Sunday, June 26, 2011

Systems Courses (OS/DBIS/Arch)

As you enter your third year, you shall encounter a broad field of computer science known as Computer Systems. This is in contrast to theory, which you have studied so far(algo, discrete etc). Systems involves less of mathematics, and is more hands-on things about how stuff actually works inside a computer. Being more about real systems, these subjects shall introduce a large number of facts and a lot of new concepts, and shall deal with the interplay between these things. There shall be fewer 'deep' concepts, but a significantly large material in the curriculum. Thus, it is relatively easy to score decently in these subjects, provided you are regular. Going to classes, and staying up to date with the curriculum is highly recommended. Since the contents of the course are large, lagging behind shall not be to your benefit, and it will be tough to learn the whole syllabus one day before the midsems.