Final answer:
Textbooks that have too many distracting images, frequent errata, unavailability of popular editions, or content appearing in shaded boxes can raise concerns for students who rely on textbooks for thorough comprehension and exam preparation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Several features of major textbooks can raise red flags for students. One such feature is the balance of images and text. While images can be a powerful tool for learning, too many can disrupt text flow and lead students to browse rather than read for comprehension. Another issue arises with the availability of popular textbooks, as high demand can make them hard to find. Additionally, the presentation of content in textbooks and how it encourages critical thinking or reproduction of research can influence their utility for students. Also, the presence of frequent errata or errors within textbooks can diminish their credibility and reliability as educational resources. Lastly, content that appears in shaded boxes or as lengthy vignettes might be skipped by students who assume such sections will not be included in exams, highlighting the importance of textbook design that aligns with what students expect will be tested.