The Common Entrance Examination for Design (CEED) 2026 is one of the most competitive postgraduate design exams in India. Clearing CEED opens the doors to postgraduate design programs at IITs and other top design institutes. To do well, having the right study material is crucial. The CEED syllabus is vast, covering topics like visual perception, design aptitude, logical reasoning, and drawing skills.
With so much to cover, finding reliable resources can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ve put together a complete guide to the best CEED books, key syllabus highlights, and effective preparation tips. These resources will help you study smarter, stay on track, and approach CEED 2026 with confidence.
Table of Contents
CEED Preparation Books & Study Material 2026
Importance of CEED Preparation Books
Online CEED Study Material 2026 (Free & Paid Resources)
CEED Preparation Tips 2026
Conclusion
Faqs
CEED Preparation Books & Study Material 2026

Selecting the right books is the first step towards effective CEED preparation. The exam is not just about theory but also about creativity and problem-solving. Therefore, your study plan should include a combination of CEED preparation books. There are two parts in the CEED exam. 
Part A of the CEED exam tests your design aptitude, reasoning and analytical skills. On the contrary, Part B of the CEED exam tests your skills related to drawing and creativity.
Here’s a curated list of part-wise best CEED study material & books recommended by toppers and experts:
| CEED Exam Sections | Recommended CEED Study Material & Books | Why It’s Useful | 
| Part A (NAT, MSQ & MCQ) | 
NIFT, NID & IIFT Entrance Exam Guide by Arihant PublicationCracking CEED & UCEED by Ashok Goel and Arjun KamalCEED Exam Preparation Advanced Course Study Material by ICR EducationVerbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning by R.S. AggarwalNon-Verbal Reasoning by Bond PublicationQuantitative Aptitude by R.S. AggarwalIQ and Aptitude Test by Philip CarterMy Best Mathematical and Logic Puzzles by Martin GardnerUltimate Psychometric Test by Mike BryonAnalytical Reasoning by M.K. PandeyCEED (M.Des) Test Series by Trendz Academy | Covers design aptitude, logical reasoning, and analytical skills. Also, provides practice exercises and access to the previous years’ questions section-wise. | 
| Part B (Drawing & Creativity) | 
Design Drawing by Francis D.K. ChingPerspective Drawing Handbook by Joseph D’AmelioPerspective Made Easy by Ernest R. NorlingArt Perception by David CyclebackDrawing Made Easy by Subodh Navedkar | Improves perspective drawing, product sketching, and visualisation speed. | 
| Additional References | 
A Brief History of Everyday Objects by Andy WarnerInteraction of Color by Josef AlbersCEED Previous Year Papers (from IIT Bombay website) | Enhances design awareness, colour theory, and provides real exam practice. | 
Importance of CEED Preparation Books
The right CEED preparation books are essential for building a strong foundation. The online material you find is often unorganised. On the other hand, CEED exam preparation books offer well-structured, exam-oriented content. These cover both Part A (aptitude, reasoning, GK) and Part B (drawing, creativity).
- Complete Syllabus Coverage: Books ensure you don’t miss key topics.
- Credible & Trusted: Written by experts and published by well-known publication houses with exam-focused content.
- Concept Clarity: Strengthens fundamentals in design, drawing, and problem-solving.
- Practice-Oriented: Includes exercises, sketches, and sample questions for self-evaluation.
- Reliable Resource: Can be used anytime without internet access.
Pro Tip: Make books your core resource and use the free online material provided below for extra practice.
Online CEED Study Material 2026 (Free & Paid Resources)
Apart from CEED books, online resources play a big role in effective CEED preparation. Digital platforms offer updated content and design tutorials that help aspirants. The right mix of free and paid resources can strengthen both Part A and Part B of CEED preparation.
Free Online CEED Study Material
- Websites: Visit websites that provide free CEED study materials on design, creativity, and visual communication. The best website for providing free online CEED study material is: Stuff You Look.
- YouTube Tutorials: Watch YouTube channels that provide lessons on sketching, product design, and perspective drawing. Examples: Addy Labs, Kaphal Studio, Design Theory, 
- Design Blogs & Magazines: Platforms like Core77, Designboom, and Dexigner help improve design awareness.
- CEED Previous Year Papers (Official IIT Bombay site): Essential for understanding exam trends and practice. Official website link: https://www.ceed.iitb.ac.in/2025/. Go to the ‘Download’ section to download the previous years’ question papers.
Paid Online CEED Resources
- Online CEED Coaching Platforms: Some websites and institutes offer live/recorded classes, mock tests, and mentorship programs. Example Physics Wallah’s PWDesign and Arch platform.
- E-books & Digital Guides: Affordable alternatives to physical CEED exam preparation books.
- Mock Test Series: A paid test series simulates the actual exam and helps with time management.
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CEED Preparation Tips 2026
Preparing for CEED requires a mix of analytical skills, design aptitude, and creativity. Here are some quick tips to make your CEED preparation effective:
- Know the Syllabus & Pattern: Understand Part A (aptitude, GK, reasoning) and Part B (drawing, creativity).
- Use the Right Study Material: Refer to standard CEED preparation books and online resources.
- Practice Drawing Daily: Focus on perspective, product sketching, and quick visualisation.
- Solve Previous Year Papers: Improves speed, accuracy, and familiarity with question trends.
- Stay Updated on Design Awareness: Read design blogs, magazines, and observe everyday objects.
- Manage Time Well: Balance Part A and Part B prep with regular revision.
- Take Feedback & Stay Consistent: Share sketches, learn from feedback, and practice regularly.
ProTip: Don’t just read but also practice daily. The right mix of exposure to CEED study material and mock test practice will boost your chances in CEED 2026.
Conclusion
Cracking CEED 2026 requires the right balance of creativity, practice, and structured study. Use the best CEED study materials and preparation books, and follow a consistent preparation strategy. By doing this, you can strengthen both Part A and Part B. Stay focused, practice regularly, and make smart use of online resources in this blog. With the right approach, you will surely succeed in CEED 2026. Best of luck and happy hustling!