Had him for two upper divs, 162 and 106AD. Both were relatively straightforward as long as you paid attention to the readings and had an idea of what you wanted to do for the papers (memos in 162 and the paper in 106AD). It's a lot of reading but if you can find the arguments in each you'll be way better off.

He didn't receive tenure at Stanford so that's why he is bitter all the time. Now he only torments other people to make himself feel better. Mean professor, terrible attitude. Avoid at all costs.

Nall is definitely a tough professor, but his class is very rewarding: You will learn a lot, but you do have to put a lot of work in. Lots of reading, but if you do it and understand it you will get an A on the quizzes, so it is very doable. Go to lecture and the final is not too difficult if you are on top of your work during the quarter.

Reading quizzes and 2 research papers make up most of your grade. It's a hard class but he tells you day 1. Doesn't allow electronics, so you have to handwrite all notes and he doesn't post lecture slides. The 2nd paper was due 4 days before the final and his review is NOT helpful. Don't bother asking questions b/c he will just make you feel dumb.

Nall is a tough professor but he is ultimately fair. The class projects are a great introduction to doing original original research.

Participation for section is required, not for lecture. No laptops allowed in lecture in 2024. Nall is very sensitive, I would not recommend him to anyone, especially taking a lower div polisci pre-req. The coursework itself is not bad, but he is just difficult to work with. Mandatory textbook is $80. Don't take unless you have to.