Book excerpt: The embedding method is a way of solving the Schrödinger equation for electrons in a region of space joined to a substrate. It is a flexible method, as well as surface electronic structure, it can be used to study interfaces, adsorbates, conductance through molecules and confined electrons, and even used to calculate the energy distribution of electrons confined by nanostructures. Embedding can be applied to solving Maxwell's equations, leading to an efficient way of finding the photonic and plasmonic band structure. In this book, John Inglesfield reviews the embedding method for calculating electronic structures and its application within modern condensed matter physics research. Supplemented with demonstration programmes, codes and examples, this book provides a thorough review of the method and would be an accessible starting point for graduate students or researchers in physics and physical chemistry wishing to understand and use the method, or as a single up to date and authoritative reference source for those already using the method.