Applied Anthropology: An Introduction (3rd edition) is a text focused on the use of the methods and theories of anthropology to solve the practical problems of human communities. It addresses a wide range of problem-solving practices in two large categories: development and research. The development-focused chapters include action research/participatory action research, cultural action, collaborative research, cultural brokerage, and social marketing. The research-focused chapters include social impact assessment, evaluation, and cultural resource management.

Each chapter includes a defining statement about the approach considered and discussion of key concepts, a discussion of the basic process, and one or more case studies. These materials are supplemented with chapters on many domains of application and roles which applied anthropologists activate. These are coupled with chapters on the history of the development of applied anthropology, ethics, anthropology in development, and policy. The book concludes with a chapter on work-related issues such as employment and funding opportunities.