I can't emphasize enough the transformative power of the right book—especially when it comes to project management books for beginners.
You'll become equipped with practical advice and a clearer understanding of the life cycle of a project, as well as essential project management skills.
With the rapid changes in project management tools and the increasing emphasis on profitability and change management, immersing oneself in a practical guide becomes paramount.
18 Best Project Management Books For Beginners Shortlist
Having read several books, I have curated a list of project management strategies specifically tailored to beginners.
- A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) by Project Management Institute
- Project Management for the Unofficial Project Manager by Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, and James Wood
- The Lazy Project Manager by Peter Taylor
- Project Management Absolute Beginner's Guide by Greg Horine
- Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time by Jeff Sutherland
- Successful Project Management by Jack Gido, Jim Clements, and Rose Baker
- Strategic Project Management Made Simple: Practical Tools for Leaders and Teams by Terry Schmidt
- Scrum Methodology: An Ultimate Beginners Guide to the Mastery of Scrum Project Management Methodology by Wesley Clark
- Making Things Happen: Mastering Project Management by Scott Berkun
- Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling by Harold Kerzner
- The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
- Agile Project Management with Kanban by Eric Brechner
- Project Management for Non-Project Managers by Jack Ferraro
- Agile Project Management For Dummies by Mark C. Layton
- Head First PMP: A Learner's Companion to Passing the Project Management Professional Exam by Jennifer Greene and Andrew Stellman
- Effective Project Management: Traditional, Agile, Extreme, Hybrid by Robert Wysocki
- PMP Exam Prep Simplified by Andrew Ramdayal
- PMP Certification For Dummies by Peter Nathan and Gerald Everett Jones
Overview of the 18 Best Project Management Books For Beginners
Here are my overviews of the best project management books for beginners.
1. A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) by Project Management Institute
Summary:
The PMBOK Guide is the gold standard in project management. Published by the Project Management Institute (PMI), it provides a comprehensive overview of essential project management practices, tools, and methodologies.
What You'll Learn:
This guide dives deep into the processes and knowledge areas that every project manager should be familiar with. From initiating and planning to executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing projects, it covers every phase in detail.
Why You Should Read It:
The PMBOK Guide is recognized globally and is a must-read for anyone looking to get certified or simply wanting to understand the best practices in project management.
Quote From The Book:
"Projects are temporary endeavors with a specific beginning and end."
About The Author:
The Project Management Institute (PMI) is a renowned organization offering certifications, research, and training in project management. Connect with them on their official website.
Find more information on certification courses in project management here.
2. Project Management for the Unofficial Project Manager by Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, and James Wood
Summary:
This book offers a fresh perspective on project management, specifically tailored for those who need formal training in the field.
What You'll Learn:
Readers will discover essential tools and skills required to manage projects successfully. The book emphasizes the importance of people—communication, collaboration, and relationship-building—as the core of effective project management.
Why You Should Read It:
Ideal for those who've been thrust into the role of a project manager without official training, this book breaks down complex concepts into easily digestible insights.
Quote From The Book:
"Every project involves people, and every person brings with them their own set of experiences and expectations."
About The Authors:
Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, and James Wood are project management and leadership experts.
3. The Lazy Project Manager by Peter Taylor
Summary:
Peter Taylor brings a fresh perspective to the world of project management. Instead of advocating for relentless hustle, Taylor offers wisdom on achieving more by doing less—without compromising the project's success.
What You'll Learn:
Delve into the art of productive laziness, a concept where focus is redirected from unnecessary tasks to activities that truly matter. By prioritizing effectively and understanding the value of delegation, you can harness the power of doing less to achieve more.
Why You Should Read It:
For those feeling overwhelmed with endless tasks, this book offers a paradigm shift. It's not about working harder but smarter.
Quote From The Book:
"Productive laziness is not about avoiding work; it's about working smarter."
About The Author:
Peter Taylor is a seasoned project manager and a fervent advocate for smarter work paradigms.
4. Project Management Absolute Beginner's Guide by Greg Horine
Summary:
A comprehensive guide for those new to the world of project management, Greg Horine breaks down the essentials, ensuring that beginners are equipped with the foundational knowledge needed for success.
What You'll Learn:
From understanding project scope to mastering scheduling and budgeting, this book encompasses the A to Z of project management. It offers real-world examples and actionable steps to help even the greenest of beginners gain confidence.
Why You Should Read It:
Perfect for those new to project management or seeking to brush up on the basics, Horine's guide simplifies complex concepts, making them accessible and easy to grasp.
Quote From The Book:
"A successful project is not just about delivering on time and within budget; it's about learning and growth along the way."
About The Author:
Greg Horine is a recognized authority in the field of project management, boasting decades of experience and insight. Connect with him on LinkedIn and academic website.
5. Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time by Jeff Sutherland
Summary:
Jeff Sutherland unveils the power of the Scrum methodology, an approach that revolutionizes how teams work together to produce exceptional results in record time.
What You'll Learn:
Journey through the principles of Scrum—from sprint planning to retrospectives. Understand how its iterative process and emphasis on collaboration can drive efficiency, innovation, and a happy team.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're looking to supercharge your team's productivity while fostering creativity and commitment, this book is a game-changer. Sutherland’s insights can transform how you approach tasks and projects.
Quote From The Book:
"Scrum’s ultimate goal is to make the world a better place, one work environment at a time."
About The Author:
Jeff Sutherland, one of the original creators of the Scrum framework, has transformed industries with his innovative thinking. Connect with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, and academic website
6. Successful Project Management by Jack Gido, Jim Clements, and Rose Baker
Summary:
Diving deep into the intricacies of project management, this collaborative piece by Gido, Clements, and Baker provides a roadmap to project success, regardless of the industry.
What You'll Learn:
Master the foundations—defining objectives, stakeholder management, risk analysis, and more. The book also delves into advanced topics, ensuring readers are equipped for challenges at every stage of a project.
Why You Should Read It:
Whether you're a newbie or an experienced manager, this book offers insights that refine and enhance your approach to projects. It’s a comprehensive guide that leaves no stone unturned.
Quote From The Book:
"Effective project management is a balance of art and science, intuition and process."
About The Authors:
Jack Gido, Jim Clements, and Rose Baker bring a combined wealth of experience and knowledge in project management.
7. Strategic Project Management Made Simple: Practical Tools for Leaders and Teams by Terry Schmidt
Summary:
Terry Schmidt presents a pragmatic guide that bridges the gap between high-level strategy and on-the-ground project execution, ensuring teams align with their company's overarching goals.
What You'll Learn:
This book uncovers the strategic aspect of project management. Learn how to design logical frameworks for projects, align projects with strategic objectives, and effectively lead teams towards success.
Why You Should Read It:
If you aspire to ensure that every project contributes to your organization's bigger picture, this book provides the tools and methodologies to do just that.
Quote From The Book:
"Strategy without execution is merely theory. Project management is the bridge that connects them."
About The Author:
Terry Schmidt is a renowned strategist and project management guru with vast experience in both domains. Connect with him on LinkedIn and website.
8. Scrum Methodology: An Ultimate Beginners Guide to the Mastery of Scrum by Wesley Clark
Summary:
This guide offers a deep dive into Scrum, tailored especially for beginners. It demystifies the core principles and practices, enabling readers to master this agile methodology.
What You'll Learn:
Understand Scrum’s essence, from its ceremonies to roles, and understand how it can radically improve project outcomes. The book illuminates how to set up sprints, manage product backlogs, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're new to Scrum or seeking a refresher, this book provides a comprehensive and accessible overview that ensures you're well-equipped to implement its practices.
Quote From The Book:
"In Scrum, progress is achieved through iterations, collaboration, and continuous feedback."
About The Author:
Wesley Clark brings forth a wealth of knowledge in Scrum methodologies.
9. Making Things Happen: Mastering Project Management by Scott Berkun
Summary:
In Making Things Happen, Scott Berkun unravels the intricacies of project management by showcasing real-world scenarios, challenges, and solutions that can resonate with new and seasoned project managers.
What You'll Learn:
Readers are taken on a comprehensive journey through the landscape of project management. Discover how to lead teams effectively, manage stakeholders, navigate risks, and, most importantly, drive projects to successful conclusions while understanding the human factors involved in the process.
Why You Should Read It:
If you wish to delve into the heart of project management with candid insights and actionable advice, Berkun's expertise offers a refreshingly honest look at the craft.
Quote From The Book:
"Good project managers know that success is a journey, not a destination."
About The Author:
Scott Berkun is a project management veteran, having led numerous successful projects. Engage with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, and his website.
10. Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling by Harold Kerzner
Summary:
Harold Kerzner's book is a deep dive into the methodologies, tools, and techniques underpinning modern project management. This book is a testament to Kerzner's profound knowledge and decades of experience.
What You'll Learn:
This book covers the A to Z of project management. Kerzner looks at the systems approach to managing projects from initial project planning, budgeting, and scheduling to risk analysis, quality assurance, and stakeholder management.
Why You Should Read It:
This is your definitive guide for anyone serious about mastering project management. It's not just about tools and techniques but also about understanding the broader systems and structures that make projects tick.
Quote From The Book:
"Effective project managers see the patterns where others see chaos."
About The Author:
Dr. Harold Kerzner is a global authority on project management, having contributed significantly to its academic and practical advancements. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
11. The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
Summary:
Eric Ries presents a fresh approach to business and product development with The Lean Startup. This transformative book advocates for a scientific approach to creating and managing successful startups in an age where companies must innovate rapidly.
What You'll Learn:
Dive deep into the principles of the Lean Startup methodology. Learn about the Build-Measure-Learn loop, how to achieve sustainable growth, and ways to adapt and adjust using validated learning. This book introduces groundbreaking practices like minimum viable products, actionable metrics, and the pivot.
Why You Should Read It:
Understanding the Lean Startup approach is indispensable for anyone looking to launch a startup or innovate within an established company. Ries offers theory and a series of practices that have reshaped industries.
Quote From The Book:
"Success is not delivering a feature; success is learning how to solve the customer’s problem."
About The Author:
Eric Ries is an entrepreneur and the pioneer behind the Lean Startup movement. Engage with him further on LinkedIn, Twitter, and his website.
12. Agile Project Management with Kanban by Eric Brechner
Summary:
Agile Project Management with Kanban is Brechner’s guide to achieving faster results with fewer team interruptions and less overhead, using the power of the Kanban method.
What You'll Learn:
Discover the core concepts of Kanban, including the importance of visualizing work, limiting work in progress, and maximizing efficiency. Brechner delves deep into the step-by-step procedures to manage and visualize project work, meet deliverables, and continuously improve.
Why You Should Read It:
For those keen on streamlining their project management processes and improving team performance, this book offers actionable insights on effectively incorporating Kanban.
Quote From The Book:
"Kanban doesn’t just help you manage your projects. It helps you improve your projects."
About The Author:
Eric Brechner has decades of experience in the software industry, with deep knowledge of agile methodologies. Connect with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, and his website.
Find more books on software project management here and more agile project management books here.
13. Project Management for Non-Project Managers by Jack Ferraro
Summary:
Project Management for Non-Project Managers bridges the gap between complex project management terminology and the practical knowledge and skills needed to manage projects efficiently, even if it's not your primary role.
What You'll Learn:
This book breaks down the intricate world of project management into simple, actionable steps. It guides you through the foundational concepts, including setting up a project's scope, managing time and resources effectively, and ensuring successful project closure. Essential tools and techniques for effective communication, risk management, and stakeholder involvement are also covered.
Why You Should Read It:
If you manage projects without a formal background in the discipline, this guide will empower you with the necessary knowledge to handle projects with confidence and skill.
Quote From The Book:
"Great project managers are made, not born; you can become one by acquiring the right set of skills."
About The Author:
Jack Ferraro is an accomplished project management consultant and trainer. Engage with him further on LinkedIn and Twitter.
14. Agile Project Management For Dummies by Mark C. Layton
Summary:
This book comprehensively guides agile practices, methodologies, and applications. Layton's Agile Project Management For Dummies simplifies the complex world of agile into understandable chunks, ensuring that even beginners can grasp the essentials.
What You'll Learn:
From the foundational concepts of agile to its practical implementations, readers will learn about Scrum, XP, Lean, and Kanban. Layton provides insight into creating an agile environment, adapting the traditional project management stages to the agile world, and enhancing delivery capabilities.
Why You Should Read It:
If you’re eager to understand the agile landscape and how it revolutionizes project management, this book offers an accessible yet comprehensive overview, irrespective of your prior knowledge.
Quote From The Book:
"Agile isn't a methodology; it’s a mindset that welcomes uncertainty, embraces challenges, and views failure as a learning opportunity."
About The Author:
Mark C. Layton, known as Mr. Agile®, is a renowned agile and project management consultant. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.
15. Head First PMP: A Learner's Companion to Passing the Project Management Professional Exam by Jennifer Greene and Andrew Stellman
Summary:
Head First PMP offers a unique and refreshing take on PMP exam preparation. Using an engaging, visually rich format, this book turns the tedious exam prep process into a fun and interactive experience.
What You'll Learn:
Delving deep into the PMBOK Guide, this book covers all the on topics and knowledge areas required for the PMP exam. Readers will gain insights into project initiation, planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing, presented in an easy-to-digest format that enhances retention. Packed with activities, quizzes, and real-world scenarios, it ensures a deep understanding of core project management principles.
Why You Should Read It:
For those seeking a PMP certification, this book provides a multi-sensory learning experience that caters to various learning styles, enhancing the chances of passing the exam in the first attempt.
Quote From The Book:
"Project management is not just about tasks and schedules; it's about understanding the bigger picture and making decisions that drive success."
About The Author:
Jennifer Greene and Andrew Stellman have years of experience in software engineering and project management.
16. Effective Project Management: Traditional, Agile, Extreme, Hybrid by Robert Wysocki
Summary:
Robert Wysocki's Effective Project Management is a comprehensive guide to various approaches. It serves as a roadmap to understand and apply the most suitable methodologies based on the project's nature and requirements.
What You'll Learn:
From traditional to agile, extreme, and hybrid, Wysocki discusses each approach's strengths, weaknesses, and applicability. Readers will be equipped with tools, techniques, and insights to select and tailor the most appropriate methodology for different projects, ensuring their successful execution.
Why You Should Read It:
Project managers and aspirants can benefit immensely from this book, as it provides a holistic view of the evolving project management landscape, empowering them with the flexibility to adapt to varying project demands.
Quote From The Book:
"Flexibility in project management is not about changing directions aimlessly; it's about choosing the right path based on the terrain ahead."
About The Author:
Robert Wysocki is a seasoned expert in project management, with numerous publications and training courses under his belt.
17. PMP Exam Prep Simplified by Andrew Ramdayal
Summary:
Andrew Ramdayal’s guide offers a streamlined approach to PMP exam preparation, complemented by an invaluable 35-hour e-learning course. The content is tailored to address the current PMP exam format, ensuring that aspirants get the most relevant and up-to-date insights.
What You'll Learn:
This resource delves into the essential knowledge areas and process groups required for the PMP exam. Readers will be equipped with techniques for effective project management, from initiation to closing. The added e-learning component enhances understanding through interactive modules and practice questions.
Why You Should Read It:
For those targeting a high score in the PMP exam, this book and its e-learning course serve as an exhaustive resource, increasing the probability of success in the first attempt.
Quote From The Book:
"Project Management isn't about managing tasks alone; it’s about managing success."
About The Author:
Andrew Ramdayal is a recognized project management training and certification authority. Engage with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.
18. PMP Certification For Dummies by Peter Nathan and Gerald Everett Jones
Summary:
Part of the renowned For Dummies series, this guide by Peter Nathan and Gerald Everett Jones demystifies the PMP certification process. It presents complex concepts in a digestible and user-friendly format, ensuring an enjoyable learning experience.
What You'll Learn:
From understanding project management fundamentals to mastering intricate topics like risk management and procurement, readers will get a 360-degree view of all knowledge areas essential for the PMP exam.
Additionally, it offers practical tips and techniques to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're seeking a PMP certification and prefer learning in a relaxed, straightforward manner, this book is your go-to resource. It simplifies complex concepts without compromising on depth, ensuring thorough exam preparation.
Quote From The Book:
"Being a Project Manager is more than leading teams; it's about leading change."
About The Author:
Peter Nathan and Gerald Everett Jones are seasoned professionals with vast experience in project management and education.
What's Next?
Find more project management books here, or join our membership community to network with and learn from 100's of other digital project managers.