Ways to organize learning paths to discover solutions to competition problems

In this article, we illustrate a method of organizing the process of discovering solutions to problems for mathematical contests. We describe the authors’ experience in creating situations of learning individually, through cooperation and collaboration in pairs, and in small groups. The examples proposed for discussion can be considered mini-scientific works, which allow thorough research of the situation, but require detailed explanation and collaboration between students in order to refresh the supporting concepts and create generalizations.