Textbook question

[tedbean]

I am starting the CS degree soon in several weeks (Thanks to all your advice ).


I notice the textbook for the programming course is rather expensive, should I buy it? It is recommended by the lecturer.

Would it be better I get a cheaper programming book from the bookstore, so I can choose a more uptodate(or just cheaper) one?

The programming will be really difficult even at a basic level for me , I hope the textbook will make it easier.

[mirhagk]

How expensive is rather expensive? Programming books are really expensive (well for the really good ones at least).

Also what is the book on? Because you'd be surprised how much of an old book still applies (assuming it doesn't talk about language specifics, but rather generalizations and algorithms and such)

[Tony]

it depends on your learning style, material, etc...

If applicable, Kindle textbook rentals could be a very affordable option -- http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html?ie=UTF8&docId=1000702481 you don't need to own a Kindle device, it works just as well with your laptop and mobile devices, via apps.

[tedbean]

I will have a look in the library and the 2nd hand bookstores.

What editions are considered uptodate? Within last 3, 4, or 5 years?

Edited.

[tedbean]

I almost thought it would be Java again, no...C is still more likely.

It will all be clear next week...

[paulyloyd]

I am also starting the course.

[tedbean]

C decided!

[Insectoid]

Unless your prof assigns questions out of the textbook, you probably won't need it. Everything you'll need is a few clicks away on Google. This only really applies to programming classes though.

[Tony]

Insectoid @ Sat Feb 18, 2012 4:45 pm wrote:

Unless your prof assigns questions out of the textbook, you probably won't need it.

Even then, there's usually a few copies of the textbook available for use in the library.

[mirhagk]

Then again some programming textbooks are invaluable. Just depends on the textbook.

[tedbean]

I hope there are recent copies in the lib.