Tools in Data Science - May 2026#

Anyone can access this course content for free and submit assessments.

Those auditing can use GitHub notifications and watch activity on the course repository.

Enrolled IITM students can additionally participate in Discourse, get projects evaluated, take the final end-term, and get a certificate.

You need a good understanding of Python, JavaScript, HTML, APIs, Excel, ChatGPT, and data science concepts.

Take the Entrance Exam. IITM BS students scoring below 40% shouldn’t register for this course (unless there’s no choice).

The course models real-life. Unclear problems, messy data, ridiculous deadlines, limited support.

Find your own unique ways of solving the problems. There’s no one right approach.

It’s good for learning, maybe not for grades.

• In Jan 2025, 40% of the batch failed.
• The ROE is intentionally impossible

Here’s students’ feedback from past terms:

• It used to be an easy course until 2024. # # #
• Now it’s hard and covers more. Take it in your last semester if possible. # # #
• Plan extra time. It takes more time than typical 3-credit courses. # # #
• LLMs grade you – unpredictably. # #
• The ROE is hard. #
• Should you take Tools in Data Science this term? (Ans: take it in your last term)

Take Graded assignment 0 to check if you’re ready for this course. Please drop this course (do it in a later term) if you score low. It’ll be too tough for you now.

But the learnings may be worth the effort.

• May 2025 feedback indicates that students know it’s hard – and still rate the learning high.
• Jan 2025 course experience and farewell post.

You CAN copy from friends and AI. In fact, it’s part of the curriculum.

Work in groups. You can use the Internet, WhatsApp, ChatGPT, your notes, your friends, your pets…

Share code. Even in projects, assignments, and exams (except the final in-person end-term exam).

• Why copy? Because in real life, there’s no time to re-invent the wheel. You’ll be working in teams on the shoulders of giants. It’s important to learn how to do that well.
• To learn well, understand what you’re copying. If you’re short of time, prioritize.
• To learn better, share what you’ve learnt. Learn from others’ feedback.

Check system-requirements.md for permissions you need, software to install, and websites to access. You may need to speak with your system administrator for access.