Milestone map
Milestone map
2 milestones
Write an expository paper
6–10 weeks (10–15 hrs/week)
Choose a topic beyond the core courses and write an expository paper of about 8–15 pages that explains it with full proofs. Write it in LaTeX and keep the source in a public repo. This paper is what the Honors blind review reads.
Proof required
Link the public repo with the LaTeX source and the PDF of your paper (8–15 pages), and a one-paragraph note on why you chose the topic.
What gets checked
- The topic goes beyond the core courses.
- Every theorem is proved in full, or clearly cited from a named source.
- Sources are listed, and the writing is your own.
Common mistakes
- A survey with no proofs.
- Proofs copied from a book with the words changed.
Powstik Guide
An 8–15 page expository paper with full proofs, in LaTeX.
Steps
- Pick three topics you want to know better; read one source on each.
- Choose one and write a one-page outline with the main theorem.
- Write the proofs first, then the explanation around them.
- Have someone read it and mark every step they doubt.
- Fix, typeset and submit.
Template
Title Abstract (3–4 sentences) 1 Introduction: what and why 2 Background (definitions) 3 Main results with proofs 4 Examples 5 Further directions References
What gets sent back
- No full proofs.
- Topic inside the core courses.
- Sources not cited.
Resources
Foundationstart here
Depthgo deeper
What a verifier looks for
- Is every argument correct and complete?
- Is the topic beyond the core?
- Are sources cited and is the exposition the person's own?
- Could another student learn the topic from it?
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Give a 10-minute talk on it
1–2 weeks (5 hrs/week)
Record a 10-minute talk that presents your paper: the question, the main result, the key idea of the proof and one example. Slides or a board are both fine.
Proof required
Link the recorded talk (about 10 minutes) and your slides or board notes, and the paper it presents.
What gets checked
- The main result is stated exactly.
- The key idea of the proof is explained, not skipped.
- It fits in about 10 minutes.
Common mistakes
- Reading the paper aloud.
- Hiding the proof idea behind slides of text.
Powstik Guide
A recorded 10-minute talk on your paper.
Steps
- Pick the one idea the audience must leave with.
- Make 6–10 slides or plan your board.
- Practise twice, timed.
- Record it and submit.
Template
Talk plan Question: Main result: Key idea of the proof: Example: One thing to remember:
What gets sent back
- Over 15 minutes or under 5.
- Main result never stated.
Resources
What a verifier looks for
- Is the main result stated exactly?
- Is the key proof idea correct and clear?
- Does the talk match the paper?
You'll sign in first, then come straight back here.