About Problem Clarifications

Updated Oct 2024

Long-term problems are written to provide just enough guidance to solve the problem without limiting creativity. If a team questions the interpretation of a limitation or is not sure if an aspect of its solution is allowed or meets the problem’s requirements, it may request a clarification.

Odyssey of the Mind - Program Guide

Every team should check the official Odyssey of the Mind website regularly to see if any clarifications have been published that will affect their solution.

Furthermore, if a team is uncertain whether a portion of their solution is allowable, it would be a really good idea to request their own clarification from CCI. The section of the Program Guide regarding Problem Clarifications begins on printed pages 23-24. 

Instructions here to submit clarification requests in the new OdysseyHQ database. Be mindful that part of the article contains screenshots. Each coach must have their own username and password in order to maintain confidentiality of team clarifications.

Coaches can only submit clarification requests until February 15th. But as the competition season starts, Problem Captains and Directors also submit their own requests based on issues or ambiguities encountered. For this reason, you should continue to check General Clarification in between competition levels, throughout the season.