Well I've only ever heard one person say it wasn't so difficult (AndreB, I think). For most of us this is just a really difficult subject.
It's really difficult, but it's also really enjoyable. The trick is to forget all the questions that hang over you, or the frustration you feel when things go slower than you're used to; and try to stick with the enjoyment aspect.
I supped it last year. Would've been happy to bash my head against this wall for an outright fail, too. Maybe I'm just an idiot who enjoys bashing his head against walls?
Don't feel too bad if it's going tough. Lots of people find that.
As for Assignment 2, start by tackling the things you feel you can make a good job of. Set yourself subgoals. Up to now you've been going for 100% or bust, but now you must make the switch to 20% is still not nothing. Get into that question you can answer, and really grok it as best you can in the time available. If there's some more time left, iterate. You may have to settle for the reward of mere knowledge in the end. Be glad of it.
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Um. I think it's fair to say, too, that Chapter 3 is the hardest of the lot. Chapter 5 eases off on you a bit. So chin up!