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NIFT Books 2026, Check Section-Wise Books, Preparation Tips

• Updated on 17 Nov, 2025 by Souvik Podder

NIFT Books 2026: The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) is among India's leading design institutes for candidates aiming to build a successful career in fashion and design. The institute provides degree programs across several disciplines, including Knitwear Design, Accessory Design, and others. Each year, the National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the NIFT Entrance Exam across the country to assess candidates' creativity, general awareness, logical reasoning, and design aptitude. Choosing the right set of NIFT preparation books plays a vital role in solving the common concern of how to prepare effectively for the examination. For NIFT 2026, candidates must be familiar with the recommended books and study materials that can enhance their preparation and help them perform well in the test.

 

Table of Contents
  1. Best NIFT Books 2026: Selecting Criteria
  2. Best NIFT Books 2026
  3. NIFT Question Papers
  4. NIFT Preparation Tips 2026
  5. NIFT Books 2026 FAQs

 

Best NIFT Books 2026: Selecting Criteria

A well-chosen set of NIFT preparation books can make a major difference in how effectively one plans for the exam. Understanding what makes a book valuable is key to building the right strategy.

  • Candidates should focus on resources that support their self-study, sharpen creative thinking, strengthen aptitude, and build concept clarity needed to solve the NIFT question paper
  • The best book for NIFT 2026 is one that guides students through these stages while enhancing imagination and problem-solving ability. Apart from the prescribed study material, reading case studies on remarkable designs that have influenced global trends for decades can also offer deep learning and inspiration.
  • With digital tools now easily accessible, candidates can stay up to date by exploring the latest NIFT Syllabus 2026 and keeping track of industry developments and emerging design practices.

 

Best NIFT Books 2026

Candidates preparing for NIFT 2026 exam must refer to the best books to prepare for the exam. The section-wise best NIFT books for preparation are listed in the table below.

Subject

Recommended Books

Current Affairs and GK

Current Affairs by Arihant

Popular newspapers: The Hindu, Indian Express, The Times of India

 

Follow this technique to quickly read the newspaper:

  • Quickly go through the headlines; catch up on important news of national and international importance
  • Work on your word power by learning 10-20 new words by reading the editorial or opinion piece, and practice 10-20 new words every day.

Maths

NIFT Arihant

 

If you want any additional reading, you can refer to: RS Aggarwal

English

NIFT Arihant

GAT

Solve previous years' NIFT questions and sample papers for the last 10 years or so.

 

You may also refer to:

  • NIFT Entrance Exam by RP Verma and A Kant
  • NIFT Entrance Exam Guide

Mock Test Books

Learnx Mock Test Series Books

 

NIFT Mock Test Series by NIFT Alumni

Taking notes

If you make it a habit to take notes during your study, it will not only help you jot down important and difficult points, but these notes will also come in handy for quick revision.

Check NIFT Exam Pattern 2026

 

NIFT Question Papers

Along with attempting sample papers, candidates should also practice the NIFT Previous Years' Question Papers. Doing so helps candidates understand the types of questions that appear in the entrance exam, along with the overall difficulty level and marking pattern. By going through these papers, candidates can also identify any recurring question trends from recent years. Reviewing past papers is essential for setting realistic expectations and getting an accurate idea of what the actual exam might include.

 

Check NIFT Cutoff 2026

 

NIFT Preparation Tips 2026

Candidates preparing for the NIFT 2026 exam can follow the preparation tips below.

 

Start with the basicsCandidates should begin by understanding the NIFT exam pattern and syllabus. Check which topics carry more weight and plan preparation accordingly.

 

Use standard NIFT booksBooks like NIFT Entrance Exam Guide by Arihant or NIFT/NID/IIFT Entrance Exam Guide by RPH Editorial Board are good resources. They cover theory, solved papers, and practice exercises.

 

Focus on design fundamentalsStudy books on design theory, colour combinations, and drawing basics. Titles like Design Drawing by Francis D. K. Ching help in building strong conceptual skills.

 

Improve general awarenessReading newspapers, fashion magazines, and yearbooks helps candidates stay updated on current trends in fashion and design. General knowledge sections of books like Manorama Yearbook are useful.

 

Practice sketching dailyNIFT’s Creative Ability Test (CAT) requires good drawing and visualisation skills. Books on figure drawing and object sketching can help improve speed and accuracy.

 

Work on logical and analytical abilityFor the General Ability Test (GAT), solve reasoning books like A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal. Regular practice strengthens problem-solving ability.

 

Revise with sample papersUse NIFT sample papers and previous question sets available in guidebooks. This helps in understanding question patterns and managing time during the exam.

 

Enhance vocabulary and reading speedEnglish grammar and comprehension books, such as High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren & Martin, can improve language skills for the GAT section.

 

Create short notesWhile studying from books, note down important points, formulas, and definitions. These notes make revision faster during the final days of preparation.

 

Set a daily study scheduleDivide study hours for each section and use the books mentioned to cover every topic. Consistent reading and practice are key to performing well in NIFT.

 

Check NIFT Preparation 2026

 

NIFT Books 2026 FAQs

Which are the best books for NIFT 2026 preparation?

Candidates preparing for NIFT 2026 should consider standard books like the “NIFT Entrance Exam Guide by Arihant Experts,” “NIFT/NID/IIFT Entrance Exam Guide by RPH Editorial Board,” and “NIFT Previous Year Papers Book by CreativEdge.” These books cover all important sections, including the Creative Ability Test (CAT) and General Ability Test (GAT), with practice questions, solved papers, and clear explanations. Choosing well-known books helps candidates understand theory, improve problem-solving, and get familiar with exam patterns.​

Are previous year NIFT question papers available in books?

Yes, many NIFT entrance exam books include sets of previous year question papers with solutions. Candidates can refer to books like “NIFT Previous Year Papers Book by CreativEdge” that provide up to ten years of authentic papers. Solving these papers helps candidates become familiar with question types, the level of difficulty, and important trends seen in recent exams. The detailed solutions also allow candidates to learn techniques and improve accuracy as they review their answers.​

Which book is best for NIFT general knowledge preparation?

For general knowledge, candidates can refer to comprehensive books like “Manorama Yearbook” and “Lucent’s General Knowledge.” These books provide a wide range of current affairs and static GK essential for the NIFT exam. Consistent reading of such books helps candidates stay updated with the latest national and international events, fashion trends, history, and culture. Practising GK questions from these sources will also boost candidates' confidence for the General Ability Test (GAT) section.​

What books help improve design and drawing for NIFT?

Candidates should use design-focused books like “Design Drawing by Francis D.K. Ching” and guides dedicated to creative ability. These books develop fundamental drawing skills, visualisation, and idea generation. Practising daily sketching exercises from these resources helps candidates gain confidence for the Creative Ability Test (CAT). Candidates can also try books with model sketches and solved examples, which make it easier to learn techniques step by step for the exam.​

Can candidates use the Arihant NIFT Guide for all exam sections?

Yes, the Arihant NIFT Entrance Exam Self-Guide is a multi-section book that covers the entire syllabus of both CAT and GAT. Candidates will find theory chapters, practice questions, and previous year solved papers in one place. The clear language and topic-wise divisions help candidates focus on sections like reasoning, English, quantitative ability, and creative skills. Using this guide lets candidates prepare each part of the exam systematically and track progress throughout their preparation.​

Are there separate books for NIFT B.Des and M.Des exams?

Several books cater to both undergraduate (B.Des) and postgraduate (M.Des) NIFT exams. Comprehensive NIFT entrance exam guides usually specify which portions are for UG and PG aspirants. Candidates should check the table of contents and pick books with relevant sections or practice sets based on their chosen programme. Books like “NIFT, NID and IIFT Entrance Exam Guide” clearly indicate sections dedicated to each exam, allowing candidates to study only what is needed.​

Do NIFT books contain solved sample papers?

Most standard NIFT preparation books come with solved sample papers and practice sets for the CAT and GAT. These papers help candidates get real exam experience and learn time management. Solved answers assist candidates in understanding the correct technique for attempting different types of questions. Regular practice with these sample papers enables candidates to identify weak areas and focus their revision efforts for better exam results.​

Which book is best for NIFT English and vocabulary?

Candidates can use “High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren & Martin” and “Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis.” These books strengthen grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension for the English section of GAT. Candidates should regularly solve quizzes, revise word lists, and practice comprehension passages. These books are helpful for building language confidence, finding common exam mistakes, and increasing reading and understanding speed for the test.​

How important are reasoning books for the NIFT exam?

Books on reasoning, like “A Modern Approach to Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. Aggarwal,” are essential for mastering the logical and analytical ability section in the NIFT exam. Candidates should solve a variety of puzzles, series, and data interpretation exercises. These books help develop a systematic approach to reasoning questions and make it easier to spot common patterns. Daily practice with such books improves speed and accuracy in the GAT reasoning section.​

Are NIFT entrance exam books updated for 2026?

Most leading publishers release new editions of NIFT entrance exam books to match the latest syllabus and exam pattern. Candidates should look for books specifically marked as the 2026 edition, as these include recent questions and pattern changes. Updated books reflect new trends and provide practice material aligned with the current exam format, ensuring candidates are fully prepared for what to expect in NIFT 2026.​

Can candidates prepare for NIFT at home using books?

Yes, candidates can achieve thorough preparation at home by using the right set of books, previous papers, and self-discipline. Many NIFT entrance guides are designed for independent study and include all key concepts, solved examples, model answers, and mock tests. Candidates should follow a daily study schedule, revise consistently, and supplement book study with online sample tests or sketching practice to cover every topic well.​

Do NIFT books provide tips for the Situation Test?

Comprehensive books like “NIFT Exam Guide by Verma” and others include tips, sample models, and detailed approaches for the NIFT Situation Test. Candidates can learn how to work with materials, structure models, and present solutions creatively. Step-by-step instructions and solved examples guide candidates on handling the Situation Test efficiently. Practising with these resources helps develop time management and allocation skills during the actual test.​

How to choose the right NIFT book for preparation?

Candidates should pick books that cover the entire NIFT syllabus and provide ample practice questions. Ensure books are from trusted publishers, have good reviews, and are updated for the latest exam pattern. Sample a few pages if possible, to check for clarity in explanations and answer keys. Books with both CAT and GAT sections, as well as solved and unsolved papers, are the most useful for well-rounded preparation.