8 Best-Selling Microsoft Project Books Millions Trust

Discover Microsoft Project books by top authors including Bonnie Biafore, Gwen Lowery, and Elaine Marmel — best-selling guides for mastering project management

Updated on June 25, 2025
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There's something special about books that both experts and millions of readers have embraced over years. Microsoft Project remains a cornerstone tool for effective project management, and these 8 best-selling books capture its evolving power from early versions through 2010. Whether you’re scheduling tasks, managing resources, or tracking budgets, mastering Microsoft Project can transform how you deliver results.

These books stand out not just for their sales but for their authoritative guidance. Authors like Bonnie Biafore, Gwen Lowery, and Elaine Marmel wrote with deep expertise, turning complex software features into clear, actionable methods. Their works have shaped how professionals approach project planning, budgeting, and execution using Microsoft Project.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific Microsoft Project needs might consider creating a personalized Microsoft Project book that combines these validated approaches with your unique background and goals.

Best for mastering Project 2007 features
Bonnie Biafore is a seasoned financial-software writer and project management author who leverages her background in technology and business to guide readers through the complexities of Microsoft Project 2007. Her expertise shines through in this detailed manual, designed to help you gain confidence and control over your projects, whether you’re just starting or refining your management skills.
2007·702 pages·Microsoft Project, Project Management, Scheduling, Budgeting, Resource Allocation

When Bonnie Biafore set out to write this guide, she drew on her extensive experience as a financial-software writer and project management expert to demystify Microsoft Project 2007. You’ll learn how to define projects, set budgets, and schedule tasks while managing resources efficiently—all presented in a way that untangles the software’s complexity. The book walks you through essential project management principles alongside detailed instructions on using Project’s features like scenario testing and progress tracking. If you’re navigating the intricacies of Microsoft Project 2007, this manual offers a thorough, no-frills roadmap to help you gain control over your projects.

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Best for integrating best practices
Bonnie Biafore’s Successful Project Management stands out for its clear focus on applying best practices through Microsoft Project, a tool widely used across industries. This book has earned a strong reputation among practitioners for combining professional insights with actionable methods, helping you break down projects into manageable tasks and track progress with accuracy. Designed for those who want to go beyond theory, it offers a detailed roadmap to mastering project management fundamentals while leveraging Microsoft Project’s features. Whether you’re refining your approach or learning software integration, this guide addresses the real challenges faced by project managers today.
2011·464 pages·Microsoft Project, Project Management, Scheduling, Risk Management, Budgeting

When Bonnie Biafore developed this guide, she drew on years of project management experience and a clear need to bridge theory with practical Microsoft Project application. You’ll learn how to break complex projects into manageable parts, build accurate schedules, and communicate effectively with stakeholders. The book dives into budgeting, risk management, and tracking progress, using real examples from diverse industries that ground these techniques in reality. If you’re aiming to sharpen your project management skills while mastering Microsoft Project’s tools, this book offers a structured path without unnecessary jargon.

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Best for custom project plans
This custom AI book on Microsoft Project is created based on your current experience and specific goals in project management. You share which aspects of Microsoft Project you want to focus on—whether it's scheduling, budgeting, or risk tracking—and the book is then written to address exactly what you need. This personalized approach means you learn techniques and tips that match your background and challenges, helping you get better results more efficiently. It's like having a guide tailored just for you, crafted by AI from proven knowledge and millions of readers' insights.
2025·50-300 pages·Microsoft Project, Project Management, Task Scheduling, Resource Management, Budget Tracking

This tailored book explores proven Microsoft Project techniques designed to improve your project outcomes by focusing on your unique background and goals. It covers essential features such as task scheduling, resource management, and budget tracking while diving into advanced applications like risk assessment and progress analysis. By tailoring content specifically to your interests, this book reveals how to navigate Microsoft Project’s powerful tools in ways that directly enhance your project delivery. The personalized approach ensures that you engage deeply with concepts that matter most to you, making the learning experience both efficient and relevant. You gain a custom guide that matches your skill level and project challenges for better results.

Tailored Guide
Scheduling Optimization
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for advanced project managers
Elaine Marmel is a renowned author with expertise in Microsoft Project and other software applications. Her deep knowledge of project management software shines throughout this extensive guide, which was written to help users confidently master Microsoft Project 2010. With a proven track record in authoring technical books, Marmel brings clarity and structure to complex project management tasks, making this a valuable reference for professionals aiming to streamline their workflows and improve project outcomes.
Project 2010 Bible book cover

by Elaine Marmel··You?

2010·864 pages·Microsoft Project, Project Management, Enterprise Software, Task Scheduling, Resource Allocation

Drawing from her extensive experience with Microsoft Project and software applications, Elaine Marmel crafts this detailed guide to Microsoft Project 2010 aimed at helping you navigate both basic and advanced project management tasks. You’ll explore everything from setting up new projects and tracking progress to customizing your workflow with macros and resolving scheduling conflicts. Chapters on Project Server integration and reporting processes equip you to handle complex enterprise scenarios. This book suits anyone looking to deepen their practical skills in managing projects efficiently using Microsoft Project’s latest tools and features.

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Best for practical 2010 application
Microsoft Project 2010: The Missing Manual offers a thorough exploration of the software’s capabilities, focusing on practical guidance to prepare, plan, and execute projects successfully. This book stands out by not just explaining features but showing you how to apply them to real-world projects, whether large or small. It guides you through assembling teams, scheduling tasks, and managing budgets, all while customizing Microsoft Project to fit your needs. Perfect for project managers seeking to deepen their skills, it addresses common challenges and helps you achieve better control and results using the software.
2010·766 pages·Microsoft Project, Project Management, Scheduling, Budgeting, Team Coordination

When Bonnie Biafore wrote this guide, she recognized that mastering Microsoft Project goes beyond knowing its features; it requires understanding how to prepare your project and apply the right tools effectively. You’ll learn how to build realistic schedules, manage budgets, and track progress with confidence, using detailed instructions for both Project Standard and Professional versions. For example, the book carefully explains how to customize views and transfer data between programs, making it easier to align Project with your workflow. If you’re managing projects of any size and want to move from basic use to true command of the software, this book offers the practical insights needed to get there.

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Best for detailed legacy version guidance
Microsoft Project 98 Bible offers an in-depth exploration of one of the most sophisticated versions of Microsoft Project software. Its detailed coverage ranges from foundational project scheduling and budgeting to specialized features like inserting drawings and handling complex cost scenarios. The book’s structured approach equips you to use tools such as the GanttChartWizard and PERT Chart EXPERT, helping both seasoned project managers and casual planners enhance their workflow. By focusing on practical application within Microsoft Project 98, it stands as a trusted guide for those aiming to improve project management efficiency and precision.
Microsoft Project 98 Bible book cover

by Nancy Stevenson, Elaine Marmel·You?

1997·560 pages·Microsoft Project, Project Management, Scheduling, Budgeting, Tracking

Nancy Stevenson and Elaine Marmel bring their extensive experience in project management and technical writing to this detailed guide focused on Microsoft Project 98. You’ll learn how to manage every aspect of your project schedules, from setting task timings to resolving complex scheduling conflicts, with practical instructions on using features like GanttChartWizard and custom graphics. The book also covers budgeting and cost tracking, making it useful whether you’re managing a simple plan or a sophisticated project requiring advanced tools such as PERT Chart EXPERT included on the companion CD-ROM. If you want a thorough, hands-on approach to mastering Microsoft Project 98’s capabilities, this book gives you the skills to handle both basics and advanced scenarios.

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Best for rapid project launch
This AI-created book on project execution is designed around your experience with Microsoft Project and your specific goals. You share your current knowledge, the aspects of project setup you want to focus on, and your 30-day launch objectives. The result is a tailored guide that covers exactly what you need to confidently initiate and manage your projects using Microsoft Project.
2025·50-300 pages·Microsoft Project, Project Setup, Scheduling, Resource Allocation, Task Tracking

This tailored book explores step-by-step actions to kickstart your projects effectively using Microsoft Project. It covers essential setup techniques, scheduling, resource allocation, and task tracking, all tailored to match your background and specific goals. By focusing on your interests, it reveals how to navigate Microsoft Project’s features with clarity and confidence, enabling you to launch projects swiftly within 30 days. Combining proven knowledge validated by millions with a personalized approach, this guide examines practical execution steps and common challenges. It provides a focused learning experience that matches your skill level, ensuring you gain relevant insights to manage timelines and resources efficiently from day one.

AI-Tailored
Execution Techniques
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for beginners learning Project 2000
Microsoft Project 2000 For Dummies stands out by making project management accessible through Microsoft Project 2000, targeting those who find software and project techniques intimidating. It’s designed to help you feel confident navigating the program while teaching core project management concepts. Packed with examples and a companion CD-ROM, it offers a hands-on approach that many users have found helpful for building skills from scratch. This book benefits anyone ready to move beyond informal project handling and actually leverage Microsoft Project’s tools to organize, budget, and track their work more effectively.
2000·384 pages·Microsoft Project, Project Management, Software, Gantt Charts, Resource Management

What started as a simple need to demystify project management software became Martin Doucette's guide to Microsoft Project 2000. He writes from the perspective of someone who understands that many users come without a technical or managerial background, making this book approachable for beginners. You’ll learn how to navigate the Microsoft Project interface, create Gantt charts, manage resources, and track budgets through practical examples and exercises. The inclusion of a CD-ROM with sample project files provides hands-on practice that helps cement these concepts. If you want to grasp both project management basics and the specific functionalities of Microsoft Project 2000, this book will meet your needs without overwhelming you.

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Best for stepwise learning Project 2000
This guide by Carl Chatfield and Timothy Johnson stands out for its straightforward approach to mastering Microsoft Project 2000, blending detailed lessons with practice files and multimedia demos. Its proven appeal is evident in how it supports both complete course completion and targeted skill development, making it valuable for professionals navigating project management with this software. The book addresses real needs—forecasting resources, analyzing progress, and publishing reports—offering a structured path to proficiency recognized by Microsoft Press.
Microsoft® Project 2000 Step by Step (EU-Step by Step) book cover

by Carl Chatfield, Timothy Johnson·You?

2000·448 pages·Microsoft Project, Project Management, Resource Forecasting, Data Analysis, Progress Tracking

Drawing from their extensive experience with Microsoft Project, Carl Chatfield and Timothy Johnson crafted this guide to make mastering Project 2000 approachable and practical. You'll learn to forecast resource needs, analyze project data through graphs and tables, and track progress effectively, all with clear step-by-step instructions and visual aids. The book suits professionals aiming to improve project planning skills or prepare for Microsoft Office Specialist certification. Notably, the included practice files and multimedia demos support hands-on learning, making it a solid choice if you want to build confidence managing projects with this software.

Published by Microsoft Press
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Best for mastering early Project versions
What makes this book a standout in the Microsoft Project category is its timing and thoroughness. Released alongside Microsoft Project 4.0, Gwen Lowery’s guide walks you through the software’s latest features and practical applications, making it a valuable companion for users on both Windows and Macintosh platforms. The book’s methodical approach starts with foundational project management concepts before moving into detailed, stepwise instruction on using the software’s tools, which has earned it a loyal following among project professionals seeking clarity and reliability. If you need a resource that bridges theory and hands-on practice for managing projects with Microsoft Project, this edition offers a focused, user-friendly path to mastering the software.
1994·416 pages·Microsoft Project, Project Planning and Management, Project Planning, Project Management, Resource Allocation

Gwen Lowery’s experience in project management clearly informs this guide, aimed at helping users navigate Microsoft Project 4.0 with confidence. She breaks down the software’s capabilities starting from basic project concepts to detailed feature applications, making it accessible for those new to project scheduling as well as seasoned professionals updating their skills. You’ll find detailed walkthroughs of resource allocation, timeline adjustments, and task dependencies, especially useful in chapters focused on practical implementation. If you’re looking to improve your proficiency in managing projects through Microsoft’s tools, this book offers a straightforward, no-frills approach that prioritizes usability over jargon.

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Proven Microsoft Project Methods, Personalized

Get popular project management strategies tailored to your unique needs and goals.

Customized learning paths
Focused skill building
Efficient project mastery

Trusted by thousands of Microsoft Project enthusiasts worldwide

Project Mastery Blueprint
30-Day Project Kickstart
Strategic Project Foundations
Success Formula Secrets

Conclusion

These eight books offer a blend of proven frameworks and widespread validation across Microsoft Project versions and skill levels. If you prefer tried-and-true methods, start with Bonnie Biafore’s "Microsoft Project 2007" or "Successful Project Management" for comprehensive coverage. For practical application in more recent versions, Elaine Marmel’s "Project 2010 Bible" and Biafore’s "Microsoft Project 2010" provide detailed guidance.

Beginners may find "Microsoft Project 2000 For Dummies" and "Microsoft® Project 2000 Step by Step" approachable starting points, while those working with legacy software can rely on "Microsoft Project 98 Bible" and Gwen Lowery’s early guide. Combining books like these can deepen your understanding and confidence.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Microsoft Project book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed in managing projects more effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

If you’re new to Microsoft Project, starting with "Microsoft Project 2000 For Dummies" offers a gentle introduction. For more comprehensive coverage, Bonnie Biafore’s "Microsoft Project 2007" is a solid next step. These books build foundational skills and gradually introduce advanced features.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Microsoft Project?

Not at all. Several books like "Microsoft Project 2000 For Dummies" and "Microsoft® Project 2000 Step by Step" are designed specifically for beginners, offering clear, stepwise instructions that build your confidence managing projects.

What’s the best order to read these Microsoft Project books?

Begin with beginner-friendly titles such as "Microsoft Project 2000 For Dummies," then move to version-specific guides like "Microsoft Project 2007." For advanced project management techniques, explore "Project 2010 Bible" and "Successful Project Management." This progression builds skills logically.

Should I start with the newest book or a classic Microsoft Project guide?

It depends on your software version and goals. If you use newer Project versions, start with recent books like "Microsoft Project 2010." For legacy versions, classics like "Microsoft Project 98 Bible" provide relevant insights. Both have valuable, time-tested advice.

Do these books assume prior experience with Microsoft Project?

Some do, but many cater to all levels. For example, "Microsoft Project 2000 For Dummies" welcomes beginners, while "Project 2010 Bible" suits users seeking deeper mastery. Check each book’s focus to match your background and learning pace.

Can I get tailored Microsoft Project guidance instead of reading multiple books?

Yes! While these expert books deliver proven strategies, personalized Microsoft Project books combine popular methods with your specific needs. You can create your customized guide here to focus on the features and skills you value most.

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