This document discusses the definition, purpose, characteristics, and merits of textbooks. It defines textbooks as standard books prescribed for students of a particular age group that serve as both a guide for pupils and a tool for teachers. Textbooks are intended to present content in a structured way, develop students' thinking and reasoning skills, and help teachers effectively plan their lessons to meet curriculum goals. They aim to impart knowledge on selected topics in a graded format through written text, illustrations, and exercises.