This was both a rewarding and challenging class. I had some experience in CS entering the class, but not anything near extensive. While it was helpful to already have some background, I honestly don't think it was necessary as Smallberg goes over everything you need to know for the class, despite his repeated warnings that experience is necessary to take this class in the Fall. Early projects were very straightforward and could be finished quickly, but later projects were by far the most time consuming part of any of my classes. I was able to complete them all, but starting early really is important. The midterm (there were supposed to be 2, but the first one was cancelled due to the nearby fire) and final were tricky. On first look through I was not able to figure out how to answer many of the questions, but he does give plenty of time on the exams; they were never a time crunch. If you are careful on looking through the questions they are manageable. Projects make up 40% of the grade, midterm is 25%, and the final exam is 35%. However, the project grades are capped at 30 points above the average of your exam grades, so you need to do well on tests. This won't be a problem as long as you're careful on them . Lecture was helpful, Smallberg really knows his C++, and while he is dry, he does a good job conveying the content to the class. Discussion is honestly unnecessary if you know the content, but attending is still helpful for reiterating the concepts and to get extra practice for the exams. Smallberg does an excellent job at teaching this class, and even though it is time consuming, this is a good professor to take this class with.

Smallberg is the legend. Projects can be time consuming, but the specification and grading system is very transparent. Some may say that Smallberg's lectures are dry but the truth is that the man is a walking ISO/C++ dictionary and is happy about any question during lectures.

I came into this class with minimal experience in CS (I had only taken AP CS Principles in high school), and I was able to get through the projects and midterm and do fairly well. Smallberg was a great professor--he was considerate, helpful, and very knowledgeable. However, his lectures are quite a snoozefest. I found it really hard to pay attention and always zoned out because lectures were so boring. So I ended up not retaining everything that was taught in class and had to reteach myself later. But that's all my fault, so as long as you pay attention in class, you're set! I found the projects appropriate to things taught in class and a good way to practice/develop C++ knowledge. However, since most of the people coming into this class have prior CS experience, they are crazy smart and the averages for the project and midterm are crazy high :/ If you are not a CS major, I would not recommend that you take this class fall quarter! Also, the midterm was reasonable and easier than the projects. Other than that lectures are boring, I would definitely recommend this class! On a side note, Smallberg can be very sassy and clever which is very funny to see/experience.

It's Smallberg. We all know what he's like, and he sure is getting a little old and cranky. Let him enjoy his moment when he needs it... But otherwise, the class is still what it was always like. The good-old CS31. :)

Smallberg is an awesome professor for introductory CS courses. He has the material down very clearly, explains concepts incredibly well, and has a very organized thought process! He clearly knows his stuff and is helpful to anyone who asks.

Smallberg is a legend. He gives you all the information that you could possibly need, so go to lecture even though he bruincasts.

Projects aren't horrible but they take a hell of a lot of work, so start early and double check everything (!!!). Tests are tough too but you have everything you need to be able to do well.

100% recommend Smallberg, what a guy.

Smallberg is a human compiler. He might be a little slow at the start especially if you have previous coding experience, so really start paying attention around pointers (week 6 ish). Nobody on the planet is better for making you understand fundamental CS material. Although his lectures might be slightly dry, he's the absolute GOAT and someone you'll definitely appreciate for improving your understanding of coding. Also be careful as fuck with the projects as even a typo could anal your grade.

Smallberg is a GREAT Professor. I came into this class with little knowledge about C++ or any computer programming and he really takes you through everything, at a good pace, while making sure to give examples for ever scenario that could possibly happen, or ever error he sees people make. If you’re taking CS31, and you’re not comfortable with the material already, Smallberg is the best professor you could ask for.

smallberg is my boy. dont listen to the review below me, he must be dumb.

Professor Smallberg is an excellent professor! He answered student questions in class during the breaks and in office hours. His specs can be unclear, but TAs will usually help clear it up.