PickSmartly Review

Best Microsoft Project Guides in 2026

9.7 PM Score
Products Evaluated
1
Reviews Analyzed
82
Brands Ranked
1
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Mastering project management software is less about memorizing button locations and more about understanding the logic of scheduling, resource allocation, and critical path analysis. Microsoft Project is a powerhouse of a tool, but its complexity can be overwhelming for those transitioning from basic spreadsheets or manual task lists. Choosing the right guide is the difference between struggling with error messages and successfully managing a multi-million dollar portfolio. Whether you are a student learning the ropes or a seasoned Project Management Professional (PMP) looking to optimize your workflow, this guide will help you navigate the sea of instructional literature to find the resource that matches your technical maturity and specific professional goals.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Microsoft Project Guides

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

#1

Microsoft Project 2016 Quick Reference Guide Managing Complexity - Windows Version (Cheat Sheet Of Instructions, Tips & Shortcuts - Laminated Card)

4.7 (141 ratings)
43178-1593 0.02 Pounds

Reviews for (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#2

Microsoft Project 2016 Quick Reference Guide Creating A Basic Project - Windows Version (Cheat Sheet Of Instructions, Tips & Shortcuts - Laminated Card)

4.6 (145 ratings)
43178-1592 0.02 Pounds

Reviews for (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Microsoft Project 2019 Step by Step

Microsoft Project 2019 Step by Step Guide

4.5 (428 ratings)
MICROSOFT 7.40 X 1.30 X 9.00 Inches 2.12 Pounds

Reviews for MICROSOFT (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most project managers struggle through trial and error with complex software, but this guide offers a structured path to actual mastery. Microsoft Project 2019 Step by Step acts as a dedicated mentor for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the sheer density of professional scheduling tools. Instead of clicking around aimlessly, you follow a logical progression that builds your confidence alongside your technical skills. It transforms a daunting piece of enterprise software into a manageable set of workflows. While the learning curve for this specific version of the software is notoriously steep, having a dedicated instructional manual makes the transition from basic task lists to complex resource management feel much more intuitive and less like a chore.

What We Like
Step-by-step instruction
Project management mastery
Structured learning path

Microsoft Project 2016 Step by Step

Microsoft Project 2016 Step by Step Guide

4.5 (360 ratings)
MICROSOFT PRESS 9780735698741 7.35 X 1.10 X 9.00 Inches 2.01 Pounds

Reviews for MICROSOFT PRESS (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Project managers struggling with complex scheduling software need this manual to bridge the gap between basic task entry and professional-grade resource management. Microsoft Press delivers a structured approach that moves far beyond the superficial tutorials found in most software help files. While the interface of Project 2016 can feel intimidating at first glance, this guide breaks down the logic of gantt charts and critical paths in a way that actually sticks. It is a practical companion for anyone tasked with keeping high-stakes timelines on track without getting lost in a sea of menus. Instead of guessing which buttons to click, you can follow a logical progression that builds your confidence alongside your technical proficiency.

What We Like
Structured learning approach
Step-by-step guidance
Professional project management
Microsoft Press expertise

Microsoft Project 2013 Step by Step

Microsoft Press Project 2013 Step by Step Guide

4.5 (215 ratings)
BRAND: MICROSOFT PRESS 7.40 X 1.30 X 9.00 Inches 1.94 Pounds
  • Used Book in Good Condition
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Project managers struggling with complex scheduling workflows need this specific guide to bridge the gap between software complexity and actual execution. Microsoft Press has a reputation for technical clarity, and this instructional book delivers exactly that by breaking down the 2013 interface into manageable, logical steps. While this is a used copy, it arrives in good condition, making it a remarkably cost-effective way to master professional project management tools without a massive investment. It functions less like a dry manual and more like a personal tutor sitting next to you while you navigate Gantt charts and resource allocation. If you are looking to sharpen your organizational skills on a budget, this volume is a practical cornerstone for your professional library.

What We Like
Step-by-step instruction
Good used condition
Professional technical guidance
Project management training

Microsoft Project 2019 For Dummies (Project for Dummies)

Microsoft Project 2019 For Dummies Guidebook

4.4 (422 ratings)
FOR DUMMIES 34699832 7.30 X 0.80 X 9.10 Inches 1.05 Pounds

Reviews for FOR DUMMIES (PM Score)

9.4 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Staring at a complex Gantt chart with a looming deadline can feel like trying to decode an alien language. Microsoft Project 2019 For Dummies acts as a much-needed translator for anyone drowning in resource allocations and task dependencies. Instead of clicking through menus blindly, you can use this guide to actually understand the logic behind the software's heavy-duty scheduling tools. It breaks down the intimidating interface into manageable, bite-sized lessons that make sense for real-world project management. Whether you are a junior coordinator or a seasoned professional needing a refresher on specific 2019 features, this book simplifies the steep learning curve without stripping away the technical depth required to get the job done right.

What We Like
Project management guide
Software learning tool
Simplified technical instruction
#7

Software Project Survival Guide (Pro -- Best Practices)

1-57231-621-7 7.38 X 0.66 X 9.25 Inches 1.13 Pounds

Reviews for (PM Score)

9.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Probetis Books 6.53 Yes Yes Yes
#8

Project Management Using Microsoft Project 2016: A Training And Reference Guide For Project Managers Using Standard, Professional, Server, Web Application And Project Online For Office 365

8.50 X 1.20 X 11.00 Inches 2.34 Pounds

Reviews for (PM Score)

8.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#9

Microsoft Project 2013 Quick Reference Guide: Creating A Basic Project (Cheat Sheet Of Instructions, Tips & Shortcuts - Laminated Card)

4.4 (55 ratings)
43178-1586 0.02 Pounds

Reviews for (PM Score)

7.2 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#10

Microsoft® Project Do's And Don'ts: The Definitive Guide To Jumpstart Your Project (Mpug Essentials Series)

5.50 X 0.48 X 8.50 inches

Reviews for (PM Score)

6.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#11

Learning Microsoft Project 2019: Streamline Project, Resource, And Schedule Management With Microsoft's Project Management Software

PACKT PUBLISHING 7.50 X 1.14 X 9.25 Inches 1.90 Pounds

Reviews for PACKT PUBLISHING (PM Score)

5.9 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#12

Dynamics Ax Project Accounting & Controlling (Part 1): A Comprehensive Guide To Master The Microsoft Dynamics Ax Project Management And Accounting Module

CREATESPACE INDEPENDENT PUBLISHING PLATFORM 8.50 X 0.86 X 11.02 Inches 2.15 Pounds
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#13

Microsoft Project 2016, Configuración: Dominando El Project Desde Sus Fundamentos (Administrando Proyectos Con Microsoft Project) (Spanish Edition)

43239-8207 7.00 X 0.21 X 10.00 Inches

Reviews for (PM Score)

5.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#14

Ultimate Study Guide For Microsoft Project 2019

BOOKBABY 8.50 X 1.60 X 11.00 Inches 4.51 Pounds

Reviews for BOOKBABY (PM Score)

4.1 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#15

Microsoft Project A Complete Guide - 2021 Edition

6.00 X 0.78 X 9.00 Inches

Reviews for (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes
#16

99 Tricks And Traps For Microsoft Project 365 And 2021: A Casual User Guide Including 2019, 2016 And 2013

9781925185881 5.50 X 0.30 X 8.50 Inches 0.37 Pounds

Reviews for (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Systems Analysis and Design in a Changing World

Systems Analysis and Design in a Changing World by Cengage Learning

CENGAGE LEARNING COLOUR ILLUSTRATIONS, COLOUR LINE DRAWIN 8.50 X 1.00 X 10.75 Inches 2.85 Pounds

Reviews for CENGAGE LEARNING (PM Score)

8.3 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Used Book in Good Condition
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Clean Earth Books 9.90 No No No

Computer science students on a strict budget should grab this copy immediately because it offers essential academic insights without the heavy textbook price tag. Since this is a used book in good condition, you are getting a functional, reliable study resource for an absolute steal. It covers the fundamental complexities of systems analysis within our rapidly evolving technological landscape, making it a vital tool for mastering design workflows. At just over two dollars, it is hard to find a more cost-effective way to build your foundational knowledge. It is a practical, no-frills solution for anyone needing to dive into the mechanics of system design without breaking the bank.

What We Like
Used good condition
Cengage Learning edition
Essential design concepts
Highly affordable price
In stock now
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best Microsoft Project Guides

A Guide to Selecting the Best Microsoft Project Guides

Identify Your Proficiency Baseline

The most common mistake when purchasing a Microsoft Project guide is selecting a book that is either too remedial or too advanced. If you are new to the concept of Gantt charts, dependencies, and work breakdown structures (WBS), look for 'Foundations' or 'Step-by-Step' manuals. These books focus on the interface and basic setup. However, if you already understand project management theory and simply need to learn the software, skip the introductory texts. Instead, seek out 'Advanced' or 'Expert' level guides that focus on macro automation, custom fields, and complex resource leveling. A guide that spends twenty pages explaining what a 'task' is will only frustrate an experienced manager.

Focus on Version Specificity

Microsoft Project undergoes frequent updates, particularly with the shift toward cloud-integrated versions and Project Online. When evaluating a guide, check the publication date and the specific version it covers. A guide written for older, desktop-only versions may not adequately address the nuances of the modern, web-integrated ecosystem. Look for resources that mention 'Project Plan 3,' 'Project Plan 5,' or the latest desktop client updates. Understanding how the software handles cloud synchronization and real-time collaboration is vital in today's hybrid work environments.

Theory vs. Technical Execution

You must decide if you want a 'how-to' manual or a 'how-to-manage' manual. There are two distinct types of guides in this category:

  • Technical Manuals: These are essentially software encyclopedias. They tell you exactly which menu to click to change a baseline or how to print a report. These are excellent for quick troubleshooting.
  • Methodology-Driven Guides: These books teach you how to apply Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) principles using the software. They don't just teach you how to enter data. They teach you how to use the data to predict project slippage and manage resource over-allocation.

For most professionals, a methodology-driven guide offers much higher long-term value.

Look for Practical Case Studies

The best Microsoft Project guides do not just list features. They walk you through a simulated project from inception to closure. Look for books that include 'hands-on exercises' or 'real-world scenarios.' A guide that walks you through building a construction schedule or a software development lifecycle is significantly more effective than one that simply defines the 'Resource Sheet' tool in isolation. The ability to see how a change in a single task dependency ripples through an entire project schedule is the hallmark of a high-quality instructional resource.

Ready to choose?

Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Microsoft Project Guides before you buy.

Focus on the specific version you use (Desktop vs. Online), the depth of technical instruction versus project management theory, and whether it includes practical case studies or step-by-step tutorials.

Many of our top-rated guides are designed for absolute beginners, starting with basic interface navigation and moving toward advanced scheduling and resource management.

The best guides offer a hybrid approach, teaching you how to apply core project management methodologies like Waterfall or Agile specifically within the software's framework.

Yes, premium guides typically feature dedicated sections on managing resource contention, leveling workloads, and optimizing team assignments to prevent burnout.

Significant differences exist. Desktop guides focus on deep feature sets and complex Gantt charts, while Web guides focus on cloud collaboration and streamlined task management.

High-quality guides include modules on customizing visual reports, using built-in templates, and extracting meaningful data for stakeholder presentations.

Since Microsoft frequently updates its cloud-based features and interface, we recommend looking for guides published or updated within the last two years to ensure feature accuracy.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Microsoft Project Guides

82 Reviews Analyzed
1 Products Evaluated
8.3 Avg PM Score
1 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Microsoft Project Guides Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Cengage Learning 1 (100%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 82 reviews on Microsoft Project Guides, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the computers & technology. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Microsoft Project Guides priced around $2.64, with top brands including microsoft, packt publishing, bookbaby, for dummies, microsoft press and createspace independent publishing platform and brand: microsoft press.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 17 Microsoft Project Guides for your consideration. We've also done extensive research on numerous sellers, identifying the best ones in the computers & technology category — including and amazon.com and probetis books.

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right guides Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Microsoft Project Guides to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.

Side by Side

Comparison Table

Compare the top 17 picks at a glance — select a column to sort.

# Product Brand PM Score Rating Where to Buy
1 Microsoft Project 2016 Quick Reference Guide Managing Comple 9.7 4.7 (141) Buy on Amazon
2 Microsoft Project 2016 Quick Reference Guide Creating a Basi 9.6 4.6 (145) Buy on Amazon
3 Microsoft Project 2019 Step by Step Guide Microsoft 9.5 4.5 (428) Buy on Amazon
4 Microsoft Project 2016 Step by Step Guide Microsoft Press 9.5 4.5 (360) Buy on Amazon
5 Microsoft Press Project 2013 Step by Step Guide Brand: Microsoft Press 9.5 4.5 (215) Buy on Amazon
6 Microsoft Project 2019 For Dummies Guidebook For Dummies 9.4 4.4 (422) Buy on Amazon
7 Software Project Survival Guide (Pro -- Best Practices) 9.0 4.3 (93) Buy on Amazon
8 Project Management Using Microsoft Project 2016: A Training 8.8 4.3 (89) Buy on Amazon
9 Microsoft Project 2013 Quick Reference Guide: Creating a Bas 7.2 4.4 (55) Buy on Amazon
10 Microsoft® Project Do's and Don'ts: The definitive guide to 6.6 4.2 (48) Buy on Amazon
11 Learning Microsoft Project 2019: Streamline project, resourc Packt Publishing 5.9 4.8 (22) Buy on Amazon
12 Dynamics AX Project Accounting & Controlling (Part 1): A com Createspace Independent Publishing Platform 5.0 4.2 (15) Buy on Amazon
13 Microsoft Project 2016, Configuración: Dominando el Project 5.0 4.7 (5) Buy on Amazon
14 Ultimate Study Guide for Microsoft Project 2019 BookBaby 4.1 4.0 (1) Buy on Amazon
15 Microsoft Project A Complete Guide - 2021 Edition 0.0 0.0 Buy on Amazon
16 99 Tricks and Traps for Microsoft Project 365 and 2021: A Ca 0.0 0.0 Buy on Amazon
17 Systems Analysis and Design in a Changing World by Cengage Learning Cengage Learning 8.3 4.2 (82) Buy on Amazon