8 ITF Books That Separate Experts From Amateurs

Discover authoritative ITF books authored by Jernigan, James Pengelly, Mr Adam Gold, and other leading figures in ITF and Taekwondo

Updated on June 26, 2025
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What if you could unlock the secrets behind mastering ITF—whether it's the CompTIA IT Fundamentals certification or the intricate theory of ITF Taekwondo? Many aspiring practitioners and IT professionals underestimate how critical the right resources are to success. ITF isn't just a subject; it's a foundation that connects practical skills with real-world application.

These eight books stand out for their authoritative approach, written by recognized authors who bring decades of experience in IT certification and martial arts education. From Jernigan's detailed exam strategies to Mr Adam Gold's precise Taekwon-Do theory, these volumes offer a spectrum of knowledge that has helped countless learners transition from confusion to clarity.

While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific ITF interests, current skill levels, or learning goals might consider creating a personalized ITF book that builds on these insights for a focused and effective study journey.

This ITF+ CompTIA IT Fundamentals guide stands out for its thorough coverage of every exam topic, making it a solid choice if you’re aiming to build foundational IT skills. The book’s structured approach includes learning objectives, exam tips, and practice questions, providing both preparation and ongoing reference value. Whether you're new to IT or looking for a dependable study system, it breaks down essential concepts like hardware, operating systems, and security threats in an accessible way, helping you build confidence for the certification and practical application alike.
2018·496 pages·CompTIA Certifications, ITF, IT Fundamentals, Computer Basics, System Hardware

Drawing from extensive expertise in IT certification training, Jernigan created this guide to demystify the CompTIA IT Fundamentals exam. You’ll gain detailed knowledge across computer basics, hardware, operating systems, and security, with focused chapters that include learning objectives and exam tips. For example, the sections on troubleshooting and software development provide clear explanations that help you understand core concepts rather than just memorize facts. If you’re preparing for the ITF+ exam or want a solid foundational reference for IT, this book delivers structured content that supports both learning and practical application.

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This official CompTIA study guide is tailored specifically for the IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam, offering a structured approach to mastering essential IT skills. Created and evaluated by subject matter experts, it helps you understand everything from computer setup and software use to basic network configuration and security. Whether you're beginning your IT journey or supporting small business systems, this book provides the foundational knowledge to help you navigate and manage everyday technology challenges confidently.
2018·573 pages·ITF, CompTIA Certifications, Computer Setup, Software Applications, Computer Maintenance

James Pengelly's experience working with CompTIA certifications shines through in this official study guide, crafted to equip you with the essential skills for the IT Fundamentals (ITF+) exam. You'll gain concrete knowledge on setting up computers, managing software, and maintaining security within home and small business networks. The book carefully explains topics like device functions, software basics, and network configuration, making it clear how these elements work together in everyday IT environments. If you're aiming to build a solid foundational understanding of IT and prepare for certification, this guide offers focused, practical insights without unnecessary complexity.

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Best for personalized study plans
This AI-created book on ITF fundamentals is designed specifically around your certification goals and current knowledge. You share your background, skill level, and areas of interest, and the book is crafted to focus on exactly what you need to learn. This personalized approach helps you navigate the breadth of ITF concepts without getting overwhelmed, making your study efficient and relevant to your ambitions.
2025·50-300 pages·ITF, IT Fundamentals, CompTIA ITF, Hardware Components, Operating Systems

This personalized AI-crafted book explores the foundational concepts and practical skills essential for mastering ITF certification at your own pace. It covers core IT fundamentals, tailored closely to your background and learning goals, ensuring that every chapter focuses on the topics most relevant to you. From hardware components and operating systems to software applications and network basics, this book reveals the key elements you need to confidently navigate the ITF framework. By addressing your specific certification goals and interests, this tailored guide creates a clear pathway through the complex IT landscape. It synthesizes collective knowledge into a form that matches your learning style, helping you build a solid understanding and prepare effectively for success.

Tailored Guide
Certification Readiness
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for practical study coaching
What makes this book unique in the ITF space is its straightforward, no-nonsense approach to mastering foundational IT concepts. Mike Chapple’s CertMike method guides you through every exam objective with clarity and focus, helping you not just memorize but truly understand key topics like software development, databases, and security essentials. Ideal for those with no prior experience, it’s a practical companion that prepares you for both the certification exam and real-world IT tasks, making it a solid choice for anyone aiming to launch an IT career or solidify their foundational knowledge.
2023·368 pages·ITF, CompTIA Certifications, IT Concepts, Software Development, Database Fundamentals

Drawing from decades of experience in IT education, Mike Chapple developed this book to provide a clear, focused path to passing the CompTIA ITF+ certification exam. You’ll gain concrete knowledge across all exam objectives, including IT basics, software development, databases, and security, with practical practice questions embedded in each chapter. The book’s CertMike approach acts like a personal study coach, emphasizing understanding over memorization to prepare you for real job tasks. It’s designed for anyone starting fresh in IT, stripping away jargon and fluff to build your confidence and competence step by step.

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Best for concise foundational skills
This compact guide by Erik Rorstrom offers a focused path for anyone interested in passing the CompTIA IT Fundamentals certification exam. By covering essential topics such as computer hardware, networking, software, and security, the book ensures you build a comprehensive understanding of IT basics. Its straightforward layout and chapter-end review questions make it practical for beginners or those refreshing their knowledge. Whether you want to start an IT career or strengthen your foundational skills, this guide provides the core material to help you confidently prepare for the ITF exam.
2023·286 pages·CompTIA Certifications, ITF, IT Fundamentals, Computer Hardware, Networking Basics

When Erik Rorstrom set out to write this guide, his goal was simple: create a concise yet thorough resource for anyone preparing for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals certification exam. You’ll find clear explanations on core topics like computer hardware, networking basics, software installation, and IT security, all laid out to build your confidence step-by-step. For example, chapters dedicated to troubleshooting and ethical IT practices offer practical insights that go beyond memorization. This book suits beginners aiming to establish a solid IT foundation or professionals looking to validate their knowledge before advancing further.

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Best for straightforward exam review
IT Fundamentals Made Easy offers a streamlined approach to the CompTIA ITF+ exam, cutting through excessive detail to present foundational IT concepts clearly and efficiently. This guide benefits anyone starting their IT journey or seeking a focused study tool, with chapters covering everything from IT infrastructure to security, software development, and databases. Its structure supports exam readiness while doubling as a handy reference for practical IT knowledge, making it a valuable resource for newcomers aiming to gain confidence and competence quickly.
2024·194 pages·ITF, Information Technology, Exam Preparation, Computer Infrastructure, Software Development

After analyzing the challenges newcomers face when approaching IT fundamentals, Lori Collier and Kostis Pavlou developed this concise guide to demystify the CompTIA ITF+ exam. You’ll learn key IT concepts from infrastructure basics to security essentials, all distilled into clear explanations and targeted practice questions. The book’s no-frills approach helps you focus on what matters without wading through unnecessary details, making it a solid choice if you’re preparing for the exam or need a quick refresher on foundational IT topics. It’s especially useful for those who want a practical, straightforward resource rather than a dense textbook.

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Best for rapid exam preparation
This AI-created book on ITF preparation is written based on your current knowledge, interests, and goals. By sharing your experience and what you want to focus on, you get a tailored study plan that fits your pace and needs. This personalized approach helps cut through generic material, focusing on exactly what will prepare you best for your certification. It's like having a mentor guiding your learning journey every step of the way.
2025·50-300 pages·ITF, IT Fundamentals, Exam Preparation, Personalized Planning, Skill Assessment

This tailored book explores a focused pathway for mastering the ITF exam in just 90 days, designed specifically to match your background and learning goals. It covers foundational IT concepts, exam essentials, and practical preparation activities, all synthesized into a personalized action plan that addresses your unique needs. By tailoring content to your skill level and interests, it ensures efficient study without overwhelming you with unnecessary information. Through a step-by-step progression, the book guides you in building confidence and competence, making complex ITF topics accessible and manageable. This approach reveals how focused preparation can bridge expert knowledge with your specific learning journey, accelerating your path to certification readiness.

Tailored Content
Exam Readiness Focus
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for ITF Taekwon-Do theory learners
CODE Taekwon-Do Theory book offers a focused guide on the theory and terminology required across all belt levels from 10th kup to 1st kup, following the ITF Taekwon-Do syllabus. This manual serves practitioners within CODE Combat Arts affiliated schools, delivering a structured approach to understanding the intellectual side of Taekwon-Do alongside physical training. It addresses a common need among students to grasp the official terminology and theory underpinning their practice and grading requirements. If you’re looking to deepen your knowledge of ITF theory or need a clear reference for syllabus study, this book fills that role precisely, supporting both learners and instructors in the martial arts community.
2016·42 pages·ITF, Martial Arts, Theory, Terminology, Taekwon-Do

What sets this book apart is its focused approach to the theory and terminology essential for progressing from 10th kup to 1st kup in ITF Taekwon-Do. Mr Adam Gold, drawing from his experience with CODE Combat Arts, has compiled a concise manual that covers the exact syllabus requirements practitioners need to master. You’ll find clear explanations of key terms and concepts that form the foundation of ITF Taekwon-Do practice, making it easier to understand grading expectations and theoretical knowledge. This book suits students aiming to solidify their grasp on ITF theory, and instructors who want a reliable reference aligned with CODE Combat Arts standards.

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Best for mastering belt grading basics
Keith McMullen is a recognized authority in Taekwondo, specializing in the ITF curriculum and Korean terminology. His extensive experience in martial arts education has made him a sought-after instructor and author, providing valuable resources for practitioners at all levels. This book was crafted to offer clear guidance for those advancing through ITF belt gradings, combining detailed photos with bilingual explanations to support learning and mastery.
2016·260 pages·ITF, Taekwondo, Martial Arts, Korean Terminology, Belt Gradings

Keith McMullen’s decades of experience in Taekwondo education shines through in this detailed guide focused on the ITF belt gradings. You’ll find clear explanations of Korean terminology alongside photos illustrating every move up to black belt, making it easier to grasp both the language and technique. The book breaks down each pattern with accompanying meanings and the power behind them, offering practical insight into mastering forms and commands. Whether you're preparing for a grading or looking to deepen your understanding of ITF basics, this handbook provides a thorough foundation without unnecessary fluff.

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Best for detailed WTF forms study
Marc Tedeschi is an internationally respected martial arts master and educator with over 50 years of experience in Taekwondo, Hapkido, and other disciplines. His expertise in Eastern philosophy and healing arts enriches this detailed study of Taekwondo's WTF forms, making it a definitive guide for practitioners seeking precise technique and deep understanding.
Taekwondo: Complete WTF Forms book cover

by Marc Tedeschi··You?

2022·514 pages·Taekwondo, ITF, Martial Arts, Forms Training, WTF Taekwondo

Drawing from over fifty years of martial arts mastery and an extensive background in Eastern philosophy and healing arts, Marc Tedeschi delivers an exhaustive exploration of Taekwondo's primary forms sanctioned by the World Taekwondo Federation. This book meticulously breaks down 25 forms across P'algwae, T'aeguk, and WTF Black Belt systems with more than 5,000 photographs and 1,200 drawings, offering detailed movement analysis, Korean terminology, and practical self-defense applications. You’ll gain nuanced insights into the combat purpose and philosophical meanings embedded in each form, making it ideal if you want a deep technical and conceptual understanding. While the volume may be dense for casual enthusiasts, it’s invaluable for practitioners aiming to master the precise execution and underlying principles of WTF Taekwondo forms.

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Conclusion

These eight books collectively emphasize thorough preparation, practical understanding, and deep theoretical knowledge across the ITF spectrum. If you’re preparing for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals certification, starting with Jernigan’s All-in-One Exam Guide and Pengelly’s Official Self-Paced Study Guide will ground you firmly in essential concepts.

For those drawn to the martial arts side of ITF, Gold's CODE Taekwon-Do Theory and McMullen’s ITF Taekwondo provide indispensable insights into theory and grading essentials. And if you want a rich, detailed study of forms, Tedeschi’s Taekwondo is unmatched.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized ITF book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. These books can help you accelerate your learning journey, whether your focus is certification, martial arts mastery, or both.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Start with the ITF+ CompTIA IT Fundamentals All-in-One Exam Guide for a comprehensive foundation, then consider The Official CompTIA IT Fundamentals Certification Self-Paced Study Guide for structured learning.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to ITF?

Not at all. Books like IT Fundamentals Made Easy and CompTIA IT Fundamentals Certification Study Guide are designed with beginners in mind, breaking down complex topics clearly.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with foundational guides like Jernigan's and Pengelly's for IT certification, then explore martial arts theory with CODE Taekwon-Do Theory book and ITF Taekwondo for practical application.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can pick based on your goals: certification-focused readers should prioritize the CompTIA guides, while those interested in ITF Taekwondo theory should focus on the martial arts titles.

Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?

CODE Taekwon-Do Theory book and ITF Taekwondo focus on theory and terminology, whereas CertMike and IT Fundamentals Made Easy emphasize practical exam preparation and real-world IT skills.

Can I get content tailored to my learning goals?

Yes! While these expert books provide a solid foundation, you can create a personalized ITF book tailored to your skills and goals, bridging expert knowledge with your specific needs.

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