Should I take this course?
Category theory is about seeing the underlying commonalities in various different mathematical structures.
In some ways, like set theory is used to give a common way to formulate various mathematical notions, so also category theory is a way to formulate commonly occurring constructions in various areas of mathematics.
However, unlike set theory's "bottom-to-top" way of being used, category theory is a "top-to-bottom" approach. It allows one to apply concepts from one area of mathematics to another area of mathematics.
In terms of pre-requisites. Having done some basics in Linear Algebra, Group Theory and Analysis should be enough to get started on category theory. Thus, it is aimed primarily at students who have had an introduction to these areas which means students who have completed 3rd year 1st semester at IISER Mohali. However, like many mathematical topics, it can be approached without such knowledge as well.
In terms of work-load. The course will have a load similar to other 4 credit courses. We will have 2-3 lecture hours each week and 2-1 discussion/tutorial sessions, making 4 hours per week. Working out examples of categories, functors and related notions will be the primary topic for homework/assignments etc.
Should a 3rd-year student audit this course?
In the 3rd year first semester, our experience is that students find that the workload is very different from the first two years. The reason is that a majority of the courses are from the major and depend on each other; moreover, all of them are now 4 credit courses and require more time commitment than the 3 credit courses done earlier.
Hence, I would not recommend that you audit a course during this semester. Of course, if you like, you can take it as your elective.
You are welcome to access the course material via the Moodle page which allows for enrolment. You are also welcome to come to class when you find time.