English Grammar in Use by Raymond Murphy, published by Cambridge University Press, is one of the best-known grammar books for learners of English. It has been used by millions of students around the world, both in class and for self-study. It belongs to a wider “Grammar in Use” family with books for different levels and for British or American English, which can make choosing the right one confusing.
This guide explains every book in the series, which level suits you, how the books are organised, and how to get the most out of them.
The Grammar in Use Books at a Glance
| Book | Level | English | Author |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential Grammar in Use | Elementary (about A1–B1) | British | Raymond Murphy |
| English Grammar in Use | Intermediate (about B1–B2) | British | Raymond Murphy |
| Advanced Grammar in Use | Advanced (about C1–C2) | British | Martin Hewings |
| Basic Grammar in Use | Beginner to elementary | American | Raymond Murphy (with co-authors) |
| Grammar in Use Intermediate | Intermediate | American | Raymond Murphy (with co-authors) |
The levels in brackets refer to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), the scale used by most English courses and exams. Note that Advanced Grammar in Use is written by Martin Hewings, not Raymond Murphy, although it follows the same style.
Which Level Should You Choose?
- Choose Essential Grammar in Use (the “red” book) if you are a beginner or elementary learner, still working on basics like the present simple, past simple, articles and prepositions. If you are looking for “English Grammar in Use for beginners” or “elementary,” this is the one.
- Choose English Grammar in Use (the “blue” book) if you can communicate in English but make mistakes with tenses, conditionals, the passive, reported speech and modal verbs. This is the most popular book in the series.
- Choose Advanced Grammar in Use if you are already confident and want to polish your grammar for academic writing or exams such as IELTS or Cambridge C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency.
- Choose the American editions (Basic Grammar in Use or Grammar in Use Intermediate) if you mainly want to learn US English, for example for the TOEFL or for study in the United States.
Not sure? Look at the contents page and try a few exercises from the middle of the book. If most are easy, go up a level; if most are hard, go down.
How the Books Are Organised
The main strength of the series is its simple, consistent layout:
- Two-page units: each unit covers one grammar point. The left page explains it with short examples and pictures; the right page has practice exercises.
- Grouped topics: units are organised by area, such as present and past, future, modals, conditionals, passive, articles and prepositions.
- Study guide: a diagnostic test at the back helps you find which units you need.
- Appendices and extra exercises: for irregular verbs, spelling, and mixed revision.
- With or without answers: self-study learners should choose the “with answers” edition so they can check their work.
Supplementary Exercises
Cambridge also publishes books of supplementary exercises for the Essential and intermediate levels. They contain extra practice that matches the main books unit by unit, which is useful once you have finished the exercises in the main book and want more.
Can You Use Grammar in Use Online?
Yes. Cambridge offers the books in digital formats as well as print, including ebooks and editions with interactive practice. Check the official Cambridge University Press & Assessment website for the current options. Be careful with free “PDF download” sites: they are usually unauthorised copies, may be outdated or incomplete, and can carry security risks.
How to Study With Grammar in Use
- Start with the study guide to find your weak areas, rather than working from page one.
- Do one or two units a day. Read the explanation, then complete the exercises without looking back.
- Check your answers and reread the explanation for anything you got wrong.
- Write your own sentences using the grammar point, ideally about your own life.
- Review old units a few days and a week later, by redoing the exercises.
- Use the grammar outside the book in writing, speaking and messages, so it becomes automatic.
Strengths and Limitations
Strengths: very clear explanations, realistic examples, a layout that is easy to follow, and it works for both classes and self-study.
Limitations: it focuses on grammar, not speaking, listening or vocabulary, so it works best alongside other practice. Most exercises are controlled (fill in the gap), so you still need to use the grammar freely to master it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is English Grammar in Use good for beginners?
The blue English Grammar in Use is aimed at intermediate learners. Beginners should start with Essential Grammar in Use, or Basic Grammar in Use for American English.
Is English Grammar in Use enough for IELTS?
It covers the core grammar you need, but IELTS also tests reading, listening, writing and speaking skills. Use it alongside IELTS practice materials. For a high band score, Advanced Grammar in Use is also helpful.
How long does it take to finish the book?
At one unit a day, most learners finish the intermediate book in a few months. Going slower and reviewing often is better than rushing.
Is Raymond Murphy better than Wren and Martin?
They suit different learners. Grammar in Use is designed for learners of English as a second language, with modern examples and short units. Wren and Martin is a traditional, rule-heavy reference widely used in South Asian schools. Many learners find Murphy easier for self-study. See our guide to Wren and Martin English Grammar.
Conclusion
The Grammar in Use series remains one of the most reliable ways to learn English grammar. Choose the level that matches you, work through one unit at a time, review regularly, and use what you learn in real writing and speaking.
