Because engineering students should understand the fundamental principles on which finite-element software simulation programs for stress analysis are based, this text summarizes the physical and mathematical laws of classical solid mechanics, and gives background on solving problems using computer simulations. The text is geared toward helping students set up properly posed boundary and initial value problems, and avoiding physically meaningless predictions when using computer simulations. Chapters and subchapters are designed as self-contained modules. Examples offer step-by-step explanations of problem solving methods. About 60 pages of reference appendices are included. A companion web site provides 400 practice problems and demonstrations of finite element codes in MAPLE and MATLAB. The text can be used in a senior undergraduate course in solid mechanics for mechanical and civil engineers, and a two-semester sequence of graduate courses on continuum mechanics and applied solid mechanics. It can also be used to teach plasticity, fracture mechanics, linear elasticity, and finite element programming. Bower teaches mechanical engineering at Brown University. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)