<p>Not as in I'm doing badly, but as in that I'd be expecting to do better, and I think part of this is because of following the recommendation to get the online version of the textbook. I don't know, it just seems to make things a lot more difficult. Additionally, I don't really think we're taught well how to solve difficult problems. Step-by-step solutions to difficult problems I think could help out with that a lot.</p>
<p>Basically what I'm asking is are there any print resources out there that are useful and aren't as expensive as a textbook? Would an AP Physics (mechanics) prep book be a good supplement? And if not really, are there any good online resources that are good at explaining things well? Thanks, I appreciate the help. Sorry if this is the wrong place for this.</p>
<p>I know there any many international versions of the Fundamentals of Physics books that are SIGNIFICANTLY less priced than the actual US textbook. From my understanding, they are the exact same books with slight differences in numbering, but I suggest checking reviews. I agree with you, I benefit much more from having the print in front of me. </p>
<p>Edit: looking through ebay, there is a 20 dollar book that is the same US version.</p>
<p>Not a fan of the online version either. When I took the class a couple years ago it always helped me to google the sample problems I was working after I had worked them. Normally I could find that someone else had already put it out there and I could check my though process. If it got it right, it gave me some extra confidence. If I got it wrong, I made sure I really understood what was going on and would come back and rework one of the similar problems to check my understanding. Working the problems until they are ingrained is a lot of it.</p>
<p>You may consider trying to find a Schaum’s Outline that covers the topic. Without knowing what Physics 101 at your university is I can’t direct you to one, but they have the outlines on a whole bunch of different physics topics so I am sure one exists. Those are decent resources. I think they make terrible textbooks but decent supplementary guides, which is what you are seeking anyway.</p>
<p>does your school have copies of the textbook reserved in the library? Many people don’t buy books at all, but instead use the school’s copies and photocopy pages needed for homework/test prep.</p>
<p>You can also look at buying an edition or two old of various textbooks (or taking them out from the library since they generally aren’t on reserve). They tend to be less than $10 and generally offer all of the same material.</p>
<p>I second the advice to find different textbooks. You can usually buy a used version of a not-the-most-recent edition of a textbook very cheaply.</p>
<p>If you are willing to put in the time, I suggest to find an easier textbook, and work through it, and then once you are comfortable with the concepts, move up to your current textbook. Sometimes the “easier” textbooks have a lot more examples worked out, which can be very helpful. </p>
<p>Find out what textbook is used at a community college level physics class, or go to a bookstore and browse through the physics text books to find one you like, and then go home and order online a cheaper used version of it, even if it is the previous edition.</p>