Book excerpt: The book is conveniently divided into two major sections. The first, an introduction to engineering, begins with a description and breakdown of the enginering profession. Material concerning most disciplines in engineering is included in this section. Engineering design is also introduced in this section, providing an opportunity to investigate the "essence of engineering" in a holistic manner. The second major section, processing engineering data, includes the essentials required in preparing for any engineering curriculum. It covers, for example, problem-solving procedures(including solving open-ended problems), engineering estimations, dimensions, and units (including both customary and SI units).