Short answer: Borrow books you will read once, buy books you will write in or use all year, and agree a return date at the start.
Decide by how you will use the book
A book you will read once, such as a reference chapter, suits borrowing. A book you will annotate, practise from or revisit often suits buying. Splitting your list this way reduces cost without hurting your preparation.
Use the library well
Check the library at the start of the semester, since popular titles go quickly. Learn the loan period and renewal rules, and note which books are reference-only.
Ask seniors early
Seniors may be willing to lend books they have finished. Ask politely, agree on a return date and tell them how you will use the book. Offering to return it in the same condition builds trust.
A simple checklist
- List every book your semester needs
- Mark those you will only read once
- Mark those you will write in or revise often
- Borrow the first group, buy the second
Look after borrowed books
Do not write in or fold pages of a borrowed book. See how to take care of borrowed books for tips.
Combine borrowing and buying
Many students find that borrowing the heavy reference books and buying the two or three core books works well. This keeps the cost under control while you still own the books that you will write in and revise from. At the end of the semester you can pass on the books you bought, or sell them.
Keep a return list
Write a list of every borrowed book, who it belongs to and the return date, and check it weekly. Returning on time is the best way to be able to borrow again next semester.
Final thoughts
Borrowing works best when you plan ahead rather than ask at the last minute. Make your list in the first week, check availability, and decide what to buy. This also gives you time to compare options and avoid paying more for urgent orders.
Finally, say thank you and return the favour. If a senior lends you a book, offer your own finished books to juniors next year. A culture of passing books on keeps study material in use and helps everyone in your batch spend less.
When buying makes sense
If you need a book for the whole year, compare second hand books and new books.
Frequently asked questions
Which books are best to borrow?
Books you will read once or use only for a short period.
Which books should I buy?
Books you will annotate, practise from or revise throughout the year.
How should I return a borrowed book?
On the agreed date and in the same condition, without writing in it.