If you’re aiming for a seat at a top-tier MBA program, your GMAT score is more than just a number. It tells business schools whether you can cope with the academic intensity of an advanced business education.

Since the GMAT is no walk in the park, preparing with the best GMAT prep book becomes essential. But with so many options claiming to be the best GMAT test prep books, how do you know which one really delivers?

This is your straightforward guide to the best GMAT prep books available today.

We’ll look at the books that offer the best GMAT study material, how to build a study plan around them and what to expect from the new GMAT Focus Prep Book versions.

Why GMAT Prep Books Still Matter

Let’s be honest. It’s easy to get distracted by apps, AI tools and videos. But there’s something reliable and effective about sitting down with a solid GMAT textbook. Books give you structure. They help you think deeply. They allow you to focus. And the best GMAT study guides also walk you through strategy, logic and common traps you’ll face on test day.

The top GMAT prep book will usually include:

• Detailed reviews of Quantitative, Verbal, Integrated Reasoning and Analytical Writing
• Strategic approaches to answering tough questions
• Dozens of GMAT practice books with realistic questions
• Step-by-step explanations that show how the logic works

Let’s now explore your options.

Best Overall GMAT Prep Book

GMAT Official Guide 2025-2026 Bundle

The newly released GMAT Official Guide 2025–2026 is fully aligned with the GMAT Focus Edition. Unlike earlier versions, this updated bundle now features four distinct volumes: the main guide, Quantitative Review, Verbal Review and a reworked Data Insights Review.

What has changed? For one, it introduces more than 100 new questions not found in the 2024–2025 edition. Even more significant is the transformation of the Data Insights section, which has replaced the older Integrated Reasoning. If you are looking for the most reliable GMAT preparation material, this is the best GMAT prep book set to start with. It offers clear insight into the structure of the new format and gives you hands-on experience with the types of questions that will appear on the actual test.

Why it stands out:

• The closest thing to the real exam
• Fully explained solutions to help you understand logic
• Digital access for easy review and progress tracking

Where it falls short:

• It’s not big on strategy. Pair it with another GMAT study guide for best results.

Best GMAT Study Guides with Strategy and Practice

Manhattan Prep GMAT Strategy Guide Set (All the GMAT Bundle)

• As of mid‑2025, the 6th edition remains the latest fully published in print, consolidating Manhattan’s guides into three books.
• Despite being developed pre‑Focus Edition, many students are still using it for foundational review, especially in Quant, and pairing it with the Official Guide to bridge to GMAT Focus concepts.

Why it stands out:

• Excellent Quant explanations
• Great structure and lesson flow
• Includes full-length computer adaptive tests

Where it falls short:

• It might be a lot for beginners to handle right away

Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus 2022-2023

Kaplan updated its flagship GMAT Prep Plus edition for 2025 evaluation. While the exact edition year isn’t always stated, Test Prep Insight’s 2025 review confirms it remains a current resource, now integrated under the Manhattan Prep Powered by Kaplan umbrella.

Their digital platform now features enhanced adaptive tools and combination of instruction from both Manhattan and Kaplan teams.

Why it stands out:

• Digital tools help measure progress
• Extra quizzes and topic-specific exercises
• Score-improvement guarantee

Where it falls short:

• Quant section isn’t as detailed as Manhattan

PowerScore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible & Mometrix GMAT Prep Book

No major updated print editions have been announced in 2025. They remain reliable, though dated, especially regarding alignment with the GMAT Focus Edition.

For GMAT Verbal Prep, PowerScore CR Bible continues as the go-to for Critical Reasoning and Mometrix still provides solid beginner‑level verbal/maths explanations with videos.

Why it stands out:

• Concepts are clearly explained
• Includes access to video tutorials
• Great for learners who prefer visuals

Where it falls short:

• Not as comprehensive as others in advanced content

Latest Editions of Popular GMAT Prep Books (2025)

Title	Publisher/Provider	Latest Edition	Highlights
GMAT Official Guide 2025–2026 Bundle	GMAC	May 2025	Fully aligned with GMAT Focus Edition, includes 100+ new questions and revamped Data Insights section
Manhattan Prep GMAT Strategy Guides (All the GMAT)	Manhattan Prep	2023 (most current available)	Comprehensive set for Quant and Verbal, strong focus on test-taking strategies and concept breakdowns
Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus	Kaplan	2024	Includes six full-length practice tests and online resources tailored for GMAT Focus
GMAT Math Workbook	Kaplan	2024	Detailed math review with hundreds of practice questions targeting Quantitative section
GMAT Verbal Foundations	Manhattan Prep	2022 (still widely used)	Strong foundational guide for Sentence Correction, Reading Comprehension and Critical Reasoning

Best GMAT Books for Targeted Practice in Quant and Verbal

Sometimes, you already know what you need help with. Regardless of whether you’re trying to fix weaknesses in Quant or boost your Verbal score, these specialised GMAT prep books will help you go deeper.

For Quantitative Reasoning:

Manhattan Prep GMAT Foundations of Math: If you struggle with GMAT math, this GMAT math book will rebuild your basics from the ground up. It covers arithmetic, algebra, geometry and more.

Manhattan Prep Advanced Quant (3rd Edition): This is your go-to if you’re already strong in Quant and aiming for a top percentile score. It’s a true challenge, even for high scorers.

Kaplan GMAT Math Workbook (10th Edition): This workbook explains key math concepts, data interpretation and problem-solving. It’s less intense than Manhattan’s advanced guide, so it works well for intermediate learners.

For Verbal Reasoning:

PowerScore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible (2021 Edition): This is one of the best GMAT verbal prep books on the market. It breaks down logic-based questions into manageable concepts. It’s perfect for mastering assumptions, inferences and argument structures.

Manhattan Prep GMAT Foundation of Verbal (7th Edition): A great choice for test-takers who need help with grammar or comprehension. This GMAT textbook provides explanations that are easy to follow and includes interactive learning tools.

The Critical Reader: Complete GMAT Sentence Correction Guide:If grammar and sentence structure trip you up, this guide will give you clarity. It teaches grammar rules, idiomatic expressions and how to spot errors quickly.

Integrated Reasoning and Analytical Writing

These sections are sometimes brushed aside, but they still matter. Schools want to see that you can think critically and communicate effectively.

Manhattan Prep GMAT Integrated Reasoning and Essay (7th Edition): This book tackles the IR and AWA sections with exercises that focus on evaluating data, analysing arguments and managing time effectively during essays.

Adapting to the GMAT Focus Edition

The GMAT Focus Edition is the newest version of the exam. It has a shorter format, updated sections and a stronger emphasis on data interpretation. So, what’s the best GMAT Focus Prep Book to prepare for this edition?

While traditional books are catching up, e-GMAT currently leads the way in GMAT Focus-specific material. Their digital platform offers adaptive learning modules that are built around the new test format. It’s not a physical book, but it works well as a supplement.

Building Your GMAT Study Plan

Having the best books for GMAT is only part of the story. You need to use them wisely. Here’s how to make sure your study plan works for you:

Start with a diagnostic test: Use the Official GMAT Guide or a Manhattan Prep practice test to assess where you stand.

Create weekly goals: Assign days to focus on Quant, Verbal, IR or AWA. Choose your GMAT test prep books based on what you need most.

Track and review: Go beyond just checking answers. Use books that explain your errors. Kaplan and Manhattan do this well.

Simulate real conditions: Take full-length tests at regular intervals. Build your focus and timing.

Adapt: Use performance analytics from tools like the Kaplan GMAT book to adjust your schedule as needed.

Pros and Cons of Popular GMAT Prep Books

Pros and Cons of Popular GMAT Prep Books

GMAT Test Prep Book	Pros	Cons
Manhattan Prep’s Complete Strategy Guide Set	In-depth explanations, especially for Quant Well-structured GMAT Preparation Material Highly suitable for self-paced learners	Hefty price tag for the full set May overwhelm absolute beginners
Kaplan GMAT Prep Plus	Includes adaptive practice and test-day strategies Access to online GMAT Practice Books Good blend of Verbal and Quant resources	Explanations can sometimes lack depth Question difficulty varies from actual GMAT
PowerScore GMAT Critical Reasoning Bible	Top-notch GMAT Verbal Prep book Focus on critical reasoning techniques Ideal for boosting verbal accuracy	Limited Quant content Niche focus might not suit all learners
The Official Guide for GMAT Review	Produced by actual test makers Offers real retired GMAT questions Includes both Quant and Verbal sections	Explanations can feel too brief Lacks deep conceptual teaching
e-GMAT Focus Edition Materials	Tailored to the new GMAT Focus format Strong Verbal reasoning strategies Great for non-native English speakers	Digital only, with limited print options Not ideal if you prefer traditional books

Conclusion

Picking the best GMAT prep book doesn’t mean going with what’s trending or expensive. It means choosing what fits you. Maybe it’s the Official GMAT Guide for authentic questions, the Manhattan Prep GMAT books for solid strategy, or the Kaplan GMAT book for online testing.

For Quant, you might need a GMAT math book like Manhattan Foundations. For Verbal, PowerScore could be the GMAT verbal prep you need to boost your score. And if you’re facing the GMAT Focus Edition, consider new GMAT study material like e-GMAT.

No one book has it all, but a smart mix of the best GMAT study guides, a consistent study plan and some honest self-assessment will get you closer to your target score.

And when you’re ready to level up, check out AnalystPrep’s GMAT study packages. With practice questions, video lessons and performance analytics, you’ll have everything you need to keep your momentum going all the way to test day.