College textbooks are one of the biggest rip-offs in American society.  Students can spend $500 or more on books that may not be that helpful.  Here are some realities of textbooks.

1.   In many cases, faculty are required to use a book by the course coordinator.  A teacher may rarely refer to the book or use it in anyway.

2.   In some cases, you also have to buy course packets.  One item in the course packet is a code number for quizzes, homework, or tests.  Thus students can’t take advantage of used books.

3.   Campus bookstores are generally a student’s most expensive book option.  While it’s good to shop around, a student’s financial aid may be setup in a way that they have to use it at the campus bookstore.

Here’s a strategy you can give for minimizing book costs.

1.   Don’t buy books (or if you buy them, don’t place any marks on them) until you are assured they are going to be used.

2.   Think about sharing a book with another student.  This can obviously cut your costs in half.

3.   Use online book suppliers to shop for the best prices.

4.   Consider renting a book if a rental option is available.  This is especially good for math/science books which are the most expensive.

5.   Take advantage of used books whenever possible.  Many campuses have used book outlets; and, in some cases, sales are done on a student-to-student basis.

6.   Take good care of your book so you get a better resale price for it at the end of the semester.

7.   If you absolutely cannot afford a book, talk to your teacher.  Your teacher may be able to loan you a book.

8.   Talk with students who have taken the class you are taking.  You can get some good insight as to whether the book is needed.

If students follow the guidance from above, they should be able to reduce their textbook costs in half..