The Chartered Accountant (CA) Foundation exam is the first milestone for any aspiring CA, serving as the entry-level test organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). Preparing for this exam requires not only dedication and discipline but also the right resources. To help you start on the right foot, I've compiled a list of the best books for the CA Foundation in English that will guide you through your studies effectively.
CA Foundation Exam Pattern
Before we dive into the best books for the CA Foundation exam, let's have a look at the syllabus to understand what subjects and topics you'll need to master.
| CA Foundation Exam Pattern 2024 | ||
| Papers | Subjects | Marks Distribution |
| Paper 1 | Accounting | (100 Marks) |
| Paper 2 | Business Laws | (100 Marks) |
| Paper 3 | Quantitative Aptitude
| (40 Marks) (20 Marks) (40 Marks) |
| Paper 4 | Business Economics
| (60 Marks) (40 Marks) |
Best Books for CA Foundation in English
Choosing the right books is crucial for success in the CA Foundation exam. The books mentioned in this list cover the entire syllabus comprehensively and are highly recommended by CA experts and toppers.
| Name of the Book | Name of the Author |
| CA Foundation Scanner Cum Compiler Volume 1: Paper 1- Accounting Paper 2- Business Laws | Manmeet Kaur S.K. Agrawal |
| CA Foundation Scanner Cum Compiler Volume 2: Paper 3 - Quantitative Aptitude: Padhuka’s Paper 4 - Business Economics | Dr S.K. Agrawal CA Manmeet Kaur |
| General Economics | |
| S.K.Agarwal | |
| Fundamentals of Accounting for CA | P.C Tulsian and Bharat Tulsian |
| Mercantile Law | M.C.Kuchhal and Vivek Kucchal |
| Elements of Mercantile Law | N.D. Kapoor |
| Quantitative Aptitude Mathematics With Short Tricks | CA Rajesh Jogani |
| Quantitative Aptitude | P.N Arora |
| Dr T.Padma and K.C.P Rao | |
| Quantitative Aptitude for CPT: Mathematics and Statistics | Tulsian P. C. and Jhujhunwala Bharat |
| CA Foundation Business Laws | Dr V.K. Jain CA Shashank S. Sharma |
| CPT Grewal’s Accountancy | M.P Gupta & B.M Aggarwal |
| S Chand Mercantile Laws for CA CPT | P P S GOGNA |
1. Fundamentals of Accounting for CA by P.C Tulsian and Bharat Tulsian
It is an essential resource for aspiring chartered accountants. The book offers a comprehensive introduction to the basics of accounting, covering fundamental concepts and practices with clarity and detail. With their structured approach, the authors guide readers through the intricacies of financial accounting, providing practical examples and exercises to reinforce learning. Ideal for beginners and intermediate learners alike, this book lays a solid foundation for further studies in accounting and finance, making it a staple for CA examination preparation.
If you want to buy a book, you can visit the link.
2. General Economics by S.K.Agarwal
It is an insightful text that provides a thorough exploration of economic principles and theories. Designed to cater to students and professionals alike, this book delves into the core concepts of microeconomics and macroeconomics, offering a clear and concise explanation of complex topics such as market dynamics, economic welfare, and national income.
S.K. Agarwal’s approach is pedagogically sound, making use of practical examples and case studies to illuminate the real-world applications of economic theories. This book is an excellent resource for anyone preparing for competitive exams or seeking a robust understanding of the fundamental aspects of economics.
If you want to buy a book, you can visit the link.
3. Mercantile Law by M.C.Kuchhal and Vivek Kucchal
It is a definitive guide for students and professionals in the fields of commerce and law. This book meticulously covers the key aspects of commercial law, including contracts, partnerships, sale of goods, and company law. The authors, M.C. Kuchhal and Vivek Kuchhal bring their extensive knowledge and practical experience to the fore, presenting the legal concepts in a manner that is both accessible and comprehensive.
The text is well-organized and includes recent case laws and examples that help clarify complex legal principles and their applications in business. Ideal for academic coursework and professional exams, this book is a valuable resource for understanding the legal landscape of business.
If you want to buy a book, you can visit the link.
4. Elements of Mercantile Law by N.D. Kapoor
It is a classic text that serves as an invaluable resource for students of commerce and law. This comprehensive guide offers detailed coverage of the entire spectrum of business law including the Indian Contract Act, Sale of Goods Act, Partnership Act, and the Companies Act. N.D. Kapoor’s straightforward and methodical approach makes the complex legal content more digestible for readers at all levels.
The book effectively illustrates legal concepts with relevant examples and case studies, enhancing the practical understanding of mercantile law. It's an essential read for anyone looking to gain a solid grounding in the legal aspects of business and commerce, especially useful for those preparing for various competitive examinations.
If you want to buy a book, you can visit the link.
5. Quantitative Aptitude Mathematics With Short Tricks by CA Rajesh Jogani
is an effective resource for those preparing for competitive exams that require strong quantitative skills. The book simplifies complex mathematical concepts through innovative short tricks and techniques that speed up problem-solving, making it especially valuable for CA exam exams and other entrance tests. CA Rajesh Jogani's approach focuses on clarity, efficiency, and practical application, ensuring that learners can quickly grasp and apply mathematical principles to a variety of problems. With a range of practice questions and detailed solutions, this book is an excellent tool for enhancing mathematical proficiency and confidence.
6. Quantitative Aptitude by P.N Arora
It's a comprehensive guide aimed at students preparing for competitive examinations. This book thoroughly covers all key areas of quantitative aptitude, providing clear explanations, methods, and numerous practice problems to enhance problem-solving skills. P.N. Arora's detailed approach helps readers develop their mathematical abilities effectively, making it a crucial resource for anyone looking to excel in exams that test quantitative skills.
If you want to buy a book, you can visit the link.
7. Quantitative Aptitude for CPT: Mathematics and Statistics by Tulsian P.C. and Jhujhunwala Bharat
It is a tailored resource designed specifically for students preparing for the Common Proficiency Test (CPT), part of the Chartered Accountancy course. This book effectively combines comprehensive coverage of mathematics and statistics with practical strategies to enhance aptitude and test-taking skills.
The authors, Tulsian P.C. and Jhujhunwala Bharat, use clear, concise explanations and a multitude of solved examples to demystify complex concepts and improve the students' computational proficiency. Additionally, it includes practice problems and previous years' examination questions, which are crucial for students aiming to perform well in the CPT.
If you want to buy a book, you can visit the link.
8. CA Foundation Business Laws by Dr V.K. Jain and CA Shashank S. Sharma
It is an essential textbook designed to meet the needs of students preparing for the CA Foundation exam. This book provides a thorough exploration of business laws relevant to the curriculum. The authors, Dr. V.K. Jain and CA Shashank S. Sharma, expertly blend legal theory with practical application, ensuring that students not only understand the laws but also how they apply them in real-world business scenarios. The book is well-structured, making it accessible for beginners while detailed enough to serve as a valuable reference for those looking to deepen their knowledge.
If you want to buy a book, you can visit the link.
9. CPT Grewal’s Accountancy by M.P Gupta & B.M Aggarwal
It is an ideal resource for students preparing for the CPT exam. The book breaks down accounting concepts into easily understandable sections, making complex topics accessible. Authors M.P Gupta and B.M Aggarwal use real-life examples to illustrate financial scenarios, helping students grasp practical applications of the theory. It's filled with exercises and problems that reinforce learning and prepare students thoroughly for their exams.
If you want to buy a book, you can visit the link.
10. S Chand Mercantile Laws for CA CPT by P P S GOGNA
It is a well-structured textbook specifically designed for students preparing for the CA CPT exams. It offers comprehensive coverage of mercantile laws including detailed explanations. P.P.S. Gogna uses straightforward language to make complex legal concepts easier to understand. The book is enriched with examples, case studies, and exercises that not only enhance understanding but also help students apply these laws in practical scenarios. This makes it an excellent resource for anyone aiming to excel in the legal section of the CA CPT.
If you want to buy a book, you can visit the link.
Conclusion
The books listed above are among the best resources available to help you cover the entire CA Foundation syllabus effectively. Each book is tailored to provide detailed explanations, practical examples, and ample practice questions that are critical for mastering the subjects and excelling in the exam.
Whether you are grappling with the fundamentals of accounting, diving deep into business laws, or sharpening your quantitative skills, these books will guide you through every step of your preparation. Invest in these trusted resources, commit to a structured study plan, and you'll be well on your way to achieving success in the CA Foundation exam.
Also Read
CA Foundation Registration 2025
CA Foundation Registration 2025 Dates
CA Foundation Exam Syllabus 2025
CA Foundation Exam Pattern 2025
CA Foundation Exam Centres 2025
FAQs
The best books for CA Foundation preparation in 2025 include:
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Fundamentals of Accounting by P.C. Tulsian and Bharat Tulsian
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General Economics by S.K. Agarwal
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Quantitative Aptitude by P.N. Arora and CA Rajesh Jogani
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Mercantile Law by M.C. Kuchhal and Vivek Kuchhal
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CA Foundation Business Laws by Dr. V.K. Jain and CA Shashank S. Sharma
These books are highly recommended by CA toppers and experts for comprehensive subject-wise preparation.
ICAI study materials are essential and should be your primary source of preparation. However, supplementing them with reference books can help clarify tough concepts, provide additional practice questions, and offer different explanations that may make learning easier. Combining both sources gives you a well-rounded preparation strategy.
The most recommended books for Accounting include:
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Fundamentals of Accounting by P.C. Tulsian and Bharat Tulsian
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CPT Grewal’s Accountancy by M.P. Gupta and B.M. Aggarwal
Both books explain accounting concepts in detail with plenty of solved examples and exercises, making them ideal for beginners and revision.
While there isn’t one single book that effectively covers all four subjects in full detail, the CA Foundation Scanner Cum Compiler Volumes 1 and 2 by Manmeet Kaur and S.K. Agrawal come close. They are designed to include previous year questions, solutions, and subject summaries, making them excellent supplementary material for quick revisions.
Top recommended books for Business Laws are:
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Mercantile Law by M.C. Kuchhal and Vivek Kuchhal
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Elements of Mercantile Law by N.D. Kapoor
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CA Foundation Business Laws by Dr. V.K. Jain and CA Shashank S. Sharma
These books explain the Indian Contract Act, Sale of Goods Act, Partnership laws, and more with legal clarity and practical examples.
When selecting books for self-study:
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Choose books written in simple, easy-to-understand English.
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Look for books with solved examples, mock tests, and past year questions.
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Ensure the content is updated for the latest ICAI syllabus.
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Pick authors known for CA coaching and exam preparation expertise.
It’s best to use ICAI material for the core and these books as supplementary tools for deeper learning and revision.
Yes, you can pass the CA Foundation exam by studying from these books—if you follow a disciplined study plan. These books provide:
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Comprehensive theory
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Illustrative examples
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Practice questions and mock tests
However, success depends on consistency, conceptual clarity, and regular revision. Combining these books with ICAI materials and mock tests gives you the best chance of success.
