Is using the MIT offered book, "Intro to Computer Science and Programming" a waste of time? In other words, can I complete the course as efficiently just by using the course readings on the MIT Website, for example: CH. 1 "How to Think Like a Computer Scientist"?

Question

Is using the MIT offered book, "Intro to Computer Science and Programming" a waste of time?  In other words, can I complete the course as efficiently just by using the course readings on the MIT Website, for example: CH. 1 "How to Think Like a Computer Scientist"?

anonymous · Answer

I am using the book and though no, you probably will not learn too many new concepts with it, the book does reinforce what is taught in the lectures. Furthermore, it is a good idea to use the book for the reason that it is part of the required reading and therefore has a purpose in this course regardless of whether or not we understand what it is. I recommend at least trying it out for the first couple of lectures.

anonymous · Answer

My apologies, in my previous reply I failed to address the latter part of your question. While yes, you could just use the material on the website, from a learning standpoint, it is most effective to acquire information from multiple sources i.e. the book. Thusly, I continue to recommend at least trying to use the book.

perl · Answer

is it a good book?

anonymous · Answer

The short answer is no.
Whether you utilize the online material or the book it will be extremely beneficial to you to consult other sources like books, websites, etc.