This book was written as a text for college students on the subject of the analysis of framed structures by matrix methods. The preparation needed to study the subject is normally gained from the first portion of an undergraduate engineering program: specifically the reader should be familiar with statics and mechanics of materials as well as algebra and introductory calculus. A prior course in elementary structural analysis would naturally be beneficial although it is not a prerequisite for the subject matter of the book. Elementary matrix algebra is used throughout the book and the reader must be familiar with this subject. Since (he topics needed from matrix algebra are of an elementary nature the reader can acquire the necessary knowledge through self-study during a period of two or three weeks. A separate mathematics course in matrix algebra is not necessary although some students will wish to take such a course in preparation for more advanced work. To assist those who need only an introduction to matrix algebra without benefit of a formal course the authors have written a supplementary book on the subject.
