4.0

Stephen Zill

Economics - De Anza College

4.0
Quality
2.6
Difficulty
56%
Would Retake
182
Reviews
4.0
Quality
2.6
Difficulty
4.0
Helpful
4.0
Clarity

56%

Would Retake

182

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official
182 total ratings

5

99

4

36

3

26

2

11

1

10

What Students Say

i dont think that was easy

ECON2 - 4.0 rating

Stephen Zill has a genuine interest in macroeconomics, and he respects the subject he's teaching

ECON001 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

30%

Textbook Required

81%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 39 grades
Most common grades:
A (17)
A+ (7)
Not sure yet (5)
Grade Distribution
A(24)B(4)C(4)D(4)F(1)A-/B+(4)
Based on 48 reported grades
A: 17
A+: 7
Not sure yet: 5
B: 4
Common Tags
Clear grading criteria (9)
Lecture heavy (9)
Get ready to read (8)
Skip class? You won't pass. (7)
LECTURE HEAVY (6)
EXTRA CREDIT (6)
Graded by few things (5)
Test heavy (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.56 avg change
Apr
Aug
May
Jul
Aug
Nov
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ECON1AMAC

5.0

(1)

MACRO

5.0

(2)

ECON1AND2

5.0

(1)

ECON1MACRO

5.0

(2)

MICROECONOMICS

5.0

(1)
+19 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ECONMICRO

5.0

ECON1MACRO

4.0

MICROECON0020

4.0

ECON02

3.3

ECON001

3.2

Reviews (181)
5.0
2.0
ECON2
Sep 19, 2003

I think he is a very good teacher. He is very good at explaining stuff.

5.0
2.0
ECON1
Sep 22, 2003

Making Econ doable. Sometime he will be covering several topic at once so pay attention in class. If you can follow the lecture you dont need the book, that is kind of cool. (**take good note in class**).

5.0
2.0
ECON001
Oct 25, 2003

Very straight forward, listen to lecture and take notes, ONLY look at the SUMMARIES in book. he definantly makes economics doable.

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Nov 25, 2003

if you understand his lecture, you can get A. Sometimes his lecture is boring and mekes me sleepy~zzz

4.0
2.0
ECONOMICS
Nov 25, 2003

I've taken every other micro class here at De Anza, and i've always gotton an F or D. I took Zills, and it clicks. If you take both micro and macro, take them both with Zills! You can tell he's really into his Economics.

5.0
1.0
ECON12
Dec 5, 2003

I took both classes with him. He's very nice, clear teaching, and good to look at too!

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Dec 9, 2003

in a few words, by far the BEST econ teacher u can have. Med to easy exams, excellent teaching method, very clear and helpful. you cant go wrong in his class if u apply urself.

5.0
2.0
ECONOMICS
Dec 10, 2003

If you take notes and study, you get an A for sure. He helps students a lot!

5.0
1.0
ECON12
Feb 17, 2004

He is easy. Not that much homework to do and no pressures about his class. Test are okay, not hard. I passed this class with ease. If you need to take the Econ class, take them both with Zill. You will like it.

5.0
3.0
ECON1
Mar 17, 2004

i'm a week away from the final, but so far, class with zill is great. he makes things understandable, i really reccomend him

5.0
2.0
MACROECON
Mar 22, 2004

I did poorly on all of my exams however, I went to all of his class sessions and participated in all of his in class activities which is only a few. If you hate econ and just need to take the class to get it out of the way, Zill is the man for you.IgotC

5.0
2.0
ECON1
Mar 25, 2004

You don't get an Econ teacher as funny as him. He's very straight forward with the class material, he gives you good preparation for your test. And he's hot!

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Mar 25, 2004

Professor Zill is one of the best lecturers out there! He takes a subject that is notorious for being boring and abstract, and makes it relatively entertaining and easy to understand. His tests are a little on the easy side, but he’s a good teacher and

3.0
3.0
ECON
Grade: B+
Apr 1, 2004

No Comments

3.0
3.0
1
Apr 1, 2004

he's alright...

5.0
2.0
ECON1
Apr 6, 2004

I took his Econ1&2. He is really good teacher for both of classes. Econ2 was easy to get A, but Econ1 was hard a bit. But he is the best teacher! Strongly recommend him.

4.0
3.0
ECON1
Apr 7, 2004

Test are a bit hard but the teacher is pretty kool. Just take good notes and read the text, you will pass for sure.

5.0
2.0
ECON2
May 6, 2004

Really funny teacher. He is willing to help students before class and during office hours. Make sure to take good notes since most questions are more lecture based than from the book.

4.0
3.0
ECON2
May 19, 2004

he is okay

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Jun 22, 2004

Great teacher and very funny too. He gotta be the best Econ teacher in De Anza.

5.0
2.0
ECON12
Jun 24, 2004

Mr. Zill is a great teacher. Very helpful & patient, doesn't mind explaining at all. He knows his stuff so be sure to take good notes. Easy-going & fun but don't let your phone go off in class. Tests are mult. choice/short ans. plus a 2-page paper due.

5.0
2.0
ECON1AMAC
Jun 30, 2004

Mr. Zill is an excellent teacher and I recommend him to EVERYONE and ANYONE! Not super easy, but definitely not super hard, you just have to attend class to pass pretty much!

5.0
1.0
MACROECON
Jul 1, 2004

very nice... wants to teach and likes to help and explain.. probably one of the best teacher in de anza.

5.0
1.0
MICROECON
Jul 12, 2004

very nice and helpful teacher. His class is much fun and he explains things clearly . Definitely recommended!!!

5.0
1.0
MACRO
Jul 17, 2004

best teacher; easy to see that he wants to make sure that you learn it rather than just teaching it because he has to.. just don't miss a day of class and you got yourself an A.

5.0
3.0
ECON1
Jul 20, 2004

I LOVE THIS PROFESSOR. He had very interesting lectures. I actually ENJOYED coming to his class.

5.0
1.0
ECON12
Jul 24, 2004

He is all stright up, no bull type of teacher. Go to class and study his reading assignment you will get at least a B. He will make you understand Econ and his tests you basic of understand of the subject but not memoriztion.

5.0
1.0
ECON2
Jul 28, 2004

Great teacher

5.0
1.0
ECON2
Aug 3, 2004

I love Stephen. Definitely recommend him for anyone who needs econ. You will learn from his class.

5.0
2.0
ECON
Aug 5, 2004

Very good at explaining stuff. Great sense of humor. Tests are essay/multiple choice. If you study and take good notes, you'll do fine. Is willing to answer questions before/after class. Drawback is he doesn't have office hours.

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Aug 8, 2004

He is the best teacher in De Anza, if you have to take econ and want have some fun, don't hasitate to take his class. he makes econ so interestin and so easy.

5.0
2.0
ECON12
Aug 15, 2004

If you need to take Economics, take it from Zill. There's no better teacher out there than him. He may be a Russel Crowe look-alike but don't let that fool you. He's really smart and loves to teach. Come to class everyday and you should do fine.

5.0
1.0
ECON2
Sep 24, 2004

BEST ECON TEACHER IN DE ANZA. IF YOU LISTEN IN HIS CLASS & TAKE NOTES, YOU ARE GONNA DO WELL.

5.0
1.0
ECON1
Oct 14, 2004

best teacher ever.. if you just ask him a question he will go out of his way to let you fully understand... if u just ask what you dont' understand, you will get an A... that's the key.. just ask him what u don't get and you will understand... very helpfu

5.0
1.0
ECON12
Nov 23, 2004

take him for econ if you want to pass!

5.0
1.0
ECON12
Dec 1, 2004

The man got skills; he disrespects the whole game of economics. Great sense of humor! Very little work- multiple choice tests (2 written questions, which he tells you about in advance), 3 HWs, one paper. You might find his lectures a LITTLE intimidating at first. Best of all, no cummulative final!

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Dec 6, 2004

i think he is the best econ teacher in de anza. he makes economic not to be that frightening and he tests u based on ur undststanding not based on how much u memorized the text. he gives study guide for exam.

5.0
1.0
ECON2
Dec 8, 2004

He is a great professor. He explains the material well and does not give suprise questions in his exams like Prof. Bull. It is an interesting class because he make it interesting. If you need econ make sure you only take it with him.

5.0
1.0
ECON2
Jan 3, 2005

Zill is awesome. Just listen to his interesting lessons and you'll never have to read or study extensively. He's easygoing and laid back. He gives you the info you need to know in advance.

5.0
1.0
ECON1
Jan 3, 2005

if you must take the dreadful economic subject. please take it zill. he will make your life much more enjoyable than suffering through bull's dreadful h20 devouring mouth and mack's ear deafening hick up that he does every 10 seconds. zill explains things way clearer. go to class, take notes get

5.0
1.0
ECON1AND2
Jan 13, 2005

One of the best teachers at de anza college. He's very helpful and nice. I would highly recommend this teacher. He's also easy on the eyes too. =)

5.0
1.0
MACRO
Mar 6, 2005

I made the mistake of take micro-econ with Mack and definately made up for it by taking macro with Zill. Zill is the best, hands down. You'll leave with a clear understanding of the basics of econ.

4.0
2.0
ECON
Mar 22, 2005

He teaches very well. However, most of his class is in night time. I don't like it.

5.0
1.0
MICROECON
Mar 28, 2005

Just listen to his lectures, and read the textbook as a review before the exams and u'll do well.

3.0
4.0
ECON1
Mar 29, 2005

Honestly...he gets really confusing at times trying to explain the subject in class. He is very boring, he is not a great teacher.He also would ask a question and answer it himself right away instead of the students answering it. If yu can take someone else do IT. Good luck with the class.

5.0
1.0
ECON1
Mar 30, 2005

I took both macro- and microeconomics with Zill and do not regret it a bit. All I did was go to class and take good notes, which I studied on the day of the exam. Easy assignments. I didn't buy a book, and I did well. He's hilarious, too.

5.0
2.0
ECON1
Apr 5, 2005

If anyone finds Zill confusing, I suspect it's because English is not their native language. He makes the rather "Dry" topic of Econ. interesting & accessible to most. He often presented rhetorical questions (Socratic teaching style)and didn't expect an answer. Zill is the BEST Econ. teacher at DA.

5.0
3.0
ECON12
Jun 29, 2005

Zill's teaching is more like what you'll find at Harvard or Stanford. Sign up for his classes and you wont regret it. Best possible education your money can buy at DeAnza.

5.0
3.0
ECON1
Jul 11, 2005

I gave him a 3 for ease not because he's a hard teacher,but cause econ is a tough subject.Great teacher,lectures are extreamly interesting and very clear.Tests covers lectures,as long as you take good notes in class and study them you will do well.Attendence is not mandatory,but nearly everyone showed up for every class meeting.That shows something

3.0
3.0
ECON12
Jul 15, 2005

I thing he is a pretty challenging instructor! It's a pretty tough class and one really needs to study well from the book as well his notes! be prepared to donate a lot of time each day to do well in class! but in total he is a very helpful, nice, funny and clear instructor as far as the instruction is concerned! Take him, unless a slacker!!!

5.0
5.0
ECON1MACRO
Jul 27, 2005

I agree, his summer course is way too fast, and text is hard to read. So if you're taking any of his classes, read the text first before taking it. it's hard if you have no previous knowledge of Economics, i recommend taking Micro first, or simple borrow a Econ text to self study first before taking econ classes. : (

4.0
3.0
ECON2
Jul 28, 2005

u may find the 1st part of his class hard, but 'don't sweat'(his fav words), cuz they'll get better aftr that.exam 1 is hard but the rest r ez A. zill's a funny teacher his lectures r boring sumtimes but most of the time they crack me up.jokes r so funny!i gif 3 for ezness cuz econ's hard& not him.take him! he looks lyk russell crowe--wif humour =)

5.0
1.0
ECON12
Aug 2, 2005

He is great! His lectures are down to earth and funny. His exams are easy (even for ESL students). I really recommend him to everyone, cause u will learn something AND get an A, if u study a bit. Hint: Go to class and study your classnotes well!

5.0
1.0
ECON1
Aug 8, 2005

It seems like this class has been finished. woow I just woke up this morning. woow I've got A. So, I'm going to bed again.

5.0
1.0
ECON1
Aug 10, 2005

Zill is a good economics professor. Explains each topic with depth and provides plenty of real life examples. Exams are very do-able if you go to his lectures.

5.0
2.0
ECON1
Aug 12, 2005

thorough & fun lecture w/ examples from current real world news. very helpful when asked. very understanding instructor; willing to help w/ extra credits when asked. a worthwhile lecture to be in. zill's one of the most popular econ instructors at DA. understanding all his lectures and his jokes thoroughly will get u A. exams r all from lectures.

2.0
5.0
ECON1
Aug 24, 2005

Knows his stuff but a jerk

5.0
1.0
ECON1
Oct 4, 2005

Nice ,nice , nice , easy, easy, and easy... Multiple choices are awsome: A. True B. Fals C.Either

5.0
2.0
ECON12
Nov 12, 2005

Very clear with illustrations, not confusing at all and very thorough. Pay attention, take good notes and you should pass the class. Not an "easy A" like some people say but you definitely get your money's worth by taking his class. Best Economics teacher at DeAnza, period.

4.0
4.0
ECON1
Dec 6, 2005

Attendance is not mandatory, but you should attend all his lectures to do well. Midterms are mainly based on his lectures so take good notes and ATTEND CLASS. The midterms are fair, but a little hard. Though, he grades on a curve. Concentrate on doing well on the homework and you should do well on the midterms.

3.0
3.0
ECON2
Dec 10, 2005

quite many homework assignments. overall is ok

5.0
3.0
ECON1
Jan 5, 2006

He is very good and helpful teacher.The tests are based on the lectures.

3.0
2.0
ECON2
Jan 9, 2006

Midterms are hard but overall class is OK.

1.0
5.0
ECON2
Feb 21, 2006

This class very unclear.

1.0
5.0
ECONMICRO
Mar 7, 2006

no real homework assignments. class is strictly lecture lecture lecture. a lot of what he talks about is in the reading as well. If you like all that traditional style of teaching then take this class. If you can't stand someone lecturing for 2 hours then don't take this class. overall...boring class

2.0
5.0
ECON2
Mar 10, 2006

i don't know why people say zill's easy!! his tests are hard and his lecture is so fact and hard to understand. there's nothing to help your grade so if you mess up one test, itz over!!!

5.0
3.0
ECON2
Mar 20, 2006

MR. ZILL IS A VERY GOOD TEACHER. IF ECON IS YOUR MAJOR AND YOU REALLY WANT TO LEARN SOMETHING TAKE HIM. HE IS NOT EASY, HE HAS A 2 HR LECTURE WITH NO BREAK. HIS TEACHING STYLE IS VERY GOOD. IF YOU MESS UP ON EXAM THAN YOU HAVE A VERY LOW CHANCE IN GETTING AN A BECAUSE HE HAS NO EXTRA CREDIT. THERE ARE 2MIDTERMS, 1FINAL, A PAPER, AND 3HOMEWORK

4.0
4.0
ECON1
Mar 27, 2006

I have to agree with most of what everyone said. His tests are difficult and the short answers are anything but short and are graded rigorously. But with that said I believe he's the best Econ teacher DeAnza has to offer and you will learn about economics. There's some extra credit, and homework that's worth a good portion the grade. You will pass.

2.0
4.0
ECON2
Apr 9, 2006

No Comments

5.0
2.0
ECON001
Apr 13, 2006

I love his way of teaching and he's the best economics teacher that DeAnza offered. His exam is easy, you have to just take good notes in class. He will also tell you what he is going to test about in the review section before each exam. Easy A.

5.0
3.0
ECON1
Jul 16, 2006

He is a great professor, however, this class isn't that easy, you must read the book because the lecture don't cover everything in full details. But he is a great lectureror, one of the better professors out there. recommended.

4.0
2.0
ECONOMICS
Jul 19, 2006

It's best to pay close attention when taking notes. Tests seem to be 70% from notes

5.0
1.0
MICROECONOMICS
Aug 15, 2006

A very good lecturer, very interesting class, he often ties in current issues and events into explaining his topics. One of the best ever. test = super easy, juss go to his lectures. plently of "bonus" EC opportunities. could not have asked for a better class

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Aug 18, 2006

just take his class.

4.0
2.0
ECON1
Aug 29, 2006

WORKLOAD: Just pay attention in class, take good notes and understand the notes for the exams. 2 midterms and a final. HIM: He talks fast and goes through the material really quickly. Understanding but a little intimidating.. TIPS: Don't buy the textbook b/c he hardly uses it.

4.0
3.0
ECON2
Nov 16, 2006

the class was helpful,but exams were hard. quite few bonus points in the class. if you wanna get an "A" in this class, you must concentrate on graph stuffs and principles. hopefully, the note will be useful:)

3.0
3.0
ECON2
Dec 8, 2006

No Comments

2.0
3.0
ECON2
Jan 8, 2007

No Comments

5.0
2.0
ECON001
Jan 11, 2007

he is a nice econ professor at De Anza College, he taugh a lot his own stuff. the one thing u gotta remember is that study his NOTES, its very important, i finally got B cuz i was forcusing on textbook. he hardly use the textbook... if u wanna learn something about economics, u gotta take his class!

4.0
3.0
ECON001
Mar 29, 2007

mr zill used all of his own stuff. do not i repaeat do not buy the textbook for his class. he hardley ususd it. all the book is an expensive paper weight. 2 test and 1 final. 3 hwk assignment and 1 written essay. the exam are multiple choice with 2 short

5.0
4.0
ECON002
Apr 12, 2007

I don't know how I ended up with a B+. I got Cs on my first two exams and Bs on my homework. The tests are impossibly hard and no amount of studying can prepare you for them. He loves "trick" questions and it seems as if his goal is to make you fail. I guess he is the best option out of all of the econ profs, though.

3.0
4.0
ECON1
Jul 2, 2007

If I wasn't interested in Econ before, I'm really not now. This class is boring as hell. Zill is very excited about Econ and seems to think that everyone else should be too. Don't buy the book unless you plan on skipping class at all. Just show up to class, pay attention for class session and take good notes, you will be ok.

4.0
3.0
ECON1
Aug 16, 2007

I missed the second class and was completely lost at the third. So don't miss classes. To do well, you just have to go even though it's not required. By going to class, I got an A. O and be sure to take notes. The book is helpful as well although it really doesn't matter if it's the cheap used 16th edition or the $100+ 17th edition.

4.0
3.0
ECON002
Aug 27, 2007

I loved mr zill. He was so funny and i understood most of the material. He goes over everything before the tests and gives practice multiple choice handouts and summaries of the short answer questions. Great teacher!

4.0
2.0
ECON1A
Jan 24, 2008

Mr. Zill is the best econ teacher ever. I had taken econ twice before and ended dropping because i just could not understand it. Mr Zill goes through detail examples and his lecturing skills are excellant. DO NOT BUY THE BOOK. Just go to class, and study the notes. Easy A!!!

5.0
2.0
ECON1
Jan 30, 2008

Strait up, I freaking HATE ECON. To all the econ majors, hey it's the truth. But if you are a business major, Zill is off the chain.

4.0
3.0
MACRO9603
Mar 20, 2008

Mr. Zill is a very passionate professor. Like the other posting say DONT BUY THE BOOK its a waste of $100. Make sure you attend classes Mid terms based on Lectures. Exams are pretty confusing. He expects alot out of his students so he's willing to help if you go to him!!!

4.0
1.0
ECON2
Apr 6, 2008

i don't understand those of you saying "his exam is hard." it couldn't be easier, not tricky at all. he just ask basic stuff, and as long as you understand his lecture, there's no need to study. he's intelligent and funny too. take him especially if you are an Econ major.

5.0
1.0
ECON1
Apr 12, 2008

Great teacher! Very easy going! will work with u if u have an emergency and cant make it to exams!I hate Econ, and i suck at it. I still managed to get a B in his class. U can easily get an A in his class if u study!

5.0
5.0
ECON02
Apr 27, 2008

Excellent Prof. He tells stories that directly relate to how economics affect every aspect of life. He covers the topic thoroughly and completely. He is funny and entertaining. Economics is his life. He says he doesn?t do ex-cred, but do an EXCEPTIONAL job on the term paper and you might see a bump in your grade. I said EXCEPTIONAL, you slackers!

5.0
2.0
ECON1B
Jun 24, 2008

A wonderful professor. His jokes are funny, he tells stories that relate to economics, and he looks a lot like Michael McDonald (that guy from MADtv) but don't let that throw you off. He gives out 3 HW assignemnts, 1 essay, 2 midterms +1 final. Attend class & write notes then you'll be fine. I highly recommend taking him!

5.0
1.0
ECON1
Jul 4, 2008

he is super intelligent, super funny, super tall, and i like his teaching method as well. he gives about 7 points total extra credit usually in the last two weeks, so don't worry even if you are in the crunch.

5.0
5.0
ECON002
Dec 5, 2008

i'm taking micro econ now. He is really helpful for sure. But it is not an 'easy a class' at all. He is a professor at the sanjose state univ. too. He knows a lot, which means he expects students higher level of studying and results. if u want to get A, i dont recommend him. Just for the econ major, or related major, take him if u wanna study hard

3.0
4.0
ECON1
Dec 19, 2008

Wow walked into this class thinking it would be easy reading these comments. Wow this class was completely opposite, it was hard and DID required reading of the textbook (to further explain his lectures). I had to end up buying the book halfway through the quarter. Tests on his notes, but you must use the book and do all homework (only 3)

4.0
2.0
ECON2
Apr 26, 2009

Well, he is definitely a "lecture" person. He is nice and stuff. He isn't that hard if you actually have the book and read it. However, I dropped him for Mack Honor the next quarter because I don't like lecture-based teacher, coz its boring. However, Mack's class is 3 times harder, 3 times better and 3 times more fun. I recommend Mack over this guy

3.0
3.0
ECON12
Apr 30, 2009

No Comments

3.0
1.0
ECON2
Jun 9, 2009

No Comments

5.0
2.0
ECONECON
Jun 26, 2009

I have to say that this teacher is amazing at economics. He knows a WHOLE LOT - very very impressive. You have to attend his classes, since tests are lecture-heavy, but I'm glad that it is since the lectures interest me. But then again I love economics. I took both micro and macro and both rocked. Awesome teacher!

5.0
1.0
ECON1
Aug 2, 2009

Good teacher. He is very clear in teaching. He has 3 exams, 3 homeworks, 1 two pages paper, and 1 extra credit. Come to class and take notes everyday and you will get A. The tests are based on lecture and the lectures are very interesting.

3.0
5.0
ECON2
Mar 17, 2010

He talks way too fast and his lectures are very boring. I have to take bathroom breaks during every class so that I don't fall asleep. I emailed him for help and it took him 5 days to respond. If you can, I would avoid him, unless you know the subject. Grading is simple and pretty much based on 3 exams (2 midterm, 1 final), a 2 pg paper and 2hw.

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Aug 5, 2010

Smart, funny, charming, and really ridiculously good looking. I enjoyed his class, even if it sometimes became a little tedious. If you understand what he teaches in class, you'll do well enough on the tests to get an A, the book isn't necessary (it just helps if you want to clarify something)

4.0
1.0
ECON1
Aug 9, 2010

Excellent class. No prior knowledge of econ and I got a lot from it. show up to class, pay attention to lectures, and do the hw and extra credit and you will get an A. tests are unbelievably easyyy

4.0
4.0
ECON2
Dec 9, 2010

If anyone tells you Econ 2 is easier than Econ 1, dont listen. Took him for 1 and 2, theyre very different. 2 was way harder, I thought I would be able to cruise like I did in 1 and totally screwed up. Probably end up with a C if Im lucky. He's a good teacher, but if you did well in Econ 1 and are thinking about taking econ 2, caveat emptor.

5.0
3.0
ECON1
Jan 13, 2011

you can tell that he's enthusiastic in teaching economics. he tells funny jokes sometimes! the way he teaches is really organized and easy to follow. go for his every class coz midterms are lecture based! best econ professor! love him! and zill is gorgeous ;)

3.0
3.0
ECON1
Mar 3, 2011

He knows his stuff and you can tell he enjoys teaching economics but I'll have to disagree with most of the reviews here on the ease of passing this class. Reading the book won't do. Tests are lecture based but that'll take a student who could understand his ramblings. His class is only easy in terms of attendance and the amount of hw he requires. I'm currently in his class and he's rushing through so much material that he expects us to know for the midterm next class. :(

3.0
3.0
MACROECON
Mar 20, 2011

I have to agree with the poster below; I'm kind of split on the class. The tests themselves aren't the problem but that they are entirely based on lectures. So if you miss a class pray that nothing too important was covered. A good thing is he seems to enjoy teaching economics.

5.0
1.0
ECON1
May 31, 2011

I think he does most of the work for you, all you need to do is the hw, and most of the work is attending lectures, paying attention, and remembering notes

4.0
5.0
MICROECON
Jun 26, 2011

ALL LECTURES! 2 midterms, 1 final (not cumulative). Attendance is mandatory because midterms are based on lectures. Difficult, but interesting guy.

1.0
4.0
ECON2
Jul 2, 2011

This guy is impossible to follow. 3 hw assignments 3 tests 1 paper. Easy workload but impossible to understand him. I took all the notes and the tests didn't seem to be the same. He talks slow then fast, mumbles, then stares at something off in the distance then moves on. seriously avoid if you can.

4.0
2.0
ECONMACR
Jul 22, 2011

Totally easy class. Just listen to lectures, take notes and you are set. Everything is lecture heavy, so the textbook is mostly useless This guys is also obsessed with Keynes. He WILL give you answers for hwk if you ask. BUT he is sometimes unclear in answers to questions during lectures. Overall, an easy class!

4.0
2.0
ECON2
Aug 10, 2011

Mr.Zill is a very good instructor. It's obvious that he's passionate about what he teaches. If you attend every lecture and pay enough attention, you're gonna be able to get an A. I would definitely recommend to anyone who's majoring in business or economics!

5.0
2.0
ECON1
Dec 31, 2011

He makes the class lecture semi-fun. He makes economics very simple to understand. Highly recommended.

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Jan 10, 2012

He's very passionate about the subject and knows a great deal about economics. He makes the lectures more interesting by having whacky/fun examples as well as interesting facts and tidbits. The midterms are multiple choice with a short answer part, which are fairly straight forward. The tests are lecture based so show up! Also, a final paper.

3.0
3.0
MICRO61
Mar 28, 2012

He is a very nice guy, has his own cute sense of humor. He does have an absence limit, but rarely took attendance. He's neither strict nor lenient. Study very well for the exams. There are 3 exams, 3HW assg., and one final paper. No weighted avg. Just points.

5.0
1.0
ECON2
Dec 16, 2012

Though I'm not a fan of econ, he made lecture fun and interesting. He gives clear/organized notes for lectures, and his exams (mc & short answer) are easy, as long as you study. Memorize, go to class, and read the book to get that A. He also gives you the short answer questions ahead of time. Overall highly recommend this prof, esp. for summer!

5.0
2.0
ECON02
Dec 24, 2012

Easy A! Lectures are easy to understand. Just pay attention in class and understand everything. This is my first time to study Economics. I didn't study much and get an A. He is a great teacher... Recommended!

4.0
2.0
ECON1
Apr 16, 2013

No need for book. Must be in class to get notes, he tests from notes. Might allow extra credit. Very knowledgeable about economics, very passionate.

4.0
1.0
ECON2
Jun 14, 2013

Easy A! Just love this professor. Don't be shy, ask him Econ. questions after class. He will answer you with the best answer. Just revise notes before exams and you will be surely fine! Recommend.

4.0
4.0
ECON1
Jun 26, 2013

I would suggest only taking this professor for MACRO economics if you know the concepts a bit yourself. His lectures are from the start of class till the end with no breaks. Also be aware that he talks about several topics that might not correlate with the topic at hand. I had a 4.0 for 3 quarters straight, but that has been changed now to a 3.7

5.0
2.0
ECON1
Jul 19, 2013

Prof Zill is great. If you attend all the class and take note and do homework, you should have easy A. 3 homework, 3 mid-term (no overlapping), plus a final paper.

5.0
1.0
ECON2
Aug 1, 2013

Easy A professor for Econ! Just attend his class, take notes, revise notes and get good grade. That's all... Recommended!

5.0
1.0
ECON2
Aug 1, 2013

Professor ZIll is an amazing teacher! He cares about each and every student, and will go out of his way to get a concept across. The tests are not bad as long as you read the book and listen to his lectures. I got a 61/60 on his first test just by doing this. Also, remember to take the online practice quizzes that he gives you, as those are helpful

3.0
2.0
ECON2
Nov 17, 2013

u may find he is not good at speaking, he randomly changes topics all the time. however, as a whole, he is very funny man, he is willing to help every student. only 3 hws and 3 exams.

4.0
4.0
ECON2
Dec 24, 2013

well, prof zill is a funny guy overall, but his speak was way too fast and unclear sometimes.if u wannna get a A in his class u may have to study really hard and pay attention,attend every class, take good notes. i received a A. i dont think that was easy. there were 3 exams and 1 final paper. good luck, ppl

4.0
2.0
ECON2
Feb 19, 2014

He is great. Good use of whiteboard. Attend all his class and take note and do all the homework and you should get A w/o much problem. Funny. Not easy to listen to what he say so sit in the first two rows will help.

5.0
3.0
MICROECON
Mar 19, 2014

ok teacher, would not take him for another econ class

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Mar 25, 2014

I LOVE this guy! Hilarious and helpful, answers questions very thoroughly. You don't need the book, I got As on the midterms without ever touching it. He might be hard to understand if you're international, but he writes down everything clearly on the board, so no problem. Come to class and take notes; you'll do great. Definitely taking him again.

5.0
2.0
ECON2
Mar 27, 2014

Mr. Zill is a very funny and thoughtful character who makes economics as fun as it could ever be. He is precise and very clear about what he expects on the tests. There isn't too much work, and there are no surprises. I would definitely read the book, I know someone else said it wasn't necessary, but it'll help to skim through the vocabulary.

5.0
2.0
ECON1A
May 24, 2014

Best Economics Teacher at De Anza, totally committed to his teaching. you have to attend classes and do your homework and you end up with a decent grade

2.0
4.0
MICROECON0020
Jul 22, 2014

Way too hard and confusing to be a good professor. As a student heading to UC Berkeley next year, I thought classes at DeAnza would be a breeze. Well, for the most part they are, but not his class. He does a terrible job of explaining extremely simply concepts. His tests aren't hard per se, it's just his poor level of teaching that makes them hard.

5.0
2.0
ECON001
Jul 28, 2014

Professor Zill has an incredibly dry sense of humor that intellectuals can appreciate. Even though his pro-Keynesian stance is apparent in most of his classes, he does welcome a discussion of other points of view and does a good job of answering questions. There are 3 HW assignments, 3 midterms, and a writing assignment.

3.0
4.0
MICROECON
Dec 1, 2014

Mr. Zill is very vague, tough to get a direct answer out of him after you ask a question. His homework is reasonable, I just wished we got our results back sooner. Tests are difficult but fair, just wished he explained stuff better and allowed us to use a cheat sheet or study guide.

5.0
1.0
ECON002
Dec 10, 2014

Witty sense of humor, and knows his subject extremely well. Uses the English language to its fullest extent, so lecture can be pretty hard for ESL students. Don't miss class because lots of info is covered per class, and it's easier to understand in lecture than from an Econ textbook. Overall, I learned a ton from his course

3.0
4.0
ECON1A
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 16, 2014

He is a nice guy, but his teaching techniques are all over the place. He can turn a simple topic into a confusing one. sometimes I had no clue what he was talking about. I barely learned anything in this class. If you read the book and understand economics pretty well then you should be fine, but if you actually want to learn and pass dont take him

3.0
4.0
ECON1A
Grade: B
Jan 4, 2015

Really broad on his lectures. He talks the entire class and isn't truly specific on what information you should really know. Isn't a great speaker, ends about every 1-2 sentence with "mkay". Big democrat too, we only spent one class on Milton Friedman, the rest on JM Keynes. Nice guy, but wouldn't take him again.

4.0
3.0
MICROECON
Grade: B+
Apr 5, 2015

Zill is a funny guy, his humor is dry but its funny. His class is pretty boring but he's a cool guy. He's there to teach and you should be there to learn. i bought the book and didn't use it at all. neither did he. Just go to class and take notes and you will be fine.

5.0
2.0
ECON002
Grade: A
Dec 18, 2015

This class was not difficult. He is thorough in explaining the material and tries to go at a good pace. None of the material is particularly challenging, but you need to go to class to get it. He grades very fair and everything is straight forward. 3 exams, 3 homework assignments, 2 page paper. Some extra credit. Great prof!

5.0
3.0
ECON001
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 21, 2016

Stephen Zill has a genuine interest in macroeconomics, and he respects the subject he's teaching. You can tell that he's quite knowledgable in the subject too. The only problem was that he lectures in a way in which he expect the students to already be familiar with the field as common knowledge when most of us have zero clue. Still, a wise guy

4.0
2.0
ECON001
Grade: A
Mar 31, 2016

2 midterms 3 homework 1 research paper 1 final(not comprehensive) He's nice but lectures can be pretty long and draggy.

3.0
3.0
ECON002
Grade: C
Apr 3, 2016

Pretty solid professor. Pretty dry/dark humor; I appreciated it. Not much homework. Tests were a little tough, just review before hand and you should be fine.

4.0
2.0
ECON001
Grade: A
Aug 26, 2016
Would take again

Zill's macro class is super easy IF you attend his lectures. Though lectures can get a big draggy (2.5 hrs of straight econ is rough) if you copy down everything he writes on the board you're basically set for the class. Everything is lecture-based; the book isn't necessary at all. Very nice/encouraging, esp. about questions; would take him again.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
Caring
4.0
2.0
ECON1
Grade: A
Nov 21, 2016
Would take again

Although he used hard English language on his lecture, the midterms are easy. Make sure you copy all the notes on the board, then you will be fine.

Respected
Participation matters
Inspirational
5.0
3.0
ECON002
Grade: A
Jan 11, 2017
Would take again

A quirky, knowledgeable economic professor. The key to success in his class is both attending and taking notes during his lectures because he strays from the book (he tells you). The earlier tests are harder but he curves.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
5.0
ECON001
Grade: B
Mar 21, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Mr. Zill is a good teacher, and he's great at what he does. With that being said, this class IS NOT for just anyone. You must show up every class meeting to take notes otherwise missing even one day means you'll miss out CRUCIAL information for the exams. You really have to pay attention in class, otherwise the exams will be very difficult.

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
5.0
ECON001
Grade: D
Apr 6, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He's a nice guy, but I would not suggest anyone take this subject unless it's an absolute necessity. I barely passed this class, and i heard Prof Zill was one of the best. It's just a difficult subject that no one I feel, knows how to teach at a fast pace. I would take him for a different subject, but never this one again.

TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
5.0
ECON001
Grade: B
Apr 11, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I'm surprised by the amount of people who said his class was easy. You can get an A, but it wont be easy. Test info is cumulative so you need to keep up with the material steady and consistently throughout the class. If you miss a single day you miss out on crucial info and his exams are all off the lectures. Tried and got a B, but was NOT easy.

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
5.0
ECON001
Grade: B
Apr 11, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Fun and charismatic guy, but would not recommend to take if you're just looking for GE credits. He teaches at a moderately fast pace, so if you need to keep up consistently otherwise you will fall behind. 2 midterms, 3 homework assignments, 1 writing assignment, and 1 final. Show up every class meeting and review concepts consistently.

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
ECON001
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 6, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Never answers emails. Don't understand the lecture. Not helpful at all.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
ECON1MACRO
Grade: B+
Dec 10, 2018
Would take again

He was wonderful at lecturing and breaking down every aspect of the economy as of today. Great environment, very well prepared. He knows how to balance the book and homework assignments. He is completely in love with Economics, so he makes the class easy to follow. Very generous with Bonus questions in exams and Homeworks. Learning is fun with him.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
ECON002
Grade: A
Apr 5, 2019
Would take again

Draws on the board a lot and helps us understand economics. Homeworks really get you thinking, but aren't super challenging. Tests are just right, maybe kind of hard but passable. Lectures can get boring, but its the nature of the subject. Unique sense of humor, get used to it and have a great time

Gives good feedback
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
ECON001
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 26, 2019
Would take again

I highly recommend professor Zill to those who are majoring in economics and/or are very interested in the subject. He is very passionate about the subject, and his involvement will be evident to those who take him seriously. His tests are all based off of his lecture notes and are a big portion of the final grade.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Clear grading criteria
4.0
2.0
ECON001
Grade: A
Jul 6, 2019
Would take again

He is really caring and he remembers my grades for each midterms which is incredible since i was very quiet in class! Great story teller and copy his notes and listen when he's lecturing and it should be an easy A! No regrets for taking Stephen!

Respected
Accessible outside class
Caring
5.0
3.0
ECON001
Grade: A
Oct 2, 2019
Would take again

Highly recommend. The course is very lecture heavy, but as long as you pay attention and keep up with the homework, the exams are a piece of cake. I even was able to miss a few classes and still get an A since a lot of the homework answers come straight from the book and carryover to exams. Good sense of humor as well.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
ECON001
Grade: A+
Jun 25, 2020
Would take again

Even though professors were only given a week to move online this quarter, Prof Zill still taught a great class. His lectures were informative and useful, tests were extremely straightforward, and I didn't really need to send him any emails because everything was so clear, but the few I did send, he responded quickly to.

Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
5.0
1.0
ECON002
Jul 3, 2020
Would take again

Very cool professor. Informative videos, sometimes with his audio recordings. Helpful study guides and reading list, excluding sections in chapters that won't be tested on. Responds relatively fast to emails.

Respected
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
3.0
ECON001
Grade: A
Jul 20, 2020
Would take again

very funny and entertaining lectures

Participation matters
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
3.0
3.0
ECON001
Grade: A
Dec 30, 2020
Would take again

Professor Zill is a funny and chill professor. He enjoys teaching and gives very good lectures. His homework is a little difficult, but the tests are straightforward. You dont need to put in that much time in his class, but there are a lot of other practice problems in the cenage assignments.

4.0
3.0
ECON001
Grade: A+
Jan 9, 2021
Would take again

Took his online class this fall, overall the class was good. Post material weekly and my biggest complaint is he doesn't publish material quickly, sometimes he'll wait until Thursday or Friday so it makes it difficult to work ahead. I read all the chapters and took notes in posted slides, do that and you'll do great ! overall good experience.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
3.0
ECON02
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 18, 2021
Would take again

Great guy, loved his energy. His lectures cut to the chase, and only whats covered in class will be on exams. pretty sure hes a lot harder in person because a lot of the times I had to rewind and take notes based on his speech alone as his slides are bare. lots of ec opportunities. shouldn't do bad unless u just rlly arent trying

Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
ECON1
Grade: A
Jul 2, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Fun teacher with lots of personalitu. He is clear on where your assignments are and when they are due. He also cares a lot for his students. I had to work my ass off for an A and it wasn't fun reading readings, taking so many notes, and analyzing graphs but that's expected in Macro! Grades are released super late-- talking after the quarter.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
ECON001
Grade: A
Jul 25, 2021
Would take again

The class was very enjoyable. There were weekly homework assignments, occasional discussion boards, and exams. It is important to watch and understand the lectures if you want to do well on the exams. You should also write notes and study them. If you put effort into the class, you will do well.

Graded by few things
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
ECON002
Grade: A
Jul 28, 2021
Would take again

I really enjoyed his class, he gave a doable amount of work usually one assignment per week, he also sent email updates/reminders, he has discussion boards but is a lenient grader just do them. At the end of the quarters he does give options to raise your grade. He always responded to questions. Very chill/nice teacher.

Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
ECON001
Grade: A+
Aug 15, 2021
Would take again

Very easy A+. Has textbook, but isn't required since the midterms are heavily based on lectures given on Canvas. Lectures contain only relevant information and professor makes them entertaining. Has homework assignments on Cengage once a week, very few discussion assignments, 3 midterms in total, and extra credit opportunities. Highly recommend.

Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
2.0
ECON001
Grade: A
Sep 16, 2021
Would take again

Solid class. As long as you put some effort in, it's a pretty easy A. A ton of extra credit opportunities available. The textbook is mandatory and costs about $70 so be aware of that before registering. The textbook readings and lectures were unnecessarily long imo so I used the macroeconomics videos on Khan Academy to learn most of the content

Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
4.0
ECON001
Grade: C
Nov 7, 2021
Wouldn't take again

His lectures are not very interesting and his exams are pretty tough. Make sure to do well on exams as they are the only determinant of your grade. Don't listen in class, well it will be nearly impossible for you to pass. I tried so much and I barely passed the class

5.0
3.0
ECON2
Dec 12, 2021
Would take again

Professor Zill really wants you to succeed. The homework/problem sets account for 20% of your grade but are really easy and you have unlimited time to do them from the time he posts to when it's due (usually about 5-7 days). There are 3 exams which each account for 25% of your grade, but they are definitely doable and actually not that hard at all.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
2.0
ECON002
Grade: A+
Dec 17, 2021
Would take again

Amazing professor, took for both ECON 01 and ECON 02. 3 Midterms total which are based mainly off his lectures. Textbook isn't really necessary, just watch his lectures and you'll get an A+. 10 Homework assignments, handful of discussions, and a few extra credit opportunities. If you are more of an independent learner, take Zill, very easy A.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
ECON001
Grade: A
Jan 3, 2022
Wouldn't take again

I would say DO NOT TAKE IT. His lecture is kind of terrible, it's not clear and hard to understand. So the only thing you can rely on is the textbook. But a lot of content within the exams are base on his lecture. Even I put my time on it, I feel I learned nothing

5.0
2.0
ECON002
Grade: A+
Jan 4, 2022
Would take again

Pretty straightforward class. 3 exams total, problem sets due every week (usually on Tuesday), and a few discussions. There were textbook readings, but his exams were mostly based on his own lectures, so just pay attention to those and you'll do well. Lectures were sometimes an hour or longer because he went off on tangents, but he's a funny guy.

Graded by few things
Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
2.0
3.0
ECON001
Grade: A-
Jan 25, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Barely scraped by with an A in this class. Had him last semester and his lectures were so intensely boring. He kept making political jokes about a certain president and even though I agreed with him it still felt a bit inappropriate. He takes forever to grade and didnt give us our final grade until literally the day before the next semester began.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
2.0
3.0
ECON001
Grade: A
Jul 1, 2022

He is very nice but his class structure was messy. He would post things two days before they were due every once in a while which I thought made it hard to follow and complete on time while still putting in effort. I also thought his explanations were a bit unclear. Gives you the FRQs for the exam ahead of time and is willing to do zoom OH.

2.0
4.0
ECON001
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 7, 2022

My experience taking him has been one of the hardest classes that I have ever taken. He is indeed a good professor, but not for my type of learning style. The online lecture videos he does are very hard to follow. The slides he posts barely provide information explaining those slides. He takes a long time to reply to emails. Wish you luck.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
ECON001
Grade: F
Apr 7, 2023

This class was very heavy in terms lf lectures. I gave several hours every week. There was a quiz every other day and multiple exams. He bareky gave points in the writing section. Its almost impossible to get A. If you work extremely hard you might earn a B or a B+

Tough grader
Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
ECON001
Grade: C
Apr 7, 2023

It was a very messy class. His lectures were hard to understand. All of his grades were based on quizzes making it very hard to score well in this class. He uses a percentage system to grade the quizes thus even if you get 7/10 its just 70 percent. I would say do not take him unless you have any other option.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
5.0
ECON001
Grade: D
Apr 7, 2023

Honestly I dont know how the past ratings have got A in this class. I am a straight A student but even after working so hard I managed to get a B+ and thats after watching lectures every day and attending several office hours. But I am happy becuase I worked very hard for this class and thats the best I could get. dont take it if you wish for a A.

Tough grader
Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
ECON001
Grade: C+
Apr 7, 2023
Would take again

He is a tough grader and has so many lectures. You can vere score full in his quizzes. Dont take this professor unless you dont have a option. I highly suggest you wait then mess up your gpa.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
1.0
ECON001
Grade: A+
Aug 10, 2024
Would take again

hes literally easy and funny, except he doesn't respond to emails. idk why, because I can't even view my grade on canvas despite asking him for help.

1.0
3.0
ECON001
Grade: Incomplete
May 20, 2025

charges 150 dollars for a textbook that is needed to even do the work on top of paying for the class, what a scam artist.

2.0
3.0
ECON001
Grade: A+
Jul 25, 2025

lectures are so boring and confusing. his online lectures are not great. he does not answer to emails which is so annoying. but pretty easy I guess

2.0
4.0
ECON1
Grade: A
Aug 1, 2025

Good things to know. He allows extra credit with is great. Has the option for 2 assignments redos at the end. Good class if you need an independent one, but be prepared to read. Homework is done through a digital textbook with 3 or 1 attempt questions which I found helpful. He likened people who want to end the fed to flat earthers....

Get ready to read
Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
3.0
ECON02
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 13, 2025

Replies to emails weeks late or never at all. Textbook is required to access homework even though the class is listed as no materials necessary. Never seen a guy care less about a class he's teaching.

Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

30%

Textbook Required

81%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 39 grades
Most common grades:
A (17)
A+ (7)
Not sure yet (5)
Grade Distribution
A(24)B(4)C(4)D(4)F(1)A-/B+(4)
Based on 48 reported grades
A: 17
A+: 7
Not sure yet: 5
B: 4
Common Tags
Clear grading criteria (9)
Lecture heavy (9)
Get ready to read (8)
Skip class? You won't pass. (7)
LECTURE HEAVY (6)
EXTRA CREDIT (6)
Graded by few things (5)
Test heavy (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.56 avg change
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Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ECON1AMAC

5.0

(1)

MACRO

5.0

(2)

ECON1AND2

5.0

(1)

ECON1MACRO

5.0

(2)

MICROECONOMICS

5.0

(1)
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Difficulty by Course

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5.0

ECON1MACRO

4.0

MICROECON0020

4.0

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3.3

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3.2

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