Hi

I think this question might have been answered earlier but I can't seem to find the thread so I'll ask again..

I'm taking math 1ls3 and stats 1l03 thsi fall and all the books listed are optional. I haven't encountered this before so my questions are:

1) How do I know which books would be most helpful? Is it a waste of money to buy ALL the optional textbooks?
2) Do professors assign questions from the optional books? (I'd hate if they assigned questions from a book that I haven't purchased which is why I would consider buying all of them)

Thanks in advance!

1) Optional means that the course material isn't necessary, but if you're struggling with the material being taught in the course then these books might come in handy for extra readings - going in depth into the topics that will be taught. It's a good idea to talk with your Prof before buying these books cuz' they'll you straight up that it isn't at all necessary for the course.

2) Some do, some don't, which is again why you should talk with the Prof / wait till the first week of school where they'll mention what books should be bought.

i used the book, I would buy a used one if you learn by lots of practice.

I bought some of my optional textbooks used, used them now and then, sold them for the sale price as I bought them.