The Mysteries of Grading Curves

I've got a professor who uses the term 'grading curve' quite a bit. But what does this curve mean exactly? How does it affect my grades? I'm in a state of confusion. Your insights could really help me here.

A grading curve is a method instructors often use to normalize the distribution of grades in a class. The "curve" refers to the bell curve, or the normal distribution, which has a high point in the middle representing the average score, and it slowly slopes downward as you get to the extremes.In a class set to a grading curve, your grade is determined by how well you do relative to your classmates, not based on an absolute scale. For instance, if you scored an 80 on a test, but the class average was 65, then your 80 might be considered an A when set against a curve. Alternatively, if the class average was 90, that 80 might get molded into a C. The idea is that in a particularly hard or easy class, the grading curve ensures that the distribution of grades is balanced.

However, the details of how a grading curve is applied can vary significantly from class to class, and from institution to institution. In many cases, a professor may decide to adjust the average grade to a certain score, such as 70, which tends to improve the grades of underperforming students. In other cases, they might set a cap on the number of A's or B's, in order to maintain a competitive atmosphere within the classroom.While grading curves can help even out the grades in a really tough class, they might also lead to competition between students if only a limited number of A's or B's are available. It's important, then, to understand the grading policy of your specific professor and class to determine how it might affect you. Reach out to your professor or the teaching assistant to get clarity on any doubts.