Questions
Projects
Is there a project component in the course?
Yes and no. Each assignment has a project-like question, the same for all students, so it is a more structured project. There is no separate project component: we feel this gives you a better understanding of the concepts, and the added structure helps you get started.
Can you give an example of a project question?
An activity classifier (walking, running and so on). We start with publicly available datasets, then help you collect your own data with a smartphone and build a classifier on it. Those who want to go beyond the learning objectives can deploy the classifier on their smartphone.
Prerequisites
What are the course prerequisites?
Like all courses at IIT Gandhinagar, there are no formal prerequisites, but you are assumed to have a basic understanding of:
- programming in Python, and data structures (ES 242 or equivalent)
- probability and statistics
- linear algebra
- calculus
What is the prerequisite exam?
An exam designed to make sure you have the background needed for the course.
How can I prepare for the prerequisite exam?
Your undergraduate course material should be enough. You can also use the preparation material listed under References on the home page.
What happens if I do not clear the prerequisite exam?
You will not be allowed to take the course.
What does it mean to clear the exam?
As in all courses at IIT Gandhinagar, the instructor decides the cut-off, and you must score above it. The cut-off is not revealed in advance.
Laptop policy
Can I use my laptop in class?
No. Laptops are not allowed in class for any reason.
Quizzes
What happens if I miss a quiz for any reason?
The quiz is marked zero. Counting the best three of four quizzes is designed for such cases.
Are the quizzes and exams open book? Can I bring notes?
No. Quizzes and exams are closed book, and notes are not permitted.
How soon will I get my answer sheets back?
Within four to five working days.
Is there a mid-semester or end-semester exam?
Two of the four quizzes are held in the mid-semester and end-semester exam slots. The other two are held during the semester.
Are the quizzes multiple choice or written?
They may contain both multiple-choice and written questions.
Assignments
What happens if I miss an assignment deadline?
There are no extensions for assignments.
I have a doubt about an assignment. Whom should I ask?
Ask on the #assignments channel on Slack. If you do not get a reply within two days, write to the instructor.
I do not know Python. Can I write assignments in another language?
No. Assignments must be written in Python.
How are assignments evaluated?
Each assignment is followed by a viva. The TAs first check that the code matches your submission; any change from the submitted code draws a warning. They then run the code and ask a few questions: about 75% on the assignment itself and about 25% on the theory behind it.
The marks are split as follows:
- the code runs correctly and solves the problem: 50%
- questions on the assignment and your understanding of the code: 25%
- code quality: 12.5%
- questions on the theory behind the assignment: 12.5%
Are assignments individual or in groups?
In groups. All members of a group get the same grade.
Attendance
What is the attendance policy?
See Attendance under Assessment.
Auditing
Can I audit the course?
You are free to attend the lectures. With a limited number of TAs and many students, we cannot grade your submissions, and you cannot formally contribute to a team’s assignments.
Computing resources
Will I get computing resources?
Typically the course has been given Google Cloud credits, which are more than sufficient for the assignments. This section will be updated once the credits are available.