Each book in the Dare to Compare: Math series contains 150 problems that ask students to perform calculations to make a comparison and come to a decision. The Dare to Compare format recasts more traditional math problems from a single calculation to two or more calculations to come to a final conclusion. Rather than compute a single sale price, the student computes two sale prices to determine which sale is a better deal. Instead of calculating the probability of a single event, the student calculates the probability of two events to determine which is more likely.

The problems are intended to be non-routine but accessible. The solution process is open-ended, allowing students to create mathematical reasoning and to decide how to quantify in order to formulate a conclusion. Comparisons are especially suited for problems involving fractions, rates, ratios, and proportional thinking. However, they can serve as a backdrop for any mathematical topic – geometry, graphing, patterns, elementary algebraic reasoning, percentages, probability, statistics, counting, measurement, number operations, and logic. So the comparisons are rich in both mathematical content and critical thinking. Each problem is accompanied by one or more hints and a complete solution.

Who is running faster? Which shape has a larger area? Which sale is a better deal? Which event lasts longer? Which food item has more fat calories? Who makes a greater profit? Which fraction is larger? Which product has a smaller unit price? Whose heart beats faster? Which outcome is more likely? Which competitive eater consumes more calories per minute? Comparisons provide a motivating backdrop to perform mathematical calculations in a wide range of contexts.