Preparing for JAMB Use of English in 2025/2026? You’re in the right place. One of the keys to scoring high in JAMB is studying the right materials, and that’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the recommended textbooks for Use of English. These textbooks are officially recognized by JAMB and will help you cover the syllabus effectively.
If you’re serious about passing JAMB with flying colors, keep reading to discover the best textbooks, how to use them, and tips to prepare like a pro.
Why Are JAMB Recommended Textbooks Important?
JAMB recommends textbooks for a reason. These books are selected because they align with the exam syllabus and contain everything you need to succeed. By using them, you’re sure to study the right topics, practice the right questions, and prepare with confidence.
Here’s why they’re important:
- They cover all the topics in the JAMB syllabus.
- They include examples and exercises to help you practice.
- They are written in simple English, making it easy to understand complex concepts.
JAMB Recommended Textbooks for Use of English 2025/2026
Here’s a list of the top recommended textbooks you should consider:
- “Doses of Grammar” by M. A. Adedimeji: Great for mastering grammar and sentence structure. It simplifies complex rules and includes practical examples.
- “English Lexis and Structure” by Ayo Bamgbose: Focuses on building vocabulary and improving sentence construction, crucial for JAMB Use of English.
- “New Oxford Secondary English Course” by A. Banjo, A. Ibitoye, and P. O. Yusuf: A comprehensive guide that covers grammar, comprehension, and essay writing.
- “Essential Oral English” by O. J. Caesar: Helps master pronunciation, stress patterns, and intonation.
- “Mastering English Usage and Communication Skills” by D. I. Egbe: Perfect for improving both spoken and written communication skills.
- “Practice in Spoken English for Intermediate and Advanced Learners” by M. O. Attah: Helps polish spoken English for tackling oral English questions.
- “Round-up English Grammar” by L. A. Taiwo: An excellent resource for revising all aspects of English grammar.
- “Cambridge English Pronouncing Dictionary” by Daniel Jones: Invaluable for anyone who struggles with pronunciation.
How to Use These Textbooks Effectively
To get the most out of these books, you need a strategy. Here’s how to study smart:
- Start with the JAMB syllabus: Download the official JAMB Use of English syllabus to guide your focus.
- Create a study schedule: Divide your time wisely. Allocate specific days to cover grammar, comprehension, essay writing, and oral English.
- Focus on practice questions: Answer the practice questions in these textbooks to test your knowledge and get familiar with JAMB’s style.
- Work on your weak areas: Spend extra time on topics you find challenging.
- Join a study group: Studying with others can help you understand difficult topics better.
Key Topics to Focus On
When studying for JAMB Use of English, pay close attention to these areas:
- Comprehension Passages: Practice reading and answering questions from passages.
- Summary Writing: Learn to identify key points and write concise summaries.
- Grammar: Master tenses, concord, prepositions, and more.
- Lexis and Structure: Build a strong vocabulary and understand sentence construction.
- Oral English: Focus on stress, intonation, and phonetic transcription.
Tips to Excel in JAMB Use of English
- Practice past questions: Download JAMB past questions and practice them alongside your textbooks.
- Write essays regularly: Improve your writing skills by practicing essays on common JAMB topics.
- Read widely: Newspapers, novels, and magazines can help improve your vocabulary and comprehension skills.
- Take mock tests: Simulate the JAMB exam environment by timing yourself while answering questions.
- Stay consistent: Dedicate at least two hours daily to studying English.