Algebraic geometry can be a daunting subject to master. In this page, we collect basic textbooks that will ease you into the subject. We recommend taking the qualifying exams as early as possible. After basic courses in algebra and complex analysis, you should start reading commutative algebra and basic algebraic geometry. By the end of your first year, you should start studying the standard introductions by Hartshorne and Griffiths and Harris. You can supplement these by studying curves and surfaces or other basic topics such as intersection theory or Hodge theory. By the end of your second year, you should be mastering more advanced topics such as moduli spaces, derived categories and birational geometry.

It is extremely important to find an advisor early in graduate school. We recommend talking to several faculty members in your first year. By the end of your first year and certainly no later than the middle of your second year, you should form a working relationship with a faculty member who will be your advisor. Taking reading courses and attending research seminars are also good ways of finding an advisor.

Introductory Texts in Algebraic Geometry:

Introductory texts in commutative algebra:

Books on curves:

Books on surfaces:

Books on Moduli Spaces:

Books on Birational Geometry:

Books on Derived Categories:

Other foundational books: