Presents material with an intuitive and geometric approach--rather than the formal, algebraic approach of most texts--allowing students to more easily visualize key concepts.

Emphasizes fundamentals and interpretation rather than the rote cataloging of problems and techniques in mechanics.

Stresses a unified, practical computational approach based on the Ritz method, providing a solid foundation for a course in finite element analysis.

Presents the fundamentals of continuum mechanics in a clear and concise language, making the text accessible to students with modest prerequisites and whose primary interest may not be mechanics.

Uses clear, direct vector notation throughout the text to prepare students to read modern literature in mechanics.

Features a novel and unified treatment of beams and plates that is not available anywhere else.

Boxes important equations to distinguish them from equations that are intermediate to the derivation.

Integrates frequent examples to clarify theory and numerous problems (over 184 in all) to provide exercise and extension of text material.

Includes computer programs to demonstrate nonlinear solution algorithms for both discrete and continuous systems.