This text presents the central ideas of modern numerical analysis. Stewart designed this volume while teaching an upper-division course in introductory numerical analysis. To clarify what he was teaching, he wrote down each lecture immediately after it was given. The result reflects the wit, insight and verbal craftmanship which are landmarks of the author. Simple examples are used to introduce each topic, then the author moves on to the discussion of important methods and techniques. With its mixture of graphs and code segments, the book provides insights and advice that help the reader avoid the many pitfalls in numerical computation that can easily trap an unwary beginner.