3.5

Eric Babson

Mathematics - University of California Davis

3.5
Quality
3.3
Difficulty
64%
Would Retake
140
Reviews
3.5
Quality
3.3
Difficulty
3.5
Helpful
3.6
Clarity

64%

Would Retake

140

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

44

4

37

3

28

2

21

1

10

What Students Say

Nothing tricky or wrong about the way he does stuff

21A - 3.0 rating

Do not take if you havent taken AP calc

MAT16B - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

11%

Textbook Required

22%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 60 grades
Most common grades:
Not sure yet (18)
A (16)
A+ (14)
Grade Distribution
A(30)B(11)C(7)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(10)
Based on 80 reported grades
Not sure yet: 18
A: 16
A+: 14
B: 8
Common Tags
Test heavy (34)
Graded by few things (28)
Clear grading criteria (18)
Lecture heavy (18)
EXTRA CREDIT (11)
Lots of homework (10)
TEST HEAVY (9)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (9)
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.17 avg change
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

MAT16C

5.0

(1)

MAT021D

5.0

(1)

MAT21D

5.0

(1)

MATH17B

5.0

(1)

MAT127C

5.0

(1)
+18 more courses
Difficulty by Course

35953

5.0

16A

4.0

21A

3.6

MATH21C

3.5

MATH22A

3.5

Reviews (140)
5.0
4.0
MATH21C
Jun 14, 2009

Decent professor in a decent class

5.0
1.0
MAT16C
Oct 28, 2009

Very straight forward class with a professor who is unintentionally quirky. Swell guy.

3.0
2.0
MAT21C
Oct 30, 2009

Babson is pretty clear, and is straightforward. He also gives you a lot of examples! Try to sit near the blackboard though, sometimes his words are too small to see. His curves are also nice.

2.0
5.0
MAT21C
Nov 25, 2009

Avoid him he writes small and the midterms are impossible the curve for the first one was 25%=c just to give u a clue

3.0
5.0
MAT21C
Nov 30, 2009

i would avoid. exams are hard so it makes the curve somewhat useless. felt as if homework and quiz didn't help on exam..

5.0
3.0
MAT021D
Dec 2, 2009

I LOVED this class! His tests were slightly hard, but if you studied and knew your stuff you'd do well on the curve. He was very clear in explaining all the sections. He literally would tell you have he was going to talk about, talk about it, and then go over it again if anyone had questions which was very helpful in the long run. Rate him 5outof5

5.0
2.0
MAT21C
Dec 8, 2009

Great professor + awesome course. Practically spoon fed us the exam (lots of reviews, going overlapping material). Though, he shouldn't have gotten a haircut.

3.0
5.0
MAT21C
Dec 9, 2009

He did NOT spoon-feed us the exam. He emphasizes mechanics in class, but his exams stress theory and much harder problems than the homeworks. It's hard to dislike him personally, but he should have taught to the level of his exams!

5.0
5.0
MAT21C
Dec 10, 2009

Simply the best math teacher ever. Other people are moaning about the "hard exams," but I felt that while the exams were indeed hard, THEY were not unfair. Prepare before quizzes and exams, and you will do fine. The best thing is that he explains everything without all that abstract crap that other teachers tend to add just for the hell of it. A+++

1.0
5.0
MAT21C
Dec 11, 2009

that is completely false. i studied for hours, got A's in 21A and 21B, and Babson's tests were complete BS. im beginning to suspect he's rating himself on here. the quizzes and homeworks were completely inadequate for how difficult the exams were.

2.0
4.0
MAT21C
Dec 16, 2009

Terrible professor who could never explain anything. His tests were hard but more then anything they were just way too long. A class of near 300 and only ten or would finish. His curve was also very suspect

5.0
3.0
MAT21C
Dec 17, 2009

Prof. Babson is the best professor I have had at UCDavis. He is a great teacher and very understanding. I suggest him to anyone who needs to take the 21 series math.

5.0
3.0
MAT21C
Dec 26, 2009

Prof. Babson is very clear in lectures. He literally shows you exactly what to do to solve a problem. He does focus a bit more on mechanics in lecture and his exams include more application. TAs graded quite harshly imo but the prof's curve was very generous.

5.0
4.0
MAT21C
Jan 2, 2010

His class isn't the easiest, but he curves very fairly and has a sense of humor. One of the most enjoyable math classes I've taken.

5.0
4.0
MAT21C
Feb 2, 2010

Amazing professor! Clearly explains everything, and has online homework which helps a lot because you can see if you're getting the answers right. Although I will say his tests are very difficult, but he provides a huge curve for the class.

5.0
2.0
MAT21C
Feb 23, 2010

Great teacher, lectures are great. His teaching style is straight forward, teaches you exactly how to approach a problem if its obvious but on his tests you need to apply what you learned in the class making them a little difficult. His curves are very nice! On our first test to get a C- all you needed was a 30% on the test.

5.0
1.0
MAT21D
Mar 14, 2010

Great teacher, awesome curve. He taught the stuff pretty well, but taught really quick... it was a good pace for me, but not for some of my friends in the class.

4.0
3.0
MAT21C
Mar 18, 2010

He's so great!! Really nerdy and wears the same clothes every lecture, but he was a surprisingly great teacher! Very reasonable grading and curves. Not an easy A, but definitely not impossible. Definitely take him!! He's heckkka funny, without trying to be. Hahaha

5.0
3.0
MAT21C
Mar 21, 2010

What a rockstar! Prof. Babson moves quickly during lecture, but he always has your attention. His notes are very clear and his brain calculates like a machine. Tests are difficult, but there are no surprises. The final was very easy and the Quizzes help soften the overall grade. Side note: He is strangely funny in his own unique way.

2.0
4.0
MAT21C
May 14, 2010

Dude was pretty awful. I set the curve in two of the four classes I took in the the 21 series but could barely manage a solid grade in his class. Wayyyy to many curve balls on his test and he kinda all over the place in his lectures. The material wasn't difficult at all looking back on it but somehow he made it hard. Smart Guy, Awful Teacher

5.0
3.0
MAT21B
Mar 9, 2011

Moves quick during lectures but makes the material easy to understand. Allowed notesheets for the midterms which I've never heard of. Tests are difficult, but if you've studied the material thoroughly/done the practice problems, you'll be just fine.

5.0
3.0
MAT21B
Mar 17, 2011

A decent calculus professor. He provides a lot of examples to clearly show methods of calculations, although his examples are too simple compared to test questions and his handwriting can be small sometimes. His tests contain some traps and confusing wording and each question is worth A LOT of points. Make sure you do the practice exams given.

4.0
2.0
MAT21B
Mar 23, 2011

Babson was a pretty good teacher. I had already taken the class in high school so I hardly attended lecture but when I did go he seemed to know his stuff and explained things clearly. Tests were pretty easy for me but I know some people struggled. Just do practice problems from the book and you should be ok. I would definitely suggest him.

2.0
3.0
MATH22A
May 16, 2012

Talks/writes/lectures too fast. Shows you how to solve problems, but doesn't take any time to explain why. When he does explain the "why" behind the algorithms he does so after giving an example, instead of before. Tests are hard, but he curves the class so you don't have to understand anything to get a C. To get an A, you gotta teach yourself.

2.0
4.0
MATH21B
Jun 13, 2012

Mumbles during throughout the lecture. One of the worst professors I have had. The man lacks common sense, communications skills, and competence. Mid-terms have random question on them not from the homework or rarely from lecture. DO NOT TAKE THIS PROFESSOR. TAKE ANYONE BUT THIS GUY

3.0
2.0
MAT22A
Jun 15, 2012

this class had homework assigned but was not collected. however, it would be wise to go through a few of the problems before exams. exams had a vast majority of questions that were from lecture, so go to lecture! the other exam questions were never covered in class or hw and tested your true understanding of the topic. overall. barable.

5.0
2.0
MAT22A
Jun 24, 2012

Personally, I thought he was a great professor. Lectures were extremely clear, and he often went over material from the previous day a second time, which was very helpful and gave the class a more leisurely pace. The textbook is extremely confusing, however, so plan on taking good notes. Tests were fair, and very doable if you know the material.

2.0
4.0
MATH22A
Jul 11, 2012

His lectures are okay but he skips important steps & tries to cram so much in that it's a lot to absorb. The book is awful but the author does MIT lectures online that HELP SO MUCH! WATCH THOSE TO PASS!! He isnt helpful outside of class, wouldnt respond to emails and is kinda in his own little math world. Not great but not the worst i guess..

5.0
3.0
MATH17B
Apr 7, 2013

He is somewhat of an awkward guy but he doesnt go very indepth on the concepts, making this class less outside time to understand them. Weekly quizzes are 20% and theyre the easiest thing ever!He also allows cheat sheets for exams! He tends to talk fast in lecture but get his notes down and reread them before exams and do the hw and you'll be fine

4.0
2.0
MAT17B
Apr 8, 2013

His voice and style takes a bit of getting used to, but once you do, he is a pretty good lecturer. His tests were a bit tricky and there was no curve, but he let you have one piece of paper for notes to bring in. I'd recommend him for 17B. Once last thing...he definitely lifts.

3.0
4.0
MAT17B
Jun 14, 2013

Babson talks very fast and mumbles a lot, his notes are very fast as well. Depsite the cheat sheet for the tests, the tests were quite hard in my opinion, and I took AP Calc as well. If you have not taken Calc before, avoid him. He can teach well, he just has hard tests and teaches VERY fast. I do love the way he talks though.

4.0
4.0
MAT21A
Dec 3, 2013

Tough class. Notes go extremely fast. HW is optional but I recommend doing it if you want a good grade on the tests. Allows cheat sheet for mid terms which is nice. But mid terms seem to be a lot different than what is shown in class and text books

2.0
5.0
MAT21A
Dec 14, 2013

Babson mumbles and his practice midterms/finals are similar to actual test. Allows a cheat sheet for both midterms and final. Of the 6 quizzes, the lowest score is dropped. Whole class was out of 100 points and there was NO CURVE at all. His class was way too hard in my opinion.

4.0
4.0
MAT21A
Dec 17, 2013

This was a pretty tough class. Lectures are a little confusing but bearable. Nothing is curved but he allows a cheat sheet on the midterms and final. Seems to focus on theory a little too much, instead of the actual problems. Six easy quizzes with the lowest score dropped. Midterms and Final are a bit harder than the homework and study guides.

3.0
4.0
MAT21A
Dec 18, 2013

Babson is a pretty OK lecturer. He speeds through his notes and problems so if you daydream you'll fall behind. Make sure you do practice problems. I took Calculus in high school and I still had a rather hard time. Class wasn't curved, but had cheat sheets. Midterms and final were harder than Practice exams. Overall a pretty fair teacher.

5.0
2.0
MAT21A
Jan 12, 2014

After I take other professors' class, I find that Mr. Babson is pretty nice. His notes are clear and helpful, even if you don't attend the class, you can also get the important points from his notes. His TAs are also excellent and help me a lot!

5.0
2.0
MAT21B
Jan 19, 2014

An awesome man and teacher. Very helpful in office hours and after lecture as well. Tests are good and comprehensive. I would recommend him to any one taking the MAT 21 Series.

4.0
3.0
MAT21A
Feb 11, 2014

Good teacher, average lecturer. Mumbles a bit during lecture. However, explains things thoroughly and answers questions. Overall, a pretty nice guy. Weekly quizzes in discussion, but they are fairly easy, and he drops one. No curve on midterms but cheat sheet allowed. Class is curved at the end, I finished with an 87 which curved to an A-.

4.0
2.0
MAT021A
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 1, 2014

If you took AP Calc, and did well, than this class will be extremely easy. If you never took Calc, it won't be too bad, but you will need to study harder to understand the concepts. Quizzes are easy if you review before hand, midterms aren't to bad, the practice ones are a little easier than the actually midterm.

5.0
3.0
MAT21A
Dec 13, 2014

Babson is an amazing professor and a bit funny in his own quirky, odd way. He's obviously knowledgeable about the material and his lectures very much apply to homework and exams. Plenty of practice for midterms and final available via weekly quizzes, review, etc. His class was a gem, loved attending lecture!

2.0
5.0
21A
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 19, 2014

No curve in this class. His tests were not on subject matter covered or were too complex for 21A. Practice tests don't come close to the real tests, very different so don't waste your time. Very disappointing professor and TA's.

1.0
5.0
35953
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 21, 2014

Awful class. I took AP Calc in highschool, did Babsons hw every night and went to tutoring 2-3 times a week and still struggled to even pass the class. Doesn't explain clearly, goes extremely fast, and the tests are much MUCH harder than the practice tests. Half the stuff on the practice tests aren't even on the real test.

5.0
2.0
MAT21A
Grade: A
Jan 8, 2015

Babson is very clear in his teachings, and he's very easy to understand. There are quizzes every week, two midterms, and a final. All tests are very straightforward.

3.0
4.0
MAT21A
Jan 8, 2015

Prof. Babson speaks quickly and breezes through lectures. Really knowledgeable guy who knows what he's talking about, but teaches as if he assumes you already know the material. Only recommend him if you've had calc before (and remember a good amount of it). Weekly quizzes (can be tricky), 2 midterms. Grading is fair if you get a good TA.

4.0
2.0
21A
Grade: A
Jan 29, 2015

If you've already taken calculus he's a great teacher. His notes in class are easy to follow and he answers questions well. Just need to make sure you do well on the weekly quizzes. He always reviews material in the lecture before the midterm or final.

5.0
2.0
MAT21A
Mar 4, 2015

Super nice teacher. Tests are straightforward

3.0
3.0
21A
Grade: C
Apr 12, 2015

He is a little hard to understand but lays out the class well. Its as simple as doing the work and understanding the material to do well. Nothing tricky or wrong about the way he does stuff. Run of the mill Math class.

1.0
4.0
MAT16B
May 25, 2016

Do not take if you havent taken AP calc. I took this class and there were so many curveballs on the midterms. ALSO HE DOESNT CURVE. He lectures like you know everything already. Not a very good teacher

2.0
4.0
MAT21C
Mar 7, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Didn't really teach, just put down theorems and then wrote down a ton of examples without explaining much. Easier to teach yourself from the textbook than learn from from his lectures.

TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
3.0
MAT21C
Mar 7, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Babson is a nice guy. He answers every question no matter it is silly or not. The grade is made up of three midterms and one final. Tests are straightforward. Overall an ok class, but do not recommend.

Tough Grader
Respected
TEST HEAVY
3.0
4.0
MAT21C
Mar 22, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Lectures were pretty mundane, but that's pretty much all math lectures. One major positive is that he does not test any proofs on tests, however the downside is that his actual (3) midterms and final do not mirror the practice tests from Kouba at all. He curves if you get under 90% though, so that's pretty nice, plus EC on all the tests.

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
3.0
MAT21C
Grade: A
Mar 28, 2018
Would take again

Gives a lot of homework, but doesn't check it, which gives you the opportunity to focus on the topics that are hardest for you. Lectures include a lot of examples, and tests are very similar to the homework. He tends to make minor mistakes when working on the board but overall the material was fairly clear.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Clear grading criteria
TEST HEAVY
4.0
3.0
MAT21C
Grade: B
Apr 7, 2018
Would take again

I feel that he was a great professor. The overall grade is based on 3 midterms and 1 final. His tests are pretty straight forward with no huge surprises, no proofs, and each test has an extra credit problem. His lectures consisted of many examples based on theorems which i found very helpful for the tests. He always answered any question asked.

Clear grading criteria
TEST HEAVY
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
3.0
MAT21C
Aug 28, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Your general run of the mill math class. Clearly shows you what to expect and what you need to know. Do the homework and you'll be fine.

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
2.0
4.0
MAT21A
Nov 15, 2018
Wouldn't take again

He does not grade homework at all and go over the lecture so quick with a strange strong accent, which makes this class hard cuz the only way to improve your grade is midterm and final.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
5.0
3.0
MAT21A
Nov 26, 2018
Would take again

Clear grading policy with extra credit in each exam. Answering every question in class. Our campus was closed because of the camp fire and professor rearranged the syllabus and grading policy. A very easy A with 4 in AP Calculus BC without doing homework or discussion.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Clear grading criteria
4.0
3.0
MAT21A
Dec 9, 2018
Would take again

He is a nice person.

Respected
Get ready to read
4.0
3.0
MAT021A
Dec 16, 2018
Would take again

I had calculus in high school, and Babson's 21a is probably the most straightforward math class one could take. He goes over material well but quickly; I could see it being difficult for those with no prior experience. All homework is found online, no textbook buying needed. 3 midterms 20% each and a final 40%, but the third midterm got smoked out

Clear grading criteria
TEST HEAVY
3.0
3.0
21A
Dec 18, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Obviously very bright; lectures are boring but efficient

3.0
4.0
MAT21A
Grade: C
Dec 19, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Lectures were decent, but the real tough part of this class is the homework. He doesn't grade it, which might kill your motivation to do it, but you have to do it or else your grade will suffer on the only part of the class that really matters-- tests. HW assignments, lecture topics, test dates are posted on his personal website, so that's nice.

Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
4.0
MAT021A
Grade: B
Dec 20, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Very run of the mill math class. I'd say the exams were a lot harder than we prepared for. I got an A in ab in highschool and a 5 on the exam and I thought the exams in this class were a bit much. But nevertheless, you'll do fine if you have some background in math.

TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
3.0
MAT21A
Dec 20, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Professor Babson is a person who seems very passionate about learning math and understanding it's application. However, he isn't very good at relaying this information and passion on to his students. I took his Math 21A course and was highly disappointed by his grading system. He grades entirely based off of four tests, and doesn't curve anything.

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
3.0
MAT021A
Grade: A-
Dec 23, 2018
Would take again

If you didn't take calc in HS, you'll have some trouble, but if you did you'll be fine. Apart from mumbling sometimes, his instruction is clear enough and I found his tests to be pretty fair,but he only has 3 MTs. I had a useless TA but otherwise nothing really bad to say. He doesn't use the textbook but the homework comes from it.

TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
5.0
MAT021A
Grade: C-
Jan 2, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Don't take his class if you aren't already good at calculus. He writes down everything but explains too fast. His tests are difficult and extra credit questions were the hardest. 3 midterms for 100 points each and a final for 200. A small curve in the end. No homework so unless you're good at calc and are systematic by yourself don't pick him!

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
2.0
4.0
MAT021A
Grade: C
Feb 1, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Babson is an average professor, with the biggest problem being his tests. The tests were way harder than his practice tests, and the tests would include material not seen in the homework or lectures. If you have taken calc before expect a B, with an A being a lot of work but doable. You will not do well if you have not taken any calc.

TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
2.0
MAT021A
Grade: A+
May 12, 2019
Would take again

I took Professor Babson's class in my first quarter at UC Davis, and later on I realized that Professor Babson is one of the best teachers I've had. The best thing about him is that he writes everything on the board clearly, and it truly helped a lot.

4.0
2.0
MAT108
Grade: A
Jun 2, 2020
Would take again

Beware of weekly quiz. Lectures enunciated and helpful

Accessible outside class
Amazing lectures
2.0
3.0
MAT108
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 9, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Babson is like my ex but through email: Ghosted

3.0
4.0
MAT108
Grade: C-
Jun 10, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Three hw assignments per week with one weekly quiz. One midterm, one final. Weighted equally or more on the final if you do better on the final. The tests are much easier than the hw. I felt like sometimes he didn't fully explain his thought process, so I didn't like his lecture style. If you can teach yourself from a book, that will help.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
4.0
3.0
MAT108
Grade: A+
Jun 16, 2020
Would take again

He was pretty straightforward and his lectures were easy to learn from. His HW and quizzes were a nightmare compared to his exams but its probably due to how HW and quizzes made up 62.5% of our grade. Beware of how he practically ghosted his students near finals.

Lots of homework
Clear grading criteria
Beware of pop quizzes
4.0
2.0
MAT108
Grade: A
Oct 20, 2020
Would take again

Good math prof. Hard quiz, easy midterm and final, easy A in general

3.0
3.0
MAT127B
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2020
Wouldn't take again

I had him for the spring quarter of 2020. We had homework after every lecture with 2 to 3 questions. 80% of the total grades guarantee an A, and 60% of the total scores come from your homework. To receive an A, you just need to do your homework well and try not to be below the average during exams.

Respected
Lots of homework
3.0
3.0
MAT108
Grade: Incomplete
Jan 30, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I don't get why homework that is due 2 days after a lecture is graded so harshly. How are we supposed to transfer basic concepts learned in class into full-blown proofs? I get one wrong on a homework assignment and boom 6/10 even though it's out of like 6 problems. Get one wrong on a quiz then instant D. You're punished for trying to learn.

Graded by few things
So many papers
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
MAT108
Mar 11, 2021
Would take again

Professor Babson is a great professor and explained the concepts very well. He had homework due every lecture day, which was a lot, but still useful. Additional book reading could be useful, but he provides a lot of examples in lectures.

Gives good feedback
Lots of homework
Caring
3.0
4.0
MAT127B
Mar 31, 2021
Wouldn't take again

The grade was based on 3 homeworks per week, weekly quizzes, a proctored midterm, and an unproctored final. He went through material very quickly, and since the hw was assigned every class it definitely left no room for misunderstanding. The hw was graded on accuracy by the TAs. Huge curve in the end due to his points system.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
16A
Grade: D
Oct 16, 2021
Wouldn't take again

don't take Babson for calculus. he lectures way too fast and basically talks to himself when lecturing. He also goes extremely fast to a point where nothing even makes sense. He also doesn't answer the question quite how you want even when asking for help. Not a good prof.

Lecture heavy
4.0
2.0
MAT16A
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 9, 2021
Would take again

Babson is good enough for 16A. His context is simple enough that people with no calculus base can do decent with lecture and little bit practice. Three midterms one final. He is flexable on how you answer questions and mostly won't trick you. Yeah his lecture is bunch of examples and you need practice to understand. But for good grade he is decent.

Test heavy
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
16A
Dec 8, 2021
Would take again

Grade is 3 midterms and the final. overall simple class a 45/100 is a C- and a 83 is an A- so it is not difficult to pass this class along as you take time out of your day to practice and maybe watch a few YouTube videos.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
MAT016A
Dec 10, 2021
Would take again

Straightforward instruction, and rarely tries to trick you on tests. Practice tests similar to the real tests. May mumble sometimes, but always open to being asked questions.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
MAT016A
Grade: A+
Dec 15, 2021
Would take again

Clearly knows his stuff and makes sure you get all the content within the appropriate time period. But he's fast. Like F A S T. He goes through simplification steps pretty quick, so definitely brush up on algebra tricks beforehand. But he makes sure to go slower on the actual calculus concepts, so its honestly fine. Do the practice homework.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Clear grading criteria
3.0
3.0
MAT16A
Grade: B
Dec 17, 2021
Would take again

He explains concepts and problems pretty well, but the examples he teaches are way harder than the ones in his tests. He doesn't curve any tests scores but his grading criteria pretty much guarantees a passing score. Your grade is fully dependent on 3 midterms and 1 final (allowed one sheet of cheat sheet). Homework is assigned but not graded.

5.0
3.0
MAT16B
Grade: A
Jan 3, 2022
Would take again

Sit in the front row, take good notes, do the homework, do the practice midterms, and go to tutoring if you need help! He's an amazing prof imo

Test heavy
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
2.0
MAT016A
Grade: A+
Jan 7, 2022
Would take again

I really loved taking this class. Sure, none of his lectures were posted and the grades were based solely on the midterms and finals (notes allowed) but it was totally worth it. He is great at explaining and although a textbook is given I did not use it once. Honestly, just go to the lectures and do the practice exams and you are good to go

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
4.0
4.0
MAT16A
Grade: B-
Jan 7, 2022
Would take again

Babson is a very caring professor. If you have a question he will def take the time to answer it in detail. I never took calc before coming to his class and still finished with a B. Def had to go to tutoring outside of class but if you have more experience with math then babson is def the professor you want.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
Caring
5.0
2.0
MAT16A
Grade: A+
Jan 7, 2022
Would take again

Compared to other professors that teach 16A, I believe Babson is the best choice. Babson makes the course easy to follow. His explanations are clear and there is no need for textbook since he posts his own pdf filed. However, he does not record his lectures so you have to attend them. +) His hearing is exceptionally good so be careful what you say.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
4.0
4.0
MAT016A
Jan 28, 2022
Would take again

Tests are pretty hard but theres definitely worse calc professors and theres a good curve. Tests are formatted just like practice exams and he allows a page of notes.

4.0
3.0
MAT016A
Grade: B+
Feb 10, 2022
Would take again

Great teacher

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
2.0
5.0
MAT16A
Grade: D
Feb 10, 2022
Wouldn't take again

hes cool but he only graded us on test 3 midterms and a final does a HUGE curve at the end of the quarter. would not take him again because if you did bad on test you were failing his class

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
MAT016A
Grade: B-
Apr 1, 2022

I thought this class was kinda hard, it is really easy to fall behind. He moves very quickly so it can be hard to understand some topics. The homework is optional but you should definitely do it.

4.0
4.0
MAT21C
Dec 3, 2022

Can't really comment much on the guy. I don't doubt he's good at lecturing but I at least found it difficult to pay attention because of how quickly he speaks. His class doesn't have homework so it's up to you to hold yourself accountable. Three midterms and one final.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
4.0
MAT21C
Grade: B
Dec 8, 2022
Would take again

Average Prof. His lectures are somewhat confusing, speaks pretty fast and moves from concepts rather quickly. 3 midterms + final. You are allowed a sheet of notes per exam so thats nice. No hw so your entire grade is from tests. Do the suggested hw he posts if you want to pass.

Test heavy
4.0
3.0
MATH21C
Grade: Not sure yet
Jan 8, 2023
Would take again

He talked pretty fast, but he was more than willing to answer any question. Did go through concepts pretty fast, but he gave a lot of examples afterwards to solidify which helped a lot. I would say his example problems in lecture are more similar to the exam questions. 3 midterms 1 final. optional hw, recommend doing for practice. Solid professor

Test heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
4.0
MAT21C
Grade: Not sure yet
Jan 10, 2023

Professor speaks too fast during lecture and it is difficult to understand him, made worse with him wearing a mask and not using the projector so people in the back can barely see what is being written. Very test heavy, no mandatory homework. Grade for third exam was changed and lowered two days before the final which threw off grade calculations.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
4.0
MAT21C
Grade: Rather not say
Jan 30, 2023
Would take again

His class was definitely fair, but the entire grade was based on only a few exams. Good practice material though. He is a really clear lecturer and is absolutely happy to answer questions. Make sure you actually go to lecture every day or your world will crash and burn and crumble around you.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
4.0
3.0
MAT21C
Grade: A+
May 6, 2023
Would take again

Lectures went fast but he was always happy to answer questions. Tests are fair and there is a large curve.

Graded by few things
5.0
5.0
MAT21C
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 17, 2024
Would take again

I took 21C this quarter with him. His lecture is very clear and easy to follow. He always starts with the concept and formulas, then go with a few examples. I would say attending his lecture is always engaging and helpful, and he welcomes students to ask questions at any time!

Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
Caring
1.0
4.0
MAT21C
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 18, 2024

DO NOT TAKE HIM. HE TEACHES WAY TO FAST!!!!!!! AND HE WRITES ON A CHALKBOARD. HE doesn't lecture well. He talks to himself when he lectures and does not teach. DO NOT TAKE HIM.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
MAT21C
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 22, 2024

The professor lectures fast and NOT comprehensive. He skips over some material to keep his pace and that makes doing the homework extra confusing because all the homework and practice tests are ripped from another professor. This is challenge if you have never had any exposure to this material beforehand.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
MAT21C
Grade: A
Jun 7, 2024
Would take again

AMAZING PROF doesnt answer emails but lectures are good. fast paced, but pretty clear. his tests are not difficult they are extremely identical to his practice ones and 100% all from lecture examples. i would say this is the best math prof ive had so far. rambles in lecture sometimes but not a problem. 100% take his class.

Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
MAT127C
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 9, 2024
Would take again

Standard 2MT, 1Final, weekly HWs. Aura review: Doesn't display much emotion and is a man that stands on business. Teaches very clearly and concisely (his choice of words leaves no room for confusion). Can go very fast but that's because he tries to cover a TON of examples. Honestly, one of the best professors to have for an upper div. 5/5

Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
MAT21C
Grade: A
Jun 11, 2024
Would take again

Midterms and finals were very similar to the practice ones provided. Babson is a legend and he definitely stands on business. Hits a few weird poses when writing on the board and talks to himself often but overall a great professor.

Inspirational
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
MAT21B
Grade: A-
Jun 13, 2024
Would take again

even though lectures were at 8am, it was so worth it. he allows a 2 page sheet on all exams. he goes over concepts and theory first, then goes over lots of practice problems. homework isn't mandatory but do them for the extra practice if you want to do well. there were 3 midterms, but he drops the lowest. the final was very good and fair.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
3.0
3.0
MAT21C
Grade: A+
Jun 19, 2024
Would take again

Babson is one of the better profs for 21C, but his lecturing style was not it for me. Exams are similar to practice problems in lecture. Lots of partial credit (even for extra credit prob). Best thing is 2-sided review sheet for exams. If you want a good grade, take Babson but don't expect to fully understand all the concepts w/ Babson's teaching.

Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
MAT21C
Grade: A+
Jun 22, 2024
Would take again

I think he's a very good professor, except for his small handwriting. There are three midterms and one final exam. The lowest midterm can be dropped.

EXTRA CREDIT
Respected
4.0
3.0
MAT21C
Grade: B
Jun 22, 2024
Would take again

He's decent, but his lecture style is not reliable. You can self teach yourself everything and still pass considering his exams are straightforward and you're allowed notes. I didn't do the homework and got a B. I recommend this professor if you can self study.

Gives good feedback
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
3.0
MAT21C
Grade: B+
Jun 30, 2024
Would take again

Grade comprises two midterms and a final, however, you take three midterms and your lowest score is dropped. Decent curve. He speaks fast and mumbles which makes him difficult to understand. Tests are similar to the practice but not identical. One page of notes front and back is allowed on each exam but be sure to study anyway. Decent overall.

Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MAT021A
Grade: B
Sep 19, 2024

This professor clearly doesn't care about teaching. He didn't show up to any exams. His TAs do most of the heavy lifting. He made us learn delta epsilon proofs and when I went to his TAs office hours, they were confused on why it was being taught. Avoid this class, plan ahead, choose a better professor.

Tough grader
4.0
2.0
MAT21C
Grade: B
Sep 30, 2024
Would take again

I really liked his course and teaching style. His tests were kind of difficult but I looked up previous practice exams and the weird problems online and it went perfectly fine. Study and look at his website it is very useful since he posts what the problems are generally going to be like on the tests.

4.0
3.0
MAT21C
Grade: B-
Nov 6, 2024
Would take again

Good prof. No graded hw so I did not do hw all quarter (hence my grade). Easiest class of the 21 series for me. Not sure if that's the material or the prof.

Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
MAT21C
Grade: B+
Jan 13, 2025
Would take again

Babson's lectures can be hit-or-miss, but his exams are very manageable if you stay on top of the practice problems. I found unstuck ai super helpful for reviewing concepts and preparing for tests. Overall, a solid math class if you're willing to put in the work.

5.0
3.0
MAT21B
Grade: Not sure yet
May 3, 2025
Would take again

Babson is actually my goat, his lectures are easy to follow and he cares a lot about his students understanding of the material. Just make sure to review lecture problems and the homework and the exams will be just fine.

Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
MAT21B
Grade: Not sure yet
May 14, 2025
Would take again

lectures are very difficult to follow, and he writes all notes by hand (his handwriting is hard to read most of the time). posts practice exams that match the content on the tests pretty well. allows a sheet of notes for exams which is life saving. only graded by a few tests. as a professor not great, but if you go to tutoring you'll be ok.

Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
MATH21B
Grade: Not sure yet
May 20, 2025

everything about this class is just convoluted, and I truly feel sorry for anyone taking his class without calc background. This class is incredibly messy and disorganized, and while it's not necessarily difficult it is so hard to follow along with the prof. I feel like all the notes i write are useless bc theyre not even pertinent to the hw...

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
MAT21B
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 4, 2025

Your grade is based SOLELY on your performance in exams, if you are a bad test taker do not take this class! 3 midterms (lowest score gets dropped) and one final exam worth 200 points (2 midterms basically in one). But if you average a 50% on every exam you will pass the class with a C-. He's hard to understand in lecture (not his fault really).

Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
MAT21B
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 10, 2025

Babson's lectures were incredibly disorganized and confusing. I practically learned everything through Youtube tutors and the 21B co-class, which I do recommend. Midterms are not too difficult, but considering I hardly learned anything his lectures, I definitely struggled. If you'd rather not teach yourself I do not recommend this professor.

Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MAT21B
Grade: A
Jun 11, 2025

Taught with a projector and a piece of paper that was super tiny and hardly in frame. Prepare to self-study every day if you want a good grade.

4.0
1.0
MAT21B
Grade: A-
Jun 11, 2025
Would take again

C- takes no effort. You could be blindfolded during the exam and still pass but you won't learn as much if your goal is to just only pass. I feel bad for anyone who has never taken calc in high school bc there is so much to cover. Unless you have a really good TA. Shoutout to Hadj, the best TA ever.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MAT21B
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 12, 2025

If you have never taken calc in HS, you need to start studying the concepts beforehand, as his lectures don't help at all. his class is based on midterms and final, which is bad for bad test takers. Overall very bad experience.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
MAT21B
Grade: A
Jun 12, 2025
Would take again

Babson is my goat. He is for sure the best math professor i had in Davis. He is really good at explaining the concepts, gives examples, and very open to any questions. Exams are very fair, 1 midterm gets dropped and you get a note sheet on every exam. He made 21B a very straightforward class. Really easy to pass with him. Take him for sure.

Respected
Graded by few things
Accessible outside class
4.0
2.0
MAT21B
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 14, 2025
Would take again

Babson is actually a legend, this class was my favourite all quarter. Homework is optional and the tests are all really reasonable- as long as you go through problems taught in class you can ace the tests for sure. He's not great at technology and talks a bit fast but my trick was to rewatch lectures on x0.75 speed and put all info on cheat sheet.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
MAT21B
Grade: B+
Jun 17, 2025
Would take again

lectures are fast paced and writes really small. he's open to questions during lecture and explains really well when u do ask. only has OH once a week tho. taught myself thru coclass. exams are easier than practice exams, and cheat sheet allowed. overall very easy class, just use outside resources or ask questions during lecture

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Caring
5.0
3.0
MAT21B
Grade: A
Jun 17, 2025
Would take again

Amazing professor with very straight forward tests. Homework is optional, but key to your success in the class. He allows a cheat sheet during exams and the class is graded on two midterms and a final. There are three midterms but one gets dropped.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
MAT21B
Grade: A+
Jun 22, 2025

The professor talks like in sleep, and the recording is very unclear, all by self study. But grading criteria is good, has 10 extra credit in every exams. 100 for mid and 200 for final, 350 could get A. Homework is not necessary. TA is good.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
MAT21B
Grade: A-
Jun 23, 2025
Would take again

Got an F in 21b winter quarter with a different professor, retook with Babson and got an A. Though his lectures can be slightly disorganized the midterms and final were very fair and all the material on them seemed reasonable. Definitely study the homework and practice tests and you should be good!

5.0
3.0
MAT21B
Grade: A-
Jun 24, 2025
Would take again

Babson is the GOAT, however succeeding depends on your willingness to learn. Tips for success: review the material lightly before each lecture, DO THE HW, review tests and do practice problems with difficulty on par to the extra credit. I felt excited to learn the concepts in MAT 21B, but you have to put in effort. Grade is 100% midterms and final.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
MAT21B
Grade: A+
Jun 29, 2025
Would take again

His class is manageable if u put effort in. Most time, he can explain things clearly and helpfully. HW is optional, but it is up to you whether to practice it or not.PLEASE do the practice, it is similar to the real one (like change cos to sin...) Also can bring 1 cheatsheet in each test. The only I want to complain about is his small handwriting.

Caring
Respected
Test heavy
5.0
1.0
MAT127B
Grade: A
Jul 23, 2025
Would take again

HW is assigned per lecture, which made it difficult for me to pre-plan my week. Other than that he is very clear about the grading scale (it is rigid, but very forgiving and heavily dependent on homework) and has very clear and well-planned lectures. He is also just a very sweet guy and is very good resource as a teacher. Great professor!

Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
MAT21B
Grade: B
Jul 29, 2025
Would take again

For the first few weeks, I felt so cooked in his class. I didn't show up to lectures after the first midterm because I didn't find them helpful at all. I ended up self-teaching myself all of the content and performed well. I thought his exams were straightforward and sometimes easy. Do the homework and STUDY that practice exam, and you'll be set.

Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
MAT21B
Grade: B+
Aug 8, 2025
Would take again

Professor Babon's lectures were mediocre, in his class one will have teach themselves more than in other classes. His class is structured in a way that allows everyone to pass, he made calculus II more bearable than calculus I. The grading is very fair and the exams are fairly difficult as well.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
5.0
MAT127B
Grade: C
Aug 21, 2025

I struggled when it came to this class. I wasn't a fan of his notations for the proofs, it was a very different from what I learned in 127A. Also, I wasn't a fan of the textbook we used for most of the hw's. It was a bit more work but I used Albotts and Hunter's Notes to understand material. Lots of self-studying. I wouldn't recommend this prof

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
MAT21A
Sep 29, 2025

Very difficult to understand. Also, he teaches like you should already known everything about Calculus. Very fast paced and pretty unfair when the prereq was algebra, not already knowing calculus. This is my first calculus class, and the peers I know are doing fine because their high schools offered Calculus …

4.0
4.0
MAT127B
Grade: A
Oct 30, 2025
Would take again

It's important to pay attention during Babson's lectures because he goes pretty fast. His grading system is great, his office hours are amazing and he's an all around nice guy.

Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
21A
Grade: C-
Dec 9, 2025

During class, the teacher often focuses only on lecturing without considering whether the students can keep up, and the explanations are not very clear. The exams are very difficult, sometimes even including material that wasn't covered in class, so I often have to self-study most of the content. I do not recommend taking this teacher's class.

Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
4.0
MAT021A
Dec 11, 2025
Would take again

Overall not bad experience. The 2nd and 3rd midterms are hard and not so similar with practice, but final is fine. His lecture goes fast and if you have already know something about calculus it won't be hard, but if you don't I would say take another professor.

Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
MAT021A
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2025
Would take again

I took AP Calc AB in high school and lowk skipped most of his lectures and still got an A. His practices are not similar to the exams, but make use of the 1-page cheat sheet cause it really does help. The examples he gives in the lecture are harder than those he gives in the exams, so don't be too stressed.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
MAT021A
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2025
Would take again

Homework is optional, first half is actually useful and tested on. Other half is just for concept reinforcement mostly. Starts every lecture with a fun problem to think about. 3 midterms, 1 dropped, final all pretty light if you do his practice and make a sheet. Some self-teaching required for the harder concepts, but overall Babson is great!

4.0
3.0
MAT021A
Grade: A+
Dec 18, 2025
Would take again

I took this class without taking AP Calc in HS so I was nervous, but it really wasn't bad. Grades are 100% test based, but you're allowed a cheat sheet and lowest midterm is dropped. Babson is good at explaining concepts, and examples will likely be on tests. I also had a good TA which helped a lot. Overall, good first math class to take at Davis.

Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
MAT021A
Grade: A+
Dec 18, 2025
Would take again

Babson is very obviously a smart guy. If you go to class, listen to his lectures, and do the homework you will be just fine in the class. - someone who hasn't taken AP Calc in highschool.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
MAT185A
Grade: A+
Dec 21, 2025
Would take again

Interesting lectures with lots of examples. The exam is quite challenging, but the grading is lenient.

Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
MAT21B
Grade: A+
Dec 28, 2025
Would take again

I think Professor Babson is good! He gave a lot of homework but it's not mandatory. The exams are easy but the extra credit part is way more harder.

Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

11%

Textbook Required

22%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

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Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 60 grades
Most common grades:
Not sure yet (18)
A (16)
A+ (14)
Grade Distribution
A(30)B(11)C(7)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(10)
Based on 80 reported grades
Not sure yet: 18
A: 16
A+: 14
B: 8
Common Tags
Test heavy (34)
Graded by few things (28)
Clear grading criteria (18)
Lecture heavy (18)
EXTRA CREDIT (11)
Lots of homework (10)
TEST HEAVY (9)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (9)
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Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

MAT16C

5.0

(1)

MAT021D

5.0

(1)

MAT21D

5.0

(1)

MATH17B

5.0

(1)

MAT127C

5.0

(1)
+18 more courses
Difficulty by Course

35953

5.0

16A

4.0

21A

3.6

MATH21C

3.5

MATH22A

3.5

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