7 Best-Selling IntelliJ IDEA Books Millions Love

Experts including Duane K. Fields, Jaroslaw Krochmalski, and Ted Hagos recommend these best-selling IntelliJ IDEA books for mastering your IDE

Updated on June 24, 2025
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4 of 7 books have Kindle versions

There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, especially when it comes to mastering development tools like IntelliJ IDEA. This IDE has become a cornerstone for Java and multi-platform developers, valued for its powerful features that significantly boost coding efficiency and productivity. Navigating its rich capabilities can be daunting, but the right books offer proven frameworks that many have trusted to sharpen their skills.

Experts like Duane K. Fields, known for his work at IBM and Netscape Communications, and Jaroslaw Krochmalski, a software designer with over a decade of experience, have lent their insights to highly regarded books that have shaped how developers approach IntelliJ IDEA. Their recommendations stem from real-world usage and deep familiarity, helping developers unlock the IDE’s full potential.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific IntelliJ IDEA needs might consider creating a personalized IntelliJ IDEA book that combines these validated approaches. This way, you get focused guidance aligned with your background and goals, making your learning journey even more efficient.

Best for experienced Java developers
Kindle version not available
Duane K. Fields brings significant expertise as a web applications developer with experience at IBM and Netscape Communications. His background in web programming informed the creation of this guide, aiming to help developers unlock IntelliJ IDEA's full potential. Coauthoring a bestselling book on JavaServer Pages, Fields leverages his practical knowledge to teach readers how to move beyond simple code editing to efficient software development using IDEA's integrated tools.
IntelliJ IDEA in Action: Covers IDEA v.5 book cover

by Duane K. Fields, Stephen Saunders, Eugene Belyaev·

2006·450 pages·IntelliJ IDEA, Software Development, Programming, Java Development, Debugging

What happens when a seasoned web applications developer teams up with fellow experts to explore IntelliJ IDEA? Duane K. Fields, drawing on his extensive experience at IBM and Netscape Communications, offers a detailed guide to harnessing IDEA's capabilities beyond basic usage. You learn to leverage the debugger, source control, and code generation tools with practical tips that even experienced users will find insightful. The book walks you from setup through advanced features, emphasizing how IDEA streamlines Java development projects. If you're moving from simpler editors or seeking to deepen your IDE skills, this book provides a clear path without overcomplicating the learning process.

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Best for Agile-focused developers
Kindle version available
Jaroslaw Krochmalski is a software designer with over 12 years of experience, specializing in the financial business domain and a strong advocate for clean code and Agile methods. Having used IntelliJ IDEA since its first release, he brings firsthand insight into the IDE's evolution and capabilities. This book captures his expertise to help you leverage IntelliJ IDEA's tools effectively, from setting up projects to advanced features like version control and Gradle integration, making it a valuable resource for developers aiming to work smarter and cleaner.
Intellij Idea Essentials book cover

by Jaroslaw Krochmalski·

2014·276 pages·IntelliJ IDEA, Software Development, Version Control, Refactoring, Agile Development

The breakthrough moment came when Jaroslaw Krochmalski, with over a decade of experience in software development and a deep passion for clean code and Agile methodologies, distilled his extensive knowledge of IntelliJ IDEA into this focused guide. You learn how to tailor the IDE to your specific project needs, harness its powerful tools like smart code completion, refactoring, and version control features, and navigate both basic and advanced workflows including integration with frameworks such as Gradle. This book suits developers transitioning from other environments like NetBeans or Eclipse who want to leverage IntelliJ IDEA’s full potential for efficient, maintainable software development. The chapter on coordinating with teams through version control stands out as especially practical for collaborative projects.

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Best for personal IntelliJ mastery
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This AI-created book on IntelliJ IDEA is written based on your development background and current skill level. You share the specific IntelliJ features and challenges you want to focus on, along with your goals, so the book matches your interests perfectly. This tailored approach ensures you get relevant insights and techniques without sifting through unrelated material, making your learning journey more engaging and effective.
2025·50-300 pages·IntelliJ IDEA, IntelliJ Basics, IDE Customization, Code Navigation, Debugging Techniques

This tailored book explores proven IntelliJ IDEA techniques, focusing on your unique challenges and goals to enhance your development experience. It covers essential features and optimizations, revealing battle-tested tips that millions of developers have found valuable. By matching your background and interests, the content dives into advanced IDE navigation, debugging, customization, and productivity enhancements. This personalized guide ensures you engage deeply with topics that matter most to you, helping you streamline your workflows and write cleaner code. Exploring these time-tested methods through a custom lens offers a learning experience designed to elevate your IntelliJ mastery effectively and enjoyably.

Tailored Content
Developer Productivity
1,000+ Happy Readers
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Best for Java beginners
Kindle version available
Ted Hagos is a software developer with over 20 years focused on Java, including roles as team lead, project manager, and architect. He has trained professionals through IBM Advanced Career Education and authored books with Apress. His extensive experience and practical training background shaped this guide, designed to help you quickly get comfortable with IntelliJ IDEA and use it to build, test, and deploy Java applications efficiently.
2021·292 pages·IntelliJ IDEA, Software Development, Programming, Java Development, IDE Configuration

What started as Ted Hagos' challenge to simplify the learning curve of IntelliJ IDEA evolved into a resource that guides you from initial setup to mastering advanced Java development features. You’ll find detailed instructions on building Java applications, managing source code, and leveraging tools for expanding into data science projects. The book also covers modern testing and deployment practices, giving you a clear path to making the most of this IDE. If you’re new to IntelliJ but familiar with Java, this book offers practical insights without overwhelming you with unnecessary jargon.

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Best for IntelliJ newcomers
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Getting Started With IntelliJ IDEA offers a focused introduction to the popular IDE, emphasizing practical steps for beginners to set up and manage their development environment. This book’s appeal lies in its clear approach to navigating IntelliJ’s features, making it accessible for those new to the tool. It addresses the common challenge of mastering an IDE’s interface by breaking down tasks like project setup, debugging, and version control integration into manageable parts. If you want to build confidence quickly in IntelliJ IDEA, this guide serves as a reliable companion.
Getting Started With Intellij Idea book cover

by Hudson Orsine Assumpcao

2013·114 pages·IntelliJ IDEA, Software Development Tools, IDE Configuration, Project Setup, Debugging

Drawing from its targeted focus on IntelliJ IDEA, this book offers a straightforward entry into navigating and utilizing the IDE efficiently. It guides you through setting up projects, using essential tools, and understanding the interface, which is crucial for developers new to IntelliJ. Chapters like project structure and debugging provide practical insights that help flatten the learning curve for beginners. If you're looking to confidently launch your coding environment or streamline your workflow within IntelliJ IDEA, this book offers a solid stepping stone without overwhelming you with advanced concepts.

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Best for quick IntelliJ overview
Kindle version not available
IntelliJ IDEA is widely recognized for its powerful features and robust support for Java development, yet mastering its interface can be daunting. "How to Use Intellij Idea" offers a focused, accessible introduction that many find helpful when starting out with this IDE. This guide highlights the essential tools and workflows that accelerate coding and improve code quality, serving as a useful resource for developers aiming to harness IntelliJ's capabilities efficiently. Its brief format caters well to those who want a quick yet informative entry into one of the most popular development environments available today.
2021·18 pages·IntelliJ IDEA, Software Development, Programming, Java Development, IDE Usage

What sets this book apart is its focus on delivering a concise yet clear introduction to IntelliJ IDEA, a leading IDE for Java development. Pratik Kumar, through this brief guide, helps you understand IntelliJ’s core features, such as its user interface and key tools that streamline coding and enhance productivity. You’ll learn how to navigate the IDE efficiently, customize your workspace, and leverage built-in functions to improve code quality, making it a solid starting point for those new to IntelliJ. The book’s compact length means it’s best suited for learners who want a quick, practical overview rather than an exhaustive manual.

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Best for rapid skill building
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This AI-created book on IntelliJ IDEA is tailored to your current skills and goals, providing a personalized path to boost your IDE proficiency. Instead of generic content, it focuses on the specific features and workflows you want to master, making your learning precise and efficient. By concentrating on your interests and pace, this tailored approach helps you gain confidence and speed in using IntelliJ IDEA within just 30 days.
2025·50-300 pages·IntelliJ IDEA, IntelliJ Fundamentals, Project Setup, Code Navigation, Debugging Techniques

This tailored book offers a focused 30-day plan to accelerate your mastery of IntelliJ IDEA, designed to match your background and goals. It explores core IDE features and practical workflows, guiding you through targeted daily tasks that build efficiency and deepen understanding. The personalized content ensures you focus on what matters most to your skill level and coding needs, blending proven popular knowledge with your unique interests. By combining reader-validated insights with a step-by-step approach, it reveals ways to enhance your coding productivity, project setup, debugging skills, and version control integration, all in manageable daily increments. This tailored journey transforms IntelliJ IDEA from a powerful tool into a seamless extension of your development process.

Tailored Guide
Skill Acceleration
1,000+ Happy Readers
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Best for multi-platform developers
Kindle version available
Hasanraza Ansari, a seasoned software developer with extensive experience in IntelliJ IDEA, wrote this guide to share practical expertise on efficient coding practices. His firsthand knowledge of the IDE’s complexities drives the book’s clear explanations and targeted tutorials, making it a valuable resource for developers aiming to unlock IntelliJ IDEA’s full potential.
2023·109 pages·IntelliJ IDEA, Software Development, Programming, IntelliJ Features, Debugging

What started as Hasanraza Ansari's personal quest to maximize productivity with IntelliJ IDEA became a clear, focused guide for developers eager to master this powerful IDE. You’ll learn how to navigate features like code editing, debugging, version control, and cloud integration, with concrete examples tailored for Java, web, and Android development. For instance, the chapters on debugging break down complex workflows into manageable steps, enabling you to identify issues faster. This book suits both newcomers wanting a structured introduction and seasoned programmers aiming to deepen their toolset knowledge without fluff.

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Best for advancing IDE mastery
Kindle version available
Unlock the power of IntelliJ IDEA with Andrey Cheptsov’s detailed guide that captures over two decades of software development experience. This book offers a structured path from beginner to advanced levels, emphasizing practical examples and real project applications. It’s designed to keep you engaged with exercises and case studies while equipping you with the skills to excel within this widely used integrated development environment. Whether you’re a student or developer aiming to boost your productivity and career prospects, this guide helps you navigate IntelliJ IDEA’s complexities and make the most of its features.
2023·226 pages·IntelliJ IDEA, Software Development, Integrated Development Environment, Debugging, Project Setup

When Andrey Cheptsov wrote this guide, he aimed to craft more than just a manual; he wanted a learning experience that pulls you into the depths of IntelliJ IDEA’s capabilities. You’ll gain hands-on skills from setting up projects to debugging and collaborating on open source, all woven through real-world case studies that keep the technical material engaging rather than dry. The book’s stepwise approach bridges beginner to advanced users, making it useful whether you’re just starting or looking to deepen your expertise in this powerful IDE. Its focus on practical application means you won’t just learn features—you’ll understand how to integrate IntelliJ IDEA seamlessly into your daily development workflow.

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Conclusion

The collection of these seven widely adopted IntelliJ IDEA books reflects clear themes: practical frameworks refined by experienced developers, validation through expert endorsement, and accessibility for a range of skill levels. If you prefer proven methods grounded in real-world development, start with titles like "IntelliJ IDEA in Action" or "Intellij Idea Essentials." For validated approaches tailored to beginners, "Beginning IntelliJ IDEA" and "Getting Started With Intellij Idea" are solid choices.

Combining books such as "Learn IntelliJ IDEA" and "Mastering IntelliJ IDEA" offers a pathway from foundational knowledge to advanced mastery. Alternatively, you can create a personalized IntelliJ IDEA book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed in mastering IntelliJ IDEA efficiently and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

If you're new to IntelliJ IDEA, "Getting Started With Intellij Idea" offers a gentle introduction. For Java developers looking to deepen skills, "IntelliJ IDEA in Action" provides comprehensive coverage. It depends on your experience and goals.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to IntelliJ IDEA?

Not at all. Books like "Beginning IntelliJ IDEA" and "Getting Started With Intellij Idea" are designed for newcomers, gradually building your confidence without overwhelming you.

What's the best order to read these books?

Start with beginner-focused guides like "Getting Started With Intellij Idea," then move to practical and advanced titles such as "Intellij Idea Essentials" and "Mastering IntelliJ IDEA" as your skills grow.

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

You can choose based on your needs. For broad mastery, combining a beginner and an advanced book works well. But starting with one book tailored to your skill level is perfectly fine.

Are any of these books outdated given how fast IntelliJ IDEA changes?

While some titles cover earlier versions, many core workflows and principles remain relevant. Recent books like "Learn IntelliJ IDEA" reflect newer features and trends.

Can I get personalized IntelliJ IDEA guidance instead of reading multiple books?

Yes! While these expert books offer valuable insights, personalized IntelliJ IDEA books combine proven methods with your unique goals and experience. Learn more here.

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