18.901 was the only necessary prerequisite. Some felt that topics in 18.905 may have been helpful, specifically homology.
Subject Matter
Most thought the content was very theoretical and specific. In Spring 2022, the main focus was on knot theory.
Course Staff
Several students thought the professor (Anthony Conway) could be curt at times. Most agreed that he was kind and eager to engage with students.
Lectures
The lectures were all student presentations. Some were helpful, and others hard to follow.
Notes were used for reference.
Problem Sets
Short.
One problem per pset, based on the lecture.
Students generally considered psets to be very straightforward.
Exams
No exams.
Resources
Typed notes from each student presentation were combined into a collaborative set of class notes.
Textbook links were shared.
Grading
Students felt that grading was fair and transparent, though they had to email the professor to see where points were taken off.
Most students did quite well in the class.
Grade cutoffs were 90/80/70 for A/B/C.
Advice to Future Students
“This class will take more time than you expect.”
“If Knot Theory by Professor Conway appears again, take it! It’s an amazing course. Remember to go to office hours even if you don’t have a question, as Conway can seem curt over email, so getting to know him in office hours is very helpful for communication.”