Book excerpt: Contracts for Paralegals: Legal Principles and Practical Applications engages students with a practical, applied approach. Using a clear and accessible writing style, Wendling makes a comprehensive presentation of contracts, rounded out by current exercises that motivate lively discussions. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, vocabulary, and analytical and writing skills through a variety of real-world exercises, portfolio creation, and team exercises. New to the Second Edition: “Cyber Contracts” feature familiarizes students with the latest blockchain technology in the application of “smart contracts” Updated cases provide students the opportunity to apply their knowledge of chapter topics through analysis of relevant cases Examples of new technology demonstrate the influence of social media on contract origination, performance, and evidence Professors and students will benefit from: An accessible style A variety of approaches that stimulate students A step-by-step chronology that walks students through all the phases of contract formation, performance, and breach Practical applications Portfolio creation