DemiDec

[4] In the 1980s and early 1990s, the United States Academic Decathlon had few third-party companies that produced study materials for students, and individual teams had to do most of the research themselves.

[8][9] Berdichevsky had been part of the Taft High School Academic Decathlon program in the 1992–93 season, but had felt "too scared of giving a speech" that year to compete.

[10][11] The study guides and resources Berdichevsky and Salter developed in their first year were limited, but enthusiasm for the venture was evidenced by the fact that it earned $20,000 in 5 months.

[8] Within two years' time, the company had largely evolved into its current form, relying on "a network of former Decathletes, curriculum experts and experienced writers" to create a study course that includes both content and assessment materials and is known for its student-centered and engaging style.

[2] At the competition, students participate in four events that encompass all six subjects: a curriculum-based debate, an essay, a multiple-choice test, and the "Scholar's Bowl," a live tournament in which team members collaborate to answer questions.