The content of 18.01 and 18.02 were necessary prerequisites. 18.03 was useful in some places but was not required.
Subject Matter
Good balance between theory and applications. Some wished more time was spent proving the theory, while others appreciated that the course covered applications relevant to physics and other subjects.
Course Staff
Students found the course staff very friendly and helpful answering questions.
Lectures
Lectures generally followed the online notes pretty closely. Most students felt that the lectures basically restated the notes with additional explanation, but were still helpful for solidifying understanding.
Problem Sets
Most students found the psets to be long, time-consuming, and difficult.
Due to their length, psets are difficult to complete alone and students recommend working with others.
Psets are helpful for preparing for the exams and are very relevant to the content of the course.
Exams
The exams were relatively fast-paced but the problems were considered very manageable.
Some students commented that the time pressure made the exams stressful.
Resources
There was no textbook.
The course followed a set of notes available online. Students found them very helpful.
Grading
Students felt that grading was fair but not transparent.
Advice to Future Students
“Ask lots of questions and don’t be afraid to seek help from other students, but often sitting and struggling with problems is a great way to learn.”
“Take this class! Attend the lectures and read the notes after for things you are confused on.”