Which Books Should I Prefer for IPMAT Preparation?

Preparing for the Integrated Program in Management Aptitude Test (IPMAT) can feel overwhelming at the start. With a vast syllabus covering quantitative aptitude, verbal ability, and logical reasoning, many aspirants often struggle to figure out the best resources for study. One of the most common questions students ask is:

The answer isn’t just about a list of books. It’s about understanding how to choose the right study material that suits your learning style, supports consistent practice, and prevents common mistakes. In this blog, we’ll dive into recommended books for IPMAT, practical tips on using them effectively, study strategies to follow, and traps that you should avoid during your preparation.

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Understanding the IPMAT Exam Pattern

Before picking the right books, you need to clearly understand the structure of the exam. The IPMAT (for IIM Indore and IIM Rohtak, though the patterns slightly differ) primarily tests:

1. Quantitative Aptitude (QA)

Questions range from arithmetic to advanced mathematics.

Topics include algebra, geometry, number system, permutation & combination, probability, etc.

2. Verbal Ability (VA)

Focus areas include reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, para-jumbles, and critical reasoning.

3. Logical & Analytical Reasoning 

(for IIM Rohtak version)

Includes puzzles, coding-decoding, series, and logical deductions.

By aligning your preparation strategy with the exam pattern, you can better evaluate which books will help you cover all these areas comprehensively.

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Best Books for Quantitative Aptitude

The Quantitative Aptitude section is often considered the toughest part of IPMAT. A mix of conceptual clarity and speed is crucial here. Below are some recommended books:

1. 1. Quantitative Aptitude by R.S. Aggarwal

   • Best for beginners who want to strengthen their basics.

   • Covers arithmetic, algebra, and geometry in a very simple language.

2. 2. Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by Arun Sharma

   • More advanced than R.S. Aggarwal.

   • Includes higher-level problems suitable for IPMAT, CAT, and other management exams.

3. 3. NCERT Mathematics (Class 9 to 12)

   • Extremely useful for building concepts, especially in algebra, functions, probability, and calculus (basic).

   • Many IPMAT aspirants underestimate NCERT books, but these lay the foundation for problem-solving.

Study Tip: Start with NCERTs for clarity, practice extensively from R.S. Aggarwal, and then move to Arun Sharma for advanced-level questions.

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Best Books for Verbal Ability

Verbal ability is often a scoring section if approached strategically. A strong vocabulary and good reading habits can make a huge difference. Recommended books include:

1. Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis

• A must-read for vocabulary building.

• Provides root-based learning which helps in remembering words better.

2. High School English Grammar & Composition by Wren & Martin

• Strengthens grammar basics.

• Helps in error detection, sentence correction, and para-jumbles.

3. Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension by Arun Sharma & Meenakshi Upadhyay

• Comprehensive book covering reading comprehension, para-summary, and critical reasoning.

Study Tip: Dedicate at least 30 minutes daily to reading editorials from newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express. This improves reading speed, comprehension, and vocabulary simultaneously.

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Books for Logical Reasoning (Applicable for IIM Rohtak IPMAT)

Though logical reasoning isn’t included in IIM Indore’s IPMAT, it is a significant part of IIM Rohtak’s test. For this section:

• A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal

• Analytical Reasoning by M.K. Pandey

Both books are packed with reasoning puzzles, seating arrangements, and logical deductions that are vital for IPMAT-R preparation.

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Reference Materials Beyond Books

While books are crucial, relying solely on them may not be enough. Supplement your preparation with:

1. Previous Year IPMAT Papers

These provide the most accurate picture of the exam.

2. Sectional Tests

Practice sets focusing only on Quant, Verbal, or Reasoning.

3. Mock Analysis

Solving practice exams and analyzing mistakes to identify weak areas.

At this stage, many aspirants also seek guidance through IPMAT online coaching, as it provides structured study plans, expert mentorship, and doubt-clearing sessions that books alone cannot offer.

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How to Use Books Effectively for IPMAT

Just buying books won’t guarantee success. You must know how to use them smartly:

1. Don’t Hoard Books 

Many students buy 10–15 books and never complete even two. Stick to 2–3 quality books per subject.

2. Make Notes While Reading

Highlight formulas, shortcuts, and new words. Keep a separate notebook for revision.

3. Practice Daily

Even 20–30 quant questions daily can significantly improve speed and accuracy.

4. Set Milestones

Complete chapters within deadlines and test yourself periodically.

5. Revise Regularly

Without revision, even the best book won’t help you retain concepts.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid While Choosing Books

Many aspirants waste precious time by falling into traps. Here are some common mistakes:

1. Relying Only on One Book

No single book covers the entire IPMAT syllabus. You need a combination.

2. Ignoring NCERTs

Skipping basics is a blunder, especially in math-heavy sections.

3. Over-Focusing on Advanced Problems

First master the basics before diving into higher-level difficulty.

4. Neglecting Vocabulary & Grammar

Many students think verbal ability is only about reading comprehension, but grammar and vocabulary questions can make or break your score.

5. Not Practicing in Exam-Like Conditions

Time management is as important as conceptual clarity.

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Importance of Mock Tests Along with Books

Books provide content, but mock tests give direction. They replicate exam conditions, help you manage time, and improve accuracy. After every test, analyze:

• Which sections are consuming the most time?

• Which question types are you consistently weak at?

• Are silly mistakes lowering your score?

Attempting an IPMAT mocktest regularly will give you the confidence and exam temperament needed to maximize your performance on the final day.

Study Strategy: Balancing Books with Practice

Having the right books is only half the job done. You need an actionable study strategy:

1. Daily Study Routine

   • 2 hours Quant (concepts + practice)

   • 1.5 hours Verbal (reading + exercises)

   • 30 minutes revision

2. Weekly Plan

   • Cover 3–4 quant chapters per week.

   • Take one full-length reading comprehension passage daily.

   • Solve a mini mock every weekend.

3. Monthly Plan

   • Revise all completed chapters.

   • Attempt sectional tests.

   • Identify weak areas and revisit the respective book sections.

This balance ensures you don’t just “read” books but also apply the knowledge under timed conditions.

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Final Words

So, which book should you prefer for IPMAT preparation? The answer is simple: A blend of NCERTs, R.S. Aggarwal, Arun Sharma, Norman Lewis, Wren & Martin, and a reasoning book (for Rohtak). These books, when combined with regular practice, notes, and mock tests, will provide a solid foundation.

Remember, the exam isn’t just about “which book you read” but about how consistently and smartly you use them. Stick to a disciplined routine, avoid common mistakes, and focus on constant practice. With the right mix of resources and strategy, cracking IPMAT becomes a realistic goal.