7 Best-Selling Visual Basic Books Millions Love

Explore authoritative Visual Basic books from leading experts, including Byron S. Gottfried and PhD Steven Roman, that have earned best-selling status and widespread reader acclaim.

Updated on June 26, 2025
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There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, and Visual Basic has inspired many such enduring works. As a programming language that has shaped software development for decades, Visual Basic continues to be relevant for learners and professionals seeking reliable, time-tested resources. Whether you're maintaining legacy systems or diving into VBA automation, these books offer proven guidance that has stood the test of time.

The authors behind these books bring a wealth of expertise and practical insight. Byron S. Gottfried's methodical exercises and PhD Steven Roman's concise syntax guide reflect their deep understanding of programming principles and teaching excellence. Each book addresses different facets of Visual Basic, from fundamentals to advanced problem-solving, ensuring a comprehensive learning pathway.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific Visual Basic needs might consider creating a personalized Visual Basic book that combines these validated approaches. This way, you get a focused guide that fits your background and goals, making your learning journey more efficient and effective.

Best for hands-on practice learners
Schaum's Outline of Visual Basic stands apart in the Visual Basic world by concentrating on practical learning through extensive practice problems and clear explanations. Its proven track record with over 40 million students trusting Schaum's Outlines reflects its widespread recognition and adoption. This book breaks down Visual Basic topics into manageable sections, making complex programming concepts accessible to students and self-learners alike. Whether you’re catching up on missed lectures or aiming to sharpen your skills, it offers a methodical approach that complements classroom instruction and accelerates your grasp of Visual Basic fundamentals.
2001·325 pages·Visual Basic, Programming, Software Development, Coding Exercises, Problem Solving

After years of teaching and academic work, Byron S. Gottfried developed this outline to streamline learning Visual Basic, focusing on clarity and practical exercises. You’ll find concise topic-by-topic explanations paired with hundreds of solved problems and practice exercises that sharpen your coding skills effectively. For anyone looking to reinforce classroom lessons or prepare for exams, the book offers a straightforward approach that prioritizes application over theory. Chapters cover key Visual Basic concepts, making this a solid resource if you want to deepen your programming foundation without wading through unnecessary details. It's especially useful if you prefer learning by doing rather than reading lengthy texts.

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Best for quick syntax lookup
Steven Roman, PhD, is an accomplished author and editor for O'Reilly Media, recognized for his expertise in programming languages. His extensive background and multiple influential publications on Visual Basic and VBScript underpin this pocket reference, designed to help you grasp the essentials of VB.NET syntax efficiently. Roman’s academic rigor and practical experience converge here to deliver a resource tailored for both newcomers and seasoned developers aiming for precision in their code.
2002·150 pages·Visual Basic, VB.NET, Programming, Syntax, Language Elements

Steven Roman, PhD, brings his extensive knowledge of programming languages to this compact guide that zeroes in on the syntax and core elements of Visual Basic .NET. This book offers a straightforward breakdown of language components, including those implemented by the Visual Basic compiler and the Microsoft.VisualBasic namespace, making it a reliable quick reference. You’ll find it especially useful for clarifying syntax details or functions while coding, without unnecessary filler. Whether you’re just starting with VB.NET or need a handy reference during complex projects, this pocket guide helps streamline your workflow by focusing on clarity and precision.

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Best for personal coding plans
This AI-created book on Visual Basic is tailored to your skill level and specific coding interests. It focuses on the advanced techniques and practical solutions you want to explore, combining widely valued knowledge with your unique goals. By matching the content to your background, this custom book helps you develop targeted skills and tackle real projects more efficiently, making learning both relevant and engaging.
2025·50-300 pages·Visual Basic, Advanced Coding, Debugging Techniques, Project Integration, Code Optimization

This personalized book delves into advanced coding strategies and practical Visual Basic solutions crafted to match your experience and goals. It explores core concepts and complex techniques, focusing on real-world applications to enhance your development skills. Tailored specifically to your interests, it covers essential elements such as debugging, optimization, and integration with other technologies, enabling you to refine your coding practices with confidence. The book examines common challenges developers face and reveals effective approaches that align with your unique background. By concentrating on your specific needs, it offers a focused learning experience that balances foundational knowledge with actionable insights, making it an invaluable resource for mastering Visual Basic in professional projects.

AI-Tailored
Code Optimization
1,000+ Happy Readers
Reed Jacobson's Microsoft Excel Visual Basic for Applications offers a focused and accessible path into Excel automation through VBA. This book has earned a large following among Excel users by demystifying how to use VBA to speed up daily tasks like data formatting and retrieval. Its step-by-step approach helps users, especially on Macintosh Excel, build practical programming skills that translate into real time savings. By tackling common spreadsheet challenges with automation, this guide meets the needs of professionals seeking to increase efficiency and reduce repetitive work within Excel.
1994·350 pages·Visual Basic, Excel Automation, Data Formatting, Task Automation, Programming Basics

What happens when practical Excel mastery meets programming? Reed Jacobson's guide to Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) in Excel is designed to help you harness automation capabilities to streamline your daily workflow. This book walks you through using VBA to automatically format data, retrieve information, and perform repetitive tasks, emphasizing hands-on learning for Macintosh Excel users. You gain concrete skills to save time and reduce manual effort, especially valuable if you frequently manipulate complex spreadsheets. While focused on Excel version 5 for Windows and Macintosh, the foundational concepts remain insightful for anyone looking to deepen their VBA programming knowledge within Excel.

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Best for Visual Basic beginners
Dr. Liew Voon Kiong is a sought-after blockchain architect and technical adviser known for his deep programming knowledge and clear teaching style. His experience creating blockchain models and smart contracts informs his practical approach to software development, which he channels into this Visual Basic 6 tutorial. This book reflects his commitment to making programming accessible, especially for beginners venturing into coding for the first time.
2006·435 pages·Visual Basic, VB6, Programming, Software Development, Event Driven Programming

What started as a straightforward tutorial evolved into a clear, accessible guide for beginners eager to grasp Visual Basic 6. Dr. Liew Voon Kiong, known for his blockchain expertise, brings a methodical approach to teaching programming fundamentals, emphasizing direct language and practical examples drawn from his popular online tutorial. You’ll learn essential Visual Basic concepts, from basic syntax to event-driven programming, in manageable chunks that build your confidence. This book suits anyone new to programming or those looking to refresh their foundational skills without wading through jargon or overly complex material.

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Best for practical VB 2005 solutions
Tim Patrick is a software architect and developer with over 20 years of experience, recognized as a Microsoft Certified Solution Developer. His extensive background and multiple authored technical books position him uniquely to address the needs of Visual Basic developers. Drawing on this expertise, he crafted this book to provide clear, practical solutions for the challenges programmers face in Visual Basic 2005, making it a valuable tool for those looking to deepen their coding skills and navigate the evolution from earlier VB versions.
2006·739 pages·VB.NET, Visual Basic, Programming, Software Development, Code Samples

What started as Tim Patrick's deep involvement in software architecture evolved into a resource designed to tackle the everyday challenges faced by Visual Basic 2005 developers. This book presents over 300 carefully crafted solutions, complete with documented code samples, that guide you through tasks ranging from basic data manipulation to advanced multimedia projects. You'll gain clear insights into the underlying technologies, alternatives, and potential trade-offs, making it equally useful whether you're transitioning from VB6 or sharpening your VB.NET skills. If you want a practical, example-driven approach to mastering Visual Basic 2005, this book fits the bill without unnecessary fluff.

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Best for rapid skill-building
This AI-created book on Visual Basic is tailored to your skill level and learning goals, offering daily lessons that fit your background and interests. By focusing on the specific topics you want to master, it helps you progress efficiently without overwhelming you with unnecessary details. This personalized approach means you get a learning experience matched exactly to your needs, making it easier and more enjoyable to build your Visual Basic skills.
2025·50-300 pages·Visual Basic, Programming Basics, Syntax Mastery, Code Exercises, Application Development

This personalized book explores Visual Basic through a tailored sequence of step-by-step tutorials designed for rapid skill acquisition. It covers core concepts and practical coding exercises, focusing on your interests and current knowledge to create an effective learning path. The book examines essential programming constructs, syntax, and application development while providing clear explanations that match your background and goals. By concentrating on daily lessons customized for you, this tailored guide reveals ways to build confidence in coding, develop problem-solving abilities, and accelerate your progress with Visual Basic. It combines proven knowledge with your specific learning objectives for an engaging and efficient experience.

Tailored Content
Skill Acceleration
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for algorithm implementation
Visual Basic Algorithms by Rod Stephens offers a unique sourcebook packed with ready-to-run code that brings algorithmic power directly to Visual Basic programmers. This book’s approach combines clear explanations with practical implementations, supporting you in building sophisticated applications beyond everyday programming. It addresses a crucial need for developers looking to expand their toolkit with essential algorithms in sorting, searching, memory allocation, and more. If you want to elevate your Visual Basic projects with proven algorithm strategies, this book is a solid companion.
1996·352 pages·Visual Basic, Programming, Software Development, Algorithms, Sorting

Rod Stephens crafted this book to fill a clear gap for Visual Basic developers seeking to strengthen their programming toolkit with algorithmic knowledge. You’ll dive into how algorithms function, learn to evaluate their efficiency, and see dozens implemented in Visual Basic, from sorting and searching to networking and graphics. For instance, chapters on memory allocation and queue simulation offer practical insights with ready-to-run code you can adapt. This book suits you if you’re aiming to handle more complex projects or simply want your Visual Basic applications to perform smarter and faster.

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Best for component-based project managers
Visual Basic: A Programmer's Guide to Managing Component Based Development by Eran Marom offers a distinctive approach to managing software projects by focusing on component-based development within the Visual Basic environment. This book is recognized for addressing not only the technical aspects of integrating OLE and DLLs but also the organizational challenges of building and leading effective development teams. It caters to professionals seeking to optimize both their project management techniques and technical implementation, aiming to unlock the full potential of Visual Basic for their organizations. The practical frameworks and management strategies presented here make it a valuable resource for anyone involved in Visual Basic development looking to improve project outcomes and team performance.
1997·289 pages·Visual Basic, Software Development, Component Management, OLE Integration, DLL Implementation

What started as a need to bridge technical and managerial gaps in Visual Basic projects became a thorough guide by Eran Marom on mastering component-based development. You’ll uncover how early decisions in implementing OLE and DLLs shape your project's outcome and how to maintain quality control in complex component environments. Beyond code, this book delves into assembling and leading a capable Visual Basic team, addressing motivation and organization challenges head-on. Whether you’re steering a development group or coding components yourself, it offers actionable insights to improve both your technical execution and team dynamics.

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Conclusion

Across these seven best-selling Visual Basic books, clear themes emerge: hands-on practice, precise syntax understanding, practical automation, and effective project management. If you prefer proven methods that build foundational skills, start with Schaum's Outline of Visual Basic and Visual Basic ® 6 Made Easy. For validated, example-driven approaches, combining Visual Basic 2005 Cookbook and Visual Basic Algorithms is a smart move.

For those managing complex development or integrating components, Visual Basic: A Programmer's Guide to Managing Component Based Development offers actionable insights. Alternatively, you can create a personalized Visual Basic book to combine proven methods with your unique needs.

These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed, making them reliable companions as you deepen your Visual Basic proficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Start with 'Visual Basic ® 6 Made Easy' if you're new to programming, as it offers a clear, beginner-friendly introduction. If you prefer hands-on practice, 'Schaum's Outline of Visual Basic' is great for building coding skills through exercises.

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

Not at all. Several books, like 'Visual Basic ® 6 Made Easy' and 'Schaum's Outline of Visual Basic,' are designed specifically for beginners, offering step-by-step tutorials and practical exercises tailored for newcomers.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with beginner-focused books such as 'Visual Basic ® 6 Made Easy,' then explore 'VB.NET Language Pocket Reference' for syntax details. Follow up with practical guides like 'Visual Basic 2005 Cookbook' and dive into specialized topics with 'Visual Basic Algorithms' and component management.

Should I start with the newest book or a classic?

Both have value. Newer books like 'Visual Basic 2005 Cookbook' cover updated VB versions and solutions, while classics like 'Schaum's Outline' offer foundational knowledge. Choose based on your specific Visual Basic version and learning goals.

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

You can pick one that fits your needs. For example, if you focus on Excel automation, 'Microsoft Excel Visual Basic for Applications' is ideal. For broader programming skills, a combination of books provides more comprehensive coverage.

How can I get Visual Basic guidance tailored to my specific needs?

While these expert books offer solid foundations, personalized content can help you focus on your unique goals. You might consider creating a personalized Visual Basic book that blends proven methods with your specific interests and skill level.

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