Why Choosing the Right CFA Level 1 Book Matters for Your Score
With an average pass rate hovering around 40%-45%, your choice of study material could be the difference between passing and retaking the exam. The best CFA Level 1 review guides simplify intricate topics, reinforce your memory, and provide tools to track and strengthen weak areas making them a crucial investment for exam success.
If you’re just starting out and wondering what is the best CFA Level 1 book for beginners, the answer lies in choosing a guide that balances clarity, structure, and real exam application — rather than just dense reading.
What’s Inside a CFA Level 1 Book or Guide?
Most CFA Level 1 study guides cover all 10 topic areas, including Ethics, Quantitative Methods, Financial Reporting and Analysis (FRA), and Equity. However, the delivery style and supporting features vary significantly across providers. The most effective CFA Level 1 prep books include:
- End-of-chapter practice questions
- Visual summaries and formula sheets
- Digital enhancements like flashcards or video lessons
- Analytics and performance tracking tools
The top-rated CFA Level 1 books combine high-yield content with interactive tools like flashcards, formula sheets, and end-of-chapter questions to drive retention and understanding; key for learners balancing work and study.
Best CFA Level 1 Books & Study Guides Compared
If you're unsure how to choose CFA Level 1 prep books, start by considering your learning style, budget, and preferred study format. The comparison table below helps you identify the best books to study for CFA Level 1 depending on your needs.
CFA Level 1 Books & Study Guides Features Comparison Table
With so many options available, identifying the best CFA Level 1 study guides can feel overwhelming. This detailed CFA level 1 books comparison highlights the differences in content format, practice integration, and learning support offered by top providers.
| Feature | UWorld CFA | Kaplan Schweser | Mark Meldrum | AnalystPrep | CFAI Curriculum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Format | Fully digital + interactive explanations | Print + eBooks + videos | Digital only (video + notes PDF) | PDF + video + question bank | eBooks + physical books |
| Practice Questions | 2,100 high-difficulty Qs + explanations+ 360 mock exam questions | ~2600+ practice questions with answer explanations | No QBank; practice via CFAI only | ~3,000+ Qs with mixed difficulty | Basic EOC and chapter quizzes |
| Video Lectures | Modular, topic-wise, pause/speed options | Full topic lectures | Full curriculum coverage by CFA charterholder | Short concept videos | Limited to Learning Ecosystem |
| Analytics & Progress | Smart analytics, MyNotebook, flashcards | QBank metrics only | Limited progress tracking | Progress dashboard | Minimal tracking |
| Note-taking Tools | MyNotebook for personalized notes | Printed/handwritten only | PDF notes; manual note-taking | None | Highlighting tools in eReader |
| Spaced Repetition Flashcards | Yes, integrated into learning flow | Optional add-on | No built-in flashcards | No | Not included |
| Pricing | Affordable monthly/yearly plans | Bundled high-ticket pricing | Affordable | Budget-friendly | Included with exam registration |
| Accessibility | App-first; study anywhere | Web + mobile app | Web access; limited mobile compatibility | Web + limited mobile support | Web + PDF |
| Free Trial | Yes | Yes | Yes (limited access to sample videos) | Yes | No |
Pros & Cons: Evaluating Your Options
Different learners need different tools. This table compares UWorld, Kaplan Schweser, Mark Meldrum, AnalystPrep, and the CFAI Curriculum based on user type, pros, and cons:
| Provider | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kaplan Schweser | Traditional learners who prefer printed textbooks |
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| Mark Meldrum | Self-driven learners who prefer a CFA charterholder’s teaching style |
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| AnalystPrep | Budget-conscious candidates |
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| CFAI Curriculum | Purists relying solely on official content |
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Still unsure which CFA study guide is most effective? It depends on your learning style, but comparing content depth, interactivity, and affordability will help you find the best match. UWorld is great for visual, self-paced learners. Kaplan suits those who prefer printed structure. AnalystPrep is ideal for affordability. CFAI is comprehensive but best for highly self-directed study./p>
Why Choose UWorld CFA Level 1 Books & Study Guides For Your Prep
UWorld’s CFA Level 1 curriculum tools are built for modern learners — flexible, engaging, and rooted in real exam success. With 3,000+ practice questions mapped to every Learning Outcome Statement (LOS), UWorld is more than content; it's a complete learning system.
Key Reasons to Pick UWorld:
- Step-by-step visual explanations
- Smart analytics & performance insights
- Spaced repetition flashcards
- MyNotebook for custom digital notes
- Realistic Prometric-style mock exams
- Mobile-first access for on-the-go prep
Want a comprehensive breakdown of our study materials? Explore our expertly crafted CFA Level 1 books designed to simplify complex concepts and boost retention.
Looking for a complete learning experience? Our CFA Level 1 prep course combines QBank questions, flashcards, mock exams, and more to help you study smarter.
Experience Smart, Seamless Learning with the UWorld CFA Platform
UWorld is trusted by 4M+ candidates and delivers pass rates close to 90%. Our CFA® prep course features exam-level practice questions, in-depth video lectures by CFA experts, and clear, educational answer explanations that reinforce learning. With a continuously updated QBank, customizable study modes, performance tracking tools, and mobile access, UWorld is built for serious candidates aiming to pass on the first try.
Studying for CFA Level 1 isn’t just about reading; it’s about retention, engagement, and strategic review.
- Exam-like practice: Timed or untimed options
- Contextual learning: Concept links appear in real-time
- Self-guided revision: Bookmarking, notes, analytics
- Anytime access: Mobile-optimized interface
Try the CFA Level 1 Free Trial to explore the experience firsthand.
Why Peter Olinto Recommends UWorld
Peter Olinto (CFA, JD, CPA inactive), UWorld instructor and finance expert, brings clarity and real-world relevance to exam prep:
- Short videos (5–15 min) aligned with specific LOS
- Interface walk-throughs that mimic exam navigation.
- Structured for on-the-go professionals
UWorld CFA Platform Walkthrough
Explore the platform’s features in this walk-through video — smart question delivery, clean interface, and integrated tools designed to help you pass.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best CFA Level 1 books or study guides is a personal decision; it depends on your learning style, available study time, and the level of guidance you prefer. Whether you're looking for traditional printed textbooks, a hybrid package, or a fully digital experience, each provider brings something different to the table.
If you're someone who thrives on structured reading and physical notes, Kaplan Schweser may feel familiar and comforting. If budget is a primary concern, AnalystPrep offers decent value at a lower price. And if you're committed to sticking with the official curriculum, the CFAI books provide a comprehensive but dense path.
But for candidates who want more than just content - those who want to understand, retain, and apply CFA concepts efficiently - UWorld CFA offers the most modern and effective learning solution. With adaptive explanations, integrated flashcards, analytics, and a mobile-first platform, UWorld doesn't just prepare you to pass - It helps you build a foundation for your career in finance.
Start CFA Level 1 Strong – Explore UWorld’s Study Guides
Smart content. Visual learning. Flexible platform. Everything you need to master CFA Level 1.
Hear From Our Past CFA Candidates
Many candidates who passed with confidence say the best CFA Level 1 study guides are the ones that match their learning pace and offer in-depth explanations — like UWorld.
I highly recommend UWorld to anyone looking to embark on their CFA journey. The videos and study guides provided are exceptional and truly invaluable."
I found the self-study UWorld materials extremely helpful in my journey to pass the CFA Level 1 Exam. In fact, their effectiveness was so impressive that immediately after passing, I promptly purchased the Level 2 study guide even before registering with the CFAI for the exam!"
I believe UWorld distinguishes itself from other providers through its exceptional video lectures, mentors, and study guides. The teaching quality in the lectures is so remarkable that there are minimal unclear concepts remaining after reviewing them. I highly recommend it."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I study for CFA Level 1 entirely online?
Yes, many of the top-rated CFA Level 1 books today are available in fully digital formats. Tools like UWorld’s CFA Prep Course offer videos, QBanks, flashcards, and progress tracking; all online.
Can I use UWorld’s CFA Level 1 study guide without purchasing other books?
Yes. It’s a standalone resource that includes all LOS, formulas, and concepts aligned with the CFA Level 1 curriculum.
Is it better to study from Kaplan or UWorld?
Kaplan suits print-based learners. UWorld is ideal for digital-first candidates looking for analytics, smart flashcards, and flexibility.
Is the UWorld CFA Level 1 guide aligned with the official CFA curriculum?
Absolutely. It is meticulously mapped to each LOS in the CFA Level 1 curriculum.
What’s the most affordable CFA Level 1 prep book?
AnalystPrep is the most affordable option among the best CFA Level 1 review guides, offering good value for price-conscious candidates. UWorld, however, balances cost with high-impact tools like flashcards, analytics, and mobile access; making it one of the best books to study for CFA Level 1.
What makes UWorld’s CFA Level 1 study guide different from other providers?
It’s fully digital, visually rich, and interactive — complete with flashcards, MyNotebook, analytics, and mobile access.
Read More
Best CFA Level 1 Question Bank
Best CFA Level 1 Study Materials
Best CFA Prep Course Providers
References
- UWorld. (2025). CFA Level 1 question bank. UWorld Finance. Retrieved June 27, 2025, from https://finance.uworld.com/cfa/level-1/question-bank/
- UWorld. (2025). CFA mock exams. UWorld Finance. Retrieved June 27, 2025, from https://finance.uworld.com/cfa/mock-exams/
- UWorld. (2025). Best CFA study materials. UWorld Finance. Retrieved June 27, 2025, from https://finance.uworld.com/cfa/best-cfa-study-materials/
- UWorld. (2025). CFA Level 1 study book and guide. UWorld Finance. Retrieved June 27, 2025, from https://finance.uworld.com/cfa/level-1/study-book-and-guide/
- CFA Institute. (2025). CFA® Program curriculum. Retrieved June 27, 2025, from https://www.cfainstitute.org/programs/cfa-program/curriculum
- CFA Institute. (2025). Level I exam information. Retrieved June 27, 2025, from https://www.cfainstitute.org/programs/cfa-program/candidate-resources/level-i-exam
- CFA Institute. (2024). CFA Program level I topic outline (2026 exam) [PDF]. Retrieved June 27, 2025, from https://www.cfainstitute.org/sites/default/files/docs/programs/cfa-program/2026-l1-topics-combined.pdf
- u/Fromagewizard. (2023, January 4). I used UWorld almost exclusively and passed Level 1 in Nov 2022. I felt their QBank was significantly better than Kaplan’s, especially the explanations. [Comment on the online forum post “How was your experience with UWorld?”]. Reddit. https://www.reddit.com/r/CFA/comments/1007fey/comment/j2gcgn7/