AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR MECHANICAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERS, 20 Oct 2002
This book is definitely one that you want on your bookshelf. It is essential if you are constantly calculating engineering stresses and strains from anything such as micro medical equipment to macro civil structures. Its a must for engineers working with fea codes as a backup to check themnselves manually.
I think that this book along with Machinery's Handbook will cover basicly everything any mechanical engineer could wish for in terms of calculations formulas.
The 7th edition is very well laid out, with all tables at the end of the relevant chapters, therefore no longer cluttering the free flow of the text.

Indispensible reference students and practising engineers., 07 Oct 2000
This reference I would recommend to anyone studying a mechanical engineering degree, or working in any engineering field.

Including straight-forward background explanations of basic terms and concepts, the book is well laid out, giving both quick look-up information and more in-depth descriptions of relevant aspects.

The formulae are tabulated, with explanations of all terms used, and the book gives comprehensive coverage of all but the most exceptional cases. All necessary boundary conditions, constants and dependant variables are given.

Clear and extensive references are given with each chapter for the reader with specific interest.

Relevant, useful appendices are included for aspects such as material properties, meaning less time spent sifting through other reference material.

Well cross referenced, and understandably written, I can recommend it personally as an investment for any undergraduate, and a must for professional mechanical engineers. Having struggled for too many years with a lack of access to it, I am off to buy it now!

Other texts you might find useful:

Petersens Stress concentration factors - similar style layout, and necessary for anyone using Roark for detailed stress concentration / fatigue calculations.

Gieck's Technical Formulae - a really quick look up book, dinky (pocket sized altough depends on the size of your coat) The absolute basics through to more complex subject material succinctly put.

Bit of a classic, innit., 31 Aug 1999
Young and Roark's precious formulae are invaluable to engineering students and professionals. One of the few books you will use through college and in the office too (until you leave engineering and get a proper job, of course). The previous editions had a material properties section which was very useful, but this was dropped for the green edition. Well worth the money.

A must for loading, stress analysis, pressure vessels, etc., 20 Mar 1999
A whole lot more information than you could ever use. Use this book and determine EXACTLY what your design is experiencing.

AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR MECHANICAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERS, 20 Oct 2002
This book is definitely one that you want on your bookshelf. It is essential if you are constantly calculating engineering stresses and strains from anything such as micro medical equipment to macro civil structures. Its a must for engineers working with fea codes as a backup to check themnselves manually.
I think that this book along with Machinery's Handbook will cover basicly everything any mechanical engineer could wish for in terms of calculations formulas.
The 7th edition is very well laid out, with all tables at the end of the relevant chapters, therefore no longer cluttering the free flow of the text.

Indispensible reference students and practising engineers., 07 Oct 2000
This reference I would recommend to anyone studying a mechanical engineering degree, or working in any engineering field.

Including straight-forward background explanations of basic terms and concepts, the book is well laid out, giving both quick look-up information and more in-depth descriptions of relevant aspects.

The formulae are tabulated, with explanations of all terms used, and the book gives comprehensive coverage of all but the most exceptional cases. All necessary boundary conditions, constants and dependant variables are given.

Clear and extensive references are given with each chapter for the reader with specific interest.

Relevant, useful appendices are included for aspects such as material properties, meaning less time spent sifting through other reference material.

Well cross referenced, and understandably written, I can recommend it personally as an investment for any undergraduate, and a must for professional mechanical engineers. Having struggled for too many years with a lack of access to it, I am off to buy it now!

Other texts you might find useful:

Petersens Stress concentration factors - similar style layout, and necessary for anyone using Roark for detailed stress concentration / fatigue calculations.

Gieck's Technical Formulae - a really quick look up book, dinky (pocket sized altough depends on the size of your coat) The absolute basics through to more complex subject material succinctly put.

Bit of a classic, innit., 31 Aug 1999
Young and Roark's precious formulae are invaluable to engineering students and professionals. One of the few books you will use through college and in the office too (until you leave engineering and get a proper job, of course). The previous editions had a material properties section which was very useful, but this was dropped for the green edition. Well worth the money.

A must for loading, stress analysis, pressure vessels, etc., 20 Mar 1999
A whole lot more information than you could ever use. Use this book and determine EXACTLY what your design is experiencing.

Entire Degree in 10 Chapters, 15 May 2008
Very useful pocket knowledge but only if you understand engineering and mathematics. A definite buy if your a desk engineer. Likewise with Machinery Handbook and Roarks Stress/Strain formula. I now have a full array of weapons to use instead of googling all my forgotten formulae!

A Giecks best friend, 25 Jun 2003
There is a reason this book is hardback: This is the most overused book I have ever bought. It has all the formulas you can't be bothered to commit to memory without becoming "Janet and Jill do Engineering". It's well laid out to boot.
My last copy (1990) just died and the new edition is even better.

Ultimate formula reference book for the design engineer., 13 Jan 1999
This book has almost every topic that a mechanical design engineer will encounter, and provides a thorough reference for all those pesky formulae that you have difficulty remembering

A good reference to take on the road., 01 Dec 1998
This book is a good general reference for the technical professional who travels. A good variety of formulas and commonly referenced data makes this useful to someone who has experience solving problems, but just forgot the formula. There is little explaination of the subject matter, so it has limited use to the uninitiated. Still, the unit conversions, area formulas and good coverage of mathematics makes it valuable to the person who only occasionally has to make simple calculations. It also should sufficiently intimidate anyone who might think that solving engineering problems is fun and easy. The numerous, well scattered blank pages are useful for writing in your own formulas or notes, and the small size assures that you will take this one with you. I am buying a second because my brother (a technical salesman) ran off with mine.

AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR MECHANICAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERS, 20 Oct 2002
This book is definitely one that you want on your bookshelf. It is essential if you are constantly calculating engineering stresses and strains from anything such as micro medical equipment to macro civil structures. Its a must for engineers working with fea codes as a backup to check themnselves manually.
I think that this book along with Machinery's Handbook will cover basicly everything any mechanical engineer could wish for in terms of calculations formulas.
The 7th edition is very well laid out, with all tables at the end of the relevant chapters, therefore no longer cluttering the free flow of the text.

Indispensible reference students and practising engineers., 07 Oct 2000
This reference I would recommend to anyone studying a mechanical engineering degree, or working in any engineering field.

Including straight-forward background explanations of basic terms and concepts, the book is well laid out, giving both quick look-up information and more in-depth descriptions of relevant aspects.

The formulae are tabulated, with explanations of all terms used, and the book gives comprehensive coverage of all but the most exceptional cases. All necessary boundary conditions, constants and dependant variables are given.

Clear and extensive references are given with each chapter for the reader with specific interest.

Relevant, useful appendices are included for aspects such as material properties, meaning less time spent sifting through other reference material.

Well cross referenced, and understandably written, I can recommend it personally as an investment for any undergraduate, and a must for professional mechanical engineers. Having struggled for too many years with a lack of access to it, I am off to buy it now!

Other texts you might find useful:

Petersens Stress concentration factors - similar style layout, and necessary for anyone using Roark for detailed stress concentration / fatigue calculations.

Gieck's Technical Formulae - a really quick look up book, dinky (pocket sized altough depends on the size of your coat) The absolute basics through to more complex subject material succinctly put.

Bit of a classic, innit., 31 Aug 1999
Young and Roark's precious formulae are invaluable to engineering students and professionals. One of the few books you will use through college and in the office too (until you leave engineering and get a proper job, of course). The previous editions had a material properties section which was very useful, but this was dropped for the green edition. Well worth the money.

A must for loading, stress analysis, pressure vessels, etc., 20 Mar 1999
A whole lot more information than you could ever use. Use this book and determine EXACTLY what your design is experiencing.

Entire Degree in 10 Chapters, 15 May 2008
Very useful pocket knowledge but only if you understand engineering and mathematics. A definite buy if your a desk engineer. Likewise with Machinery Handbook and Roarks Stress/Strain formula. I now have a full array of weapons to use instead of googling all my forgotten formulae!

A Giecks best friend, 25 Jun 2003
There is a reason this book is hardback: This is the most overused book I have ever bought. It has all the formulas you can't be bothered to commit to memory without becoming "Janet and Jill do Engineering". It's well laid out to boot.
My last copy (1990) just died and the new edition is even better.

Ultimate formula reference book for the design engineer., 13 Jan 1999
This book has almost every topic that a mechanical design engineer will encounter, and provides a thorough reference for all those pesky formulae that you have difficulty remembering

A good reference to take on the road., 01 Dec 1998
This book is a good general reference for the technical professional who travels. A good variety of formulas and commonly referenced data makes this useful to someone who has experience solving problems, but just forgot the formula. There is little explaination of the subject matter, so it has limited use to the uninitiated. Still, the unit conversions, area formulas and good coverage of mathematics makes it valuable to the person who only occasionally has to make simple calculations. It also should sufficiently intimidate anyone who might think that solving engineering problems is fun and easy. The numerous, well scattered blank pages are useful for writing in your own formulas or notes, and the small size assures that you will take this one with you. I am buying a second because my brother (a technical salesman) ran off with mine.

Must Have Reference, 10 Jun 2002
This book is just great, the contents of this book is useful and acts as a guide whenever you are stuck trying find a formula or just basic material guidance. The book is a summerised version of industrial workshop handbooks available at the fraction of the cost. The book is layed out neatly and logically, with reference data at the back of the book. Any Engineering student must by this book - you don't know what you are missing out on.

Priceless Reference for all Academic levels, 15 Mar 2001
This book is full of mechanical solutions from bending moments to simple harmonic motion. It contains a broad expanse of knowlegde of materials, technical drawing info; tolerancing, keyways etc, Fluid mechanincs, Conversion tables etc etc... DON'T BE WITHOUT IT! - Whether ONC student or degree, this book covers it.

A students godsend, 04 Sep 2000
I purchased this book after coming across it entirely by accident a few years ago and it probably helped me to gain my degree. Whilst not providing a one stop solution for all engineering problems, it provides with back up from your college library a great stepping stone for solutions. It has a broad sweep of subject matter all backed up with easily annotated formulae.

AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR MECHANICAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERS, 20 Oct 2002
This book is definitely one that you want on your bookshelf. It is essential if you are constantly calculating engineering stresses and strains from anything such as micro medical equipment to macro civil structures. Its a must for engineers working with fea codes as a backup to check themnselves manually.
I think that this book along with Machinery's Handbook will cover basicly everything any mechanical engineer could wish for in terms of calculations formulas.
The 7th edition is very well laid out, with all tables at the end of the relevant chapters, therefore no longer cluttering the free flow of the text.

Indispensible reference students and practising engineers., 07 Oct 2000
This reference I would recommend to anyone studying a mechanical engineering degree, or working in any engineering field.

Including straight-forward background explanations of basic terms and concepts, the book is well laid out, giving both quick look-up information and more in-depth descriptions of relevant aspects.

The formulae are tabulated, with explanations of all terms used, and the book gives comprehensive coverage of all but the most exceptional cases. All necessary boundary conditions, constants and dependant variables are given.

Clear and extensive references are given with each chapter for the reader with specific interest.

Relevant, useful appendices are included for aspects such as material properties, meaning less time spent sifting through other reference material.

Well cross referenced, and understandably written, I can recommend it personally as an investment for any undergraduate, and a must for professional mechanical engineers. Having struggled for too many years with a lack of access to it, I am off to buy it now!

Other texts you might find useful:

Petersens Stress concentration factors - similar style layout, and necessary for anyone using Roark for detailed stress concentration / fatigue calculations.

Gieck's Technical Formulae - a really quick look up book, dinky (pocket sized altough depends on the size of your coat) The absolute basics through to more complex subject material succinctly put.

Bit of a classic, innit., 31 Aug 1999
Young and Roark's precious formulae are invaluable to engineering students and professionals. One of the few books you will use through college and in the office too (until you leave engineering and get a proper job, of course). The previous editions had a material properties section which was very useful, but this was dropped for the green edition. Well worth the money.

A must for loading, stress analysis, pressure vessels, etc., 20 Mar 1999
A whole lot more information than you could ever use. Use this book and determine EXACTLY what your design is experiencing.

Entire Degree in 10 Chapters, 15 May 2008
Very useful pocket knowledge but only if you understand engineering and mathematics. A definite buy if your a desk engineer. Likewise with Machinery Handbook and Roarks Stress/Strain formula. I now have a full array of weapons to use instead of googling all my forgotten formulae!

A Giecks best friend, 25 Jun 2003
There is a reason this book is hardback: This is the most overused book I have ever bought. It has all the formulas you can't be bothered to commit to memory without becoming "Janet and Jill do Engineering". It's well laid out to boot.
My last copy (1990) just died and the new edition is even better.

Ultimate formula reference book for the design engineer., 13 Jan 1999
This book has almost every topic that a mechanical design engineer will encounter, and provides a thorough reference for all those pesky formulae that you have difficulty remembering

A good reference to take on the road., 01 Dec 1998
This book is a good general reference for the technical professional who travels. A good variety of formulas and commonly referenced data makes this useful to someone who has experience solving problems, but just forgot the formula. There is little explaination of the subject matter, so it has limited use to the uninitiated. Still, the unit conversions, area formulas and good coverage of mathematics makes it valuable to the person who only occasionally has to make simple calculations. It also should sufficiently intimidate anyone who might think that solving engineering problems is fun and easy. The numerous, well scattered blank pages are useful for writing in your own formulas or notes, and the small size assures that you will take this one with you. I am buying a second because my brother (a technical salesman) ran off with mine.

Must Have Reference, 10 Jun 2002
This book is just great, the contents of this book is useful and acts as a guide whenever you are stuck trying find a formula or just basic material guidance. The book is a summerised version of industrial workshop handbooks available at the fraction of the cost. The book is layed out neatly and logically, with reference data at the back of the book. Any Engineering student must by this book - you don't know what you are missing out on.

Priceless Reference for all Academic levels, 15 Mar 2001
This book is full of mechanical solutions from bending moments to simple harmonic motion. It contains a broad expanse of knowlegde of materials, technical drawing info; tolerancing, keyways etc, Fluid mechanincs, Conversion tables etc etc... DON'T BE WITHOUT IT! - Whether ONC student or degree, this book covers it.

A students godsend, 04 Sep 2000
I purchased this book after coming across it entirely by accident a few years ago and it probably helped me to gain my degree. Whilst not providing a one stop solution for all engineering problems, it provides with back up from your college library a great stepping stone for solutions. It has a broad sweep of subject matter all backed up with easily annotated formulae.

Not the best book on QFT but worth considering, 21 Oct 2008
I agree with the (so far) two other reviews to some extent, especially about the typos! And if you're looking for a deep insight into QFT and you are a recent graduate or have studied Quantum mechanics recently, then yes, there are many other better books. That said, for someone like me - starting an MSc after 20 years away from physics - I found it easier to understand at the most basic levels than other more advanced books where my eyes were glazing over by page 2 - and so this is bridging my gap quite well. Def buy other books, but don't pass on this one if you need the basics with a pinch of salt...and its cheap!

Another poor demistified book, 16 Oct 2008
This book shares with the other books in the series in one respect. Each advertises itself as suitable for anyone to master the basics without formal training.

Few books could achieve introducing "anyone" to tensor notation on p7! This aside, the whole approach of this book is woolly. It is difficult to see at any time where we are going or whether we have gotten there. The notations used make for obfuscation of the theory rather than demystification. Why not use the notations a pure maths undergraduate would understand if you want to "demystify", then throw in those a physicist would use later? The latter only add to the mystery of half-understood mathematics.

As an illustration of how difficult to follow this book is, on p4 we are promised that fields are to be made into operators, and the Schrodinger probability density function is to become a field. Also, position and time are no longer operators but (classical) scalars. On p118 we are about to achieve this, and this aim is stated twice for emphasis. OK, we are all ready, but wait! the author takes us back to the harmonic oscillator and produces a creation and annihilation operator out of a hat, without any explanation of why.

On p122 the mechanism of second quantization is given, without emphasis, mid-page and mid-paragraph, by taking the Fourier transform of a preceding formula. The poor reader who looks up Fourier transforms in the index will find the only reference to be...p122.

Most mathematicians would fail to understand most of this book. Mr Anyone on the back cover is going to be entirely at sea.



A shame!, 10 Jun 2008
This book is full of errors and bad explanations. The author says in the preface that many books on quantum field theory are impossible to read. It's a shame that this one is just one more of that kind!

AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR MECHANICAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERS, 20 Oct 2002
This book is definitely one that you want on your bookshelf. It is essential if you are constantly calculating engineering stresses and strains from anything such as micro medical equipment to macro civil structures. Its a must for engineers working with fea codes as a backup to check themnselves manually.
I think that this book along with Machinery's Handbook will cover basicly everything any mechanical engineer could wish for in terms of calculations formulas.
The 7th edition is very well laid out, with all tables at the end of the relevant chapters, therefore no longer cluttering the free flow of the text.

Indispensible reference students and practising engineers., 07 Oct 2000
This reference I would recommend to anyone studying a mechanical engineering degree, or working in any engineering field.

Including straight-forward background explanations of basic terms and concepts, the book is well laid out, giving both quick look-up information and more in-depth descriptions of relevant aspects.

The formulae are tabulated, with explanations of all terms used, and the book gives comprehensive coverage of all but the most exceptional cases. All necessary boundary conditions, constants and dependant variables are given.

Clear and extensive references are given with each chapter for the reader with specific interest.

Relevant, useful appendices are included for aspects such as material properties, meaning less time spent sifting through other reference material.

Well cross referenced, and understandably written, I can recommend it personally as an investment for any undergraduate, and a must for professional mechanical engineers. Having struggled for too many years with a lack of access to it, I am off to buy it now!

Other texts you might find useful:

Petersens Stress concentration factors - similar style layout, and necessary for anyone using Roark for detailed stress concentration / fatigue calculations.

Gieck's Technical Formulae - a really quick look up book, dinky (pocket sized altough depends on the size of your coat) The absolute basics through to more complex subject material succinctly put.

Bit of a classic, innit., 31 Aug 1999
Young and Roark's precious formulae are invaluable to engineering students and professionals. One of the few books you will use through college and in the office too (until you leave engineering and get a proper job, of course). The previous editions had a material properties section which was very useful, but this was dropped for the green edition. Well worth the money.

A must for loading, stress analysis, pressure vessels, etc., 20 Mar 1999
A whole lot more information than you could ever use. Use this book and determine EXACTLY what your design is experiencing.

Entire Degree in 10 Chapters, 15 May 2008
Very useful pocket knowledge but only if you understand engineering and mathematics. A definite buy if your a desk engineer. Likewise with Machinery Handbook and Roarks Stress/Strain formula. I now have a full array of weapons to use instead of googling all my forgotten formulae!

A Giecks best friend, 25 Jun 2003
There is a reason this book is hardback: This is the most overused book I have ever bought. It has all the formulas you can't be bothered to commit to memory without becoming "Janet and Jill do Engineering". It's well laid out to boot.
My last copy (1990) just died and the new edition is even better.

Ultimate formula reference book for the design engineer., 13 Jan 1999
This book has almost every topic that a mechanical design engineer will encounter, and provides a thorough reference for all those pesky formulae that you have difficulty remembering

A good reference to take on the road., 01 Dec 1998
This book is a good general reference for the technical professional who travels. A good variety of formulas and commonly referenced data makes this useful to someone who has experience solving problems, but just forgot the formula. There is little explaination of the subject matter, so it has limited use to the uninitiated. Still, the unit conversions, area formulas and good coverage of mathematics makes it valuable to the person who only occasionally has to make simple calculations. It also should sufficiently intimidate anyone who might think that solving engineering problems is fun and easy. The numerous, well scattered blank pages are useful for writing in your own formulas or notes, and the small size assures that you will take this one with you. I am buying a second because my brother (a technical salesman) ran off with mine.

Must Have Reference, 10 Jun 2002
This book is just great, the contents of this book is useful and acts as a guide whenever you are stuck trying find a formula or just basic material guidance. The book is a summerised version of industrial workshop handbooks available at the fraction of the cost. The book is layed out neatly and logically, with reference data at the back of the book. Any Engineering student must by this book - you don't know what you are missing out on.

Priceless Reference for all Academic levels, 15 Mar 2001
This book is full of mechanical solutions from bending moments to simple harmonic motion. It contains a broad expanse of knowlegde of materials, technical drawing info; tolerancing, keyways etc, Fluid mechanincs, Conversion tables etc etc... DON'T BE WITHOUT IT! - Whether ONC student or degree, this book covers it.

A students godsend, 04 Sep 2000
I purchased this book after coming across it entirely by accident a few years ago and it probably helped me to gain my degree. Whilst not providing a one stop solution for all engineering problems, it provides with back up from your college library a great stepping stone for solutions. It has a broad sweep of subject matter all backed up with easily annotated formulae.

Not the best book on QFT but worth considering, 21 Oct 2008
I agree with the (so far) two other reviews to some extent, especially about the typos! And if you're looking for a deep insight into QFT and you are a recent graduate or have studied Quantum mechanics recently, then yes, there are many other better books. That said, for someone like me - starting an MSc after 20 years away from physics - I found it easier to understand at the most basic levels than other more advanced books where my eyes were glazing over by page 2 - and so this is bridging my gap quite well. Def buy other books, but don't pass on this one if you need the basics with a pinch of salt...and its cheap!

Another poor demistified book, 16 Oct 2008
This book shares with the other books in the series in one respect. Each advertises itself as suitable for anyone to master the basics without formal training.

Few books could achieve introducing "anyone" to tensor notation on p7! This aside, the whole approach of this book is woolly. It is difficult to see at any time where we are going or whether we have gotten there. The notations used make for obfuscation of the theory rather than demystification. Why not use the notations a pure maths undergraduate would understand if you want to "demystify", then throw in those a physicist would use later? The latter only add to the mystery of half-understood mathematics.

As an illustration of how difficult to follow this book is, on p4 we are promised that fields are to be made into operators, and the Schrodinger probability density function is to become a field. Also, position and time are no longer operators but (classical) scalars. On p118 we are about to achieve this, and this aim is stated twice for emphasis. OK, we are all ready, but wait! the author takes us back to the harmonic oscillator and produces a creation and annihilation operator out of a hat, without any explanation of why.

On p122 the mechanism of second quantization is given, without emphasis, mid-page and mid-paragraph, by taking the Fourier transform of a preceding formula. The poor reader who looks up Fourier transforms in the index will find the only reference to be...p122.

Most mathematicians would fail to understand most of this book. Mr Anyone on the back cover is going to be entirely at sea.



A shame!, 10 Jun 2008
This book is full of errors and bad explanations. The author says in the preface that many books on quantum field theory are impossible to read. It's a shame that this one is just one more of that kind!

Probably suitable for most of our amateur needs, 22 Jul 2008
A basic book: but one that does not intimidate the reader. I do have an inherent dislike of books which constantly state: topic beyond the scope of this book. So, on that basis, I give only 4 stars.

AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR MECHANICAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERS, 20 Oct 2002
This book is definitely one that you want on your bookshelf. It is essential if you are constantly calculating engineering stresses and strains from anything such as micro medical equipment to macro civil structures. Its a must for engineers working with fea codes as a backup to check themnselves manually.
I think that this book along with Machinery's Handbook will cover basicly everything any mechanical engineer could wish for in terms of calculations formulas.
The 7th edition is very well laid out, with all tables at the end of the relevant chapters, therefore no longer cluttering the free flow of the text.

Indispensible reference students and practising engineers., 07 Oct 2000
This reference I would recommend to anyone studying a mechanical engineering degree, or working in any engineering field.

Including straight-forward background explanations of basic terms and concepts, the book is well laid out, giving both quick look-up information and more in-depth descriptions of relevant aspects.

The formulae are tabulated, with explanations of all terms used, and the book gives comprehensive coverage of all but the most exceptional cases. All necessary boundary conditions, constants and dependant variables are given.

Clear and extensive references are given with each chapter for the reader with specific interest.

Relevant, useful appendices are included for aspects such as material properties, meaning less time spent sifting through other reference material.

Well cross referenced, and understandably written, I can recommend it personally as an investment for any undergraduate, and a must for professional mechanical engineers. Having struggled for too many years with a lack of access to it, I am off to buy it now!

Other texts you might find useful:

Petersens Stress concentration factors - similar style layout, and necessary for anyone using Roark for detailed stress concentration / fatigue calculations.

Gieck's Technical Formulae - a really quick look up book, dinky (pocket sized altough depends on the size of your coat) The absolute basics through to more complex subject material succinctly put.

Bit of a classic, innit., 31 Aug 1999
Young and Roark's precious formulae are invaluable to engineering students and professionals. One of the few books you will use through college and in the office too (until you leave engineering and get a proper job, of course). The previous editions had a material properties section which was very useful, but this was dropped for the green edition. Well worth the money.

A must for loading, stress analysis, pressure vessels, etc., 20 Mar 1999
A whole lot more information than you could ever use. Use this book and determine EXACTLY what your design is experiencing.

Entire Degree in 10 Chapters, 15 May 2008
Very useful pocket knowledge but only if you understand engineering and mathematics. A definite buy if your a desk engineer. Likewise with Machinery Handbook and Roarks Stress/Strain formula. I now have a full array of weapons to use instead of googling all my forgotten formulae!

A Giecks best friend, 25 Jun 2003
There is a reason this book is hardback: This is the most overused book I have ever bought. It has all the formulas you can't be bothered to commit to memory without becoming "Janet and Jill do Engineering". It's well laid out to boot.
My last copy (1990) just died and the new edition is even better.

Ultimate formula reference book for the design engineer., 13 Jan 1999
This book has almost every topic that a mechanical design engineer will encounter, and provides a thorough reference for all those pesky formulae that you have difficulty remembering

A good reference to take on the road., 01 Dec 1998
This book is a good general reference for the technical professional who travels. A good variety of formulas and commonly referenced data makes this useful to someone who has experience solving problems, but just forgot the formula. There is little explaination of the subject matter, so it has limited use to the uninitiated. Still, the unit conversions, area formulas and good coverage of mathematics makes it valuable to the person who only occasionally has to make simple calculations. It also should sufficiently intimidate anyone who might think that solving engineering problems is fun and easy. The numerous, well scattered blank pages are useful for writing in your own formulas or notes, and the small size assures that you will take this one with you. I am buying a second because my brother (a technical salesman) ran off with mine.

Must Have Reference, 10 Jun 2002
This book is just great, the contents of this book is useful and acts as a guide whenever you are stuck trying find a formula or just basic material guidance. The book is a summerised version of industrial workshop handbooks available at the fraction of the cost. The book is layed out neatly and logically, with reference data at the back of the book. Any Engineering student must by this book - you don't know what you are missing out on.

Priceless Reference for all Academic levels, 15 Mar 2001
This book is full of mechanical solutions from bending moments to simple harmonic motion. It contains a broad expanse of knowlegde of materials, technical drawing info; tolerancing, keyways etc, Fluid mechanincs, Conversion tables etc etc... DON'T BE WITHOUT IT! - Whether ONC student or degree, this book covers it.

A students godsend, 04 Sep 2000
I purchased this book after coming across it entirely by accident a few years ago and it probably helped me to gain my degree. Whilst not providing a one stop solution for all engineering problems, it provides with back up from your college library a great stepping stone for solutions. It has a broad sweep of subject matter all backed up with easily annotated formulae.

Not the best book on QFT but worth considering, 21 Oct 2008
I agree with the (so far) two other reviews to some extent, especially about the typos! And if you're looking for a deep insight into QFT and you are a recent graduate or have studied Quantum mechanics recently, then yes, there are many other better books. That said, for someone like me - starting an MSc after 20 years away from physics - I found it easier to understand at the most basic levels than other more advanced books where my eyes were glazing over by page 2 - and so this is bridging my gap quite well. Def buy other books, but don't pass on this one if you need the basics with a pinch of salt...and its cheap!

Another poor demistified book, 16 Oct 2008
This book shares with the other books in the series in one respect. Each advertises itself as suitable for anyone to master the basics without formal training.

Few books could achieve introducing "anyone" to tensor notation on p7! This aside, the whole approach of this book is woolly. It is difficult to see at any time where we are going or whether we have gotten there. The notations used make for obfuscation of the theory rather than demystification. Why not use the notations a pure maths undergraduate would understand if you want to "demystify", then throw in those a physicist would use later? The latter only add to the mystery of half-understood mathematics.

As an illustration of how difficult to follow this book is, on p4 we are promised that fields are to be made into operators, and the Schrodinger probability density function is to become a field. Also, position and time are no longer operators but (classical) scalars. On p118 we are about to achieve this, and this aim is stated twice for emphasis. OK, we are all ready, but wait! the author takes us back to the harmonic oscillator and produces a creation and annihilation operator out of a hat, without any explanation of why.

On p122 the mechanism of second quantization is given, without emphasis, mid-page and mid-paragraph, by taking the Fourier transform of a preceding formula. The poor reader who looks up Fourier transforms in the index will find the only reference to be...p122.

Most mathematicians would fail to understand most of this book. Mr Anyone on the back cover is going to be entirely at sea.



A shame!, 10 Jun 2008
This book is full of errors and bad explanations. The author says in the preface that many books on quantum field theory are impossible to read. It's a shame that this one is just one more of that kind!

Probably suitable for most of our amateur needs, 22 Jul 2008
A basic book: but one that does not intimidate the reader. I do have an inherent dislike of books which constantly state: topic beyond the scope of this book. So, on that basis, I give only 4 stars.

Spot on book, for average A-level student., 20 Oct 2000
Good, clear, well presented book. Contains all the information you need...

The Best Mechanics study book around, 01 Sep 2000
This is one of the best study books which I have come accross for studying Mechanics. The text is written in a way in which I rarely do not understand an explanation - something which makes this book unique

An excellent introduction to A-level Mechanics, 28 Nov 1999
Provides a clear and concise guide through A-level Mathematics with Mechanics, with 'good answers', in that the results to many of the exercises are often integers, or simple fractions as to increase clarity. Also provides very clear examples to help the reader with the exercises. Overall, a very good text to read if studying A-level Mechanics.

Excellent text for A level, good diagrams, 25 Aug 1999
Wychwood school,Oxford has been using this as the main mechanics text book for the last ten years. The first few questions of each exercise encourage the use of good drawings. The recent new edition has kept abreast of A level changes. Exercises are well graded, with a range of past questions included. Answers are generally accurate too, unlike so many Maths text books

AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR MECHANICAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERS, 20 Oct 2002
This book is definitely one that you want on your bookshelf. It is essential if you are constantly calculating engineering stresses and strains from anything such as micro medical equipment to macro civil structures. Its a must for engineers working with fea codes as a backup to check themnselves manually.
I think that this book along with Machinery's Handbook will cover basicly everything any mechanical engineer could wish for in terms of calculations formulas.
The 7th edition is very well laid out, with all tables at the end of the relevant chapters, therefore no longer cluttering the free flow of the text.

Indispensible reference students and practising engineers., 07 Oct 2000
This reference I would recommend to anyone studying a mechanical engineering degree, or working in any engineering field.

Including straight-forward background explanations of basic terms and concepts, the book is well laid out, giving both quick look-up information and more in-depth descriptions of relevant aspects.

The formulae are tabulated, with explanations of all terms used, and the book gives comprehensive coverage of all but the most exceptional cases. All necessary boundary conditions, constants and dependant variables are given.

Clear and extensive references are given with each chapter for the reader with specific interest.

Relevant, useful appendices are included for aspects such as material properties, meaning less time spent sifting through other reference material.

Well cross referenced, and understandably written, I can recommend it personally as an investment for any undergraduate, and a must for professional mechanical engineers. Having struggled for too many years with a lack of access to it, I am off to buy it now!

Other texts you might find useful:

Petersens Stress concentration factors - similar style layout, and necessary for anyone using Roark for detailed stress concentration / fatigue calculations.

Gieck's Technical Formulae - a really quick look up book, dinky (pocket sized altough depends on the size of your coat) The absolute basics through to more complex subject material succinctly put.

Bit of a classic, innit., 31 Aug 1999
Young and Roark's precious formulae are invaluable to engineering students and professionals. One of the few books you will use through college and in the office too (until you leave engineering and get a proper job, of course). The previous editions had a material properties section which was very useful, but this was dropped for the green edition. Well worth the money.

A must for loading, stress analysis, pressure vessels, etc., 20 Mar 1999
A whole lot more information than you could ever use. Use this book and determine EXACTLY what your design is experiencing.

Entire Degree in 10 Chapters, 15 May 2008
Very useful pocket knowledge but only if you understand engineering and mathematics. A definite buy if your a desk engineer. Likewise with Machinery Handbook and Roarks Stress/Strain formula. I now have a full array of weapons to use instead of googling all my forgotten formulae!

A Giecks best friend, 25 Jun 2003
There is a reason this book is hardback: This is the most overused book I have ever bought. It has all the formulas you can't be bothered to commit to memory without becoming "Janet and Jill do Engineering". It's well laid out to boot.
My last copy (1990) just died and the new edition is even better.

Ultimate formula reference book for the design engineer., 13 Jan 1999
This book has almost every topic that a mechanical design engineer will encounter, and provides a thorough reference for all those pesky formulae that you have difficulty remembering

A good reference to take on the road., 01 Dec 1998
This book is a good general reference for the technical professional who travels. A good variety of formulas and commonly referenced data makes this useful to someone who has experience solving problems, but just forgot the formula. There is little explaination of the subject matter, so it has limited use to the uninitiated. Still, the unit conversions, area formulas and good coverage of mathematics makes it valuable to the person who only occasionally has to make simple calculations. It also should sufficiently intimidate anyone who might think that solving engineering problems is fun and easy. The numerous, well scattered blank pages are useful for writing in your own formulas or notes, and the small size assures that you will take this one with you. I am buying a second because my brother (a technical salesman) ran off with mine.

Must Have Reference, 10 Jun 2002
This book is just great, the contents of this book is useful and acts as a guide whenever you are stuck trying find a formula or just basic material guidance. The book is a summerised version of industrial workshop handbooks available at the fraction of the cost. The book is layed out neatly and logically, with reference data at the back of the book. Any Engineering student must by this book - you don't know what you are missing out on.

Priceless Reference for all Academic levels, 15 Mar 2001
This book is full of mechanical solutions from bending moments to simple harmonic motion. It contains a broad expanse of knowlegde of materials, technical drawing info; tolerancing, keyways etc, Fluid mechanincs, Conversion tables etc etc... DON'T BE WITHOUT IT! - Whether ONC student or degree, this book covers it.

A students godsend, 04 Sep 2000
I purchased this book after coming across it entirely by accident a few years ago and it probably helped me to gain my degree. Whilst not providing a one stop solution for all engineering problems, it provides with back up from your college library a great stepping stone for solutions. It has a broad sweep of subject matter all backed up with easily annotated formulae.

Not the best book on QFT but worth considering, 21 Oct 2008
I agree with the (so far) two other reviews to some extent, especially about the typos! And if you're looking for a deep insight into QFT and you are a recent graduate or have studied Quantum mechanics recently, then yes, there are many other better books. That said, for someone like me - starting an MSc after 20 years away from physics - I found it easier to understand at the most basic levels than other more advanced books where my eyes were glazing over by page 2 - and so this is bridging my gap quite well. Def buy other books, but don't pass on this one if you need the basics with a pinch of salt...and its cheap!

Another poor demistified book, 16 Oct 2008
This book shares with the other books in the series in one respect. Each advertises itself as suitable for anyone to master the basics without formal training.

Few books could achieve introducing "anyone" to tensor notation on p7! This aside, the whole approach of this book is woolly. It is difficult to see at any time where we are going or whether we have gotten there. The notations used make for obfuscation of the theory rather than demystification. Why not use the notations a pure maths undergraduate would understand if you want to "demystify", then throw in those a physicist would use later? The latter only add to the mystery of half-understood mathematics.

As an illustration of how difficult to follow this book is, on p4 we are promised that fields are to be made into operators, and the Schrodinger probability density function is to become a field. Also, position and time are no longer operators but (classical) scalars. On p118 we are about to achieve this, and this aim is stated twice for emphasis. OK, we are all ready, but wait! the author takes us back to the harmonic oscillator and produces a creation and annihilation operator out of a hat, without any explanation of why.

On p122 the mechanism of second quantization is given, without emphasis, mid-page and mid-paragraph, by taking the Fourier transform of a preceding formula. The poor reader who looks up Fourier transforms in the index will find the only reference to be...p122.

Most mathematicians would fail to understand most of this book. Mr Anyone on the back cover is going to be entirely at sea.



A shame!, 10 Jun 2008
This book is full of errors and bad explanations. The author says in the preface that many books on quantum field theory are impossible to read. It's a shame that this one is just one more of that kind!

Probably suitable for most of our amateur needs, 22 Jul 2008
A basic book: but one that does not intimidate the reader. I do have an inherent dislike of books which constantly state: topic beyond the scope of this book. So, on that basis, I give only 4 stars.

Spot on book, for average A-level student., 20 Oct 2000
Good, clear, well presented book. Contains all the information you need...

The Best Mechanics study book around, 01 Sep 2000
This is one of the best study books which I have come accross for studying Mechanics. The text is written in a way in which I rarely do not understand an explanation - something which makes this book unique

An excellent introduction to A-level Mechanics, 28 Nov 1999
Provides a clear and concise guide through A-level Mathematics with Mechanics, with 'good answers', in that the results to many of the exercises are often integers, or simple fractions as to increase clarity. Also provides very clear examples to help the reader with the exercises. Overall, a very good text to read if studying A-level Mechanics.

Excellent text for A level, good diagrams, 25 Aug 1999
Wychwood school,Oxford has been using this as the main mechanics text book for the last ten years. The first few questions of each exercise encourage the use of good drawings. The recent new edition has kept abreast of A level changes. Exercises are well graded, with a range of past questions included. Answers are generally accurate too, unlike so many Maths text books

Excellent introduction to Hydraulics, 03 Dec 2000
Already having a degree in mechanical engineering, but no practical knowledge of hydraulics, I purchased this book to enable me to start designing using standard hydraulic components. Whilst a previous book I had acquired disappointingly focussed on pneumatics at the expense of hydraulics, this book was the other way around. Its coverage of hydraulics is excellent and should enable anyone with a technical background to begin designing hydraulic systems with confidence. My rating would have been higher had the coverage of pneumatics, joinly prominent in the book's title, been equally extensive.

AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR MECHANICAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERS, 20 Oct 2002
This book is definitely one that you want on your bookshelf. It is essential if you are constantly calculating engineering stresses and strains from anything such as micro medical equipment to macro civil structures. Its a must for engineers working with fea codes as a backup to check themnselves manually.
I think that this book along with Machinery's Handbook will cover basicly everything any mechanical engineer could wish for in terms of calculations formulas.
The 7th edition is very well laid out, with all tables at the end of the relevant chapters, therefore no longer cluttering the free flow of the text.

Indispensible reference students and practising engineers., 07 Oct 2000
This reference I would recommend to anyone studying a mechanical engineering degree, or working in any engineering field.

Including straight-forward background explanations of basic terms and concepts, the book is well laid out, giving both quick look-up information and more in-depth descriptions of relevant aspects.

The formulae are tabulated, with explanations of all terms used, and the book gives comprehensive coverage of all but the most exceptional cases. All necessary boundary conditions, constants and dependant variables are given.

Clear and extensive references are given with each chapter for the reader with specific interest.

Relevant, useful appendices are included for aspects such as material properties, meaning less time spent sifting through other reference material.

Well cross referenced, and understandably written, I can recommend it personally as an investment for any undergraduate, and a must for professional mechanical engineers. Having struggled for too many years with a lack of access to it, I am off to buy it now!

Other texts you might find useful:

Petersens Stress concentration factors - similar style layout, and necessary for anyone using Roark for detailed stress concentration / fatigue calculations.

Gieck's Technical Formulae - a really quick look up book, dinky (pocket sized altough depends on the size of your coat) The absolute basics through to more complex subject material succinctly put.

Bit of a classic, innit., 31 Aug 1999
Young and Roark's precious formulae are invaluable to engineering students and professionals. One of the few books you will use through college and in the office too (until you leave engineering and get a proper job, of course). The previous editions had a material properties section which was very useful, but this was dropped for the green edition. Well worth the money.

A must for loading, stress analysis, pressure vessels, etc., 20 Mar 1999
A whole lot more information than you could ever use. Use this book and determine EXACTLY what your design is experiencing.

Entire Degree in 10 Chapters, 15 May 2008
Very useful pocket knowledge but only if you understand engineering and mathematics. A definite buy if your a desk engineer. Likewise with Machinery Handbook and Roarks Stress/Strain formula. I now have a full array of weapons to use instead of googling all my forgotten formulae!

A Giecks best friend, 25 Jun 2003
There is a reason this book is hardback: This is the most overused book I have ever bought. It has all the formulas you can't be bothered to commit to memory without becoming "Janet and Jill do Engineering". It's well laid out to boot.
My last copy (1990) just died and the new edition is even better.

Ultimate formula reference book for the design engineer., 13 Jan 1999
This book has almost every topic that a mechanical design engineer will encounter, and provides a thorough reference for all those pesky formulae that you have difficulty remembering

A good reference to take on the road., 01 Dec 1998
This book is a good general reference for the technical professional who travels. A good variety of formulas and commonly referenced data makes this useful to someone who has experience solving problems, but just forgot the formula. There is little explaination of the subject matter, so it has limited use to the uninitiated. Still, the unit conversions, area formulas and good coverage of mathematics makes it valuable to the person who only occasionally has to make simple calculations. It also should sufficiently intimidate anyone who might think that solving engineering problems is fun and easy. The numerous, well scattered blank pages are useful for writing in your own formulas or notes, and the small size assures that you will take this one with you. I am buying a second because my brother (a technical salesman) ran off with mine.

Must Have Reference, 10 Jun 2002
This book is just great, the contents of this book is useful and acts as a guide whenever you are stuck trying find a formula or just basic material guidance. The book is a summerised version of industrial workshop handbooks available at the fraction of the cost. The book is layed out neatly and logically, with reference data at the back of the book. Any Engineering student must by this book - you don't know what you are missing out on.

Priceless Reference for all Academic levels, 15 Mar 2001
This book is full of mechanical solutions from bending moments to simple harmonic motion. It contains a broad expanse of knowlegde of materials, technical drawing info; tolerancing, keyways etc, Fluid mechanincs, Conversion tables etc etc... DON'T BE WITHOUT IT! - Whether ONC student or degree, this book covers it.

A students godsend, 04 Sep 2000
I purchased this book after coming across it entirely by accident a few years ago and it probably helped me to gain my degree. Whilst not providing a one stop solution for all engineering problems, it provides with back up from your college library a great stepping stone for solutions. It has a broad sweep of subject matter all backed up with easily annotated formulae.

Not the best book on QFT but worth considering, 21 Oct 2008
I agree with the (so far) two other reviews to some extent, especially about the typos! And if you're looking for a deep insight into QFT and you are a recent graduate or have studied Quantum mechanics recently, then yes, there are many other better books. That said, for someone like me - starting an MSc after 20 years away from physics - I found it easier to understand at the most basic levels than other more advanced books where my eyes were glazing over by page 2 - and so this is bridging my gap quite well. Def buy other books, but don't pass on this one if you need the basics with a pinch of salt...and its cheap!

Another poor demistified book, 16 Oct 2008
This book shares with the other books in the series in one respect. Each advertises itself as suitable for anyone to master the basics without formal training.

Few books could achieve introducing "anyone" to tensor notation on p7! This aside, the whole approach of this book is woolly. It is difficult to see at any time where we are going or whether we have gotten there. The notations used make for obfuscation of the theory rather than demystification. Why not use the notations a pure maths undergraduate would understand if you want to "demystify", then throw in those a physicist would use later? The latter only add to the mystery of half-understood mathematics.

As an illustration of how difficult to follow this book is, on p4 we are promised that fields are to be made into operators, and the Schrodinger probability density function is to become a field. Also, position and time are no longer operators but (classical) scalars. On p118 we are about to achieve this, and this aim is stated twice for emphasis. OK, we are all ready, but wait! the author takes us back to the harmonic oscillator and produces a creation and annihilation operator out of a hat, without any explanation of why.

On p122 the mechanism of second quantization is given, without emphasis, mid-page and mid-paragraph, by taking the Fourier transform of a preceding formula. The poor reader who looks up Fourier transforms in the index will find the only reference to be...p122.

Most mathematicians would fail to understand most of this book. Mr Anyone on the back cover is going to be entirely at sea.



A shame!, 10 Jun 2008
This book is full of errors and bad explanations. The author says in the preface that many books on quantum field theory are impossible to read. It's a shame that this one is just one more of that kind!

Probably suitable for most of our amateur needs, 22 Jul 2008
A basic book: but one that does not intimidate the reader. I do have an inherent dislike of books which constantly state: topic beyond the scope of this book. So, on that basis, I give only 4 stars.

Spot on book, for average A-level student., 20 Oct 2000
Good, clear, well presented book. Contains all the information you need...

The Best Mechanics study book around, 01 Sep 2000
This is one of the best study books which I have come accross for studying Mechanics. The text is written in a way in which I rarely do not understand an explanation - something which makes this book unique

An excellent introduction to A-level Mechanics, 28 Nov 1999
Provides a clear and concise guide through A-level Mathematics with Mechanics, with 'good answers', in that the results to many of the exercises are often integers, or simple fractions as to increase clarity. Also provides very clear examples to help the reader with the exercises. Overall, a very good text to read if studying A-level Mechanics.

Excellent text for A level, good diagrams, 25 Aug 1999
Wychwood school,Oxford has been using this as the main mechanics text book for the last ten years. The first few questions of each exercise encourage the use of good drawings. The recent new edition has kept abreast of A level changes. Exercises are well graded, with a range of past questions included. Answers are generally accurate too, unlike so many Maths text books

Excellent introduction to Hydraulics, 03 Dec 2000
Already having a degree in mechanical engineering, but no practical knowledge of hydraulics, I purchased this book to enable me to start designing using standard hydraulic components. Whilst a previous book I had acquired disappointingly focussed on pneumatics at the expense of hydraulics, this book was the other way around. Its coverage of hydraulics is excellent and should enable anyone with a technical background to begin designing hydraulic systems with confidence. My rating would have been higher had the coverage of pneumatics, joinly prominent in the book's title, been equally extensive.

The way for engineers to learn about materials, 18 Apr 2001
Ashby has an unsurpassed reputation in teaching engineers about materials and this book is his finest yet, in my opinion. His approach leads the engineer from design requirements through to optimal material choices in a systematic, science-based manner. On the way, the engineer encounters the concept of the 'performance index' - compound material properties that must be optimized for any design - and wonderful charts that map out all the material options and take away the pain of reviewing endless tables of uninspiring numbers. In the process you learn about materials in a whole new way.

The book also contains a variety of case studies on practical problems of interest - all of which were an inspiration to me. Later chapters apply the same underlying methodology to manufacturing process selection, shape in materials selection, trade-offs (multiple design objectives), and 'eco-design' - all with interesting conclusions.

Ashby's written style is both engaging and entertaining - look out for the design example for 'devices to open corked wine bottles'.

I love this book (have given many copies as gifts!) and recommend it as a 'must-have' for material science and mechanical engineering undergraduates and their teachers, as well a cornerstone backgrounder for materials professionals in industry.

AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR MECHANICAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERS, 20 Oct 2002
This book is definitely one that you want on your bookshelf. It is essential if you are constantly calculating engineering stresses and strains from anything such as micro medical equipment to macro civil structures. Its a must for engineers working with fea codes as a backup to check themnselves manually.
I think that this book along with Machinery's Handbook will cover basicly everything any mechanical engineer could wish for in terms of calculations formulas.
The 7th edition is very well laid out, with all tables at the end of the relevant chapters, therefore no longer cluttering the free flow of the text.

Indispensible reference students and practising engineers., 07 Oct 2000
This reference I would recommend to anyone studying a mechanical engineering degree, or working in any engineering field.

Including straight-forward background explanations of basic terms and concepts, the book is well laid out, giving both quick look-up information and more in-depth descriptions of relevant aspects.

The formulae are tabulated, with explanations of all terms used, and the book gives comprehensive coverage of all but the most exceptional cases. All necessary boundary conditions, constants and dependant variables are given.

Clear and extensive references are given with each chapter for the reader with specific interest.

Relevant, useful appendices are included for aspects such as material properties, meaning less time spent sifting through other reference material.

Well cross referenced, and understandably written, I can recommend it personally as an investment for any undergraduate, and a must for professional mechanical engineers. Having struggled for too many years with a lack of access to it, I am off to buy it now!

Other texts you might find useful:

Petersens Stress concentration factors - similar style layout, and necessary for anyone using Roark for detailed stress concentration / fatigue calculations.

Gieck's Technical Formulae - a really quick look up book, dinky (pocket sized altough depends on the size of your coat) The absolute basics through to more complex subject material succinctly put.

Bit of a classic, innit., 31 Aug 1999
Young and Roark's precious formulae are invaluable to engineering students and professionals. One of the few books you will use through college and in the office too (until you leave engineering and get a proper job, of course). The previous editions had a material properties section which was very useful, but this was dropped for the green edition. Well worth the money.

A must for loading, stress analysis, pressure vessels, etc., 20 Mar 1999
A whole lot more information than you could ever use. Use this book and determine EXACTLY what your design is experiencing.

Entire Degree in 10 Chapters, 15 May 2008
Very useful pocket knowledge but only if you understand engineering and mathematics. A definite buy if your a desk engineer. Likewise with Machinery Handbook and Roarks Stress/Strain formula. I now have a full array of weapons to use instead of googling all my forgotten formulae!

A Giecks best friend, 25 Jun 2003
There is a reason this book is hardback: This is the most overused book I have ever bought. It has all the formulas you can't be bothered to commit to memory without becoming "Janet and Jill do Engineering". It's well laid out to boot.
My last copy (1990) just died and the new edition is even better.

Ultimate formula reference book for the design engineer., 13 Jan 1999
This book has almost every topic that a mechanical design engineer will encounter, and provides a thorough reference for all those pesky formulae that you have difficulty remembering

A good reference to take on the road., 01 Dec 1998
This book is a good general reference for the technical professional who travels. A good variety of formulas and commonly referenced data makes this useful to someone who has experience solving problems, but just forgot the formula. There is little explaination of the subject matter, so it has limited use to the uninitiated. Still, the unit conversions, area formulas and good coverage of mathematics makes it valuable to the person who only occasionally has to make simple calculations. It also should sufficiently intimidate anyone who might think that solving engineering problems is fun and easy. The numerous, well scattered blank pages are useful for writing in your own formulas or notes, and the small size assures that you will take this one with you. I am buying a second because my brother (a technical salesman) ran off with mine.

Must Have Reference, 10 Jun 2002
This book is just great, the contents of this book is useful and acts as a guide whenever you are stuck trying find a formula or just basic material guidance. The book is a summerised version of industrial workshop handbooks available at the fraction of the cost. The book is layed out neatly and logically, with reference data at the back of the book. Any Engineering student must by this book - you don't know what you are missing out on.

Priceless Reference for all Academic levels, 15 Mar 2001
This book is full of mechanical solutions from bending moments to simple harmonic motion. It contains a broad expanse of knowlegde of materials, technical drawing info; tolerancing, keyways etc, Fluid mechanincs, Conversion tables etc etc... DON'T BE WITHOUT IT! - Whether ONC student or degree, this book covers it.

A students godsend, 04 Sep 2000
I purchased this book after coming across it entirely by accident a few years ago and it probably helped me to gain my degree. Whilst not providing a one stop solution for all engineering problems, it provides with back up from your college library a great stepping stone for solutions. It has a broad sweep of subject matter all backed up with easily annotated formulae.

Not the best book on QFT but worth considering, 21 Oct 2008
I agree with the (so far) two other reviews to some extent, especially about the typos! And if you're looking for a deep insight into QFT and you are a recent graduate or have studied Quantum mechanics recently, then yes, there are many other better books. That said, for someone like me - starting an MSc after 20 years away from physics - I found it easier to understand at the most basic levels than other more advanced books where my eyes were glazing over by page 2 - and so this is bridging my gap quite well. Def buy other books, but don't pass on this one if you need the basics with a pinch of salt...and its cheap!

Another poor demistified book, 16 Oct 2008
This book shares with the other books in the series in one respect. Each advertises itself as suitable for anyone to master the basics without formal training.

Few books could achieve introducing "anyone" to tensor notation on p7! This aside, the whole approach of this book is woolly. It is difficult to see at any time where we are going or whether we have gotten there. The notations used make for obfuscation of the theory rather than demystification. Why not use the notations a pure maths undergraduate would understand if you want to "demystify", then throw in those a physicist would use later? The latter only add to the mystery of half-understood mathematics.

As an illustration of how difficult to follow this book is, on p4 we are promised that fields are to be made into operators, and the Schrodinger probability density function is to become a field. Also, position and time are no longer operators but (classical) scalars. On p118 we are about to achieve this, and this aim is stated twice for emphasis. OK, we are all ready, but wait! the author takes us back to the harmonic oscillator and produces a creation and annihilation operator out of a hat, without any explanation of why.

On p122 the mechanism of second quantization is given, without emphasis, mid-page and mid-paragraph, by taking the Fourier transform of a preceding formula. The poor reader who looks up Fourier transforms in the index will find the only reference to be...p122.

Most mathematicians would fail to understand most of this book. Mr Anyone on the back cover is going to be entirely at sea.



A shame!, 10 Jun 2008
This book is full of errors and bad explanations. The author says in the preface that many books on quantum field theory are impossible to read. It's a shame that this one is just one more of that kind!

Probably suitable for most of our amateur needs, 22 Jul 2008
A basic book: but one that does not intimidate the reader. I do have an inherent dislike of books which constantly state: topic beyond the scope of this book. So, on that basis, I give only 4 stars.

Spot on book, for average A-level student., 20 Oct 2000
Good, clear, well presented book. Contains all the information you need...

The Best Mechanics study book around, 01 Sep 2000
This is one of the best study books which I have come accross for studying Mechanics. The text is written in a way in which I rarely do not understand an explanation - something which makes this book unique

An excellent introduction to A-level Mechanics, 28 Nov 1999
Provides a clear and concise guide through A-level Mathematics with Mechanics, with 'good answers', in that the results to many of the exercises are often integers, or simple fractions as to increase clarity. Also provides very clear examples to help the reader with the exercises. Overall, a very good text to read if studying A-level Mechanics.

Excellent text for A level, good diagrams, 25 Aug 1999
Wychwood school,Oxford has been using this as the main mechanics text book for the last ten years. The first few questions of each exercise encourage the use of good drawings. The recent new edition has kept abreast of A level changes. Exercises are well graded, with a range of past questions included. Answers are generally accurate too, unlike so many Maths text books

Excellent introduction to Hydraulics, 03 Dec 2000
Already having a degree in mechanical engineering, but no practical knowledge of hydraulics, I purchased this book to enable me to start designing using standard hydraulic components. Whilst a previous book I had acquired disappointingly focussed on pneumatics at the expense of hydraulics, this book was the other way around. Its coverage of hydraulics is excellent and should enable anyone with a technical background to begin designing hydraulic systems with confidence. My rating would have been higher had the coverage of pneumatics, joinly prominent in the book's title, been equally extensive.

The way for engineers to learn about materials, 18 Apr 2001
Ashby has an unsurpassed reputation in teaching engineers about materials and this book is his finest yet, in my opinion. His approach leads the engineer from design requirements through to optimal material choices in a systematic, science-based manner. On the way, the engineer encounters the concept of the 'performance index' - compound material properties that must be optimized for any design - and wonderful charts that map out all the material options and take away the pain of reviewing endless tables of uninspiring numbers. In the process you learn about materials in a whole new way.

The book also contains a variety of case studies on practical problems of interest - all of which were an inspiration to me. Later chapters apply the same underlying methodology to manufacturing process selection, shape in materials selection, trade-offs (multiple design objectives), and 'eco-design' - all with interesting conclusions.

Ashby's written style is both engaging and entertaining - look out for the design example for 'devices to open corked wine bottles'.

I love this book (have given many copies as gifts!) and recommend it as a 'must-have' for material science and mechanical engineering undergraduates and their teachers, as well a cornerstone backgrounder for materials professionals in industry.

very good book, 31 Jul 2007
this book offers some very thought provoking stuff.
i am now a fan, and will be reading other titles by this author.
the chapter on the development of the design of the aluminium can made my beer can even more attractive!

a facinating and informative read, 30 Aug 2000
As a prospective engineering student I found this book truly enjoyable. It is very detailed yet facinating and should inspire all of its readers to think about the design of everyday objects.

AN ESSENTIAL TOOL FOR MECHANICAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERS, 20 Oct 2002
This book is definitely one that you want on your bookshelf. It is essential if you are constantly calculating engineering stresses and strains from anything such as micro medical equipment to macro civil structures. Its a must for engineers working with fea codes as a backup to check themnselves manually.
I think that this book along with Machinery's Handbook will cover basicly everything any mechanical engineer could wish for in terms of calculations formulas.
The 7th edition is very well laid out, with all tables at the end of the relevant chapters, therefore no longer cluttering the free flow of the text.

Indispensible reference students and practising engineers., 07 Oct 2000
This reference I would recommend to anyone studying a mechanical engineering degree, or working in any engineering field.

Including straight-forward background explanations of basic terms and concepts, the book is well laid out, giving both quick look-up information and more in-depth descriptions of relevant aspects.

The formulae are tabulated, with explanations of all terms used, and the book gives comprehensive coverage of all but the most exceptional cases. All necessary boundary conditions, constants and dependant variables are given.

Clear and extensive references are given with each chapter for the reader with specific interest.

Relevant, useful appendices are included for aspects such as material properties, meaning less time spent sifting through other reference material.

Well cross referenced, and understandably written, I can recommend it personally as an investment for any undergraduate, and a must for professional mechanical engineers. Having struggled for too many years with a lack of access to it, I am off to buy it now!

Other texts you might find useful:

Petersens Stress concentration factors - similar style layout, and necessary for anyone using Roark for detailed stress concentration / fatigue calculations.

Gieck's Technical Formulae - a really quick look up book, dinky (pocket sized altough depends on the size of your coat) The absolute basics through to more complex subject material succinctly put.

Bit of a classic, innit., 31 Aug 1999
Young and Roark's precious formulae are invaluable to engineering students and professionals. One of the few books you will use through college and in the office too (until you leave engineering and get a proper job, of course). The previous editions had a material properties section which was very useful, but this was dropped for the green edition. Well worth the money.

A must for loading, stress analysis, pressure vessels, etc., 20 Mar 1999
A whole lot more information than you could ever use. Use this book and determine EXACTLY what your design is experiencing.

Entire Degree in 10 Chapters, 15 May 2008
Very useful pocket knowledge but only if you understand engineering and mathematics. A definite buy if your a desk engineer. Likewise with Machinery Handbook and Roarks Stress/Strain formula. I now have a full array of weapons to use instead of googling all my forgotten formulae!

A Giecks best friend, 25 Jun 2003
There is a reason this book is hardback: This is the most overused book I have ever bought. It has all the formulas you can't be bothered to commit to memory without becoming "Janet and Jill do Engineering". It's well laid out to boot.
My last copy (1990) just died and the new edition is even better.

Ultimate formula reference book for the design engineer., 13 Jan 1999
This book has almost every topic that a mechanical design engineer will encounter, and provides a thorough reference for all those pesky formulae that you have difficulty remembering

A good reference to take on the road., 01 Dec 1998
This book is a good general reference for the technical professional who travels. A good variety of formulas and commonly referenced data makes this useful to someone who has experience solving problems, but just forgot the formula. There is little explaination of the subject matter, so it has limited use to the uninitiated. Still, the unit conversions, area formulas and good coverage of mathematics makes it valuable to the person who only occasionally has to make simple calculations. It also should sufficiently intimidate anyone who might think that solving engineering problems is fun and easy. The numerous, well scattered blank pages are useful for writing in your own formulas or notes, and the small size assures that you will take this one with you. I am buying a second because my brother (a technical salesman) ran off with mine.

Must Have Reference, 10 Jun 2002
This book is just great, the contents of this book is useful and acts as a guide whenever you are stuck trying find a formula or just basic material guidance. The book is a summerised version of industrial workshop handbooks available at the fraction of the cost. The book is layed out neatly and logically, with reference data at the back of the book. Any Engineering student must by this book - you don't know what you are missing out on.

Priceless Reference for all Academic levels, 15 Mar 2001
This book is full of mechanical solutions from bending moments to simple harmonic motion. It contains a broad expanse of knowlegde of materials, technical drawing info; tolerancing, keyways etc, Fluid mechanincs, Conversion tables etc etc... DON'T BE WITHOUT IT! - Whether ONC student or degree, this book covers it.

A students godsend, 04 Sep 2000
I purchased this book after coming across it entirely by accident a few years ago and it probably helped me to gain my degree. Whilst not providing a one stop solution for all engineering problems, it provides with back up from your college library a great stepping stone for solutions. It has a broad sweep of subject matter all backed up with easily annotated formulae.

Not the best book on QFT but worth considering, 21 Oct 2008
I agree with the (so far) two other reviews to some extent, especially about the typos! And if you're looking for a deep insight into QFT and you are a recent graduate or have studied Quantum mechanics recently, then yes, there are many other better books. That said, for someone like me - starting an MSc after 20 years away from physics - I found it easier to understand at the most basic levels than other more advanced books where my eyes were glazing over by page 2 - and so this is bridging my gap quite well. Def buy other books, but don't pass on this one if you need the basics with a pinch of salt...and its cheap!

Another poor demistified book, 16 Oct 2008
This book shares with the other books in the series in one respect. Each advertises itself as suitable for anyone to master the basics without formal training.

Few books could achieve introducing "anyone" to tensor notation on p7! This aside, the whole approach of this book is woolly. It is difficult to see at any time where we are going or whether we have gotten there. The notations used make for obfuscation of the theory rather than demystification. Why not use the notations a pure maths undergraduate would understand if you want to "demystify", then throw in those a physicist would use later? The latter only add to the mystery of half-understood mathematics.

As an illustration of how difficult to follow this book is, on p4 we are promised that fields are to be made into operators, and the Schrodinger probability density function is to become a field. Also, position and time are no longer operators but (classical) scalars. On p118 we are about to achieve this, and this aim is stated twice for emphasis. OK, we are all ready, but wait! the author takes us b