Why can't I find the answer to some questions online or in a solutions manual?

Why some exercise answers are not included

Like most textbook publishers, OpenStax provides students with randomized or every-other-answer sets (odd or even only) for many exercises. A large community of faculty recommended this approach, and we follow this standard in many of our textbooks.

This allows instructors flexibility when assigning questions. Instructors who want students to have answers for reference may assign questions that appear in the Student Solution Guide. Instructors who prefer that students not have immediate access to answers can assign the alternate set of questions.

Where to find student solutions

If you are looking for the Student Solutions for your textbook, they can typically be found at the end of the book under the Answer Key section or on your book's Student Resources tab at openstax.org (if a solution guide has been created for your textbook).

Access to instructor solutions

If you are a student seeking a complete answer set, please note that access to Instructor Solutions Manuals is restricted. These materials are not available directly to students and can only be accessed through an instructor.

Instructor Solutions Manuals have been created for most OpenStax textbooks. Instructors may choose to share these solutions with students if they would like them to check their work.

Resources for self-learners and tutors

Self-learners studying independently, as well as informal or peer tutors, do not have direct access to instructor solution manuals. However, they can still benefit from the resources available on the Student Resources tab and the Student Solution Guide, where applicable.

Instructor access to solutions

If you are an instructor and would like access to these materials, you can learn more here: Requesting Instructor-only Access.