The book is divided into 12 chapters. Each chapter has a flat structure, consisting

of an unnumbered sequence of sections, most of which are limited to one or two

pages. The aim is to present each new topic in a confined space so that it can be

quickly grasped. Each chapter ends with a list of exercises. Answers to all of the

exercises are provided in an appendix. Readers are encouraged to attempt as many

of the exercises as feasible and to compare their solutions against the ones

provided.

For the convenience of readers, the sample programs presented in this book

(including the solutions to the exercises) and provided in electronic form.