Three Tips for Getting Awesome Textbooks Deals

OK, it’s time to stop messing around.

We’re into the third week of September and that excuse that “you’re just trying to get settled in” won’t cut it anymore. According to a recent press release from Cengage, there are three things every student can do right now to get caught up and kick your learning into high gear.

1. Ask the professor

We’ve all had it happen – the syllabus is missing the textbook edition, or there is a misprinted title, or it is unclear what readings are required versus recommended. Take the time to check in with the instructor for recommendations on where to buy the book, options for rental or insight into digital versions that might be more cost effective. An added benefit to this step is that it puts you on the instructor’s radar, leaving a positive impression that you are engaged in the course from the start.

2. Consider how you learn best

College is not a one-size-fits-all system. Today, textbooks and course materials are available in a variety of print and digital formats – at varying price points. While cost savings is often one goal, it’s also important to ensure you are using the course materials and tools that are going to best help you succeed in a given class – otherwise, what’s the point? Give weight to your personal learning style, and also, what you know about the individual courses from friends who may have taken the course previously. Consider whether a physical book helps you retain information better than an eBook, or if a digital version that includes personalized quizzes and check-ins could help give you a boost.

3. Do some late night cramming

If you’ve found yourself in denial about the start of a new school year, it’s worth doing an early semester cramming session to research the materials needed for each of your courses.

Cengage Unlimited, is a subscription service that offers access to every eBook in the Cengage library (22,000+ titles), as well as additional homework and study tools.

And, if you still want a print version of your textbooks, you can rent one for from them as well. Seems like a good way to get your semester back on track. It’s never too late to catch up, you know.