How important is it to have the latest edition textbook? (1 Viewer)

[QZP]

How important is it to have the latest edition textbook? I can find 2nd hand copies of the previous edition for $100 cheaper than the latest edition which I cannot find 2nd hand copies for.

 

[anomalousdecay]

Depends on the textbook and what it is for. Some things might require a recent textbook due to outdated info. Some courses might just require a decent source of info (which may mean that you might not require a textbook at all and probably can use other resources or possibly just borrow the textbook once or twice from the library).

 

[cormacshaw]

If your course requires the latest edition for homework (some units have special access homework where you need a code from the textbook to access the content) then you'll need it. Or if you're doing law you'll likely want the latest edition for example.

For most cases, one or (maybe) two editions back is usually fine.

 

[mreditor16]

Depends on the textbook and what it is for. Some things might require a recent textbook due to outdated info. Some courses might just require a decent source of info (which may mean that you might not require a textbook at all and probably can use other resources or possibly just borrow the textbook once or twice from the library).

If your course requires the latest edition for homework (some units have special access homework where you need a code from the textbook to access the content) then you'll need it. Or if you're doing law you'll likely want the latest edition for example.

For most cases, one or (maybe) two editions back is usually fine.

A bit late to the party but also in addition to these posts, try asking your lecturer(s), your tutor, and seniors who have done the subject in question already about whether buying an edition or two back will be fine. That will considerably help in informing your decision.