The IPMAT exam assesses candidates in three key areas: Quantitative Ability, Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, and Logical Reasoning (for IPMAT Rohtak). Choosing the right books can significantly impact your preparation and help build strong conceptual clarity. Below is a subject-wise breakdown of the best IPMAT books for IPMAT preparation:
A. Quantitative Ability
The Quantitative Ability section in IPMAT covers topics from basic arithmetic to higher mathematics, including algebra, probability, and calculus. This section requires both conceptual understanding and speed.
| Book | Why It’s Useful | Preparation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Quantitative Aptitude – R.S. Aggarwal | Covers fundamentals with many solved examples | Use after NCERTs to build practice speed |
| How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude (CAT) – Arun Sharma | Gradual difficulty (LOD 1 & 2 perfect for IPMAT) | Attempt LOD 1 & 2 for exam-level practice |
| NCERT Mathematics (Class 11 & 12) | Strong core concepts (functions, calculus, logarithms) | Start here to master basics |
| Fast Track Objective Arithmetic – Rajesh Verma | Focuses on shortcut methods & quick calculations | Great for improving time management |
Recommended and Best IPMAT Books
1. Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations – R.S. Aggarwal
This book covers fundamental mathematical concepts with a vast number of solved examples and practice questions. It is ideal for beginners who want to build a strong foundation.
2. How to Prepare for Quantitative Aptitude for CAT – Arun Sharma
This book provides a structured approach with different difficulty levels. IPM level requires solving LOD 1 and LOD 2 type questions. It is great for advanced learners aiming to solve complex problems quickly. The range of questions helps one familiarize oneself with all sorts of questions that one might expect in the exam given the variable nature of paper.
3. NCERT Mathematics Books (Class 11 & 12)
NCERT is essential for strengthening core concepts, especially for topics like logarithms, calculus, and functions. It is perfect for bridging the gap between school-level math and IPMAT-level questions.
4. Fast Track Objective Arithmetic – Rajesh Verma
This book focuses on shortcut techniques and quick calculations. It is extremely useful for time management in the exam.
Preparation Tip: Start with NCERTs for conceptual clarity, then move to R.S. Aggarwal for practice. Use Arun Sharma’s book for advanced-level problem-solving. If you find advanced questions difficult, focus on accuracy first. Speed will improve over time.
✔ Master the Basics First – Start with NCERT Mathematics (Class 9-12) before moving to advanced books.
✔ Learn Shortcuts & Tricks – Focus on Vedic Math techniques for faster calculations.
✔ Solve a Variety of Questions – Practice from books like Arun Sharma’s Quantitative Aptitude.
✔ Time Yourself – IPMAT is a time-bound exam; practice solving questions under pressure.
B. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension
The Verbal Ability section evaluates a candidate’s grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and reasoning ability with words. Developing strong reading habits and vocabulary is essential for excelling in this section.
| Book/Resource | Why It’s Useful | Preparation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Word Power Made Easy – Norman Lewis | Builds vocabulary with word roots & exercises | Learn 10–15 new words daily |
| High School English Grammar & Composition – Wren & Martin | Strengthens grammar rules & sentence formation | Revise rules for error detection questions |
| VARC for CAT – Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay | Wide range of RCs & verbal reasoning | Practice 2–3 RC passages daily |
| Daily Newspaper Reading (The Hindu, Indian Express, ET) | Improves comprehension, awareness & speed | Focus on editorials for inference-based RC |
Recommended Books:
1. Word Power Made Easy – Norman Lewis
Sometimes referred to as “The Bible of Vocabulary Building”, Word Power Made Easy is the best book for improving vocabulary through structured exercises. It helps in learning word roots, synonyms, and antonyms effectively.
2. High School English Grammar and Composition – Wren & Martin
This book is perfect for strengthening grammar fundamentals, sentence formation, and error detection. A must-have for mastering sentence correction and usage-based questions.
3. How to Prepare for Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension for the CAT – Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay
Looking for an extensive range of reading comprehension passages and verbal reasoning exercises? This book is a perfect match!
With high level passages and previous year questions of CAT, this book is useful for understanding question patterns and improving accuracy. One can never get any question wrong once one gets the hang of solving questions from these books.
4. Daily Reading from Newspapers (The Hindu, The Indian Express, or The Economic Times)
Daily reading enhances reading speed, comprehension skills, and general awareness. This helps in answering inference-based RC questions effectively.
Preparation Tip: Make reading a daily habit. Learn 10-15 new words every day using Word Power Made Easy and apply them in your writing. Attempt Verbal section first in mocks to ensure you complete high-scoring questions quickly.
✔ Develop a Reading Habit – Read editorials from The Hindu, The Indian Express, or The Economic Times.
✔ Work on Vocabulary – Use Word Power Made Easy (Norman Lewis) and apps like Magoosh Vocabulary Builder.
✔ Practice Reading Comprehension – Solve at least 2-3 RC passages daily.
✔ Revise Grammar Rules – Books like Wren & Martin help with sentence correction questions.
C. Logical Reasoning (For IPMAT Rohtak)
Although IIM Indore’s IPMAT does not include a separate logical reasoning section, IPMAT Rohtak does. This section assesses a candidate’s ability to think critically and solve problems logically.
| Book | Why It’s Useful | Preparation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal | Covers all LR concepts with examples | Start with basic puzzles & gradually move up |
| How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning (CAT) – Arun Sharma | Advanced-level reasoning & detailed solutions | Practice variety of puzzles to improve speed |
Recommended Books:
1. A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning – R.S. Aggarwal
This book covers all logical reasoning concepts, including coding-decoding, blood relations, and puzzles. Offers step-by-step explanations for different question types.
2. How to Prepare for Logical Reasoning for the CAT – Arun Sharma
If you want to focus on advanced-level reasoning problems with varied difficulty levels, this book is best suited for that. The detailed solutions to questions allow one to understand the concepts and implement them effectively.
Preparation Tip: Practice different types of puzzles and reasoning questions regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
Online Resources and Mock Tests for IPMAT Preparation
Preparing for IPMAT isn’t just about reading books—it’s about applying what you learn through mock tests, online resources, and practice questions. Since IPMAT is a time-bound exam with a mix of conceptual and application-based questions, mock tests and online courses play a crucial role in improving accuracy, speed, and confidence.
A. Best Online Platform for IPMAT Preparation
While self-study is an essential part of IPMAT preparation, enrolling in a coaching institute can provide structured guidance, expert mentorship, and a competitive learning environment. Coaching institutes help students with concept clarity, time management, and strategy-building through live classes, mock tests, and doubt-solving sessions.
AceIPM (Recommended for IPMAT Coaching)
Why Choose AceIPM?
AceIPM is a dedicated IPMAT coaching institute specializing in IPMAT preparation. With a team of experienced faculty members and data-driven study plans, it provides the perfect blend of conceptual learning and exam-oriented strategy.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Study Material – Covers all sections, including Quant, Verbal, and Logical Reasoning (for IPMAT Rohtak).
- Live & Recorded Classes – Attend interactive sessions or watch pre-recorded lectures anytime.
- Exclusive IPMAT Test Series – Get access to real exam-like mocks with detailed performance analysis.
- One-on-One Mentorship – Personalized study plans and doubt-solving sessions.
- Previous Year Paper Analysis – Learn from past trends and exam patterns.
- Expert Time Management Techniques – Master the art of solving questions quickly and accurately.
Best for: Students looking for structured coaching with expert guidance.
YouTube Channels & Free Resources
Not all resources have to be paid! Many YouTube channels offer free high-quality content for IPMAT preparation:
- AceIPM’s YouTube Channel – Free tutorials, exam strategies, and concept explanations.
- Rodha – Live and recorded sessions covering Quant and Verbal sections.
- The Hindu/The Hindustan Times – Best suited for enhancing General Knowledge and Current affairs
Best for: Aspirants looking for quick concept revision and free study materials.
B. Importance of Mock Tests in IPMAT Preparation
Mock tests are crucial for IPMAT success. They help in:
- Understanding the actual exam pattern and difficulty level.
- Improving time management by practicing under exam conditions.
- Identifying weak areas and tracking progress.
- Getting familiar with IPMAT’s negative marking scheme (IIM Indore has negative marking).
AceIPM’s IPMAT Test Series (Recommended)
This package involves 15+ full-length mocks based on the latest IPMAT pattern. Detailed analysis with section-wise score breakdown and AI-based performance tracking helps one understand the weaknesses and strengths and work upon them in a timely manner. Test series has questions that closely replicate the ones expected in the examination.
Best for: Students who want to simulate the actual exam experience.
C. How to Use Mock Tests Effectively
To get the most out of mock tests, follow this 3-step strategy:
- Start with topic-wise tests – Focus on one section at a time.
- Take full-length mocks weekly – Simulate the real exam to improve time management.
- Analyse your mistakes – Review incorrect answers and revise weak topics.
Pro Tip:
- Aim to take at least 15-20 full-length mock tests before the actual exam.
- Maintain a mistake journal to track recurring errors and improve accuracy.
D. Self-Study vs Coaching – Which One is Better?
| Factor | Self-Study | Coaching |
|---|---|---|
| Concept Clarity | Takes more effort | Expert guidance helps |
| Time Management | Needs personal discipline | Structured schedule |
| Mock Test Analysis | Limited feedback | Detailed AI-based reports |
| Doubt Resolution | Search for solutions | Faculty support available |
| Exam Strategy | Self-planned | Professional guidance |
If you’re confident in your ability to self-study, use AceIPM’s mock tests & online resources. If you need structured learning, enrolling in coaching can provide a competitive edge.
Stay Motivated & Maintain a Healthy Routine
IPMAT preparation is a marathon, not a sprint, requiring consistent effort and motivation. Setting daily and weekly goals helps maintain progress, and rewarding yourself for achieving milestones keeps the journey enjoyable. To prevent burnout, incorporating short breaks, such as the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of study followed by a 5-minute break), enhances focus and efficiency. Additionally, regular exercise and a balanced diet contribute to better concentration and memory retention. Most importantly, believing in yourself and maintaining a positive mindset will keep you motivated and confident throughout your preparation journey. Stay committed, and success will follow.
Final Tip: Keep a revision notebook with key formulas, vocabulary words, and shortcuts for last-minute prep.
IPMAT is a test of both knowledge and strategy. Books provide conceptual clarity, but online courses and mock tests give you the real exam experience.
For structured preparation, AceIPM’s coaching and test series offer the best mix of concept-building, strategy, and practice.
Next Step: Enroll in AceIPM’s Mock Test Series and start your preparation today!
