Buying Textbooks

chainiwatmj
Wed, 04 Sep 2013 00:38:54 +0000

I think when the prof. usually list their textbook as required, then it’s really required.
However, I sometimes use ebooks and if I really need a copy of it, I just go to UCSD library reserve to borrow it for 3 hrs. There are some textbooks though that they don’t have it in reserve. I had to purchase my art history textbook and I also couldn’t find ebook because it wasn’t a popular textbook.

Looseleaf textbook usually comes inside the plastic wrap (yes, it’s whole punched) if you buy it new, and you have to put it in your own binder or else everything will just fly away.

If the prof. listed a looseleaf as required and regular textbook as optional and that they are the same txt, same edition, then I guess he kinda gives you a choice of buying a cheaper one. Looseleaf is always cheaper than hardcover.

In my opinion, if you plan to sell a used textbook to someone, it’s easier to sell a hardcover version. People just like it more.

ummm… I have no idea why the looseleaf one is more expensive. That’s weird. Perhaps there’s a sale going on?

I used to buy textbooks last year because I liked having a hard copy and I don’t like to always have to turn on my computer to have access to it. However I later changed my mind because ochem textbook + solution manual is freaking expensive and I was able to find the ebook so why not. I also hate trying to sell it to other people. It’s just a hassle to me.

My advice is to not buy a brand new textbook because once you buy it, it’s used and you’ll have to sell a used book at a really low price. If you buy a used one (a lot cheaper) that’s still in good condition then sell it to someone else, you won’t lose that much money.

Using ebooks is another good way to save money and as long as you have it in your usb, you can have access to it anywhere without having to carry a textbook with you. There’s a UCSD ebook group on facebook.

Sometimes I find that I just don’t really use my textbook. Like for my genetics class, I didn’t even read a page because I studied from the slides and didn’t even have time to read something very detailed.