NID Preparation Books 2026: Best Books for NID Entrance Exam

NID Preparation Books 2026: Best Books for NID Entrance Exam

Edited By Ritika Jonwal | Updated on Jun 10, 2025 06:03 PM IST | #NID DAT

Students have to buckle up with their preparation and strategies. Offering both bachelor's and master's degrees in design, the National Institute of Design (NID) is a national design institution. Most importantly, students need to be well-versed about NID DAT 2026 criteria. Focus on resources that help build an effective strategy for preparation. Prioritize important topics and high weightage topics books and preparation resources. Additionally, they have to carefully go over and evaluate the previous year NID question papers and can check NID DAT prelims question paper 2025.
Check Also: NID DAT Study Material 2025

NID Preparation Books 2026: Best Books for NID Entrance Exam
NID Preparation Books 2026: Best Books for NID Entrance Exam

Criteria for selection of NID Books 2026 :

Aspiring students consider the following criteria for selection of best books for the NID 2026 exam as it will help them for preparation and build an effective strategy to study important subjects and prioritize. Split the exam into sections for better learning and understanding of how to prepare for NID Prelims.

Here are some section-wise tips on selecting the best books for NID preparation 2026:

Part A: MCQs and Subject Knowledge:

  1. The NID books selected must be comprehensive and intensive, it must cover a large variety of NID DAT high weightage topics. These books should be in line with students' comfort in learning.

  2. Students must choose up-to-date versions of the book.

  3. The books must offer challenging question banks, sample papers, and question papers.

  4. Pick up books that have question paper analysis to help students better understand how to prepare for NID DAT

  5. Try not to buy books that are inclusive of all topics in very little detail. It is highly important to have a detailed conceptual understanding before solving papers.

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Part B: This section emphasizes mainly on how to score well in drawing and sketching skills that give students the opportunity to display their creativity. Some suggested criteria for this section are:

  1. For sketching, you can rely on good NID preparation books that help differentiate between types of sketching, but it is important to look at surrounding objects and learn to sketch from your surroundings to get a better hang-on perspective, etc. Try y to sketch at least one object from daily objects around you.

  2. The book chosen can be restricted to a particular type of sketching for better perfection in each of them.

  3. Pick books that teach how to draw comic strips, how to structure any sketch, starting with thumbnail sketching etc.

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Once qualified in these sections, the student moves on to the NID Studio Test. Students must refer to multiple 3D modelling skills and more than any reference to material, students must practically practice by hand and learn how to prepare for NID Studio Test effectively.

Also Check:

UPES B.Des Admissions 2025

Ranked #46 amongst Universities in India by NIRF | Ranked #1 in Academic Reputation in India by QS World University Rankings

Indian Institute of Art & Design Admissions 2025

Associated with FDCI, CII & IIFTI | Merit-cum-means scholarships to deserving students

Best NID Books for NID Preparation

Given below are NID books suggested by experts and qualified students. The books are provided in a section-wise manner.

Best Books for NID DAT Part A

Tabulated below are the best books for NID preparation for NID Exam.

Section

Name of the Book

Authors Name

  1. Quantitative Aptitude

Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations

R.S. Aggarwal

Objective Quantitative Aptitude

OSWAL Books

Mathematics for class X

NCERT

Fast Track Objective Arithmetic

Rajesh Verma

  1. Logical and Analytical Reasoning

A Modern Approach to Logical Reasoning

R.S. Aggarwal

Analytical Reasoning by Magical Book Series

Arihant Publications ,

M.K Pandey

Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning

R.S. Aggarwal

  1. Design Aptitude

Design of Everyday things

Don Norman

Design Drawing

Francis D. K. Ching

Basic Rendering

Robert W.Gill

NIFT/ NID/ IIFT entrance exam guide

Surendra

  1. General Knowledge

General Knowledge Digest

OSWAL books

Manorama Yearbook

General Knowledge

Manohar Pandey

  1. Sketching and modelling

The Fundamentals of Figure Drawing (Dover Art Instruction)


Charles Oliver

Profit From The Psychology of Color: Discover the Meaning and Effects of Color: 2


Richard G. Lewis


Best books for NID DAT Part B

Here is an overview of some more selected NID preparation books pdf that belong to sketching aptitude section of the question paper:

1. Anatomy and Perspective: The Fundamentals of Figure Drawing (Dover Art Instruction) by Charles Oliver

This book, which focuses on figure drawing, addresses perspective and anatomy, the two topics that are frequently overlooked in art education. Basic drawing methods, the anatomy (bones, muscles) of various body parts, and even how to depict apparel and accessories are all covered. It is an invaluable resource for anyone wishing to learn how to sketch the human figure because of its clear and simple wording.

2. Rendering with Pen and Ink by Robert W. Gill

Robert W. Gill's book "Rendering With Pen and Ink" is an extensive manual for Design and architecture students. It covers choosing the appropriate drawing and rendering tools and methods, with an emphasis on perspective drawing—a critical ability in both domains. The author, Robert W. Gill, is a rendering and illustration specialist who has written several additional works on the same topics.

3. Drawing Perspective. How to See It and How to Apply It, by Matthew Brehm

This book concisely explains various viewpoints through a simple and enjoyable task-based approach. A special feature called "Perspective Chambers" along with entertaining visual quizzes makes studying engaging. Work directly from the book or download worksheets for a fun and useful approach to learning perspective and developing an artist's viewpoint on the world.

4. Colour Psychology: Profit From The Psychology of Color: Discover the Meaning and Effects of Color by Richard G. Lewis

Color Psychology" delves into the ways in which colors affect our feelings and actions. Through an analysis of people's color perceptions, the book illustrates how particular hues can elicit particular feelings. This information aids color designers in selecting hues that evoke the desired feelings and experiences in spaces like web pages.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I prepare for NID exam 2026?

Students can begin by picking out important and productive NID Study material 2026. Solve many NID DAT sample question papers to get a clear idea of the exam’s requirements. students should also practice NID mock tests for better understanding of the exam.

2. How to pick the best study material for NID DAT?
  • Study material must be comprehensive.

  • It must teach, make you understand, and apply concepts.

  • Pick study material with question banks if possible 

  • Solve mock tests and sample papers up-to-date with the current NID Entrance exam syllabus and Exam pattern. 

Pick well known material by a trusted author, like NID DAT book by R.S. Aggarwal

3. What is the NID exam syllabus 2026?

Students will be tested based on these categories in the Prelims:

  • Quantitative Aptitude

  • Logical and Analytical Reasoning

  • Design Aptitude

  • General Knowledge

4. What are the best books for NID drawing aptitude test?
  • The Fundamentals of Figure Drawing (Dover Art Instruction) by Charles Oliver

  • Basic Rendering by Robert W. Gill

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Questions related to NID DAT

Have a question related to NID DAT ?

Hi daksh

As 563 rank in nid dat exam cannot guarantee admission in designing college but it could be a good chance to explore some campus as if you are not from general category as category role plays an important role . But now you can do one thing focus on your strengthening your protofile or preparing for the studio test (bdes) or interview (mdes).

Thanks.

No, IPU (Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University) does not accept NID DAT Prelims score for admission to the B.Des (Bachelor of Design) program.

Instead, IPU conducts its own entrance test or may consider CUET (UG) scores for B.Des admissions, depending on the latest admission guidelines. Always refer to the university's official prospectus for the year you're applying to for the final admission criteria.

NIT DAT (https://www.shiksha.com/design/articles/nid-admissions-2025-colleges-accepting-nid-entrance-exam-scores-for-bdes-mdes-courses-blogId-13097)

Hello,

Yes, it's possible to prepare for the NID DAT 2025 exam on your own, even with limited time, by following these steps:

  1. Understand the Syllabus : Focus on key areas like design principles, creativity, visualization, and observation skills.
  2. Solve Previous Papers : Practice with past NID DAT papers to understand question types and patterns.
  3. Time Management : Dedicate daily hours to sketching, problem-solving, and revision.
  4. Strengthen Drawing Skills : Practice daily to improve speed and accuracy.
  5. Use Online Resources : Utilize free tutorials, sample papers, and design blogs.
  6. Mock Tests : Take regular mock exams to assess progress and manage time efficiently.

Hope it helps !

Hello,

There are numerous websites which give free study material and classes to prepare for entrance exams NID DAT, UCEED, or NIFT. Here are a few popular ones:

YouTube: YouTube has many educators as well as institutes, which have been uploading free video lectures on important topics, on aptitude for design, and how to give these exams. Useful content can be found in the channels "Design Coach" and "NID Preparation".

You can download free courses offered on websites like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy on the topics of design principles, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Official Websites: Both NID and UCEED and also NIFT would usually release sample papers and previous question papers for self-preparation.

Study Groups: One can join online forums or social media groups which are dedicated to NID, UCEED, and NIFT preparation for peer-to-peer learning assistance.

The resource utilization would bring in good preparation for the exams and, therefore, increase in confidence.

Hello,

Preparing for the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) entrance exam involves focusing on several key areas. Here’s a structured approach to get you started:

1. Understand the Exam Structure

Familiarize yourself with the NIFT entrance exam format:

  • General Ability Test (GAT): Tests general knowledge, current affairs, and quantitative ability.
  • Creative Ability Test (CAT): Assesses your creative and visual ability through sketching and design-based questions.
  • Situation Test (for B.Des): Evaluates your ability to create a design from given materials.
  • Group Discussion and Personal Interview (for M.Des/MFM): Tests your communication skills, understanding of the fashion industry, and design knowledge.

2. Gather Study Materials

  • For GAT: Use general knowledge books, current affairs magazines, and quantitative aptitude guides.
  • For CAT: Practice sketching and drawing regularly. Books on design and creativity can be useful.
  • For Situation Test: Practice creating models from various materials and understanding design principles.
  • For GD/PI: Prepare by staying updated on fashion trends, industry news, and developing a strong portfolio.

3. Create a Study Plan

  • Daily Study: Allocate time for each section based on your strengths and weaknesses.
  • Weekly Goals: Set goals for completing practice papers and revising key concepts.
  • Mock Tests: Regularly take mock tests to simulate the exam environment and improve time management.

4. Enroll in Coaching Classes (if needed)

Consider joining a coaching institute that specializes in NIFT preparation. They can provide structured guidance, practice tests, and expert feedback.

5. Work on Your Portfolio

If you’re applying for design courses, develop a strong portfolio showcasing your creative work. Include sketches, designs, and any relevant projects.

6. Refer to Previous Years’ Papers

Solving past years' question papers helps you understand the exam pattern and types of questions. It also aids in identifying important topics.

7. Stay Updated

  • Follow fashion industry news to stay informed about trends and innovations.
  • Read relevant books and articles about design and fashion.

8. Practice Creativity

Engage in activities that boost your creativity, such as drawing, painting, or crafting. Keep experimenting with new ideas and techniques.

By focusing on these areas, you'll build a solid foundation for the NIFT entrance exam. Good luck with your preparation!

You can also refer to the following articles to better understand the NIFT examination and its preperation strategy :-

1. https://design.careers360.com/articles/how-prepare-for-nift-entrance-exam

2. https://design.careers360.com/exams/nift-entrance-exam


Hope it helps !

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