An accessible introduction to the principles of computational and mathematical modeling in psychology and cognitive science<BR><BR>This practical and readable work provides students and researchers, who are new to cognitive modeling, with the background and core knowledge they need to interpret published reports and develop and apply models of their own. The book is structured to help readers understand the logic of individual component techniques and their relationships to each other.<BR><BR>Key Features<BR><BR>-The book's practical approach shows readers how model construction, parameter estimation, and model selection are carried out in real-world settings.<BR><BR>-An easy-to-follow, step-by-step presentation moves from the basic concepts of modeling to modeling issues and applications.<BR><BR>-The logic of models and the types of arguments that can be made from them are areas of primary focus.<BR><BR>-Programming examples from MATLAB are used to illustrate core concepts.<BR><BR>-A focus on readability makes mathematics and programming less daunting for beginners.<BR><BR>-An author-supported website at http://www.cogsciwa.com/ provides many sample programs mentioned in the book and other tools such as "WMC Battery for MATLAB."