Book excerpt: The book covers the principal topics in applied mechanics for professional trainees studying Merchant Navy Marine Engineering Certificates of Competency (CoC) as well as the core syllabi in applied mechanics for undergraduates studying for BSc, BEng and MEng degrees in marine engineering, naval architecture and other marine technology related programmes. The revised version takes into account the need of these students, recognising recent changes to the Merchant Navy syllabus and current pathways to a sea-going engineering career, including National diplomas, Higher National Diploma and degree courses. Basic principles are dealt with, beginning at a fairly elemental stage, with this new edition applying the underlying principles to a shipping environment. Each chapter has fully worked examples interwoven into the text, with test examples set at the end of each chapter. Other revisions include examples reflecting modern machines and practice, current legislation and current syllabi.