Are you looking for the most effective IELTS books for beginners? Aside from popular titles like 4000 Essential English Words, Cambridge Grammar for IELTS, or Cambridge Vocabulary for IELTS, there are many more useful books every new learner should know. Let’s explore the complete list of 14+ must-have IELTS books for those starting from scratch.
1. IELTS Preparation Books for Beginners
IELTS preparation materials cover a wide range of content, including grammar, vocabulary, and all four key skills: Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing. Below is a curated list of beginner-friendly books that offer clear explanations, structured lessons, and practical exercises.
1.1. 570 Academic Words List for IELTS
This book provides a list of the 570 most frequently used academic words in the IELTS exam. It includes definitions and examples to help you learn and apply them effectively across all sections of the test.
1.2. 4000 Essential English Words
This book features 4000 high-frequency English words with detailed explanations and example sentences. It is ideal for building foundational vocabulary, especially when combined with grammar review.
1.3. The Oxford Picture Dictionary
This vocabulary book uses illustrations to help learners memorize words more easily. It categorizes vocabulary by topics such as school, work, and daily life, making it ideal for visual learners.
1.4. 100 Easy Short Stories + Audio
This collection offers 100 short stories for beginners with accompanying audio. Each story includes new vocabulary and grammar structures, allowing you to practice listening, reading, and speaking simultaneously.
1.5. Check Your English Vocabulary for IELTS
This self-study vocabulary book is perfect for testing and improving your English word bank. It includes topic-based word lists, exercises, usage examples, and answer keys to track your progress.
1.6. Cambridge Vocabulary for IELTS
Divided into 25 units, this book focuses on thematic vocabulary and offers exercises to reinforce usage. It also includes answers for all activities, helping you review and build your vocabulary efficiently.
1.7. Cambridge Grammar for IELTS
This grammar guide covers essential rules from basic to advanced levels. Each unit includes explanations, visuals, practice exercises, and test questions with answers—perfect for structured grammar learning.
1.8. Bridge to IELTS Pre-intermediate – Intermediate Band 3.5 to 4.5
With 12 lessons based on common IELTS topics like Education, Home, and Festivals, this book helps learners improve vocabulary and grammar while practicing test-taking strategies and exercises.
1.9. English Grammar In Use
Part of the popular English In Use series from Cambridge University, this grammar book offers a blend of theory and practice across two volumes. It covers everything from beginner to advanced grammar topics with clear explanations and examples.
1.10. English Vocabulary In Use
This vocabulary book includes four levels: Elementary, Pre-intermediate, Intermediate, and Advanced. Beginners are recommended to start from the first two levels to gradually build vocabulary proficiency.
1.11. English Pronunciation In Use
This book helps you improve your pronunciation. It is available in two variations depending on your preference:
British accent: English Pronunciation in Use
American accent: American Accent Training For best results, combine this book with English news, podcasts, or films.
1.12. Get Ready for IELTS by Collins
This four-book series focuses on each IELTS skill: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. Each book contains 12 logical and well-organized units with explanations, illustrations, and practical exercises designed for beginners.
1.13. Basic for IELTS
This book set covers all four IELTS skills and is suitable for learners just getting started. It offers a detailed guide to IELTS formats, tips, and strategies across five sections based on real IELTS topics.
1.14. Cambridge IELTS 1–16
This is a 16-volume series that mirrors actual IELTS exams. Each book includes four full tests with answers, listening transcripts, and sample speaking and writing answers. Volumes 10 to 16 feature the most updated test formats and question types.
2. Tips for Choosing IELTS Books for Beginners
IELTS is not only essential for studying abroad but also valuable for job opportunities and academic achievements in many countries. However, not every IELTS book is suitable for beginners.
Some materials focus too much on theory without offering practical exercises or simplified explanations. For new learners, it is important to select books from trusted publishers with clear structure, interactive content, and progressive exercises.
3. Practice with Online IELTS Preparation Programs at IDP
To strengthen your IELTS preparation, consider joining free online IELTS classes by IDP. These classes are designed to help test takers improve all four skills with:
Over 25 hours of online lessons per skill
Skill-specific test strategies
Free practice tests by skill area
Full access for 30 days from activation
When you register for the IELTS test at IDP, you’ll receive a unique activation link to access the course that best suits your needs.
Above is a complete list of 14+ recommended IELTS books for beginners to start your journey from zero to Band 7+. With the right resources, a proper study plan, and determination, you can confidently aim for your target score in the IELTS exam.
When you're ready, register for your IELTS test with IDP today and take your English to the next level!