7 Must-Read Visual Basic Books for Beginners

Explore Visual Basic books authored by trusted experts like John Connell and Corinne Hoisington, designed to guide beginners confidently through programming fundamentals.

Updated on June 28, 2025
We may earn commissions for purchases made via this page

Every expert in Visual Basic started exactly where you are now—curious, maybe a bit intimidated, but ready to learn. Visual Basic remains a highly accessible language, welcoming newcomers with a gentle learning curve and practical applications that matter today, from desktop to web and database programming. Its progressive nature lets you build skills steadily, making those first steps all the more rewarding.

These books, written by accomplished educators and seasoned developers, offer clear, patient instruction rooted in real-world experience. Authors like Corinne Hoisington, a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional, and John Connell, a veteran VB developer for a major bank, craft lessons that transform complex concepts into approachable learning moments. Their combined expertise ensures you won’t just memorize syntax—you’ll understand how to think and build like a programmer.

While these beginner-friendly books provide excellent foundations, readers seeking content tailored to their specific learning pace and goals might consider creating a personalized Visual Basic book that meets them exactly where they are. This approach complements expert guidance by focusing on what matters most to you in your unique coding journey.

Best for beginners learning modern VB applications
Corinne Hoisington is a seasoned professor with over 25 years teaching information systems technology and a recipient of the Microsoft Most Valuable Professional award in Computer Programming. Her extensive experience delivering keynotes worldwide for Microsoft and other global organizations informs this book’s beginner-friendly approach. Drawing on her deep understanding of Visual Basic and programming education, she designed this text to guide you step-by-step through learning Windows, web, and database application development using Visual Basic 2017, making it a trustworthy resource for new programmers stepping into app development.
2017·752 pages·Visual Basic, VB.NET, Programming, Software Development, Windows Applications

Corinne Hoisington’s decades of teaching and industry experience shine through in this clear, hands-on guide to Microsoft Visual Basic 2017. You’ll find the book breaks down complex concepts into approachable lessons, focusing on Windows programming, web, and database applications with plenty of practical assignments to build your confidence. For example, chapters dedicated to professional-quality program demonstrations help you grasp real programming techniques rather than just theory. If you’re new to coding or aiming to strengthen your foundation in Visual Basic within today’s app development landscape, this book offers a solid, methodical path without overwhelming jargon or shortcuts.

View on Amazon
Best for new programmers building practical skills
Bryan Newsome is a senior programmer and Microsoft Certified Application Developer for VB.NET, with experience tracing back to Visual Basic 5. His deep familiarity with Microsoft technologies and commitment to mentoring beginners shines through in this book, which patiently guides you from zero programming experience to building functional Visual Basic applications using the .NET platform.
Beginning Visual Basic 2015 book cover

by Bryan Newsome··You?

2015·624 pages·Visual Basic, VB.NET, Programming, Software Development, Object-Oriented Programming

What happens when seasoned software pro Bryan Newsome meets beginner programming? He crafts an approachable guide that starts from scratch and builds your skills steadily through Visual Basic 2015. You’ll learn core programming concepts like flow control, data structures, and object-oriented design alongside practical applications such as database access and web programming with ASP.NET and SQL Server. Newsome’s clear, patient style demystifies common hurdles, making this a solid entry point if you’re new to coding or Visual Basic. While it’s not for experts seeking advanced tricks, it’s ideal for anyone ready to write their first apps confidently.

View on Amazon
Best for personal learning pace
This AI-created book on Visual Basic is crafted based on your background and coding goals. You tell us which areas of Visual Basic interest you and your current skill level, then receive lessons tailored precisely to your pace and comfort. This personalized approach helps remove the usual overwhelm beginners face, making the learning process feel natural and achievable. It’s designed to support you step-by-step as you build your confidence and skills in Visual Basic programming.
2025·50-300 pages·Visual Basic, Programming Basics, Visual Basic Syntax, Beginner Projects, Event Handling

This tailored book explores Visual Basic programming through a step-by-step, beginner-friendly approach that matches your current background and learning pace. It focuses on building your confidence by breaking down foundational concepts into manageable, engaging lessons designed to reduce overwhelm and foster steady progress. Each chapter reveals core programming principles, syntax, and practices aligned with your specific interests, allowing you to experience programming in a comfortable, personalized way. By emphasizing a gradual mastery of Visual Basic, this book offers a learning journey that feels approachable and rewarding, tailored precisely to your comfort level and goals. It transforms the often-intimidating world of coding into an accessible and enjoyable experience focused on your success.

Tailored Book
Progressive Learning
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for beginners focusing on VB6 database work
John Connell is a Visual Basic developer at a major Chicago bank known for creating powerful and user-friendly database applications. He also lectures on VB at De Paul's downtown campus and has taught for Wrox Press. His deep hands-on experience and teaching background shape this book’s beginner-friendly approach, making complex database programming concepts approachable and practical for new learners.
880 pages·Visual Basic, VB6, Database Programming, SQL, Client Server

Unlike most Visual Basic books that focus solely on syntax, John Connell’s work transforms the complexities of database programming into accessible lessons for beginners. Drawing on his experience developing powerful, reliable database applications for a major Chicago bank, Connell guides you through essential skills like database design, SQL basics, and client-server concepts using DAO and ADO technologies. The book’s tutorial format offers practical examples you can apply immediately, making it ideal if you're aiming to build solid foundational skills in Visual Basic 6 database programming. If you want to understand both legacy and modern database techniques within VB6, this book provides a clear path without overwhelming you.

View on Amazon
Best for learners transitioning to VB.NET fundamentals
Matthew Reynolds is a seasoned author with deep expertise in programming languages, particularly Visual Basic. His years of experience in software development and education drive his ability to simplify complex programming concepts, which is evident throughout this book. Reynolds wrote this to help beginners grasp Visual Basic .NET by focusing on clear explanations and practical coding examples, making it an accessible entry point for aspiring developers.
Beginning VB.NET, Second Edition book cover

by Matthew Reynolds··You?

880 pages·Visual Basic, VB.NET, .NET, Programming, Software Development

Unlike most programming guides that jump straight into complex concepts, Matthew Reynolds takes the time to gently introduce you to Visual Basic .NET from the ground up. You’ll find clear explanations paired with plenty of code samples, like Try It Out exercises and end-of-chapter questions, which help solidify your understanding of topics ranging from basic syntax to object-oriented programming and database access. Reynolds’s background in both software development and education shines through, making this book approachable whether you’re new to coding or transitioning from another language. If you want a resource that patiently walks you through building functional applications step-by-step, this is a solid choice.

View on Amazon
Best for visual learners needing step-by-step guidance
Rod Stephens is a Microsoft MVP and author of over 20 books on programming, with extensive experience teaching beginners at ITT Technical Institute. He created this resource to lower barriers for newcomers, combining clear instruction with video demonstrations that guide you through programming challenges. His popular VB Helper website reflects his commitment to supporting Visual Basic learners worldwide, making this book a solid starting point for your programming journey.
2011·504 pages·Visual Basic, VB.NET, Programming, Software Development, Visual Studio

The breakthrough moment came when Rod Stephens, a Microsoft MVP with decades teaching programming, crafted this book to demystify Visual Basic for absolute beginners. You’ll progress through clear lessons that cover everything from basic syntax to using the Visual Studio environment, supported by video tutorials where Stephens solves real coding problems step-by-step. This approach makes complex programming concepts approachable, especially if you’ve never coded before. If you want a patient guide that combines reading with visual learning to build your foundational skills, this book fits perfectly; however, experienced developers looking for advanced topics might find its pace deliberate.

View on Amazon
Best for personal coding plans
This AI-created book on Visual Basic is tailored precisely to your coding background and goals. You share your current skill level and the specific areas you want to focus on, and the book is written to match your pace and interests. It offers a gentle, progressive way to build fundamental skills without overwhelm, making complex concepts approachable. This personalized approach helps you learn exactly what you need to grow confident with Visual Basic, designing a learning path that feels comfortable and effective.
2025·50-300 pages·Visual Basic, Programming Basics, Code Exercises, Skill Building, Beginner Projects

This AI-created book on Visual Basic offers a tailored learning experience designed to match your unique background and skill level. It explores Visual Basic fundamentals progressively, providing a supportive pathway that builds your confidence step-by-step. The book covers practical exercises focused on developing coding skills effectively without overwhelming you, ensuring foundational concepts are clear and approachable. By concentrating on your specific interests and goals, it reveals how to navigate common challenges while steadily advancing your understanding. With a personalized pace and targeted content, this book transforms your learning journey into a manageable, engaging process that emphasizes comfort and mastery. It’s a focused guide for anyone looking to build strong Visual Basic skills in a month, crafted to fit your individual needs and accelerate your coding proficiency.

AI-Tailored
Progressive Skill Building
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for self-paced beginners mastering VB.NET basics
Dr. Jim McKeown, an Assistant Professor at Dakota State University with more than 20 years of teaching programming and computer applications, wrote this book drawing on his deep instructional design expertise. His academic background, including a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa and a master's from Columbia University, equips him to present programming in a clear, student-friendly way. This book reflects his commitment to helping novices grasp Visual Basic fundamentals through patient explanations, practical examples, and a supportive learning structure.
2010·702 pages·Programming, Visual Basic, VB.NET, .NET, Programming Logic

Dr. Jim McKeown's extensive academic background and two decades of teaching experience shine through in this introduction to Visual Basic.NET 2010. He carefully unpacks programming logic and techniques for beginners with little to no prior experience, guiding you through essential concepts like input, processing, output, and code structures such as sequence, selection, and repetition. The book also covers foundational topics like file I/O, arrays, objects, event-driven programming, and databases, all presented with accessible explanations and sprinkled with helpful tips and humor. Its chapter quizzes, summaries, and a comprehensive companion website provide ample practice, making it especially suited for self-paced learners seeking a thorough yet approachable foundation in Visual Basic programming.

View on Amazon
Best for those developing coding logic and VB skills
Aristides S Bouras discovered his passion for programming early and now teaches computer programming at a vocational high school. With a degree in Computer Engineering and multiple books on algorithmic thinking, he brings a deep understanding of how to guide beginners through coding challenges. This book reflects his commitment to clear, patient instruction that starts with no assumptions about your background and builds your skills step by step in Visual Basic and algorithmic thinking.
2021·716 pages·Visual Basic, Programming, Algorithmic Thinking, Object Oriented Programming, Problem Solving

When Aristides S Bouras realized many beginners struggle with programming basics, he crafted this book to bridge that gap by focusing on algorithmic thinking—the essential mindset behind coding. You’ll learn not just Visual Basic syntax but how to approach problems systematically, starting from ground zero with no prior experience assumed. The book’s structure, with chapters ending in quizzes and hundreds of exercises, helps you practice concepts like arrays, dictionaries, and an introduction to object-oriented programming. If you want a patient, methodical guide that builds your programming intuition alongside Visual Basic skills, this book suits you well, though seasoned coders might find it slower paced.

View on Amazon

Beginner-Friendly Visual Basic Learning

Build your Visual Basic skills confidently with personalized learning tailored to your pace and goals.

Clear step guidance
Focused skill building
Practical coding exercises

Thousands of aspiring developers started with these foundations

Visual Basic Mastery Blueprint
The 30-Day VB Code System
Visual Basic Logic Secrets
The Visual Basic Confidence Code

Conclusion

The seven books highlighted here each deliver beginner-friendly content with an emphasis on progressive learning. Whether you’re starting with the fundamentals of Visual Basic 6 database programming or stepping into modern VB.NET applications, these texts provide clear, structured paths that build your confidence and skills steadily.

If you’re completely new to programming, starting with books like "Visual Basic and Algorithmic Thinking for the Complete Beginner" or "Stephens' Visual Basic Programming 24-Hour Trainer" will ground you in the basics and coding logic. For those ready to advance, "Microsoft Visual Basic 2017 for Windows, Web, and Database Applications" and "Beginning VB.NET" offer practical steps toward professional app development.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Visual Basic book that fits your exact needs, interests, and goals to create your own personalized learning journey. Building a strong foundation early sets you up for success in any programming endeavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with a book that matches your current comfort level. If you’re entirely new, "Visual Basic and Algorithmic Thinking for the Complete Beginner" offers patient, step-by-step guidance. It focuses on both programming logic and VB basics, making it a solid first read.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Visual Basic?

No, these books are specifically chosen for beginners. Authors like Rod Stephens and Corinne Hoisington focus on clear explanations and practical examples that ease newcomers into Visual Basic without unnecessary jargon or assumptions.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with foundational texts like "Beginning Visual Basic 6 Database Programming" or "Programming in Visual Basic 2010" to grasp core concepts. Then progress to newer editions like "Beginning Visual Basic 2015" and "Microsoft Visual Basic 2017" for modern application development.

Should I start with the newest book or a classic?

It depends on your goals. Newer books cover modern VB.NET and current frameworks, while classics like the VB6 database programming book offer foundational skills still relevant for legacy systems and understanding core concepts.

Will these books be too simple if I already know a little about Visual Basic?

Some books, like "Beginning VB.NET, Second Edition," are designed to support both beginners and those refreshing their basics. If you have some background, you can focus on chapters that challenge you while reinforcing fundamentals.

Can personalized Visual Basic books complement these expert guides?

Yes! Personalized Visual Basic books tailor content to your skill level, interests, and learning pace, complementing expert-authored books by focusing on what matters most to you. Explore creating your own Visual Basic book to enhance your learning experience.

📚 Love this book list?

Help fellow book lovers discover great books, share this curated list with others!