"Substantial, detailed and rigorous . . . readers for whom the book is intended are admirably served." -- "MathSciNet" (Mathematical Reviews on the Web), American Mathematical Society. Practical text strikes fine balance between students' requirements for theoretical treatment and needs of practitioners, with best methods for large- and small-scale computing. Prerequisites are minimal (calculus, linear algebra, and preferably some acquaintance with computer programming). Text includes many worked examples, problems, and an extensive bibliography.