Im not sure how to rate this so Im going with 4 star. Let me start with the positive. I really like the finished piece. Right now it is just set up in an open spot in my living room. It it is going to go great in the office. Seems to be of decent material and should hold up to normal wear and tear just fine. Now, for the bad... I know some said they did it by themselves and while I did too it was not as easy as the other reviews might suggest. It does take a while (there are a lot of parts) and it can be awkward without help. Directions.... Ive put a lot of this type of stuff together before so all in all its about what you would expect (not exactly clear but you figure it out quickly). Overall I would suggest this desk, just maybe have someone around to help get it together.