• Easy, low effort, can be doubled with other class.
• Coming to this class, probably I was overhyped when it was introduced by the instructor. I'd say that I didn't get as much as I expected from this class due to the emphasis on C++ in a way that I didn't like, i.e. this class gave exams/quizzes/lectures on C++ more than it talked about database. For comparison, CS7210 Distributed Computing projects were implemented in Java but it didn't give exams on Java; CS8803 Compilers projects were almost language agnostic, students could pick C++ or Java and it didn't have exams on either language.

Course is heavily focused on internals of BuzzDB. Projects were well-paced with no hidden tests. B+ Tree implementation was the most valuable part. Covered indexing, compression, buffer management, and query execution. Lectures were clear and easy to follow. Some real-world system comparisons like PostgreSQL would have been helpful. Good option if you want a lighter semester while still learning useful systems-level concepts.

tldr; Low effort, high value. Easy A if you're comfortable with C++ and basic database concepts. Full write-up: here

PROS: This is a very enjoyable class, the subject matter is very interesting. The programming assignments are fun. The book has many interesting details not covered in the lectures. Many relevant internal considerations about databases. If you're interested in truly understanding how databases work, this is a great class.

Good course to double up with others. I could wait a few weeks then catch up with the lectures and the project with no sweat.

CONS: The class could cover a lot more material. I'd say about 3-4x more for a whole semester. The course has a very light load. Not really a "graduate level" course.

SUGGESTIONS: Increase the amount of topics covered. Assign a project every 2 weeks. Then the course would be perfect.