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Computer Science / CAT
Computational and Algorithmic Thinking Guide
Computational and Algorithmic Thinking tests logic and structured thinking without requiring programming. It is useful for students who may later move into coding competitions.
What is this exam?
Computational and Algorithmic Thinking
Computational and Algorithmic Thinking tests logic and structured thinking without requiring programming. It is useful for students who may later move into coding competitions.
Use this page to turn exam information into a clear preparation decision for your child.
Exam date
19-21 May 2026
Registration
Online entries close 15 May 2026.
Year levels
Years 5-12
Official institute
Australian Maths Trust
Key date timeline
Now
Read the official guide
Check whether the exam is appropriate for the student.
Next
Download the free sheet
Use it as a parent-friendly preparation checklist.
Then
Choose one preparation focus
Foundation, advanced question types or mock exam readiness.
Content map
What students should be ready to use
Core focus
Patterns, rules, cases and state tracking.Algorithmic thinking without coding syntax.Careful reasoning under time pressure.
Preparation focus
Practise small-case examples before generalising.Use tables and diagrams to track states.Review why an algorithm works, not only the answer.
Format and focus
Where marks, difficulty and preparation effort usually concentrate
Focus 1
Patterns, rules, cases and state tracking.
Computer Science
Focus 2
Algorithmic thinking without coding syntax.
Computer Science
Focus 3
Careful reasoning under time pressure.
Computer Science
AceAchievers preparation pathway
Recommended Study Plan
Build a solid foundation
Make sure the core school skills behind this competition are stable before moving into harder questions.
Learn by topic and question type
Practise the topic patterns and question types that appear most often in this competition.
Mock exam and targeted practice
Use timed mocks to find weak areas, then practise those exact topics deliberately.
Questions parents ask
FAQ
Is this suitable for my child?
Parent signal 1: Practise small-case examples before generalising. Parent signal 2: Use tables and diagrams to track states. Parent signal 3: Review why an algorithm works, not only the answer.
Who should consider CAT?
Computational and Algorithmic Thinking tests logic and structured thinking without requiring programming. It is useful for students who may later move into coding competitions.
Where should families verify final information?
Check the official Australian Maths Trust page and your school before registering.