5 Best GMAT Prep Books & Resources for Acing the GMAT 2024 Exam

Are you preparing for the GMAT? With over 20,000 Indian test-takers annually, having the right resources is crucial. A solid study plan starts with the best GMAT preparation books that cover arithmetic, algebra, grammar, and critical thinking. Choosing the right material will sharpen your skills and boost your confidence as you prepare for the GMAT exam. GMAT preparation is incomplete without the preparation books that equip you with all the knowledge required to score well in the exam.

Key Highlights:

• The average price of recommended GMAT prep books ranges from INR 3,499 to INR 15,000.
• Top GMAT preparation books include Manhattan Prep's GMAT Books, GMAT Official Guide Books by GMAC, and Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus.
• Free GMAT resources available include the GMAT Official 6-Week Study Planner and GMAT Official Starter Kit.
• When preparing with these books, ensure to cover all GMAT sections, practice consistently, and USE detailed explanations for incorrect answers.

Top 5 GMAT Preparation Books

When preparing for the GMAT, investing in quality resources alongside GMAT self-preparation is essential for success. Books like The PowerScore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible 2022 and the GMAT Official Guide Books by GMAC offer targeted strategies. They provide real exam questions that are best for effective study. These resources provide clear breakdowns of concepts and practice questions according to the GMAT's structure.

Unlike some online content, these books provide reliable and focused material. It allows for thorough preparation across all sections of the exam from Quantitative and Verbal to Data insights. Having a trusted book allows you to know exactly where to look when dealing with a problem, making your study experience more efficient and effective.

With the vast amount of available GMAT study material, we'll help you select the best GMAT prep book. Here is a list of GMAT books to help ace your prep!

Want extra help with your MBA journey? Check out our Yocket Premium services for personalised support!

1. Manhattan Prep's GMAT Books (MGMAT)

Manhattan Prep is known for its detailed approach, offering in-depth content in each GMAT section. The guides easily explain complex topics like advanced maths concepts and critical reasoning with clarity. This makes it ideal for candidates aiming for high scores. With their adaptive tests and detailed answer explanations, you'll get a better sense of the actual GMAT test environment.

• Price: INR 15,000
• In the Bundle: 6 full-length adaptive practice tests, in-depth strategy guides for each section (Quantitative, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning), video lessons, and digital resources.
• Pros: Extensive practice tests, video tutorials, and topic-specific strategy guides.
• Cons: Higher price point, which might be a barrier for some test-takers.

2. GMAT Official Guide Books by GMAC

Since these questions are sourced from past GMAT exams, this guide gives candidates the most realistic practice. It covers all sections while providing insightful solutions to questions. Though it's more of a practice tool, it's great for getting familiar with the exam's question types and difficulty.

• Price: INR 4,999
• In the Bundle: Official GMAT practice questions from previous exams, access to the online question bank, and detailed explanations for both correct and incorrect answers.
• Pros: Authentic GMAT questions directly from GMAC, access to an online question bank.
• Cons: Less focus on teaching concepts, with more emphasis on question practice.

3. The PowerScore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible

The PowerScore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible is specifically for understanding the Critical Reasoning section of the GMAT. It explores arguments and reasoning, providing readers with a solid foundation in logical principles. Each chapter focuses on different question types-such as assumption, strengthening, and weakening-equipping candidates with strategies to dissect arguments effectively. The book emphasises understanding argument structure, which is crucial for not just the GMAT but also for business school applications.

• Price: ₹3,499 on Amazon
• In the Bundle: Comprehensive guides on critical reasoning concepts, practice questions with detailed explanations, and strategies for tackling GMAT-style critical reasoning questions.
• Pros: Clear, structured approach to understanding critical reasoning concepts.
• Cons: May not cover all GMAT sections, as it is specifically focused on critical reasoning.

4. Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus

Kaplan's GMAT Prep Plus is well-rounded, offering complete reviews for all GMAT sections. Each section features concept checks that ensure candidates understand foundational skills before moving on to more difficult material. The practice tests are highly beneficial. They mirror the exam's adaptive nature, helping candidates get used to the GMAT format and timing.

• Price: INR 4,200
• In the Bundle: 6 full-length practice tests, drills for each section, concept checks, and access to online/mobile resources for on-the-go studying.
• Pros: Includes concept checks, several full-length practice tests, and mobile-friendly resources.
• Cons: Some users find the material overly detailed, which can make studying time-consuming.

5. Veritas Prep Complete GMAT Course Set

The Veritas Prep course set offers some of the most helpful learning experiences for GMAT prep. Each section is broken down with in-depth lessons and practice, giving you the tools to excel in every part of the GMAT. The adaptive tests are especially useful for tracking your progress, as they adjust in difficulty based on your performance.

• Price: INR 12,000
• In the Bundle: A full set of books covering all GMAT sections (Math, Verbal and Data insights), adaptive practice tests, and access to an online question bank.
• Pros: Detailed explanations, adaptive practice tests, comprehensive coverage of all sections.
• Cons: Higher price and significant time investment required to complete the entire set.

Suggested: Check the latest updates on GMAT exam fees and the available payment options.

List of Free Online Resources for GMAT Preparation

Explore a range of free online resources to help you prepare for the GMAT and improve your test performance. Here's a quick list of free GMAT online resources to make your journey easier:

GMAT Official 6-Week Study Planner

If you're curious about how much time you'll require to get ready for the GMAT exam, the GMAT Official 6-Week Study Planner can help streamline your preparation. This handy, self-directed guide enables you to prepare in around six weeks while providing essential insights and resources straight from the exam's authors. With this complimentary tool, you can monitor your progress, pinpoint your strengths and weaknesses, and craft a solid strategy.

GMAT Official Starter Kit

The best way to evaluate your knowledge and critical thinking abilities is by taking a practice GMAT exam. GMAT Official Starter Kit + Practice Exams 1 & 2 makes it easier. This all-inclusive kit offers two full-length official practice exams, featuring 70 questions. These span all three GMAT sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insight. It also provides tools for creating your practice questions. Each exam includes authentic questions from previous GMAT tests and employs the same scoring algorithm. This enables you to recreate the testing environment while boosting your confidence in your strengths and identifying areas that need more focus.

Suggested: Check out the latest GMAT syllabus & exam pattern here!

How to Choose the Right GMAT Books?

When selecting GMAT books and resources for 2024, focus on these key factors:

1. Content Relevance: Pick materials that match the latest GMAT format and question types. This way, your practice mirrors the actual exam, improving your readiness.
2. Practice Questions and Exams: Look for resources that provide a comprehensive range of practice questions along with full-length exams. Detailed explanations for each answer are crucial, as they help you understand the reasoning behind correct and incorrect responses, allowing you to learn from your mistakes.
3. User Reviews and Expert Recommendations: Take advantage of insights from previous test-takers and GMAT experts. Books with positive reviews often indicate effectiveness and can guide you toward high-quality materials that have helped others succeed.

Candidates should also consider these factors to enhance their exam preparation:

• Strong Study Plan: Create a well-rounded study plan that targets all sections of the exam. This may involve prioritizing certain areas, honing time management skills, and utilising strategies for tackling challenging problems.
• Solution-based Approach: When studying with prep materials, refer to answer keys that include thorough explanations. These insights clarify various concepts, helping candidates grasp essential principles and improve their problem-solving skills.
• Consistent and Relevant Practice: Due to the GMAT's unique format, practicing questions that closely resemble the actual exam is essential for achieving high scores.

By prioritising these elements, you can enhance your GMAT preparation and increase your chances of achieving a competitive score in 2024.

How to Determine the Best GMAT Book?

1. Comprehensive Coverage: Look for a book that thoroughly covers all GMAT sections - Quantitative, Verbal Reasoning, and Data insights. This ensures you get a well-rounded preparation.
2. Practice Questions and Exams: Select a book that includes a diverse range of practice questions and full-length exams. Realistic practice is crucial for familiarising yourself with the test format and timing.
3. In-depth Explanations: Choose resources that provide detailed explanations for answers. Understanding the reasoning behind each question will deepen your grasp of essential concepts and improve problem-solving skills.
4. Up-to-date Content: Ensure the book is recent and aligns with the latest GMAT exam format and content. Current resources will reflect the most recent trends and question types, enhancing your readiness.

Suggested: Check the latest updates on GMAT exam dates and scheduling options.

6-month Self-Study Plan Using GMAT Prep Books & Online Resources

The following structured plan provides a clear outline to ensure thorough preparation for the GMAT exam over six months; it can be tweaked based on the schedule and requirements of the test-taker:

What are the Benefits of Preparing with GMAT Books?

Using preparation resources is crucial for a successful GMAT attempt. GMAT prep books are designed to cover all the important topics tested in the exam, providing a structured plan for learning quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and data insights. They explain concepts deeply, provide examples, and offer practice questions to help you understand key ideas and perform well on each section of the test.

• GMAT is unique, and prep materials ensure you understand its format, structure, and timing, helping you feel ready and comfortable on exam day. By practising with real GMAT questions and tests, you become familiar with the exam details, enabling you to manage your time effectively and answer questions confidently.
• GMAT prep books also offer valuable tips for tackling different question types, managing time constraints, and making informed guesses when necessary. Learning and applying these strategies can help you perform at your best, work efficiently, and avoid common mistakes during the exam.
• Some prep tools offer personalised study plans tailored to your strengths and weaknesses. These tools help you focus on areas for improvement, making your study time more effective.

While preparing for the GMAT may initially seem challenging, these resources can boost your confidence. Professional guidance, a clear study plan, and a sense of direction provided by these resources contribute to increased assurance in your abilities. As you engage with study materials, practice problems, and observe your progress, your confidence grows, reinforcing the belief that you can achieve your desired score.

From the Desk of Yocket

GMAT Prep can feel like a huge task, but with the right resources, you can approach the exam with the confidence of a knight! As highlighted in this blog, choosing quality GMAT prep books according to your needs is crucial. Not only do these materials provide a solid foundation in the essential concepts, but they also offer practice questions that mirror the actual test. To complement your studies, consider incorporating Yocket Prep into your preparation strategy, where you can find expert guidance designed to help you excel.

To boost your chances of success, figure out which resources fit your study style. If you want an even more focused approach, explore Yocket Premium to get a step closer to your goals. Remember, while the right books are important, a solid study plan and regular practice are just as important!

Frequently Asked Questions About Best GMAT Books

1. Do I need to buy GMAT books?

Ans. Not necessarily, although they are an excellent study resource and question bank. Also, the previous year's questions from the official GMAT guide book will help you better grasp the pattern and types of questions presented.

2. Do I need to purchase a book for each GMAT section separately?

Ans. No, not necessarily. You can buy a complete guide and just buy books on the sections that you are weak at.

3. Is self-study through GMAT books enough to earn a decent grade?

Ans. It depends on the student. Self-study is sufficient if they believe they can study better on their own from the books accessible in the market.

3. Are GMAT materials available online good enough?

Ans. It may be for some, but it may not be for some. Books are always the best way to gain knowledge for any exam.

4. What are the quantitative and verbal sections of the GMAT?

Ans. Both the GMAT's verbal and quantitative parts are multiple-choice, and their administration follows a computer-adaptive structure that adjusts to the test-taker's skill level. Examinees are given an average difficulty question to answer before the quantitative and verbal parts begin.