What are the best books for self-studying AAT, and how do Kaplan, Osborne, and BPP compare?

When self-studying for AAT qualifications, selecting the right textbooks is crucial to grasp the material effectively. Three popular choices for AAT study materials are Kaplan, Osborne Books, and BPP Learning Media. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:
Kaplan: Known for their comprehensive coverage, Kaplan books tend to include detailed explanations and a variety of practice questions. They usually provide clear, logical instructions and often come with additional online resources such as mock exams and video tutorials. Many find Kaplan’s materials to be well-organized, which can be particularly helpful in ensuring you thoroughly understand each topic area before moving on to the next.
Osborne Books: Osborne’s textbooks are reputed for being very student-friendly, with a clear and engaging style. They often include diagrams, examples, and exercises that reinforce learning. Osborne’s workbooks are designed to correlate closely with the exam syllabi, providing concise key points and numerous practice questions, which can be very beneficial for drilling concepts and self-testing.
BPP Learning Media: BPP’s resources are often praised for their exam-focused content, with materials structured to align closely with the AAT assessments. They provide plenty of practice questions and past exam papers, which can be invaluable if you’re looking for thorough preparation for specific exams. The books are detailed, and BPP often updates them to reflect the latest syllabus changes, ensuring the content is relevant and up-to-date.

Ultimately, the choice between these providers will depend on your personal learning style and preferences. If you prefer extensive, detailed explanations, Kaplan might be the best option. If you appreciate concise and student-friendly explanations with plenty of practice questions, Osborne might suit you better. BPP is ideal if you’re looking for resources closely aligned with the exam format. Consider combining resources or choosing based on specific modules to make the most of each provider’s strengths.