|
Number theory basics useful for reasoning (LCM/GCD intuition).
|
Apply number properties to deduce pattern rules.
|
|
5
|
Puzzle Test
|
Logical deduction with many constraints (logic grids).
|
Solve complex logic-grid puzzles using inference chains.
|
|
6
|
Calendar Test
|
Time zone & clock logic, advanced calendar problems.
|
Manage multi-step time and date reasoning tasks.
|
|
7
|
Number - Ranking - Time Sequence
|
Multi-criteria ranking and sequencing under constraints.
|
Prioritise and sequence items with compound rules.
|
|
8
|
Arithmetical Reasoning
|
Applied arithmetic in reasoning contexts (rates, mixtures).
|
Translate word scenarios into arithmetic models and solve.
|
|
9
|
Syllogism
|
Formal logic statements and conclusion testing.
|
Evaluate logical validity and draw correct conclusions.
|
|
10
|
Non-Verbal Series
|
Visual pattern transformations and matrix series.
|
Complete and extend matrix/visual series accurately.
|
|
11
|
Analogy
|
Multi-level analogies across domains (verbal & visual).
|
Solve analogies requiring conceptual mapping.
|
|
12
|
Classification
|
Taxonomy and rule-based grouping of varied items.
|
Build and justify complex classification schemes.
|
|
13
|
Blood Relations
|
Complex multi-generation relationship puzzles.
|
Infer extended family relationships with conditional clues.
|
|
14
|
Cubes and Dices Test
|
Multi-step net folding and rotation inference.
|
Predict outcomes of rotations and foldings reliably.
|
|
15
|
Statements
|
Evaluate truth of complex conditional statements.
|
Distinguish true/false/possible statements logically.
|
|
16
|
Images
|
Complex image transformations and visual reasoning.
|
Interpret image manipulations (rotation, reflection, scaling).
|
|
17
|
Data Sufficiency
|
Decide whether given data suffices to solve problems.
|
Judge sufficiency and avoid unnecessary calculation.
|
Class 9 — Mental Ability Olympiad
|
Ch No.
|
Chapter Name
|
Knowledge
|
Learning Outcome
|
|
1
|
Coding - Decoding
|
Algorithmic coding puzzles and multi-level transformations.
|
Solve algorithmic code puzzles by deducing rules.
|
|
2
|
Series Completion
|
High-complexity numerical and symbolic series.
|
Infer hidden mathematical/structural rules in sequences.
|
|
3
|
Alphabet Test
|
Complex alphabetical logic, ciphered word flows.
|
Decode and manipulate complex letter-based problems.
|
|
4
|
Mathematical Operations
|
Advanced numeric reasoning and trick arithmetic.
|
Use shortcuts and reasoning to simplify problems.
|
|
5
|
Puzzle Test
|
Advanced logic puzzles combining spatial and numeric clues.
|
Integrate multiple clue-types to reach correct solutions.
|
|
6
|
Calendar and Clock Test
|
Multi-format time calculations and angle/clock puzzles.
|
Solve challenging clock & calendar arithmetic problems.
|
|
7
|
Number - Ranking - Time Sequence
|
Complex precedence and timeline reconstruction.
|
Order events/values under multi-conditional rules.
|
|
8
|
Arithmetical Reasoning
|
Word problems requiring modeling and estimation.
|
Build mathematical models and compute correct answers.
|
|
9
|
Syllogism
|
Multi-premise logical deduction and Venn reasoning.
|
Evaluate validity of conclusions using formal logic.
|
|
10
|
Non-Verbal Series
|
Advanced pattern matrices, rotations and operations.
|
Complete complex non-verbal matrices and series.
|
|
11
|
Analogy
|
Abstract analogies involving conceptual mapping.
|
Solve analogies across numeric, verbal and visual domains.
|
|
12
|
Classification
|
Multi-rule grouping and exception handling.
|
Create accurate groupings with explicit justifications.
|
|
13
|
Blood Relation
|
Complex problems with ambiguous pronoun clues.
|
Disambiguate and determine correct kinship from clues.
|
|
14
|
Cubes and Dices Test
|
Multi-step rotation/roll prediction with conditions.
|
Analyse compound rotations and rolling outcomes.
|
|
15
|
Statements of Logical Reasoning
|
Multi-clause conditional reasoning and inference.
|
Assess truth values across compound statements.
|
|
16
|
Images
|
3D interpretation from 2D projections and transforms.
|
Reconstruct object orientation from 2D images.
|
|
17
|
Data Sufficiency
|
Multi-variable sufficiency and scenario testing.
|
Judge minimal data needed and choose correct solving path.
|
|
18
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
Critical reading, inference, argument analysis.
|
Make reasoned inferences and evaluate argument strength.
|
Class 10 — Mental Ability Olympiad
|
Ch No.
|
Chapter Name
|
Knowledge
|
Learning Outcome
|
|
1
|
Coding - Decoding
|
Complex algorithmic ciphers (multi-step rules, modular shifts).
|
Decipher advanced codes and create robust encodings.
|
|
2
|
Series Completion
|
Multivariate series including functions and position-based rules.
|
Solve series that combine arithmetic and structural rules.
|
|
3
|
Alphabet Test
|
Advanced letter/word puzzles with permutations and constraints.
|
Tackle constrained permutation and lexical puzzles accurately.
|
|
4
|
Mathematical Operations
|
Advanced numeric properties used within reasoning contexts.
|
Apply number theory intuition to reasoning tasks.
|
|
5
|
Puzzle Test
|
High-difficulty logic puzzles requiring strategy planning.
|
Solve multi-layered puzzles using systematic approaches.
|
|
6
|
Calendar and Clock Test
|
Complex time-zone, angle and calendar modular problems.
|
Resolve intricate date/time computations and puzzles.
|
|
7
|
Number - Ranking - Time Sequence
|
Complex sequencing with conditional precedence and resource constraints.
|
Produce correct orderings under tightly constrained rules.
|
|
8
|
Arithmetical Reasoning
|
Compound rate/ratio/proportion and estimation problems.
|
Model real-world scenarios and compute accurate solutions.
|
|
9
|
Syllogism
|
Formal logic with multiple quantifiers and negations.
|
Test validity of multi-quantified statements and derive consequences.
|
|
10
|
Non-Verbal Series
|
High-level matrix and transformation series.
|
Complete and generalise complex non-verbal patterns.
|
|
11
|
Analogy
|
Cross-domain analogical reasoning including functional mapping.
|
Map abstract relationships and solve higher-order analogies.
|
|
12
|
Classification
|
Hierarchical classification and exception identification.
|
Design multi-level taxonomies and spot exceptions.
|
|
13
|
Blood Relations
|
Complex familial puzzles with conditional logic and hidden references.
|
Decode multi-generation relationship problems precisely.
|
|
14
|
Cubes and Dices Test
|
Advanced unfolding/rolling problems with combined rotations.
|
Predict multi-step folding/rolling consequences correctly.
|
|
15
|
Statements of Logical Reasoning
|
Advanced deductive chains and proof-style reasoning.
|
Construct or critique logical chains to reach conclusions.
|
|
16
|
Images
|
3D mental rotation, projection and visual decomposition.
|
Rotate and decompose 3D objects mentally from 2D views.
|
|
17
|
Data Sufficiency
|
Complex sufficiency tasks with interdependent variables.
|
Judge minimal sufficient information and select optimal strategy.
|
|
18
|
Verbal Reasoning
|
Advanced comprehension, inference, argument structure and evaluation.
|
Analyse arguments, identify assumptions, and infer unstated conclusions.
|
|
19
|
Ranking Test
|
Multi-criteria rank aggregation and tie-breaking logic.
|
Aggregate ranking inputs and resolve ties using rules.
|
How to prepare — step-by-step plan (8 weeks sample)
- Weeks 1–2: concept review — shapes, sequences, number patterns, basic verbal logic.
- Weeks 3–4: focused topic practice — series, analogies, puzzles (30–45 mins daily).
- Week 5: timed section practice — 20–30 min drills to build speed.
- Week 6: full-length mock under exam conditions (simulate timing).
- Week 7: error log analysis — convert mistakes into rules.
- Week 8: light revision & confidence practice; short daily DPPs.
Daily practice + weekly full mock = faster, measurable progress.
Awards, certificates & reporting
SCO publishes scorecards and awards/certificate details, answer keys and cut-offs post-exam. Top performers receive medals, certificates, and sometimes scholarships or cash awards depending on the cycle. Schools get cohort analytics for targeted classroom interventions.
Conclusion — why parents & teachers should care
Mental ability is a multiplier skill: it accelerates learning across subjects and offers students a predictable pathway to improvement when practiced systematically. SCO’s IMAO offers structure, resources, and international comparison that make that practice efficient and motivating.
FAQ for International Mental Ability Olympiad (IMAO)
What exactly is the IMAO and who organises it — is it trustworthy for my child?
The IMAO (International Mental Ability Olympiad) is a global reasoning competition organised by School Connect Olympiad (SCO) that assesses pattern recognition, logic and problem solving for Grades 1–10; SCO is an established provider with country-specific registration and free prep resources.
Which classes can register for the IMAO this year and where do I sign up?
Students in Grades 1 through 10 are eligible — you can register individually or through your school on the SCO IMAO registration page for your country.
How is the IMAO different from our school’s regular tests — is it worth the time?
IMAO focuses on higher-order reasoning (puzzles, sequences, spatial logic) and provides international benchmarking, which complements school learning and helps build transferable thinking skills.
Can my school host an offline IMAO session, or is it strictly online?
Both formats are supported: schools may schedule supervised offline sessions or students can take the proctored online test — contact school support for bulk scheduling details.
How long is the test and what types of questions will students face?
Typical sessions are 60 minutes and include MCQs, sequence & pattern problems, visual reasoning, puzzles and occasional case-based items tailored by grade cluster.
How much does it cost to enter IMAO and are there discounts for class-wide registration?
Fees vary by country/cycle (indicative INR ~200 / USD ~11); schools registering cohorts usually receive discounted bulk rates — the registration checkout shows exact pricing and any offers.
When are the upcoming IMAO test windows and how flexible are the dates?
SCO runs multiple cycles per year — check the IMAO calendar on the registration page; some cycles offer multiple slots so you can choose a convenient date.
Where can I download syllabus PDFs and realistic sample papers to practise?
Grade-wise syllabi and free sample papers are available in the IMAO Resources section on the SCO site — download them to structure practice sessions.
Does IMAO penalise wrong answers, or should students attempt every question?
Negative-marking rules can differ by cycle; check the specific exam instructions — many lower-grade papers avoid penalties to encourage attempts.
How and when are answer keys, scores and certificates published after the test?
Official answer keys and scorecards are published on the SCO portal, usually within 1–3 weeks; digital certificates and rankings are downloadable from the student dashboard.
What rewards or recognitions can motivated students expect if they score well?
Top performers typically receive medals, merit certificates and may qualify for scholarships, special mentions or invitations to enrichment programmes depending on the cycle.
How do I register my whole class and access admit cards and cohort reports?
Use the SCO bulk-registration portal: upload your student list, assign slots, download admit cards and later access cohort analytics and reports via the school coordinator dashboard.
What minimum device and internet setup does a student need for the online IMAO?
A desktop/laptop or tablet with a modern browser (Chrome/Firefox), stable internet, and for proctored tests a webcam + microphone are recommended.
My child has special educational needs — can SCO make accommodations?
Yes — reasonable accommodations (extra time, reader/scribe, alternate formats) can be requested during registration, subject to regional documentation and approval.
I’m a beginner — how should I structure an 8-week IMAO study plan?
Week 1–2: fundamentals (patterns, sequences); Week 3–4: topic practice (series, puzzles); Week 5: timed drills; Week 6: full mock; Week 7: error analysis; Week 8: light revision + short daily practice.
Will preparing for IMAO actually boost my child’s regular school exam marks?
Yes — targeted mental ability practice builds reasoning and speed that commonly transfers to better performance in school tests and competitive entrance exams.
How does SCO present rankings — will my child see a local and international rank?
SCO provides regional and international benchmarking where available, so students can view both local (country/zone) and global ranks on their scorecards.
Are the daily practice problems (DPPs) and mock tests free or paid?
SCO offers a mix: many DPPs and sample papers are free, while some structured test series or premium bundles may be paid — check the resources page for details.
What topics should I focus on for my child’s specific grade in the mental ability syllabus?
Lower grades: shape/pattern recognition and basic sequences; Upper primary: number series, analogies, spatial puzzles; Middle/secondary: multi-step reasoning, data interpretation and case-based problems.
How can parents monitor progress and get detailed performance analytics after the test?
Parents can access the SCO Parent/Student dashboard to view scorecards, section-wise analytics and suggested improvement areas; schools also receive cohort diagnostics through the coordinator portal
Important Links
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NCERT Official Website
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UNESCO Education Resources
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Khan Academy – Logical Reasoning
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International Mental Ability Olympiad (Main Page)
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International Maths Olympiad (IMO)
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International Science Olympiad (ISO)
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International English Olympiad (IEO)