8 Visual Basic Books That Accelerate Your Coding Skills
Discover 8 Visual Basic Books authored by leading experts like Anne Boehm and Michael Halvorson, offering practical and authoritative guidance.
What if I told you that mastering Visual Basic today still hinges on the right blend of solid fundamentals and practical application? Despite the rise of newer programming languages, Visual Basic remains a vital tool for Windows desktop, web, and database applications. Its accessibility makes it a favorite among developers keen on rapid development and clear code.
Authors like Anne Boehm and Michael Halvorson bring decades of programming and writing experience to their books, making these resources trusted companions for anyone serious about learning or deepening their Visual Basic skills. Their works strike a fine balance between theory and hands-on instruction, reflecting real-world programming challenges.
While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks and structured learning paths, you might find even greater value by creating a personalized Visual Basic book tailored to your background, skill level, and goals. This approach complements these foundational texts by focusing on what matters most to you. Consider creating a personalized Visual Basic book to build on these insights with content customized for your journey.
by Anne Boehm··You?
by Anne Boehm··You?
Drawing from over four decades of technical writing, Anne Boehm crafted this edition to accelerate your mastery of Visual Basic 2015 within the Visual Studio 2015 environment. You'll learn to develop Windows Forms applications using .NET Framework 4.6 classes, with the book carefully organizing complex programming concepts into approachable lessons. Chapters guide you through practical coding techniques, UI design, and event-driven programming, making it suitable for those aiming to build robust desktop applications. This book suits you if you want a thorough grounding in Visual Basic with hands-on examples, though if you're looking for web or mobile development, other resources might be more fitting.
by Michael Halvorson··You?
by Michael Halvorson··You?
Michael Halvorson's decades of experience with Visual Basic, including nine years at Microsoft as a writer and localization manager, shines through in this detailed guide. You learn to navigate the Visual Studio 2010 IDE, master core programming concepts like inheritance and data management, and build polished user interfaces and web features. The book provides clear examples on debugging, using ADO.NET, and leveraging new tools like Query Builder, making it practical for developers aiming to create professional Windows and web applications. While it's thorough enough for intermediate users, even newcomers can follow along with its stepwise approach to build solid programming skills.
by TailoredRead AI·
This tailored book explores the fundamentals of Visual Basic programming, carefully aligned with your background and learning goals. It covers core concepts such as syntax, control structures, object-oriented programming, and event-driven design, providing a clear pathway through topics that matter most to you. By focusing on your specific interests and experience level, the book reveals practical examples and explanations that deepen your understanding of Visual Basic's capabilities. Designed to match your unique learning pace, this personalized guide bridges foundational theories with hands-on coding practices. It examines essential programming elements while offering a custom approach to mastering Visual Basic’s versatile environment, helping you build confidence and skill in writing effective, maintainable code.
by Mike McGrath··You?
by Mike McGrath··You?
Mike McGrath's extensive experience as a software developer contracting worldwide clearly informs this guide, making Visual Basic approachable for newcomers. The book offers a carefully structured progression through Visual Basic 2019, with code samples and screenshots that bring each concept to life, particularly useful in chapters focusing on creating interactive Windows applications. If you want to understand Visual Basic from the ground up without prior programming knowledge, this book delivers a solid foundation. However, if you're an advanced programmer looking for deep dives into complex architecture or optimization, this might not be your primary resource.
by James Foxall··You?
by James Foxall··You?
James Foxall's extensive experience as CEO of Tigerpaw Software shapes this practical guide to Visual Basic 2015, aimed at those new to programming or transitioning languages. You’ll learn to develop fully functional Windows applications through 24 digestible one-hour lessons, covering essential topics like event handling, object-oriented programming, database interaction, and user interface design. The book’s structured approach includes tips and cautions that help you avoid common pitfalls, such as the startup form renaming bug, making it a reliable reference as you build projects. If you want a clear path to mastering Visual Basic with a focus on real application development, this book fits well, though experienced developers may find it less challenging.
by John Connell··You?
by John Connell··You?
Drawing from his extensive experience as a VB developer at a major Chicago bank, John Connell crafted this book to guide you through the essentials of database programming with Visual Basic 6. You’ll learn everything from database design principles and SQL fundamentals to working with DAO and mastering the newer ADO technology, all presented through practical, ready-to-use examples. The book is tailored for those aiming to build robust database front ends, whether you’re new to programming or have some experience. While it moves quickly, the lucid tutorial format ensures you grasp core concepts applicable to both new applications and legacy systems.
by TailoredRead AI·
This tailored Visual Basic book explores a focused, step-by-step pathway designed to accelerate your project completion within 30 days. It examines practical actions crafted to match your programming background and desired learning pace, helping you navigate the core aspects of Visual Basic development with clarity and purpose. By addressing your specific goals, this personalized guide delves into essential coding techniques, debugging practices, user interface design, and application deployment, all aligned to your experience level. It reveals the nuances of Visual Basic that matter most to you, offering a tailored approach that bridges foundational concepts with real-world application, ensuring your learning journey is efficient and engaging.
by Corinne Hoisington··You?
by Corinne Hoisington··You?
What makes this book different is Corinne Hoisington's extensive background as a professor and recognized Microsoft MVP, which anchors the material in real classroom experience and industry relevance. You learn how to build Windows, web, and database applications using Microsoft Visual Basic 2017 through a methodical, visual approach that balances theory with hands-on programming assignments. The content covers core programming concepts, Windows interface design, and database integration, providing practical skills to develop functional applications. If you’re aiming to deepen your programming expertise or prepare for a career in app development, this book offers a solid foundation without overwhelming you with jargon or unnecessary complexity.
by Philip Conrod, Lou Tylee··You?
by Philip Conrod, Lou Tylee··You?
After analyzing decades of programming education, Philip Conrod developed this tutorial to guide you through Visual Basic 2019 with clarity and depth. You’ll learn to harness object-oriented programming, master the Visual Basic IDE, and build diverse Windows applications including games, calculators, and database tools. The book offers practical exposure to advanced topics like web access and multimedia, making it ideal if you’ve already got some Windows and programming background. Whether you’re a college student or prepping for advanced placement, this text lays out detailed examples and exercises to solidify your skills without overwhelming you.
by Bryan Newsome··You?
by Bryan Newsome··You?
Unlike most beginner programming books that overwhelm you with jargon, Bryan Newsome’s approach in this book focuses on guiding you through Visual Basic 2015 starting from zero experience. Drawing from his extensive background as a Microsoft Certified Application Developer and long history with Visual Basic, Newsome patiently unpacks foundational skills like flow control, data structures, and object-oriented programming. You’ll also get hands-on with practical topics such as databases, graphics, and web programming using ASP.NET and SQL Server. This book suits anyone eager to build solid programming basics and gradually master Visual Basic’s application in Windows and web contexts, without prior coding knowledge required.
Get Your Personal Visual Basic Guide Fast ✨
Stop sifting through generic books. Get a Visual Basic plan tailored to your skills and goals in 10 minutes.
Trusted by thousands of Visual Basic developers worldwide
Conclusion
Across these eight titles, three clear themes emerge: accessibility for beginners, practical application through project-based learning, and comprehensive coverage of both desktop and database programming. If you're just starting out, "Visual Basic in easy steps" and "Beginning Visual Basic 2015" offer clear introductions without overwhelming jargon.
For those aiming to build real-world applications quickly, "Visual Basic 2015 in 24 Hours" pairs well with "Microsoft Visual Basic 2010 Step by Step" for a structured yet fast-paced approach. Meanwhile, developers interested in database integration will find "Beginning Visual Basic 6 Database Programming" and "Microsoft Visual Basic 2017 for Windows, Web, and Database Applications" particularly insightful.
Alternatively, you can create a personalized Visual Basic book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. These books can help you accelerate your learning journey and build practical skills that stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?
Start with "Visual Basic in easy steps" if you're new. It offers clear, approachable lessons that build your foundation without jargon.
Are these books too advanced for someone new to Visual Basic?
No, several titles like "Beginning Visual Basic 2015" and "Visual Basic 2015 in 24 Hours" are designed for beginners with step-by-step guidance.
What's the best order to read these books?
Begin with beginner-friendly guides, then progress to specialized books like "Murach's Visual Basic 2015" for Windows Forms and "Beginning Visual Basic 6 Database Programming" for databases.
Do these books assume I already have experience in Visual Basic?
Some do, like "Learn Visual Basic 2019 Edition," but others such as "Microsoft Visual Basic 2010 Step by Step" accommodate complete beginners with detailed instructions.
Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?
"Visual Basic 2015 in 24 Hours, Sams Teach Yourself" offers practical, project-based lessons ideal for applying skills quickly.
How can I tailor these expert book insights to my specific needs?
Personalized Visual Basic books complement these expert works by focusing on your background and goals. They help apply general principles directly to your projects. Explore creating your own tailored Visual Basic book for targeted learning.
📚 Love this book list?
Help fellow book lovers discover great books, share this curated list with others!
Related Articles You May Like
Explore more curated book recommendations