Matlab: a practical introduction to programming and problem solving

MATLAB: A Practical Introduction to Programming and Problem Solving discusses the basic programming concepts and skills needed for problem solving using MATLAB software. It is the only book that gives a full introduction to programming in MATLAB combined with an explanation of MATLAB’s powerful functions. The book differs from other texts in that it teaches programming concepts and the use of the built-in functions in MATLAB simultaneously. It 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. The systematic, step-by-step approach, building on concepts throughout the book, facilitates easier learning.

Starting with basic programming concepts, such as variables, assignments, input/output, selection, and loop statements, problems are introduced and solved throughout the book. The book is organized into two parts. Part I covers the programming constructs and demonstrates programming versus efficient use of built-in functions to solve problems. Part II describes the applications, including plotting, image processing, and mathematics, needed in basic problem solving. The chapters feature sections called "Quick Question!" as well as practice problems designed to test knowledge about the material covered. Problems are solved using both "The Programming Concept" and "The Efficient Method," which facilitates understanding the efficient ways of using MATLAB, and also the programming concepts used in these efficient functions and operators. There are also sections on ‘common pitfalls’ and ‘programming guidelines’ that direct students towards best practice.

This book is ideal for engineers learning to program and model in MATLAB, as well as undergraduates in engineering and science taking a course on 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

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.