"How to Manage Projects" by Paul J. Fielding is a fantastic guide that breaks down the complexities of project management into clear, manageable steps. This book is a gem for anyone new to the field or looking to sharpen their project management skills without getting lost in jargon.

Fielding does an excellent job of simplifying project management concepts. The book is packed with practical exercises and top tips that make it easy to apply what you learn to real-world projects. It's like having a mentor by your side. The book covers all the essentials, from defining project scope to managing resources and handling risks. Each section is detailed and provides valuable insights you can use right away. I especially liked the practical approach and the way it makes complex ideas accessible.

Fielding's writing is engaging and conversational. He uses relatable examples and scenarios to illustrate key points, making the content more enjoyable and easier to understand. The book emphasises the importance of mastering the basics of project management, ensuring you build a strong foundation before moving on to more advanced topics.

As someone new to project management, it would be helpful to have more tools or information for determining the problem statement and progressing through project phases, along with awareness of when each step should happen within the project. I often merge initiation and planning, which I think a lot of people do. Including more techniques like the 5 Whys, SIPOC, Stakeholder Matrix, and Fishbone Diagram would be incredibly helpful for making conscious progress in projects, while some of these are here. It would be good to see this explored even more.

Overall, "How to Manage Projects" is an excellent resource for anyone looking to develop their project management skills. It is well-written, informative, and practical. I loved how personable it was—it was enjoyable to read and didn't feel like just another textbook.