The first book of Nephi recounts the journey of Lehi and his family from Jerusalem to the promised land. It includes Lehi's and Nephi's visions, the obtaining of the brass plates, the journey through the wilderness, and the construction of a ship to cross the ocean.
The second book of Nephi contains Lehi's final teachings and blessings to his sons, Jacob's teachings about Christ and Isaiah's prophecies, and Nephi's own prophecies about the latter days, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, and the doctrine of Christ.
Jacob, Nephi's brother, teaches about the atonement of Christ, condemns pride and sexual immorality, and shares the allegory of the olive tree representing the scattering and gathering of Israel.
Enos prays mightily and receives forgiveness. He ministers among the Nephites and Lamanites and records his witness of Christ and prophecies for future generations.
Jarom briefly records the Nephites' prosperity, wars with the Lamanites, and the prophets' efforts to keep the people obedient to the law of Moses and looking forward to Christ.
Multiple authors provide brief records covering several generations, including Mosiah's discovery of the people of Zarahemla and Coriantumr, the last Jaredite king.
Mormon explains his abridgment process, inserts the small plates of Nephi, and provides historical context as he continues his record with the book of Mosiah.
King Benjamin teaches about service and the atonement. His son Mosiah establishes judges. Alma the Elder founds the Church. Abinadi martyrs himself. The sons of Mosiah go to preach to the Lamanites.
The longest book chronicles Alma the Younger's ministry, wars between Nephites and Lamanites, missionary journeys, teachings about faith and the atonement, Captain Moroni's defense of liberty, and the stripling warriors.
Helaman and his sons Nephi and Lehi preach repentance. The Gadianton robbers gain power. Signs of Christ's birth are fulfilled. Pride and wickedness increase despite miracles and prophecies.
Christ appears to the Nephites after His resurrection, teaches the Beatitudes and His doctrine, establishes His Church, heals the sick, blesses the children, and institutes the sacrament. A period of peace and righteousness follows.
After Christ's visit, the Nephites and Lamanites unite in righteousness for 200 years with no contention. Eventually, pride returns, the people divide, and wickedness increases.
Mormon leads the Nephite armies in their final wars against the Lamanites. He witnesses the destruction of his people and makes a final plea for the latter-day readers to come unto Christ.
The record of the Jaredites, who came to the promised land at the time of the Tower of Babel. It chronicles their history from Jared to their destruction, including the brother of Jared's visions of Christ.
Moroni, alone after his father's death, records priesthood ordinances, teachings about faith, hope, and charity, Mormon's letters, and his testimony. He invites all to ask God if the Book of Mormon is true.