Textbooks in different disciplines—areas of academic study—can differ in their organization and style of writing. Some may be easier to understand than others, but don’t give up if the reading level is challenging.
Math and science texts are filled with graphs and figures that you will need to understand in order to grasp the content and the classroom lectures. They are also likely to have less text and more practice exercises than other textbooks. If you have trouble reading and understanding any of your textbooks, get help from your instructor or your college’s learning center.
Textbooks cover a lot of material in a limited space, and they won’t necessarily provide all the information you want to know about a topic. If you find yourself interested in a particular topic, go to the primary sources—the original research or documents on that subject. You’ll find those sources referenced in almost all textbooks, either at the end of each chapter or at the back of the book.
The Challenge of Being “First”
Are you the first person in your family to go to college? If so, you are in good company. Many “first-generation” students attend colleges and universities today. Make sure that you understand the rules and regulations and the unique higher-education terminology at your institution. If you or your family members feel lost or confused, talk to your college success instructor and ask about what services are available for first-generation students. Also, remember that some of our nation’s most successful individuals were the first in their families to attend and graduate from college.
You can also refer to other related sources that make the text more interesting and easier to understand. Your instructors might use the textbook only to supplement their lectures. Some instructors expect you to read the textbook carefully, while others are much more concerned that you understand broad concepts that come primarily from their lectures. Ask your instructors what the tests will cover and what types of questions will be used.
Finally, not all textbooks are written in the same way. Some are better designed and written than others. If your textbook seems disorganized or hard to understand, let your instructor know your opinion. Other students likely feel the same way. Your instructor might spend some class time explaining the text, and he or she can meet with you during office hours to help you with the material.