Analysis of students’ mistakes in solving mathematics olympiad problems

Abstract

Abstract This study aims at analysing students’ mistakes in solving mathematical olympiad problems. The test was conducted in SMA Negeri 1 Palembang involving 40 students. The main topics are algebra, combinatorics, geometry, and number theory. The analysis is based on Newman Error Analysis. The results show that the most common mistakes are found in combinatorics and geometry. The most common mistakes analysed using Newman Error are comprehension and transformation errors. In order to solve this problem, teachers need to assign various mathematical problems. Hence, the students will have more flexibility to apply problem-solving strategies.