Matlab: A Practical Introduction to Programming and Problem Solving

MATLAB: A Practical Introduction to Programming and Problem Solving, Second Edition, is the only book that gives a full introduction to programming in MATLAB combined with an explanation of MATLAB’s powerful functions, enabling engineers to fully exploit the software’s power to solve engineering problems. The text aims to provide readers with the knowledge of the fundamentals of programming concepts and the skills and techniques needed for basic problem solving using MATLAB as the vehicle.

The book presents programming concepts such as variables, assignments, input/output, and selection statements as well as MATLAB built-in functions side-by-side, giving students the ability to program efficiently and exploit the power of MATLAB to solve problems. In-depth coverage is given to input/output, a topic that is fundamental to many engineering applications. A systematic, step-by-step approach that builds on concepts is used throughout the book, facilitating easier learning. There are also sections on ‘common pitfalls’ and ‘programming guidelines’ that direct students towards best practice.

This book will be an invaluable resource for engineers, engineering novices, and students learning to program and model in MATLAB.

• Presents programming concepts and MATLAB built-in functions side-by-side, giving students the ability to program efficiently and exploit the power of MATLAB to solve problems
• In depth coverage of file input/output, a topic essential for many engineering applications
• Systematic, step-by-step approach, building on concepts throughout the book, facilitating easier learning
• Sections on ‘common pitfalls’ and ‘programming guidelines’ direct students towards best practice

New to this edition:

• More engineering applications help the reader learn Matlab in the context of solving technical problems
• New and revised end of chapter problems
• Stronger coverage of loops and vectorizing in a new chapter, chapter 5
• Updated to reflect current features and functions of the current release of Matlab

Stormy Attaway is on the faculty of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Boston University. She has been the course coordinator for the Engineering Computation courses at Boston University for over thirty years and has taught a variety of programming courses using many different languages and software packages. She is a recipient of the Metcalf Cup and Prize, Boston University’s highest teaching award.