1. Forget about it: Don't buy the textbook
This is the cheapest option since it's free. However, there is a pretty massive downside, you don't actually receive a book this way... Some classes honestly don't use the material. One of my friends was actually assigned a hundred dollar book that was just a couple hundred blank, lined pages. I assume it was so costly because the manufacturers had monks slowly draw every line on the pages with their blood.
2. Mooch to the max: Ask friends
Most people don't sell their textbooks immediately after the semester or ever. Bribe your friend with Red Bull and try to get there old textbooks out of them. If one red bull doesn't work, increase the intensity with TWO Red Bulls. That'll get them for sure.
3. Communism: Find a Facebook group
Most universities and areas have textbook exchange groups on Facebook or the web. Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes, or computer hacker and search around a bit. Although the big wide web can be scary, I'm sure a competent reader like you can manage it.
4. Consult the sage: Ask the professor
Although they may be intimidating and old, the professor most likely knows where to get the textbook for the cheapest price. A quick question can lead to money being saved for midnight Taco Bell runs.
5. Get your life together: Plan ahead
Almost every option here requires planning ahead. You don't want to be stuck without a book three weeks into the semester and forced to take the walk of shame to the school textbook store to get your book. Between your next Netflix binge and twelve hour nap in the summer, take an hour to do some searching and talking.
6. Get Romantic: Share a textbook
If a close friend and you have the same class, split the price and the textbook. This can be difficult with textbooks that are filled with mostly reading, but assignment and problem books can be easily shared. If you get to read the textbook first make sure to highlight every word alternating five different colours to help your friend read it to!
7. Kick it nineties style: Get an older version
This is one of the easiest ways to save money. Most books barely change. Shockingly there haven't been a lot of revelations in your physics 101 textbook over the past few years. Understand that the archaic book may be missing parts or be differently organized, so if the professor assigns a chapter you might have to figure out what parts your supposed to be reading in your musty old book.
8. Ask old people: Seriously, ask old people
People who have taken the classes have probably already searched for the cheapest option. Just approach them carefully, some of them are seniors and might be experiencing dementia. Use small words and talk loudly. Don't be afraid if they offer you hard candy either.
