# Preparing for the Putnam

I was wondering what resources people new to mathematics competitions could use for preparing for the William Lowell Putnam Competition(or just the Putnam).

My background in mathematics is limited. I have recently started doing the book Abstract Algebra by Dummit and Foote and I am enjoying that book. I am yet to get a taste of real analysis though I have done single variable calculus rigorously .

1) How much mathematics does one need to learn before sitting for the Putnam?
2) What are the resources/books one could use?


I may never even study in the USA but I wish to convince myself that I can solve the Putnam problems too!

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General advice is for high-school students NOT to do the Putham exam. –  GEdgar Oct 14 '12 at 17:21
Mind explaining why? –  Richard Nash Oct 14 '12 at 17:24
Regulations say a student may take the Putnam at most 4 times, and must not have a bachelors degree. For most people, the best four scores will be the last four years before the bachelors degree. Someone who took it as a high-school student may therefore be ineligible in a later year when he/she is most likely to get a top score. –  GEdgar Oct 14 '12 at 23:27