How do I know if a college professor is going to use a textbook?

Question

I've heard that some of the teachers in my college say that we will need a text book, because they think it would be handy for us to have, but they never end up using them. I've already got all my books, and if I return them by the 9th, I get a full refund. How can I tell within the first week if we will be using the books or not?

Answer 1

email the teachers and just return them by that time - at least u get a full refund!

Answer 2

email and ask them

i hate when professors make u get books and then you use them like maybe 1 or 2 times... and the prices on books is ridiculous.. 100-200 per book what the h**l

Answer 3

1) Read the syllabus.

2) Listen to the professor the first day.

3) Email them.

The required materials will be listed in the syllabus, but just because they're there - like you said - doesn't mean you'll "need" it. So check out the syllabus and see what makes up your grade. If you have any homework assignments - you might need the book, so keep it.

Listening to them can really clear up whether or not they use the book, as typically the first day they'll tell you how their tests are made up of (i.e. 75% lecture notes, 25% book). Some test completely from the notes and will say that. If they do, your book may be supplemental but not completely necessary.

If all else fails, you can always email them (their email address should be on the syllabus) and ask.

Answer 4

You'll know when you get the syllabus