The Third Edition of On Course includes more materials on career planning yet maintains its focus on life and study skills. In addition, Downing blends practical study tips with journal skills in a style that is down-to-earth and positive.

Icons denote Principals at Work sections, which show the importance of success strategies in choosing the right career, getting hired, and succeeding in the working world.Revised Case Studies for Critical Thinking apply strategies to a real-life problem, focusing on topics such as procrastination and collaborative workThe On Course web site provides additional activities for students and links to relevant sites that help reinforce the lessons from the text.