The rules I apply to calculate your final mark in one of my courses differ depending on the level and content of the course. These rules are fixed before the beginning of the term and posted on the page for the respective course. In general, no matter how the relative value of assignments, implementation projects, and exams are chosen; your mark will depend on how well you are able to apply (not only reproduce) the material taught in class. For an A+ at the undergraduate level it is sufficient to be able to explain the concepts presented in class and apply them to situations that were not discussed in class, but are similar to those discussed in class. No knowledge beyond the class material is necessary. For an A+ at the graduate level, the same rules apply; but I will choose the questions where you are asked to apply techniques taught in class to new, but similar, situations more difficult than in an undergraduate course. At both levels, it does of course help if you can demonstrate knowledge that is closely related to, but goes beyond the material taught in class.