If you’re planning to appear for IPMAT 2026 or JIPMAT 2026, selecting the right set of books is your first and most critical step toward cracking these competitive exams. With a vast syllabus covering Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability, and Logical Reasoning (in JIPMAT/IPMAT Rohtak), students often find themselves confused about which books to rely on.
This blog is your section-wise guide to the best books for IPMAT and JIPMAT preparation. Whether you’re aiming for IIM Indore, IIM Rohtak, or other IIMs accepting JIPMAT scores like IIM Jammu and IIM Bodh Gaya, this curated list will help you streamline your preparation.
We’ll cover:
- Books for Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Ability, and Logical Reasoning
- Separate suggestions for IPMAT Indore, IPMAT Rohtak & JIPMAT
- NCERT recommendations for fundamentals
- Bonus: Mock test books and previous year’s question paper guides
With the right mix of concept-building resources and practice books, you’ll be better equipped to master every exam section.
Let’s start by understanding the structure of the exams first.
IPMAT & JIPMAT 2026 Exam Overview
Before selecting the right preparation books, it’s essential to understand the exam structure of IPMAT Indore, IPMAT Rohtak, and JIPMAT. While all three exams assess Quantitative and Verbal skills, some key differences in the exam pattern and section weightage influence book selection.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of all three exams:
IPMAT vs JIPMAT Exam Pattern Comparison
| Exam | Sections Included | Total Questions | Duration | Conducting Body |
| IPMAT Indore | Quantitative Aptitude (MCQ + SA), Verbal Ability | 90 | 120 mins | IIM Indore |
| IPMAT Rohtak | Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Verbal Ability | 120 | 120 mins | IIM Rohtak |
| JIPMAT | Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Verbal Ability | 100 | 150 mins | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
Key Differences:
- IPMAT Indore includes Short Answer (SA) questions in Quant, which require subjective input.
- IPMAT Rohtak and JIPMAT include a Logical Reasoning section, unlike IPMAT Indore.
- JIPMAT has the longest duration and is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
Understanding these differences will help you pick books focusing on specific question formats and section types. For example, IPMAT Indore aspirants need SA-based quant practice, while JIPMAT aspirants should also strengthen logical reasoning.
How to Select the Best Books for IPMAT 2026
The market is flooded with dozens of preparation books. Still, not all of them are useful for IPMAT and JIPMAT aspirants. Choosing the right books ensures that your preparation is aligned with the latest syllabus, exam pattern, and difficulty level.
Here are the key factors to consider when selecting books for IPMAT 2026:
Checklist for Selecting IPMAT Books
| Criteria | Why It Matters |
| Updated as per latest pattern | Ensures you’re practicing the right question types for 2026 |
| Section-wise theory coverage | Helps build strong fundamentals across Quant, Verbal, and LR. |
| Includes practice questions | Reinforces learning with MCQs, SA, and RCs |
| Chapter-wise mock tests | Useful for self-assessment after each topic |
| Previous year question references | Gives insights into actual exam difficulty and trends |
| Author/expert credibility | Trusted names like R.S. Aggarwal, Norman Lewis, and Arun Sharma add reliability |
Pro Tip: Follow a 3-Stage Book Strategy
- Concept Builders: Start with NCERTs or basic books that explain theory well.
- Practice Books: Solve questions of varying difficulty across sections.
- Mock Test Books: Simulate the exam environment and work on time management.
Choosing 1–2 focused books per section is more effective than juggling 5–6 books without consistency. For a structured approach, supplement your books with online mock tests and coaching institute modules like those offered by Tarkashastra.
Best Books for IPMAT Quantitative Ability (QA)
The Quantitative Aptitude section is often the most challenging for IPMAT aspirants, especially in IPMAT Indore, which includes MCQs and Short Answer (SA) type questions. A good quant book should help you build strong fundamentals, develop speed, and expose you to advanced-level problems.
Here’s a curated list of books that cover all three exam types: IPMAT Indore, IPMAT Rohtak, and JIPMAT.
Recommended Books for IPMAT Quant Preparation
| Book Title | Author/Publisher | Best For | Key Features |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams | R.S. Aggarwal | Basics & Practice | Covers all foundational topics with many examples. |
| Quantitative Aptitude Quantum CAT | Sarvesh K. Verma | Advanced Concept Building | CAT-level practice for mastering IPMAT Indore quant |
| NCERT Mathematics (Class 9 & 10) | NCERT | Concept Clarity (Beginner Level) | Great for learning basic formulae and methods |
| How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma | IPMAT Indore Advanced Practice | Based on CAT-level questions, strengthens core aptitude. |
| Magical Book on Mathematics | M. Tyra | Shortcut Techniques & Speed | Fast calculation tricks and unconventional approaches |
| Understanding ICSE Mathematics | M.L. Aggarwal | Structured Conceptual Learning | ICSE-style explanations suitable for thorough topic clarity |
| Objective Mathematics for JEE | R.D. Sharma | Wide Practice & Concept Depth | Large variety of problems across difficulty levels |
| IPMAT Quantitative Aptitude by Arun Sharma | McGraw Hill | Mixed Difficulty & Speed | Focuses on chapter-wise concept application |
| Tarkashastra’s IPMAT QA Workbook | Tarkashastra Academy | Topic Tests + SA Practice | Designed for IPMAT 2026 with MCQs, SA, and PYQs |
Important Quant Topics to Cover
| Core Topics | Advanced Topics |
| Number System | Permutation & Combination |
| Averages & Percentages | Probability |
| Time, Speed, and Distance | Logarithms |
| Algebra (Linear & Quadratic) | Inequalities & Modulus |
| Geometry & Mensuration | Functions & Graphs |
| Ratios & Proportion | Set Theory & Venn Diagrams |
Special Focus: Short Answer Questions (IPMAT Indore)
SA-type questions have no options and require you to type the final answer. To master this:
- Use books that offer step-by-step problem-solving.
- Practice mental calculation & approximation techniques.
- Solve Tarkashastra’s SA-based practice sheets for speed + accuracy.
Best Books for IPMAT Verbal Ability (VA)
The Verbal Ability section tests your grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, sentence structure, and critical reasoning proficiency. While this section may appear easier than Quant, a high score requires precision, speed, and strong reading habits.
Here’s a curated list of the best books to improve verbal accuracy for IPMAT Indore, IPMAT Rohtak, and JIPMAT.
Recommended Books for IPMAT Verbal Preparation
| Book Title | Author/Publisher | Best For | Key Features |
| Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | Vocabulary Building | Root-based learning and revision-friendly structure |
| High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren & Martin | Grammar & Sentence Correction | Covers foundational grammar rules with ample exercises |
| Objective General English | S.P. Bakshi (Arihant) | Grammar, RC, Cloze, Para Jumbles | Comprehensive one-book solution for Verbal Ability |
| 30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary | Wilfred Funk & Norman Lewis | Vocabulary Boost | Daily lessons with word usage, idioms, and analogies |
| Tarkashastra Verbal Ability Booklet | Tarkashastra Academy | IPMAT-focused RCs & Grammar Sets | Custom designed for IPMAT pattern with mock-level drills |
| Brush Up Your English | S.T. Imam | Revision & Mixed Practice | Grammar + vocab + comprehension for quick reviews |
| Better English | Norman Lewis | Grammar Polishing & Clarity | Focus on sentence improvement, spelling, and common usage errors |
| How to Prepare for Verbal Ability & RC (CAT) | Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay | Advanced RC & Critical Reasoning | Higher-order RCs, para jumbles, summary-based exercises |
| Word Power Champion: 100 Words That Make You Sound Smart | Reader’s Digest | Smart Vocabulary Usage | Practical, high-utility vocabulary with usage tips |
| Reading Editorials | The Hindu, TOI, Indian Express | Reading Comprehension & Vocabulary | Daily reading practice for RC and inference skills |
| WordWeb (Online Dictionary) | WordWeb Software | Word Usage & Pronunciation | Helps with meanings, synonyms, word families, and correct pronunciations |
Core Topics to Prepare in Verbal Ability
| Vocabulary-Based Topics | Grammar-Based Topics | Comprehension & Logic |
| Synonyms & Antonyms | Noun-Pronoun Agreement | Reading Comprehension (RC) |
| Idioms & Phrases | Subject-Verb Agreement | Para Jumbles |
| Word Usage | Tenses, Modifiers, Prepositions | Inference-based Questions |
| Analogies | Sentence Correction | Critical Reasoning (Assumptions, Arguments) |
Preparation Tips for Verbal Ability
- Daily reading: Newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express help build reading speed and comprehension.
- Vocabulary journal: Maintain a notebook of new words and revise weekly.
- RC practice: Focus on both fact-based and inference-based RCs.
- Timed drills: Practice full-length verbal sections within time limits to improve speed + accuracy.
With the right books and consistent reading habits, scoring above the 90th percentile in VA is achievable even for non-English-medium students.
Best Books for Logical Reasoning (LR)
The Logical Reasoning section is part of the IPMAT Rohtak and JIPMAT exams. It evaluates a candidate’s analytical thinking, pattern recognition, deduction, and data interpretation skills. A good LR book should offer concept clarity, multiple question types, and timed practice.
Recommended Books for Logical Reasoning
| Book Title | Author/Publisher | Best For | Key Features |
| A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal | Concept Building & Practice Sets | Covers the entire syllabus with a variety of question types |
| Analytical Reasoning | M.K. Pandey | Deep Logical Concepts | Theory-heavy, suitable for strong concept clarity |
| Logical Reasoning (Verbal & Non-Verbal) | Arihant Publications | Balanced Coverage | Useful for both traditional and visual logic questions |
| Tarkashastra LR Practice Booklet | Tarkashastra Academy | IPMAT Rohtak & JIPMAT Specific Sets | Custom modules + mock-level LR questions based on recent trends |
| Logical Reasoning for CAT | Nishit Sinha | Advanced Learners | High-difficulty reasoning questions ideal for strengthening reasoning speed |
| Shortcuts in Reasoning | Disha Experts | Time-saving Tricks | Helpful for mastering tricks and solving quickly during mock tests |
| Logical Reasoning & Data Interpretation for the CAT | Pearson | Comprehensive LR & DI Combo | Concept frameworks + ample practice sets |
| How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for CAT | Arun Sharma | Strategy + Practice | Solved examples with gradual complexity increase |
| How to Prepare for Data Interpretation for CAT | Arun Sharma | DI for Rohtak/JIPMAT (Basic–Mid level) | Practice only easy-to-moderate DI sets; skip high-difficulty CAT-level ones |
| Logical Reasoning and Data Interpretation for CAT | Nishit K. Sinha | Advanced DI + Reasoning Combo | Focus on analytical sets, reasoning-based tables, and visual arrangements |
Key LR Topics to Prepare
| Verbal Reasoning Topics | Analytical & Non-Verbal Topics |
| Coding-Decoding | Blood Relations |
| Syllogisms | Direction Sense |
| Statement & Assumption | Series & Patterns |
| Cause & Effect | Input-Output |
| Course of Action/Decision-Making | Seating Arrangements (Linear & Circular) |
| Strong & Weak Arguments | Puzzles & Data Structures |
Preparation Tips for LR Section
- Practice by sets, not just individual questions, to simulate exam flow.
- Focus on accuracy first, then build speed through repetition.
- Solve at least 2–3 LR sets daily, covering different topic types.
- Use mock tests and sectional tests to identify weak areas and improve timing.
This section can be a scoring opportunity if approached with consistent practice and topic-wise planning.
Best Books for JIPMAT 2026 Preparation
The JIPMAT (Joint Integrated Programme in Management Admission Test) is conducted by NTA for admission to the 5-year IPM programs at IIM Jammu and IIM Bodh Gaya. The exam includes Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Verbal Ability — with a slightly easier difficulty level than IPMAT Indore.
Here’s a list of recommended books tailored for JIPMAT aspirants, combining foundational concepts and exam-specific practice.
Recommended Books for JIPMAT 2026 Preparation
| Section | Book Title | Author/Publisher | Why It’s Useful |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams | R.S. Aggarwal Comprehensive | Comprehensive topic coverage with the beginner-friendly approach |
| NCERT Mathematics (Class 9 & 10) | NCERT | Strong base for algebra, arithmetic, and geometry | |
| Magical Book on Mathematics | M. Tyra | Fast-solving methods and calculation tricks | |
| How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT | Arun Sharma | Gradual concept building with varying difficulty levels | |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams | S. Chand | Concept-based exercises and exam-oriented chapters | |
| Quantitative Aptitude | N.K. Singh / Arihant | Targeted preparation with mixed problem sets | |
| Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Exams | Pearson | Clean layout with topic-wise solved examples | |
| Logical Reasoning | A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning | R.S. Aggarwal | Covers all standard topics with varied practice sets |
| Logical Reasoning (Verbal & Non-Verbal) | Arihant | Balanced preparation for different reasoning types | |
| Shortcuts in Reasoning | Disha Experts | For solving questions faster during exams | |
| Logical Reasoning & Preparation Study Guide | National Learning Corporation | Practice-focused approach with exam-type questions | |
| A New Approach to Reasoning (Verbal & Non-Verbal) | B.S. Sijwali & Indu Sijwali | Popular book for conceptual reasoning and mock-style questions | |
| 501 Challenging Logical Reasoning | – | Extensive high-quality practice sets ideal for timed solving | |
| Verbal Ability | Word Power Made Easy | Norman Lewis | Vocabulary builder with daily practice model |
| Objective General English | S.P. Bakshi (Arihant) | Full grammar + comprehension practice | |
| Brush Up Your English | S.T. Imam | Concise revision tool for grammar and vocabulary | |
| High School English Grammar & Composition | Wren and Martin | Grammar theory with solved and unsolved exercises | |
| English Language Comprehension Skills | Sachchida Nand Jha | Focus on RC and comprehension skills for entrance exams | |
| Business Communication | Sri Jin Kushal | Enhances clarity in written English and formal communication | |
| Mock Test & Practice | NTA JIPMAT Official Mock Tests | NTA (nta.ac.in) | Free online practice in official exam format |
| JIPMAT Previous Year Question Booklets | Arihant / MTG | Real exam questions with answer keys | |
| Tarkashastra JIPMAT Test Series | Tarkashastra Academy | Sectional + full-length tests with performance analytics |
Preparation Strategy for JIPMAT
- Step 1: Build strong fundamentals using NCERT + basic LR/VA books.
- Step 2: Solve 3–5 topic-wise daily sets from QA, LR, and VA books.
- Step 3: Take full-length mocks weekly and analyze performance.
- Step 4: Revise high-frequency topics + solve PYQs in the final month.
JIPMAT rewards speed, accuracy, and smart time management, so practice regularly under timed conditions.
Tarkashastra’s IPMAT Study Material
While standard books help you build fundamentals, Tarkashastra’s in-house IPMAT study material is designed specifically to help students crack IPMAT Indore, IPMAT Rohtak, and JIPMAT with focused practice, real-time analysis, and updated mocks based on the latest pattern.
Whether a beginner building concepts or a repeater focusing on accuracy and speed, Tarkashastra’s material gives you a structured, exam-ready edge.
What’s Included in Tarkashastra’s IPMAT Material?
| Component | Description |
| Section-wise Theory Modules | Crisp notes covering all topics from QA, VA, and LR |
| Daily Practice Sheets | Topic-wise practice with increasing difficulty levels |
| Chapter-wise Tests | 50+ micro-tests after each topic to reinforce learning |
| Mock Test Series | Full-length IPMAT Indore, Rohtak & JIPMAT mocks with detailed analysis |
| Previous Year Paper Booklets | Solved PYQs from IPMAT Indore, Rohtak, and JIPMAT |
| Short Answer Practice Sets | Exclusive SA (Subjective Answer) worksheets for IPMAT Indore |
| Reading Comprehension Pack | Mixed RC sets with inference, tone, summary, and fact-based questions |
| Doubt Clearing Support | Telegram/WhatsApp-based resolution for student queries |
| Mentor Support & Strategy Calls | 1:1 sessions to plan revision and tackle weak areas |
Why Choose Tarkashastra Material?
- Designed only for IPMAT/JIPMAT – no CAT/JEE clutter
- Latest pattern mocks with percentile-based feedback
- Taught by 99%ilers with real exam experience
- The ideal mix of concept + practice + test exposure
“Tarkashastra’s mock series felt harder than the actual exam—which is exactly why I was prepared.” — Past IPMAT Rohtak Topper (2023)
Conclusion
Choosing the right books for IPMAT and JIPMAT 2026 is not about collecting the thickest or most popular ones—it’s about selecting the ones that suit your current level, match the exam pattern, and help you practice effectively.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Start with NCERTs and beginner-friendly books for concept clarity.
- Use advanced books like Arun Sharma or Sarvesh Verma for IPMAT Indore.
- Rely on vocabulary builders and grammar-focused books for Verbal Ability.
- For Logical Reasoning (Rohtak & JIPMAT), pick R.S. Aggarwal, Arihant, and Tarkashastra’s targeted practice modules.
- Combine books with mock tests, PYQs, and timed practice to simulate the real exam environment.
Pro Tip: Avoid jumping between too many books. Pick 1–2 solid ones per section and stick with them through revision and mocks.
If you’re looking for structured guidance, test analysis, and personalized support, Tarkashastra’s IPMAT Coaching Programs and Study Materials are tailored to help you reach your target IIM with confidence.
FAQs on IPMAT & JIPMAT Books
1. Can I prepare for IPMAT just with NCERT books?
NCERTs are great for concept clarity in Quant, but not enough. You need advanced-level books and practice sets for exam readiness.
2. Is Word Power Made Easy enough for vocabulary?
Yes, it’s a strong foundation book. But for context-based vocabulary, complement it with regular reading (editorials, RCs).
3. Which book is best for mastering IPMAT Indore’s Short Answer (SA) questions?
Books by Arun Sharma and Sarvesh Verma are ideal. Tarkashastra’s IPMAT Indore workbook also includes SA-type practice.
4. Should I use CAT-level books for IPMAT preparation?
You can use CAT-level books selectively (e.g., Arun Sharma for Quant/RC), but skip the high-difficulty questions.
5. Are the same books applicable for both IPMAT Rohtak and Indore?
The answer is mostly yes, except for SA questions (exclusive to Indore) and Logical Reasoning questions (only in Rohtak and JIPMAT).
6. Do I need a separate book for Logical Reasoning in JIPMAT?
Yes. You can use books like A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal and Shortcuts in Reasoning by Disha Experts.
7. Are mock tests more important than books?
Both are essential. Books build concepts while mocking test applications and time management under exam conditions.
8. Is one book per section enough for IPMAT?
Yes, if it’s comprehensive and you stick with it. Overloading too many books often leads to confusion.
9. Which are the best books for Reading Comprehension (RC)?
Wren & Martin for grammar, Norman Lewis for vocabulary, and daily editorial reading. For practice, use RC sets from Tarkashastra or CAT RC books.
10. Are there any books that cover all three sections together?
Some publishers, like Arihant or MTG, offer combo books, but they lack depth. It’s better to choose focused section-wise resources.
11. What is the best book for IPMAT Quant practice?
Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal is for basics, and Quantum CAT by Sarvesh Verma is for advanced level.
12. How should I approach vocabulary building from books?
Use Word Power Made Easy as a 30-day challenge and make a daily word journal to revise actively.
13. Is it better to use coaching institute material or books?
A combination of both is ideal. Books offer detailed learning, while institute material (like Tarkashastra) is focused on exam-specific practice.
14. Are there any online tools for improving Verbal Ability?
Yes. Use WordWeb, Grammarly, and online RC quizzes. Editorials from The Hindu or Indian Express also help.
15. How many questions should I practice from each book?
Aim for at least 50–60 questions per topic and revise weak issues weekly.
16. Are books from Arihant good for IPMAT?
Yes, especially for Verbal and LR. But cross-check if the book is updated to the current IPMAT/JIPMAT pattern.
17. What book should I use if I’m weak in math?
Start with NCERTs (Class 9 & 10), then move to R.S. Aggarwal. Avoid jumping straight into CAT-level books.
18. Which book is best for last month’s revision?
Use Brush Up Your English, Shortcuts in Reasoning, and solve PYQs with timers. A mock test review is also key.
19. Do previous year’s papers come in book format?
Yes. Publishers like Arihant and MTG offer JIPMAT/IPMAT PYQ booklets with solutions.
20. Where can I buy or access the recommended books?
Most are available on Amazon, Flipkart, or local bookstores. Coaching institute modules (like Tarkashastra’s) are available directly via enrollment.
