Comments on: Does it make a big difference if you buy an older edition of a college textbook?

By: lisashue2000

lisashue2000 — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 10:24:06 +0000

Usually it’s not much different. You may want to see if your textbook have an international edition. It’s cheaper to buy international edition textbooks. lisashue2000

By: jellybeanchick

jellybeanchick — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 03:41:02 +0000

It makes a difference in a subject that is constantly evolving (like organic chemistry or genetics), and in classes where you have to turn in problem sets.

In your case, it is hard to say. General chemistry doesn’t change dramatically in a few years. However, it is hard to know if you have to turn in problem sets. You may want to wait until your class starts, and ask your professor. At that point, you can either buy the new textbook at the campus bookstore, or the old version at an off campus used book store. jellybeanchick

By: Kristen S

Kristen S — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 16:49:27 +0000

It usually depends on the subject and the length of time between edition updates. Some textbooks have very little change/updates in which case there would be no problem. Others may have complete revisions, in which case you are better off buying the edition stated. I found I could get away with older editions of texts for English classes more than for science classes. Checking with the professor, or comparing editions for youself is probably the best way to go. Kristen S

By: Lawyer X

Lawyer X — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 21:43:24 +0000

You should ask the professor in each of your classes. It may make a big difference in some and less in others. Lawyer X