Which Affordable Differential Equations Textbook Should I Choose?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers around the absence of a summer course for Math 270 (Differential Equations with Linear Algebra) at a local community college, prompting the user to consider self-study. The suggested textbook, "Elementary Differential Equations with Linear Algebra Fourth Edition" by Rabenstein, is priced at nearly $200 for new copies. Participants in the discussion recommend looking for more accessible, commonly used textbooks that can be found at lower prices, particularly used copies. One user highlights that the Rabenstein book can be found for as low as $1 plus shipping on sites like abebooks, indicating that affordable options do exist for those looking to study independently. The user's background in mathematics, having completed courses up to Calculus III, is noted as a factor that may influence their choice of study materials.
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I was planning to take Math 270 (Differential Equations with Linear Algebra) at the local community college this summer. However, there will be no course this summer, so I was thinking about studying it on my own. I looked at the text that the school sells (only new copies), Elementary Differential Equations with Linear Algebra Fourth Edition by Rabenstein, and it was nearly $200. Do any of you have a suggestion for a more common textbook (that is good!) that would be easy to find used?

By the way, I have taken math through the Calculus III level (I guess this could affect my book choice).
 
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You can find that Rabenstein book for a $1 plus shipping on abebooks. Just saying you can still use it, and not pay a bundle.
 

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