2.3

Harbir Lamba

Mathematics - George Mason University

2.3
Quality
4.3
Difficulty
20%
Would Retake
142
Reviews
2.3
Quality
4.3
Difficulty
2.2
Helpful
2.3
Clarity

20%

Would Retake

142

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

15

4

18

3

26

2

26

1

57

What Students Say

This professor makes it this difficult

MTH203 - 1.0 rating

What an amazing professor

MATH112 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

20%

Textbook Required

73%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

C+

95% confidence
Based on 40 grades
Most common grades:
C (9)
Not sure yet (9)
F (7)
Grade Distribution
A(10)B(9)C(9)D(1)F(7)A-/B+(4)
Based on 55 reported grades
C: 9
Not sure yet: 9
F: 7
A: 6
Common Tags
Graded by few things (22)
Test heavy (21)
Tough grader (19)
Get ready to read (12)
Skip class? You won't pass. (10)
Tough Grader (9)
Lecture heavy (9)
Tests are tough (6)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.67 avg change
Mar
Nov
Dec
Jun
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

MATH110

5.0

(1)

MATH214

4.4

(5)

114125

4.0

(1)

MTH113

4.0

(2)

MATH290

4.0

(1)
+21 more courses
Difficulty by Course

CSI700

5.0

MTH203

5.0

MTH125

5.0

MATH677

5.0

MATH101

5.0

Reviews (142)
1.0
3.0
MATH213
Apr 8, 2003

No Comments

3.0
4.0
MATH213
Nov 11, 2003

Second class with him (also took math 114). Terrible teacher that skips most of the important information when going over things. Does not really care for students. However, he does have a very favorable grading system that really helps your grade.

3.0
1.0
MATHS
Dec 10, 2003

If you are an above average student and you don't like to go to class, this is the proffesor for you. He doesn't teach well, but he goes straight out of the book. Biggest curve.

4.0
2.0
114125
Feb 8, 2004

Took Math 114, 125 and now 203 with him. He is to-the-point, no nonsense, no quizzes. His exams are hard but his curve is excellent. A no-nonsense professor. I like his teaching style, but you must be an independent learner. The first rater was ****!

3.0
3.0
MATH213
May 16, 2004

He teaches well but his exams are hard - no calculator, no equation..

2.0
5.0
MATH213
Sep 2, 2004

His lecture structure seems sloppy, at times it seems he is rushing through the material.

3.0
3.0
MATH125
Grade: A
Sep 29, 2004

Lectures from the book...I wouldn't take him if you suck at math. I think he's okay as a teacher, but I don't particularly care for his personality, I think he's one arrogant ****.

2.0
5.0
CSI700
Grade: A
Oct 12, 2004

Lamba had little interest in teaching. Exams had no relationship to topics covered in class.

2.0
4.0
MATH114
Dec 7, 2004

DONT take him...his tests are 5 questions and mostly no partial credit and have nothing to do with notes, homework or review, he prides his arrogant self on his useless tests and needs to change his shirts once inna while, jst notice hes usually wearin one particular red shirt

2.0
5.0
MATH125
Dec 17, 2004

His method of teaching is straight from the book, tests are 5 questions, no notes or calculator. His website http://math.gmu.edu/~harbir/ as you can see on his webpage he says arrogant things like places blessed with his presence. If You have a choice don't take his class.

3.0
3.0
MATH114
Dec 18, 2004

many people in college math expect to be handheld the way just like in high school. he asked if people wanted him to teach from the book or from his own information...people said the book, yet people complain. he frequently asked people if they have questions, but no one asks. he's hard, if you don'

4.0
5.0
MATH125
Jan 20, 2005

No Comments

2.0
3.0
MATH114
Apr 26, 2005

if you know math, then you'll ok, get a B like me. this guy is just aggorant.

1.0
5.0
MATH203
Apr 28, 2005

No Comments

1.0
5.0
MATH113
Apr 28, 2005

TOO CONCERNED WITH GETTING DONE EARLY. I DO NOT FEEL THAT I GOT MY MONEY'S WORTH. HE ONLY TAUGHT 60-70 MINUTES EACH CLASS AND SCURRIED OUT!!! I THINK I DESERVE A 36% REBATE FOR THE TUITION THAT HE CHEATED ME OUT OF. NOT A GOOD TEACHER. HE DOESN'T TEACH, HE DICTATES THE DEFINITIONS FROM THE BOOK. BOO

1.0
5.0
MATH114
May 1, 2005

Testing system is poor. Grades based on the class average, which sounded cool until I saw his exams. 5 impossible questions on each. How can you compete with that. Because of his class I am retaking Math 114, and I have a B+ this semester.

3.0
4.0
MATH203
May 9, 2005

very difficult tester; lectures from book; no hmwk grades; tests are mostly proofs(5 questions); grade system is unique and prolly helps(based on class average not 10 point scale); moves extremely fast, we covered 5 chapters in time other section covered 2 and a half; and yes, he is full of himself.

1.0
4.0
MATH203
May 17, 2005

Very poor class. I understand an F is mostly my fault. But every other class, even Mathematical Economics which uses Matrix Algebra (A-) I did fine in. This was a knowledgable man, who cares little, and expects that you have a recitation along with it--when there is none.

1.0
5.0
MTH203
May 17, 2005

AVOID THIS GUY AT ALL COSTS. He is a LOW rated professor and VERY ARROGANT. If you like snotty,condensending,arrogant,****y,and speedy people take him. His rating suck everywhere. We are not BLESSED AT ALL by his presence at Geoge Mason!! http://ratings.gmu.edu/

5.0
2.0
MATH125
May 18, 2005

Lamba's only hard if you're not willing to do the homework and ask questions. He's got an ego, but that's because he's better than you. Also, don't confuse his british accent for arrogance! His grading system is quite fair, based on the average, and designed to get a wide range of grades. Also had him for Calc III.

1.0
5.0
MTH203
Jun 3, 2005

I echo the same, he should be banned from teaching. trust me fellas! this mf wants to fail his entire class for his self-fulfilling prophecy, and he himself admits purposely giving harder tests. Don't take his class, and help others from getting TRAUMATIZED coz his**** ain't worth it. Lastly, he can make you hate MATH.

1.0
5.0
MTH125
Jul 21, 2005

Talks fast, doesn't explain a darn thing, gives hard tests and is a waste of time. Don't even do it to yourself!

3.0
5.0
MATH677
Aug 30, 2005

Tough but reasonable (at least for grad classes.) He expects a lot, and yes he makes his exams hard. Not recommended unless you like the subject. But I can't believe no one has mentioned how HOT he is!

1.0
5.0
MATH125
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Sep 8, 2005

stop saying that cr*p about working hard and getting a good grade... this guy is a very bad professor. he doesn't care or understand questions, he has a weird grading system. i went to his office hours and he could not help me with a problem... he is very very bad

4.0
2.0
MATH213
Oct 7, 2005

I don't understand why people say lamba is bad! his grading policy is based on the class average! so if u get a bad grade that means it was your fault since you got below average! I think all these negative comments come from these kind of people because the ones who get A and B never complain!

1.0
5.0
MATH125
Oct 13, 2005

No Comments

1.0
5.0
MATH101
Nov 10, 2005

I will never ever take a class with him..even if i lose my MASTER..

3.0
3.0
MATH213
Jan 16, 2006

He is not always clear, and usually in a rush. He seems hard but his grading system will allow you to get great grade (B+ or A) if you consistantly stay above average. I would take his class again. Follow his instruction and do the homeworks.

3.0
3.0
NUMLINALG
Jan 25, 2006

tough, european style, recommended only to those who like the subjec and know already a little. His calc classes are harder than average, but more interesting for math/cs people. Explains well, but not very helpful during OH. does he have any? Hope for a good TA. Stay away if you want to pass the class easily and don't care about math.

3.0
5.0
MATH213
Jan 25, 2006

Only take him if you feel extremely confident in Calc and want a challenge. Grades based on the average of the class. Tests are extremely hard. Gives barely any review sessions. Assigns hw, but doesn't collect. Teaches the material well, and his british accent will keep you awake. Did I mention HARD tests...

4.0
5.0
MATH125
Jul 4, 2006

Cons: Hardcore. Tough as nails. No mercy. Pushes the material to the limit. Definite stress tester. Pros: Has a unique grading system that is competitive, but actually easier than it appears. Entertaining accent. Very courteous over email and with questions. Intimidating, but not mean.

1.0
5.0
MATH114
Dec 6, 2006

He is the hardest Math Teacher I have ever had. I am pretty good at math but after taking his class I felt like dumn ass because he made it so hard on everyone. 85% of my class was failing, DO NOT TAKE HIM!!!!!!!!!

4.0
5.0
MATH114
Dec 12, 2006

in lectures he teaches straight out of the examples in text and hw problems, sure examples/hw problems are easy, then BAM! test time, his test are insanely hard, with little partial credit, class average on every test was around 40% he does curves to this tho, but still more than half the class is failing im dead serious in saying, DO NOT TAKE HIM!

5.0
5.0
MATH110
Apr 1, 2007

Took him for Introduction to Statistics. No prior interest, in fact I feared this subject, but had to take it for my major. He made a previously incomprehensible subject interesting and sensible. By the end, I had no fear. HIS TESTS ARE HARD but fair and his curve is also very fair.

3.0
4.0
MATH114
Dec 13, 2007

Knows what he is talking about, and is able to show why we'll need something later on. However, if you aren't good with calculas going in, don't take him. His tests are from 4-6 questions long, and they are often one step beyond what we have been taught. However, if you studying and do the recomended homework you should be fine.

5.0
4.0
MATH114
Dec 18, 2007

First off he does not grade on a curve, his system seems like a curve but trust me it is not. He is the best math teacher I have ever had, he is however a hard teacher with hard tests that expect you to know the material very well (also note there are no quizzes maple or any other fluff he does drop the lowest test though).

1.0
5.0
MATH113
Apr 1, 2008

horrible teacher. if you can learn calculus on your own, then you'll be fine. He makes that extremely clear on the first day. even if you work your ass off on the homework, the tests are nothing like it, they are ridiculously harder.

5.0
4.0
MTH113
Apr 21, 2008

Most liberal grading system that I've seen. If you score exactly at the class average you get a B-. If you cant score the class average then you need to find out what you are doing wrong. His grading system makes up for how hard he is.

4.0
3.0
MATH113
Apr 22, 2008

Compared to all the other Calc professors he is really good. I got a D in calc the first time I took it and did fine in his class. He is a funny guy too, just go to class and do the homework and you'll be fine

4.0
1.0
MATH113
May 29, 2008

He is a funny guy, pretty much like the Indian version of Harry Potter with strong British accent. Class are sooooo good and exams are easy. His grading system is special and you don't have to worry if you got a 60 out of 100. I got an A+ last semester and wanted to have his math 114 in the fall.

1.0
5.0
MATH114
Dec 12, 2008

Boring. Skips steps about how to solve problems. Test questions are random. A hard class just made harder. Don't take him unless you're already good at calculus.

3.0
3.0
MATH114
Dec 21, 2008

If you fall behind, go to recitation class. Lectures reinforce material assuming you've done your homework. I highly recommend this class for the independent types.

5.0
1.0
MATH114
Feb 27, 2009

This guy is hilarious. He isn't too bad at teaching, either. Tests are just like homework. He can't be worse that some of the other professors you might have the option of taking.

3.0
5.0
CALC108
Apr 16, 2009

DONOT TAKE THE CLASS UNLESS YOU'RE RETAKING IT OR YOU ALREADY KNOW CALCULUS. HE'S SMART BUT IS REALLY BAD AT PUTTING HIS MESSAGE ACROSS. THERE ARE NO ASSIGNMENTS SO IF YOU FAIL THE EXAM YOUR SCREWED!

2.0
5.0
MATH108
Apr 16, 2009

WORSE TEACHER EVER!!!! He is such a jerk and doesnt care if you fail or not. He kind of just rushes through examples so its difficult to understand him. Supposedly he has a good grading scale but we'll see at the end of this semester if its really that great

2.0
5.0
CALC108
Apr 24, 2009

STAY FAR FAR AWAY!! If you are a student that cares for your grades, DO NOT TAKE HIM! I don't doubt that he's a smart teacher but he seriously DOES NOT KNOW HOW HOW TO TEACH. His exams consist of 10 questions. NO ASSIGNMENTS NO NOTHING. However, if you're retaking the class and you know your stuff then you should be fine.

2.0
4.0
MATH203
Dec 13, 2009

Very strict. Ok when it comes to teaching but not awesome. Exams are very difficult and grades based on class average.

3.0
5.0
MATH203
Dec 16, 2009

This professor is extremely difficult to learn from. He creates no examples of his own and teaches directly from the book. If you do the homework, then you're not doing enough work to be able to do the tests comfortably. Take another professor if you can - Lamba gives no reviews and rushes through lectures.

1.0
5.0
MATH112
Dec 16, 2009

THIS GUY IS THE WORSE PROFESSOR IN THE WORLD. HIS TESTS ARE HARD, THE CLASS AVERAGE WAS 50 ON BOTH EXAMS. EVEN THE NERDS HATE THIS GUY. LOOK FOR ANOTHER.

4.0
4.0
MATH203
Dec 23, 2009

Heard bad things bout him but not all true. He seems arrogant but its mostly the british accent. Nice guy if you get help during office hours and his grading system is VERY generous. If its a big class, just doing better than the average will likely get you an A. Usually asks one question that NOBODY will get on tests. Do the HW & you'll do fine.

4.0
4.0
MATH203
Feb 8, 2010

He moves very quickly in class. The textbook was very helpful. Test have a lot of proofs but he usually gives some indication like "this theory is very important..." during class. Also nice and very helpful during office hours.

4.0
4.0
MATH203
Apr 9, 2010

Very smart professor. He knew da materials very well. He didnt like texting or even lookin at ur phone during his class. Weird. His tests were ok, if u do the problems from the book ull be fine. But there will be one or two questions that are out of the blue. However, grading system based on class average. So i'd an A tho I did bad on da 1st test.

2.0
4.0
MATH214
Apr 19, 2010

His exams are far from easy. VERY VERY rude, and he will disrespect you. He rewrite the book and he expects you to remember EVERYTHING from calc 1, 2, and 3.

5.0
3.0
MATH214
May 1, 2010

Really good instructor. All of the questions on the test were usually similar to the hw problems except one. Being able to repeat the procedures done on the problems in the text is not enough. Must thoroughly understand the concepts in order to answer that one question.

5.0
4.0
MATH214
May 14, 2010

The poor comments about this man are the slander from those who are unwilling to learn. Of course one goes into his classes required to remember previous knowledge. His teachings are cumulative and his style is excellent. Very effective, to the point, and crystal clear. Ignore the cries of those who speak ill of him, he is an amazing teacher.

5.0
4.0
MATH214
May 20, 2010

He is a good teacher. He really is more for self-directed students who don't need a lot of hand-holding. I didn't even work terribly hard for his class and did well. Students childishly freak out on this site B4 they understand his grading system.

5.0
3.0
MATH214
Jun 13, 2010

Dr. Lamba is an excellent lecturer and instructor. (Probably the best math prof I've had). He gives a bit more insight into the material than otherwise might be presented in the book. The exams can be tough but do-able. His side comments regarding various aspects of math can be quite interesting. I like that he doesn't suffer fools (too much).

5.0
3.0
MATH203
Aug 6, 2010

He's a pretty funny guy who really know his stuff. As another reviewer said, he "doesn't suffer fools" and likes to maintain command of the classroom. I found the lecturing very clear and while the examples were pretty much straight from the book, he can explain them in detail and from various angles. Tests were difficult but not ridiculous.

3.0
4.0
MATH105
Dec 22, 2010

Professor Lamba is an okay teacher, but complicates simple problems and fails to give students the proper tools to do well on tests. His grading rubric is excellent but also a bit of a gamble. If you take Lamba remember to memorize the equations: memorizing every formula on the inside of the front and back cover really helped on the Final.

2.0
4.0
MATH105
Dec 22, 2010

All I can say is that this man is very ambiguous. He stumbles and stammers a lot and gets very angry with things that don't follow his rules. Prior to the final, I had a C and I worked extremely hard to get it, but the final was too hard. Bottom line, if math is NOT a strong point for you, DO NOT TAKE HIM. He is a very advanced instructor.

3.0
4.0
MATH105
Dec 23, 2010

I rarely went to class so I cannot comment on helpfulness or clarity. I based those off the few classes I went to. I learned from the book and got a B - not horrible. My complaint about his class were the tests were sometimes 10 questions, and I the questions were too complex to actually test that I "knew" the material. Wouldn't recommend.

4.0
4.0
MATH105
Jun 11, 2011

Didnt bother to buy a textbook, but I did attend his lectures. I had an A going into the final and pulled off a B. Pretty tough final. I would not recommend unless you're a math wiz.

5.0
2.0
MATH113
Oct 3, 2011

Great professor- hated math until I took his class, now I'm seriously considering becoming a math major. Hard tests, but doing well really gives you a sense of accomplishment and an understanding of how math can be used to solve any kind of problem. Awesome accent, decent jokes, and one helluva grading system. This man here is one legit Brit.

1.0
5.0
MATH112
Oct 25, 2011

This guy is rude and doesn't care for the students. His tests are impossible with the first 2 class averages at 42 and 48. Only good thing is he grades on the average.

2.0
5.0
MATH125
May 16, 2012

I thought Lamba was a decent lecturer. However, his tests were plain awful. The averages were around the 50's for each test. I can miss over miss half the questions on the test and end up with a C? How does that prove I know the material? He can lecture, but otherwise my advice is to very much avoid.

1.0
5.0
MATH125
May 16, 2012

He is very intellegent and clearly loves maths clearly. However, he doesnt know how to get down to a students level and explain what's what. He sounds offended and surprised when people dont seem to know what he is talking about. As far as grading goes, he grades relative to the class and the tests are extremely hard. At lease 13 ppl failed.

4.0
3.0
MATH125
May 18, 2012

Good Professor, in his exams there is always one harder question even tough all questions are worth the same. Very clear and strict. No cellphones or computers on his class or he gets angry. With what he explains in class is enough for the exams. People hate him because he is strict but just do what he says and you should be fine

3.0
5.0
MATH112
Oct 10, 2012

Test are difficult. Class averages are below 60. Study time feels wasted because the questions are just ridiculous. Only take him if you have a defeatist attitude. You'll have an easier time with another professor most likely. The upside is he grades based on the class average. Attendance isn't mandatory but you'll have to go to review the HW.

1.0
5.0
MTH004
Oct 15, 2012

Worse Teacher I have seen so far. Rude, tests are not based on lectures, and as he says "YOUR ANSWER IS YOUR PERSONAL OPINION...ITS NOT AN STATEMENT" don't take him if you wish to pass.

1.0
5.0
MATH112
Nov 16, 2012

Horrible teacher... and his grading system leaves the students totally unaware of how they are doing in class until the final. If there is another option, which there wasn't one this semester, DON'T TAKE HIM.

2.0
5.0
MATH112
Dec 19, 2012

Avoid at all costs. Tests are ridiculous and teaches from book. If he is the only option for a semester, wait till the next.

2.0
5.0
MATH112
Dec 19, 2012

The homework he advises don't reflect the test questions. Expect the 4-6 short answer test questions to not appear in the hw, book or examples given. Class averages on 4 tests were 55, 28, 33, 44. He is a horrible professor and can't get down to the student's level with his teaching style. Half of our 90 person class either dropped or failed.

2.0
5.0
MATH112
Dec 19, 2012

Having 3 classes remaining, I can say this was the worst. I learned more from reading the book than sitting in class (never missed). When the class average for a test is 28% there is something seriously wrong with the teaching and telling the class you either get it or you don't is a joke. Wait for a different professor if you need this class.

5.0
1.0
MATH112
Jan 23, 2013

Great teacher, tests are hard, but he doesn't grade it the usual way. class average was around 30s for exams, but I still got an A~ go to class and you'll be fine.

1.0
5.0
MTH125
Apr 15, 2013

Look at his MyEdu page. In one course (Calc II) 39% of the class failed. If that is the case, he is doing something horribly wrong. The same is for the course I took.

1.0
5.0
MATH447
May 13, 2013

I would like to say to everyone , please do not take him by all the means..if you want to suffer, go there and you will see..he has no knowledge,he reads verbatim from the book..he doesnot prepare..AVOIDDDDDD IN ALL CASES

1.0
5.0
MATH447
May 15, 2013

this is one of the worst semester that i have ever had. he said he would cover only 3 chapters. by the end he did 7.he said he wrote the book for the matlab before the one we have now.now he does not know.to see how he cares, it would be better to look at his teeth..a miserable creature.had to learn all by myself.avoid in all cases

3.0
5.0
MTH113
Grade: Fail
Aug 28, 2013

This guy is a research professor, so why he's teaching calculus I have no idea. A student had a question and asked him after class. His response: "I don't help students." Also, the class average for tests never peaked 60% and that's after easily half the people quit. He's a trip to listen to in class, but don't take him if you need the material.

2.0
4.0
MATH125
Oct 20, 2013

Professor Lamba is a terrible teacher. He does not know how to explain simple concepts. He uses the excuse "this is so simple so I can't explain it." That means he can't teach! I wouldn't recommend him at all. He tested on a concept we hadn't yet taken and his explanation was "I wanted u to think about it" Why on an exam? I lost 10 points on that!

3.0
5.0
MATH125
Oct 28, 2013

This class is NOT EASY!!!! He doesn't make it any better. But if you do end up taking his class get ready to study ur ass off. Plus, go talk to him. He seems scary, I was shaking before I walked into his office but he really is a nice-ish guy.

2.0
5.0
MATH125
Nov 7, 2013

By far the worst professor I've ever had. He will teach from textbook, and state that the material is incredibly simple and you're incompetent if you can't. He tests on material not taught yet, and his test averages are dismal. Avoid at all costs.

2.0
4.0
MATH125
Dec 14, 2013

AVOID, AVOID, AVOID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is the worst professor I've had in my life! the class itself is not easy and he is horrible. I am a math major and I ended up failing this class. The class average on test were always around the 40%'s! Do yourself a favor and AVOID HIM!!!

2.0
5.0
MATH125
Dec 15, 2013

Avoid having him as a teacher like the plague! While he IS very smart, he teaches out of the textbook. His grading system is wacky. Say you get a 47 on a test (common) and the average is a 40 (that's generous). Your grade on the test is +7. While it sounds enticing, it's not a good one. It causes ambiguity. Plus, the tests are TOO HARD! Avoid him!

1.0
5.0
MATH125
Grade: B+
Dec 16, 2013

I don't know what else I can tell about this professor, I love math, but he really makes me hate the class he taught very much. I studied so hard for his class, but still end up getting a bad grade. I never get below B from all of my math classes from GMU until taking with him. Avoid this prof. He is one of the worst

2.0
5.0
MATH125
Dec 19, 2013

Horrible professor, extremely rude and very MEAN! Believes that if the class average is a 30% then it's the students fault and calls the entire class dumb. I don't understand how people like him keep jobs...

3.0
4.0
MATH125
Jan 1, 2014

This professor explains things simply, however he goes VERY FAST. He does downgrade people, he never blames himself for failures, and he doesn't believe in curves. Don't let this get you down though. I never got above an F on his tests, yet with his grading system I walked out with a B-. So if you're stuck with him don't worry, just ask questions.

3.0
5.0
MATH125
Jan 28, 2014

Lamba is an absolutely RUTHLESS tester. His exams were near impossible to do well in without prior knowledge. Averages were consistently below 40 for his tests. He is extremely smart and does a good job explaining some hard concepts but his CRUEL tests were way too much for me...he expected people to figure out new concepts during the test!!!!

3.0
3.0
MATH125
Feb 4, 2014

Brutal exams. Study HARD before exams, and know the fundamental concepts in and out. He drops one, so as long as you are trying hard each time you will probably be fine.

4.0
5.0
MATH113
May 13, 2014

Great at explaining concepts but doesnt allow students to ask many questions. He is degrading to his students and will let you know if the question your asking is dumb, in front of the class and during office hours. Tests are tough, average usually around a 40%. Take him if your motivated and want to learn, otherwise take another professor.

1.0
5.0
MATH112
Grade: F
Dec 14, 2014

He is a very sadistic grader. The Final in this class will make or break you. Coming into the Final I had a C+, going out I had a F. The same thing happened to most of the students in my class. AVOID HIM AT ALL COSTS The class consists of 4 exams and a Final, he drops the lowest score and grades on a curve but the average for his class is a 40%.

1.0
5.0
MATH112
Grade: F
Jan 9, 2015

I registered really late and I had no choice but to take this guy.. oh man what a big mistake. I have never failed classes and this will be my first and last class to fail. This guy is so terrible. he goes everything by the book. What is the point of coming to the class? wasting gas and time. He hands out homeworks which does not relate to any test

1.0
5.0
MATH112
Grade: F
Feb 7, 2016

What an amazing professor! "Said no one ever" I would highly recommend him if you want to fail and lower your GPA, besides that there is no other reason to take him.

3.0
4.0
MATH203
Grade: A+
Dec 16, 2016
Would take again

He was not terrible. I wanted to write a review for him for future students planning on taking the class. Professor Lamba will make you work for it. His tests are very hard and broke down as 1-2 problems you'll have to think about while the rest are the material in the hw. He makes you write proofs, but just relax, work hard and you'll do fine.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
MATH125
Grade: A
Feb 18, 2017
Would take again

This is not easy material, but he does a great job teaching it, happily answers questions, and goes over every test in detail after the fact. His sense of humor is dry and a little sarcastic, but he's a nice guy who wants you to achieve more than a surface understanding. Do the homework, pay attention, study, and you'll do well.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
4.0
MATH203
Grade: F
Mar 6, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He has no homework for points, he spends most of his lectures talking big to sound important, and his grading system seem purposely designed to give you an F, even if you did well before then. You get three tests, one cumulative final, no curve on any of them. If you ask a question get ready to be more confused than you were. Never take him!!

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
MATH203
Grade: B
Dec 21, 2017
Wouldn't take again

This is the one time to actually listen to Ratemyprofessor, this dude is terrible. He picks random small concepts out of the book and tests you on it. So if you read and understood the whole chapter but didn't catch one term in it, then you get a 0 on that question. He's not worth taking, do well in Linear and not stress over it this much.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tests are tough
1.0
5.0
MATH113
Dec 21, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Not a good teacher at all, may be a good professor but his teaching skills dont explain what students need. Makes stuff harder than usual for no reason. Uses mathematical definition to define limits and other stuff because English is a vague language, defining in maths is better, all of which are useless and extra burden

Tough Grader
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Tests are tough
1.0
5.0
MATH203
Grade: B
Dec 21, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Do not take even if it is your last semester. This professor grades based off of what you think deserve which you honestly wouldnt find out until the last day of class. He guaranteed on the first day of class that 40% of students will fail. He generally rude to students every class. Lectures are not helpful. All info can be found in textbook.

Tough Grader
Tests? Not many
Tests are tough
1.0
5.0
MATH113
Grade: C
Dec 22, 2017
Wouldn't take again

The right thing to do for yourself is to pick another professor. He doesn't explain things properly and the only way you would understand his lectures is if you already knew the material beforehand. His tests were ridiculously short 5 questions and really hard. btw calc students,get the pdf version if you don't want to pay over 300 for the book.

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Tests are tough
1.0
5.0
MATH203
Grade: A-
Dec 28, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Harsh indeed! Understand that Lamba has a very high ego and at times indirectly ridicules the class for failing to understand high level concepts. It's as if he is teaching advanced linear algebra instead. One of the most strict professor I have ever seen. He's also going to ask proofs on the exams. Worked too hard in this class. Just avoid him.

Tough Grader
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Tests are tough
1.0
5.0
MTH203
Jan 14, 2018
Wouldn't take again

If you want to remotely pass this class you will need to have linear algebra as your region. This professor makes it this difficult. He also makes jokes towards how us "Americans" were taught incorrectly our whole life. He makes you feel stupid as well. Not sure how he is still at Mason, maybe its to scam students.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Tests are tough
5.0
4.0
MATH203
Grade: A
Feb 27, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Lamba is the best math professor I have ever taken. If you pay attention to his lectures and do all the homework assignments, you WILL understand linear algebra at a theoretical level and be able to understand WHY each theorem is true, not just how to do arithmetic with matrices.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
1.0
5.0
MATH125
Grade: F
May 9, 2019
Wouldn't take again

DO NOT TAKE MATH 125 WITH THIS PROFESSOR. His exams are brutal and for a 100 level class. The Exam is brutal and you have to be on top of your work to do well. Get ready to study and read the book like a maniac. He is cocky and not much help during office hours. He will just ridicule you and point out your flaws. Do not waste your time or money!!!

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Test heavy
3.0
5.0
MATH125
Grade: B-
May 11, 2019
Would take again

I took this professor in the Spring semester of 2019. This professor is easily the most challenging but most rewarding experiences I've had in school. This guy made me work harder than I've ever worked before because of his crazy class room where everything depends on 4 tests; that the average of which was less than 50 for all of them. He's good

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
MATH125
Grade: C
May 13, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Confusing grading scheme, condescending attitude, and an inability to teach. Avoid at all costs. He refuses to answer questions at office hours, takes no responsibility for his students failing, and bragged about having a 70% failure rate in 2017

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
MATH125
Grade: F
May 13, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Do not under any circumstances, take MATH 125 with this professor. Hes not the best at teaching. His grading system is very confusing and he usually copies the lecture notes from the book. Dont waste your time taking this course with this professor, otherwise, you have 10% chances of passing the course, and also all four exam.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
4.0
3.0
MATH125
Grade: A+
Aug 22, 2019
Would take again

Prof. Lamba gets a bad rap. He's thorny, but he knows Math better than any prof I've ever had, and it's obvious. My one actual critique is that his grading criteria isn't clear. Other than that, though, his exams are very fair compared to the homework. He is willing to help you out in office hours if you need it, and mostly available in classes.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
MATH213
Grade: B
Jan 6, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Harbir Lamba is a tough professor. His grading criteria is not clear but if you put the work in, do all the homework (multiple times), you will get a good grade. You will need the book as he is not great at teaching during the lecture period. You will learn more from doing the homework than anything.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Tough grader
5.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: A+
Jan 13, 2020
Would take again

Professor Lamba is definitely an expert on his subject. He doesn't check homework for his classes but that doesn't mean you shouldn't do them because you will need the practice in his class. However, I have noticed his teaching style is more geared to upper level math courses. Definitely take him for a 300-400 level class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
MATH113
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 15, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Lamba turned our class to mostly asynchronous and does less than the bare minimum: 1-hour meeting per week. Grading system is confusing, tests consist of 5 questions so your odds of getting a good grade are slim, and he seems to think a class average of 50 is "good." Do yourself a favor and choose a teacher who actually WANTS to teach.

Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
5.0
MATH290
Grade: C
Dec 22, 2020
Would take again

He's one of those professors you hate having at the time but know you'll appreciate in courses that require his class as a pre-requisite since he goes super into detail. My only 2 critiques are a very unclear grading system, and how he writes test's exclusively on how much he likes the material of each chapter.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
MATH113
Grade: A+
Jan 15, 2021
Wouldn't take again

As a person: hilarious, as a professor: lacking. IMO he shouldn't be teaching Calc 1; he always thinks four steps ahead & has to think of a way to explain concepts in simpler terms. DO THE HW! His test Qs were often pulled/inspired from it & they really help to grasp the material. His grading system & bell curve is based on class performance

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
1.0
5.0
MATH316
Grade: D
May 5, 2021
Wouldn't take again

He is rude and condescending to students. He yelled at us during the final because of his lack of organization. I wrote an official complaint to the department chair because I feel like he should no longer teach this course. I am a senior and because of him I may not graduate and will have to wait a whole year to retake this course. Just awful.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Tough grader
2.0
5.0
673MATH
Grade: Rather not say
May 17, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Professor Lamba's grading was not good enough for the work I was doing in his class. I knew the course and loved it before I took it with him, unfortunately his teaching was bad enough to hate the course. So try to have a professor who wants you to learn not to fail.

1.0
5.0
MATH300
Grade: F
Jun 19, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Just the absolute worst professor I have ever witnessed. Honestly at this point I'm not even surprised at the quality of GMU instructors. Just horrible.

Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 18, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Byfar the worst professor I have ever taken. If you need to take this class and he is the only prof available, DONT. He has 3 exams and drops one BUT theres a catch, he doesnt curve he only subtracts or adds the difference of your grade from the class ave and then he adds or sub that from your final grade. Let me not even mention the name-calling

Test heavy
1.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 11, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Horrible professor, horrible course, horrible teaching. I would have had an easier time learning calc3 from a prof who doesnt speak English and can only communicate through signs, at least that way I wouldnt understand when Im being called a stupid useless student. I honestly have no clue how or why he is still teaching.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Test heavy
4.0
5.0
MATH300
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2021
Would take again

Dr. Lamba gets a fair amount of criticism because he's a little rough around the edges. He's no-nonsense and he doesn't fall for teacher's pets. Even though he's not super friendly, he obviously loves math. For me, his interest in math was infectious and I really enjoyed the course, despite the difficulty and the unclear grading scheme.

Gives good feedback
Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
MATH113
Grade: C
Apr 28, 2022

Please do not fall for the fake reviews on this professor. He is hands down the worst professor I've had so far. He doesn't teach! You'll have to independently learn just to skim by with a C. He responds in a condescending tone anytime you ask for clarification. His final is 50% of your grade. LOL! If he is the only option... Just don't.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: B
May 4, 2022

Lamba was by far the worst professor I have ever had and made no effort to teach. He used lectures he recorded 4 semesters ago and they don't even explain any of the concepts. Whenever he is asked any questions, he replies with "read the book" or "look at the examples in the book" even if you are asking for clarification on one of the examples.

Tough grader
Beware of pop quizzes
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: Not sure yet
May 10, 2022

This professor has been the worst teacher I've had in my entire life. Mans simply does not care about his students and is only there because he has to. All he tells us is to "read the textbook" and does not teach us anything or how to work around problems that appear on quizzes. He is just terrible and I don't know how GMU pays this mans to teach.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: Not sure yet
May 12, 2022

To keep it short, he is the worst professor I've ever taken for any math class. He bases your entire grade on one final exam of 10 questions. I don't know how many other classes he teaches but he barely puts any effort into his pre-recorded lectures. I hope the department of math reads his reviews and actually takes them into account. Avoid him.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: Not sure yet
May 13, 2022

Do not take this professor. I saw the reviews and still did it and now I have regret. The recorded lectures are years old and not helpful. The professor also gave no guidance for the final other than study the book. Half of your grade is based on the final. If you don't pass the final you fall the class regardless of your current grade Avoid!!!

Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: C
May 16, 2022

final was 50% of the class. class organization sucked. his lectures were not informative he kept mentioning refer to the book (pearson etext) for examples instead of providing any. quizzes through my math lab that he did not make; they were made by the TA. expects you to know everything without properly assessing if you do. disrespectful in emails

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: C
May 18, 2022

This professor is extremely tough and half of our grade was determined by a final with 10 questions. Make sure you have thoroughly gone over the subjects of the textbook because you really have to work for it with this professor

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: B
May 18, 2022

If you are considering taking Professor Lamba, I would urge you to reconsider. He isn't really available for help and never provides any sort of clear instructions in any regard. Didn't even make a clear syllabus and didn't have a calendar for the course either. Honestly, wait another semester but don't take him. Even the TA's were fed up with him.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: C
May 18, 2022

AVOID HIM, WE ARE TRYING TO GET HIM FIRED.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH213
Grade: Rather not say
May 19, 2022

WORST professor ever. Half of your grade was based on a final. Was very passive aggressive via email. A few students tested Positive or were showing Symptoms of Covid-19, he literally did not care and gave them no other option than to show up and take the test or get an F, putting other people at risk. He needs to be investigated and fired.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH203
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 29, 2023

Tests are nothing like HW. Attitude problem. Reads straight from the textbook and adds none of his own notes. The way he taught was so awful I've learned nothing. On top of proofs and knowing specific definitions for the tests, the wording of each question is confusing. Be ready to get

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
MATH203
Grade: A
Dec 12, 2023
Would take again

Note: I took a very similar course in HS I enjoyed class with Professor Lamba. Not the greatest lecturer, but clearly very knowledgeable and went through all necessary material in class. Tests are difficult, but his grading scale is very lenient. I strongly recommend doing the assigned homework. If you do not, you will most likely fail.

Participation matters
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
2.0
5.0
MATH114
Grade: C
Dec 31, 2023

Took him for my first semester of college. Biggest mistake ever. He only graded us on 4 tests plus the final, the four tests having only five questions, while the final had ten. This was a major change from high school. Aside from that all he did was lecture at us, while pretty much just reading straight from the textbook examples.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH114
Grade: C
Mar 13, 2024

The way he grades is terrible. We had four tests and the final, if you did badly on the final you failed the whole class. I had him for MATH116(honors sections of MATH114). We started with 10 people and ended with four. He lectured the entire time and did not take advantage of the small class size.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
4.0
MATH114
Grade: B-
Nov 26, 2024

Professor Lamba's class is tough, but using tools like Unstuck AI alongside the textbook can really help. Lectures cover material well, but engagement is key to succeed.

1.0
5.0
MATH203
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 4, 2024

Don't take this professor. He just reads from the textbook without explaining concepts. The course has only four homework assignments, and the rest is based on extremely difficult tests, with class averages in the 50s. He doesn't help students or clarify anything. Avoid him if you value your GPA.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
MATH203
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 16, 2024

He is difficult. His way of covering the material is exactly from the book, and he covers homework questions in class that he assigns. It is a time commitment if you want to do well. He does not give practice exams, you are expected to prepare yourself for whatever he decides to throw at you. I would suggest learning proofs before taking him.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
1.0
4.0
MATH203
Grade: B-
Dec 17, 2024

Professor Lamba knows his linear algebra inside out but he is not a great teacher who can communicate his knowledge to his students, Linear algebra is a very theoretical and conceptual class and the ideas are difficult to grasp, but his teaching style makes the class even harder than it already is.

Tough grader
Test heavy
2.0
5.0
MATH203
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 18, 2024

You can tell he understands the material extremely well, but he cannot teach it. You'll be forced to rely on the textbook if you want to succeed in this class. The tests are tricky and you'll have to remember very specific things if you want to do well. Class averages on the tests are really low. I'd tell you to avoid him.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH203
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 24, 2024

Harsh grader, would avoid his classes.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH203
Grade: A-
Dec 27, 2024

Dr. Lamba's MATH203 is a difficult course, and the lectures are not original, instead using strict textbook definitions without imagination or alternate descriptions included. I ended up not going to over 90% of lectures in favor of reading the entire textbook and watching YouTube lecture videos. Steer clear of Dr. Lamba if AT ALL possible.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
MATH203
Jun 5, 2025

Not great at the whole "teaching" thing. Also unfortunately British

1.0
1.0
MATH108
Grade: B+
Nov 6, 2025

The absolute WORST professor EVER. He openly disdains teaching, hates teaching students, and openly hostile to students. By far one of the worst people in the history of Mason and he should be fired.

4.0
4.0
MATH203
Grade: B-
Dec 16, 2025
Would take again

He is that type of professor, but luckily he doesn't give out much homework. He grades much harsher but he uses the british grading system as he is british. His attitude can seriously aggrivate people, but you can handle and study your hardest you will be fine. He has 4 tests as well and 4 hw. No answer sheets in this either.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

20%

Textbook Required

73%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

C+

95% confidence
Based on 40 grades
Most common grades:
C (9)
Not sure yet (9)
F (7)
Grade Distribution
A(10)B(9)C(9)D(1)F(7)A-/B+(4)
Based on 55 reported grades
C: 9
Not sure yet: 9
F: 7
A: 6
Common Tags
Graded by few things (22)
Test heavy (21)
Tough grader (19)
Get ready to read (12)
Skip class? You won't pass. (10)
Tough Grader (9)
Lecture heavy (9)
Tests are tough (6)
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Ratings by Course

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5.0

(1)

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4.4

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4.0

(1)

MTH113

4.0

(2)

MATH290

4.0

(1)
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Difficulty by Course

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5.0

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MTH125

5.0

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5.0

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