In the world of technical education, few textbooks have achieved the status of a "standard reference" quite like Principles of Electrical Engineering and Electronics by V.K. Mehta and Rohit Mehta. For decades, this book has served as the foundational text for engineering students, diploma holders, and aspirants of competitive examinations like GATE, IES, and various Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) exams.
This article explores the structure, utility, and educational value of this renowned textbook, explaining why it remains a top choice for students worldwide.
What sets this book apart from other heavyweights in the field? Several distinct features contribute to its popularity:
V.K. Mehta is a celebrated author in the Indian subcontinent and beyond, known for breaking down complex electrical phenomena into digestible pieces. Alongside his co-author (often Rohit Mehta for the Principles of Electrical Engineering), he has penned multiple standard texts, including Principles of Electronics and Objective Electrical Engineering. In the world of technical education, few textbooks
His writing style is characterized by:
The book Principles of Electrical Engineering and Electronics is a hybrid text. It covers the core of traditional electrical engineering (DC/AC circuits, machines) while dedicating significant chapters to modern electronics (diodes, transistors, thyristors).
Q1: Is the V.K. Mehta book good for a complete beginner? A: Yes. The first chapter starts with the structure of an atom and the concept of electron flow. No prior knowledge is assumed. machines). For GATE
Q2: Does this book cover the "Electrical Engineering" portion of the GATE exam? A: Partially. It covers 60–70% of the core concepts (basic electrical, machines). For GATE, you will need an additional practice book for multiple-choice questions.
Q3: Where can I buy the official PDF directly from the publisher?
A: Visit schandpublishing.com and search for the title. Alternatively, the e-book is available on Kobo, Google Play, and VitalSource.
Q4: Is there a 2023 or 2024 edition? A: The book has been revised multiple times. The latest edition (as of 2025) typically includes updates to semiconductor devices and power electronics. Always check the "Latest Edition" filter on Amazon. the e-book is available on Kobo
The book is massive in scope but organized efficiently. It covers the entire syllabus of basic electrical engineering and electronics engineering. Key topics include:
Visual learning is essential in engineering. The book is filled with clear circuit diagrams, phasor diagrams, and graphical representations. These visuals align perfectly with the text, preventing the confusion that often arises from mislabeled schematics in lesser-quality textbooks.