Q: Do I really need a textbook for this class?
A: As with most economics questions the answer is both yes and no.
Yes – You need to read the chapter prior to coming to class everyday. Tests are open book so a book is useful. The textbook also has all of the graphs.
No – I hand out lecture notes so you already have the critical information in outline form. You’ll have to depend on your own note taking for the graphs.
Q: I can get a first or second edition over the internet for a few bucks ($5 or less.) Can I use that instead of the newer (and more expensive $89 to $116) third edition?
A: Yes. You will need to follow your lecture notes carefully since some of the chapters were rearranged or split apart in the third edition. Hence the chapter numbers may differ in the earlier editions. Most of the actual content is the same although the data has been updated.
Q: I have another principles of economics textbook from a previous class or friend or wherever. Can I use that?
A: Probably. Most of the contents of principles textbooks are about the same. Sequences will vary so follow your lecture notes to see where we are relative to your book.
Q: A web site comes with the book. Is it really useful?
A: The textbook web site has the entire text online, a study guide, chapter checkpoints, practice quizzes and an interactive way of taking you through each chapter. It is a very useful supplement to the textbook. Some students have used it as a substitute for the textbook.
Q: Is the web site available without buying a new textbook?
A: Yes it is. The cost is $30 charged to a major credit card.
Note that the course web site is not the text book web site. The text book web site contains additional material that you may or may not find useful. The course web site contains chapter quizzes, assignments, grades, lecture notes and other stuff you will need for the course.