What Is a Complimentary Textbook Copy? Exam and Preview Copies

A complimentary textbook copy is a copy supplied without charge, often by a publisher to an instructor evaluating a title or teaching a course. Exam, evaluation, preview, and desk copies describe related purposes, but publishers use these labels differently. The label alone does not establish what a particular buyer will accept.

Complimentary, exam, preview, and desk copies

For example, Cambridge’s examination-copy program lets instructors request a textbook for evaluation. Use the supplying publisher’s definitions and terms for your copy.

LabelTypical purposeWhat to check Exam or evaluation copyReview for possible course adoptionThe publisher’s evaluation and return conditions Desk copyInstructor use for an adopted courseThe publisher’s eligibility and use terms Preview or sample copyPreview of content; sometimes a partial or advance versionWhether it contains the complete text and matches the final edition Complimentary copyA copy provided without chargeAny markings, accompanying terms, and differences from the retail version

Is it the same as an instructor edition?

Not necessarily. “Complimentary” describes how a copy was supplied. An instructor edition may describe different content, such as teaching notes or answers. Check the title page, copyright page, ISBN, cover markings, and included material rather than assuming that all free copies are the same product.

Before requesting a buyback quote

1. Confirm that you own the copy and understand any terms that accompanied it. A loan or evaluation copy may have return requirements.
2. Use the ISBN printed on your copy. Do not substitute a retail ISBN or cover markings to obtain a different quote.
3. Check whether the buyer accepts complimentary, instructor, advance, or marked copies. Ask the buyer if its policy is unclear.
4. Disclose missing material, sample-only content, writing, and other condition issues.
5. Confirm the buyer’s response and shipping instructions before sending the book.

A quote for an ISBN is not a determination of ownership rights, permission to resell, or acceptance of every copy bearing that ISBN. Publisher terms and buyer requirements need to be checked for the specific item.

Compare the copy you actually have

Look up the ISBN to identify the edition and available pricing. Then use the buyer directory to review vendor information and confirm the current policy on the vendor’s site. Read more about instructor-edition copies when that is the version you own.