The need for error analysis is captured in the book's arresting cover shot - of the 1895 Paris train disaster (also available as a wall poster). The early chapters teach elementary techniques of error propagation and statistical analysis to enable students to produce successful lab reports. Later chapters treat a number of more advanced mathematical topics, with many examples from mechanics and optics. End-of-chapter problems include many that call for use of calculators or computers, and numerous figures help readers visualize uncertainties using error bars.

"Score a hit! ... the book reveals the exceptional skill of the author as lecturer and teacher. ... a valuable reference work for any student (or instructor) in the sciences and engineering." The Physics Teacher

"This is a well written book with good illustrations, index and general bibliography. ... The book is well suited for engineering and science courses at universities and as a basic reference text for those engineers and scientists in practice." Strain, Journal of the British Society for Strain Measurement