Crystal Clear, 07 Oct 2008
Wilczek got his Nobel Prize for his part in developing Chromodynamics, the theory of quarks and gluons and their strong force interaction. In this book we get an awe-inspiring jaunt through the most modern views of the quantum vacuum (which W. calls "The Grid") and unification theories (including SUSY).

Lots of stuff I hadn't understood before - for example, the mass of protons and neutrons (actually hadrons in general) is not at all a primary attribute. Instead it's Nature's optimisation compromise between the energy in the colour field (decreases as quarks and antiquark, for example, get closer together) and the increasing energy of 'localisation' as the said quarks and antiquarks are constrained into the same place: (more precision in location means higher momentum and energy). This energy (E/c2) is what turns out to be the proton or neutron mass: the quarks and gluons themselves are almost massless.

Wilczek writes in a humorous and crystal clear way, which makes his book that rarity in popularisations - a bit of a page turner! Warning: you need to be comfortable with the conceptual basis of 'undergraduate' quantum mechanics and special relativity to engage with this book.

Crystal Clear, 07 Oct 2008
Wilczek got his Nobel Prize for his part in developing Chromodynamics, the theory of quarks and gluons and their strong force interaction. In this book we get an awe-inspiring jaunt through the most modern views of the quantum vacuum (which W. calls "The Grid") and unification theories (including SUSY).

Lots of stuff I hadn't understood before - for example, the mass of protons and neutrons (actually hadrons in general) is not at all a primary attribute. Instead it's Nature's optimisation compromise between the energy in the colour field (decreases as quarks and antiquark, for example, get closer together) and the increasing energy of 'localisation' as the said quarks and antiquarks are constrained into the same place: (more precision in location means higher momentum and energy). This energy (E/c2) is what turns out to be the proton or neutron mass: the quarks and gluons themselves are almost massless.

Wilczek writes in a humorous and crystal clear way, which makes his book that rarity in popularisations - a bit of a page turner! Warning: you need to be comfortable with the conceptual basis of 'undergraduate' quantum mechanics and special relativity to engage with this book.

get someone to buy it for you, 28 Apr 2008
if you are interested in imaging, forget it. there is no info on what the variouse targets can look like when photographed, only how to find them. a companion book on how too image and what to use is recomended.

The Novice Stargazer's Bible, 06 Mar 2008
Ask any amateur astronomer what the first book they would recommend to a novice, and the majority will tell you this very book.

Written in a style that is user friendly yet not patronising, it carefully details the highlights of the night sky (by season), giving ratings for each target. All the information on how to find that elusive nebula or galaxy etc is here, along with realistic sketched views through the scope (and finderscope) from a 'normal' viewing site.

Rather than showing each target as a HST or large observatory scope photograph, leading to frustration from the novice, this book is refreshingly honest at what the back garden stargazer will see.

Along with the catalogue of targets (with excellent descriptions of what you are looking at), there is plenty of information on how to set up scopes, what equipment to use and other general advice needed for the novice/amateur astronomer.

I've yet to see a book that covers amateur observations so well.



All that the novice needs, 22 Nov 2006
Put simply, if a novice astronomer with ANY size of telescope buys only one book to assist them, then this should be it (or at least the most recent version of it should be). I'm actually a fairly experienced amateur astronomer with an appalling inability to navigate my way round the skies - at least I did have until I had this book bought for me. Broken down into seasonal sections with indications of the right conditions to go looking for particular objects, I can't think of anything that could make the task easier (short of someone actually finding the objects for you!). It is such a good book I can forgive it a few typos and some lapses of English grammar.

My advice - buy this book!

Every bit as good as they all say !!, 24 Jul 2006
.
.

Well, what else is there to say about this book ?

In a nutshell, it transformed me from clueless beginner to starhopper & DSO finder in 2 hours flat. I have a 200mm Newtonian and I find the book perfect for this scope even though it is aimed primarily at users of small scopes. For a novice it beats a straightforward atlas hands down, giving clear step by step hops to each object. There's much more to this book than mere instructions as well. There's very good info on every single object too, so you find something, then read about it at the time you're observing it. Also, having found a number of the "summer" objects at the 1st attempt I'm very happy that I've failed to find some of the objects listed as these will become targets when I'm more practiced, so the book will remain useful for a long time, and probably forever, as the quickest way to re visit favourite objects.

An utter gem., 10 Jun 2006
This book is perfect. It take the reader and builds his interest in observing just at the point where without it the new scope would end up in the cupboard under the stairs and never be seen again until cleared out by the wife several years later and given away to a distant nephew.

The frission of finding the objects in the book never palls.

Crystal Clear, 07 Oct 2008
Wilczek got his Nobel Prize for his part in developing Chromodynamics, the theory of quarks and gluons and their strong force interaction. In this book we get an awe-inspiring jaunt through the most modern views of the quantum vacuum (which W. calls "The Grid") and unification theories (including SUSY).

Lots of stuff I hadn't understood before - for example, the mass of protons and neutrons (actually hadrons in general) is not at all a primary attribute. Instead it's Nature's optimisation compromise between the energy in the colour field (decreases as quarks and antiquark, for example, get closer together) and the increasing energy of 'localisation' as the said quarks and antiquarks are constrained into the same place: (more precision in location means higher momentum and energy). This energy (E/c2) is what turns out to be the proton or neutron mass: the quarks and gluons themselves are almost massless.

Wilczek writes in a humorous and crystal clear way, which makes his book that rarity in popularisations - a bit of a page turner! Warning: you need to be comfortable with the conceptual basis of 'undergraduate' quantum mechanics and special relativity to engage with this book.

get someone to buy it for you, 28 Apr 2008
if you are interested in imaging, forget it. there is no info on what the variouse targets can look like when photographed, only how to find them. a companion book on how too image and what to use is recomended.

The Novice Stargazer's Bible, 06 Mar 2008
Ask any amateur astronomer what the first book they would recommend to a novice, and the majority will tell you this very book.

Written in a style that is user friendly yet not patronising, it carefully details the highlights of the night sky (by season), giving ratings for each target. All the information on how to find that elusive nebula or galaxy etc is here, along with realistic sketched views through the scope (and finderscope) from a 'normal' viewing site.

Rather than showing each target as a HST or large observatory scope photograph, leading to frustration from the novice, this book is refreshingly honest at what the back garden stargazer will see.

Along with the catalogue of targets (with excellent descriptions of what you are looking at), there is plenty of information on how to set up scopes, what equipment to use and other general advice needed for the novice/amateur astronomer.

I've yet to see a book that covers amateur observations so well.



All that the novice needs, 22 Nov 2006
Put simply, if a novice astronomer with ANY size of telescope buys only one book to assist them, then this should be it (or at least the most recent version of it should be). I'm actually a fairly experienced amateur astronomer with an appalling inability to navigate my way round the skies - at least I did have until I had this book bought for me. Broken down into seasonal sections with indications of the right conditions to go looking for particular objects, I can't think of anything that could make the task easier (short of someone actually finding the objects for you!). It is such a good book I can forgive it a few typos and some lapses of English grammar.

My advice - buy this book!

Every bit as good as they all say !!, 24 Jul 2006
.
.

Well, what else is there to say about this book ?

In a nutshell, it transformed me from clueless beginner to starhopper & DSO finder in 2 hours flat. I have a 200mm Newtonian and I find the book perfect for this scope even though it is aimed primarily at users of small scopes. For a novice it beats a straightforward atlas hands down, giving clear step by step hops to each object. There's much more to this book than mere instructions as well. There's very good info on every single object too, so you find something, then read about it at the time you're observing it. Also, having found a number of the "summer" objects at the 1st attempt I'm very happy that I've failed to find some of the objects listed as these will become targets when I'm more practiced, so the book will remain useful for a long time, and probably forever, as the quickest way to re visit favourite objects.

An utter gem., 10 Jun 2006
This book is perfect. It take the reader and builds his interest in observing just at the point where without it the new scope would end up in the cupboard under the stairs and never be seen again until cleared out by the wife several years later and given away to a distant nephew.

The frission of finding the objects in the book never palls.

Review of Research Methods in Physical Activity, 13 Feb 2003
This is a well written and fairly comprehensive book that manages to cover all aspects of research design, as well as statistical concepts. As a Sports Science student, I have found this book invaluable in pulling together the ideas and statistical concepts that are necessary for a student to have a good overview of this subject. It is written in a style that has included humour, which is a bonus in what is essentially quite a dry scientific subject. I have found this book to be of great help in understanding and becoming more competent in deciding what is an apropriate research design, and choosing the correct statistical test. I would recommend this book to any Sports Science student!

A must for physiotherapy reasearch and students, 16 Oct 2001
This book gives a clear definition on the way to go about setting up and carrying out a research project. Guides you step by step with easy to follow examples. It is excellent for post-grad work and should also be of value to the smarter undergrad student. Although the lengthy reading may seem boring it is in essence what research protocol is all about.

Crystal Clear, 07 Oct 2008
Wilczek got his Nobel Prize for his part in developing Chromodynamics, the theory of quarks and gluons and their strong force interaction. In this book we get an awe-inspiring jaunt through the most modern views of the quantum vacuum (which W. calls "The Grid") and unification theories (including SUSY).

Lots of stuff I hadn't understood before - for example, the mass of protons and neutrons (actually hadrons in general) is not at all a primary attribute. Instead it's Nature's optimisation compromise between the energy in the colour field (decreases as quarks and antiquark, for example, get closer together) and the increasing energy of 'localisation' as the said quarks and antiquarks are constrained into the same place: (more precision in location means higher momentum and energy). This energy (E/c2) is what turns out to be the proton or neutron mass: the quarks and gluons themselves are almost massless.

Wilczek writes in a humorous and crystal clear way, which makes his book that rarity in popularisations - a bit of a page turner! Warning: you need to be comfortable with the conceptual basis of 'undergraduate' quantum mechanics and special relativity to engage with this book.

get someone to buy it for you, 28 Apr 2008
if you are interested in imaging, forget it. there is no info on what the variouse targets can look like when photographed, only how to find them. a companion book on how too image and what to use is recomended.

The Novice Stargazer's Bible, 06 Mar 2008
Ask any amateur astronomer what the first book they would recommend to a novice, and the majority will tell you this very book.

Written in a style that is user friendly yet not patronising, it carefully details the highlights of the night sky (by season), giving ratings for each target. All the information on how to find that elusive nebula or galaxy etc is here, along with realistic sketched views through the scope (and finderscope) from a 'normal' viewing site.

Rather than showing each target as a HST or large observatory scope photograph, leading to frustration from the novice, this book is refreshingly honest at what the back garden stargazer will see.

Along with the catalogue of targets (with excellent descriptions of what you are looking at), there is plenty of information on how to set up scopes, what equipment to use and other general advice needed for the novice/amateur astronomer.

I've yet to see a book that covers amateur observations so well.



All that the novice needs, 22 Nov 2006
Put simply, if a novice astronomer with ANY size of telescope buys only one book to assist them, then this should be it (or at least the most recent version of it should be). I'm actually a fairly experienced amateur astronomer with an appalling inability to navigate my way round the skies - at least I did have until I had this book bought for me. Broken down into seasonal sections with indications of the right conditions to go looking for particular objects, I can't think of anything that could make the task easier (short of someone actually finding the objects for you!). It is such a good book I can forgive it a few typos and some lapses of English grammar.

My advice - buy this book!

Every bit as good as they all say !!, 24 Jul 2006
.
.

Well, what else is there to say about this book ?

In a nutshell, it transformed me from clueless beginner to starhopper & DSO finder in 2 hours flat. I have a 200mm Newtonian and I find the book perfect for this scope even though it is aimed primarily at users of small scopes. For a novice it beats a straightforward atlas hands down, giving clear step by step hops to each object. There's much more to this book than mere instructions as well. There's very good info on every single object too, so you find something, then read about it at the time you're observing it. Also, having found a number of the "summer" objects at the 1st attempt I'm very happy that I've failed to find some of the objects listed as these will become targets when I'm more practiced, so the book will remain useful for a long time, and probably forever, as the quickest way to re visit favourite objects.

An utter gem., 10 Jun 2006
This book is perfect. It take the reader and builds his interest in observing just at the point where without it the new scope would end up in the cupboard under the stairs and never be seen again until cleared out by the wife several years later and given away to a distant nephew.

The frission of finding the objects in the book never palls.

Review of Research Methods in Physical Activity, 13 Feb 2003
This is a well written and fairly comprehensive book that manages to cover all aspects of research design, as well as statistical concepts. As a Sports Science student, I have found this book invaluable in pulling together the ideas and statistical concepts that are necessary for a student to have a good overview of this subject. It is written in a style that has included humour, which is a bonus in what is essentially quite a dry scientific subject. I have found this book to be of great help in understanding and becoming more competent in deciding what is an apropriate research design, and choosing the correct statistical test. I would recommend this book to any Sports Science student!

A must for physiotherapy reasearch and students, 16 Oct 2001
This book gives a clear definition on the way to go about setting up and carrying out a research project. Guides you step by step with easy to follow examples. It is excellent for post-grad work and should also be of value to the smarter undergrad student. Although the lengthy reading may seem boring it is in essence what research protocol is all about.

Brilliant, specially for researchers that don't have a clue., 03 Dec 2007
People keep telling me that they do not know how to start writing a journal/conference paper or how to start their thesis and I always recommend this book. It was one of the first books I had to read when I started my PhD and I am still thanking the professor who told me to buy this book.

Highly recommended, especially if you are new to research and you are in any of the social sciences, including information systems ;).

The most under rated book ever, 01 Feb 2007
This book lay in my university library untouched for the four years it had been on the shelves I found it completley by accident because I was sick and tired of being given research models and methodology papers that never made any sense but to run through the shredder, several times!!!! This book has to be the ultimate step by step guide to writing any form of research paper or even a two page essay argument why in the world they keep bringing the 150,000 number out I have no idea because every person who has to write a paper or just wants to write papers for fun (if there is such a thing) should have a copy of this book and plus 10 quid isn't exactly going to break the student coffers. :)

Incredible!, 19 Jan 1999
To me it was easy. Before read this book a lot of my scientific papers were regret by editors... After read it, I got three accepted manuscrips!!! (one in a top journal). I think that the ideas in this book improve my write skills.

Excellent book for writers of HS to doctorate research paper, 19 Nov 1997
"The Craft of Research" offers researchers practical and clear suggestions for organizing papers. Although somewhat geared for professional writers, it can also be used by high school students writing their first research paper. The authors offer step-by-step formulas for making and evaluating proposed 'claims.' They also include tips that relate to the prior chapter. Another important area covered by Booth, Colomb and Williams is drafting and revision. More clear, step-by-step techniques make this section an important tool for writers. Using their techniques, a writer easily identifies possible problems with arguements or organization. However, the discussion of warrants in "The Craft of Research" is difficult to follow. Since warrants are many times infered but not stated in day-to-day conversations, it is difficult topic to comprehend by novice writers. The authors attempt to explain warrants through examples, clear terms and illustrations. Although the explanation of a warrant (evidence supporting a claim) is successful, the illustrations of warrants is muddied and the logic sometimes hard to comprehend. "The Craft of Research" is an excellent tool for writers of all ages and experience levels. Its guidelines and suggestions, when followed, will produce clearer, cohesive papers and books. Writers should find a spot on the shelf for this book next to 'Miss Kate' (Turabian) as an essential writing and style guide.

Crystal Clear, 07 Oct 2008
Wilczek got his Nobel Prize for his part in developing Chromodynamics, the theory of quarks and gluons and their strong force interaction. In this book we get an awe-inspiring jaunt through the most modern views of the quantum vacuum (which W. calls "The Grid") and unification theories (including SUSY).

Lots of stuff I hadn't understood before - for example, the mass of protons and neutrons (actually hadrons in general) is not at all a primary attribute. Instead it's Nature's optimisation compromise between the energy in the colour field (decreases as quarks and antiquark, for example, get closer together) and the increasing energy of 'localisation' as the said quarks and antiquarks are constrained into the same place: (more precision in location means higher momentum and energy). This energy (E/c2) is what turns out to be the proton or neutron mass: the quarks and gluons themselves are almost massless.

Wilczek writes in a humorous and crystal clear way, which makes his book that rarity in popularisations - a bit of a page turner! Warning: you need to be comfortable with the conceptual basis of 'undergraduate' quantum mechanics and special relativity to engage with this book.

get someone to buy it for you, 28 Apr 2008
if you are interested in imaging, forget it. there is no info on what the variouse targets can look like when photographed, only how to find them. a companion book on how too image and what to use is recomended.

The Novice Stargazer's Bible, 06 Mar 2008
Ask any amateur astronomer what the first book they would recommend to a novice, and the majority will tell you this very book.

Written in a style that is user friendly yet not patronising, it carefully details the highlights of the night sky (by season), giving ratings for each target. All the information on how to find that elusive nebula or galaxy etc is here, along with realistic sketched views through the scope (and finderscope) from a 'normal' viewing site.

Rather than showing each target as a HST or large observatory scope photograph, leading to frustration from the novice, this book is refreshingly honest at what the back garden stargazer will see.

Along with the catalogue of targets (with excellent descriptions of what you are looking at), there is plenty of information on how to set up scopes, what equipment to use and other general advice needed for the novice/amateur astronomer.

I've yet to see a book that covers amateur observations so well.



All that the novice needs, 22 Nov 2006
Put simply, if a novice astronomer with ANY size of telescope buys only one book to assist them, then this should be it (or at least the most recent version of it should be). I'm actually a fairly experienced amateur astronomer with an appalling inability to navigate my way round the skies - at least I did have until I had this book bought for me. Broken down into seasonal sections with indications of the right conditions to go looking for particular objects, I can't think of anything that could make the task easier (short of someone actually finding the objects for you!). It is such a good book I can forgive it a few typos and some lapses of English grammar.

My advice - buy this book!

Every bit as good as they all say !!, 24 Jul 2006
.
.

Well, what else is there to say about this book ?

In a nutshell, it transformed me from clueless beginner to starhopper & DSO finder in 2 hours flat. I have a 200mm Newtonian and I find the book perfect for this scope even though it is aimed primarily at users of small scopes. For a novice it beats a straightforward atlas hands down, giving clear step by step hops to each object. There's much more to this book than mere instructions as well. There's very good info on every single object too, so you find something, then read about it at the time you're observing it. Also, having found a number of the "summer" objects at the 1st attempt I'm very happy that I've failed to find some of the objects listed as these will become targets when I'm more practiced, so the book will remain useful for a long time, and probably forever, as the quickest way to re visit favourite objects.

An utter gem., 10 Jun 2006
This book is perfect. It take the reader and builds his interest in observing just at the point where without it the new scope would end up in the cupboard under the stairs and never be seen again until cleared out by the wife several years later and given away to a distant nephew.

The frission of finding the objects in the book never palls.

Review of Research Methods in Physical Activity, 13 Feb 2003
This is a well written and fairly comprehensive book that manages to cover all aspects of research design, as well as statistical concepts. As a Sports Science student, I have found this book invaluable in pulling together the ideas and statistical concepts that are necessary for a student to have a good overview of this subject. It is written in a style that has included humour, which is a bonus in what is essentially quite a dry scientific subject. I have found this book to be of great help in understanding and becoming more competent in deciding what is an apropriate research design, and choosing the correct statistical test. I would recommend this book to any Sports Science student!

A must for physiotherapy reasearch and students, 16 Oct 2001
This book gives a clear definition on the way to go about setting up and carrying out a research project. Guides you step by step with easy to follow examples. It is excellent for post-grad work and should also be of value to the smarter undergrad student. Although the lengthy reading may seem boring it is in essence what research protocol is all about.

Brilliant, specially for researchers that don't have a clue., 03 Dec 2007
People keep telling me that they do not know how to start writing a journal/conference paper or how to start their thesis and I always recommend this book. It was one of the first books I had to read when I started my PhD and I am still thanking the professor who told me to buy this book.

Highly recommended, especially if you are new to research and you are in any of the social sciences, including information systems ;).

The most under rated book ever, 01 Feb 2007
This book lay in my university library untouched for the four years it had been on the shelves I found it completley by accident because I was sick and tired of being given research models and methodology papers that never made any sense but to run through the shredder, several times!!!! This book has to be the ultimate step by step guide to writing any form of research paper or even a two page essay argument why in the world they keep bringing the 150,000 number out I have no idea because every person who has to write a paper or just wants to write papers for fun (if there is such a thing) should have a copy of this book and plus 10 quid isn't exactly going to break the student coffers. :)

Incredible!, 19 Jan 1999
To me it was easy. Before read this book a lot of my scientific papers were regret by editors... After read it, I got three accepted manuscrips!!! (one in a top journal). I think that the ideas in this book improve my write skills.

Excellent book for writers of HS to doctorate research paper, 19 Nov 1997
"The Craft of Research" offers researchers practical and clear suggestions for organizing papers. Although somewhat geared for professional writers, it can also be used by high school students writing their first research paper. The authors offer step-by-step formulas for making and evaluating proposed 'claims.' They also include tips that relate to the prior chapter. Another important area covered by Booth, Colomb and Williams is drafting and revision. More clear, step-by-step techniques make this section an important tool for writers. Using their techniques, a writer easily identifies possible problems with arguements or organization. However, the discussion of warrants in "The Craft of Research" is difficult to follow. Since warrants are many times infered but not stated in day-to-day conversations, it is difficult topic to comprehend by novice writers. The authors attempt to explain warrants through examples, clear terms and illustrations. Although the explanation of a warrant (evidence supporting a claim) is successful, the illustrations of warrants is muddied and the logic sometimes hard to comprehend. "The Craft of Research" is an excellent tool for writers of all ages and experience levels. Its guidelines and suggestions, when followed, will produce clearer, cohesive papers and books. Writers should find a spot on the shelf for this book next to 'Miss Kate' (Turabian) as an essential writing and style guide.

a must read before buying a telescope of any kind, 21 May 2008
if you can't decide what to buy, read this book and you'll make a much more informed choice when you do eventually buy something. it is a must read for anyone thinking of buying that first 'scope, or even binoculars. it is full of useful info, and is the best way to avoid making a wrong purchase that i know of, especially if you are not a member of an astronomy club where you can put questions too the members. highly recomended.

If you want to learn to use a telescope,get this book, 04 Mar 2006
If you want to learn constellations, how to use a telescope to the best of it's ability, or you are looking to buy binoculars or a telescope, don't bother with other books, just buy this one. It is very useful for both someone who has never touched a telescope and those who are a little more seasoned.

Essential reading, 20 Mar 2005
An absolutely brilliant book, highly imformative and easy to read, an essential purchase for anyone considering taking up astronomy and extremely useful for the experienced amateur. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

great stuff, 04 Dec 2003
i would advise any person wanting to buy a telescope(especially the beginner) to read this book before handing over your cash.it will save you alot of money in the long run (& disappointment) & it will tell you exactly what you should be looking for when buying a telescope depending on your interests.well worth it!!!!

To the point, 05 Oct 2002
Written with the beginner in mind this is an excellent book for people about to embark on a new venture - stargazing.
If you own a telescope and find the whole thing perplexing then I am sure this book will help. For me, however, its strength lies in its information aimed at people about to buy thier first instrument. Unbiased, to the point and very well explained it is one of the best starter books I have read in a long time. I feel confident that I now know what it is I am looking for to suit my needs and I can shop armed with all the information I need . Highly recomended

Crystal Clear, 07 Oct 2008
Wilczek got his Nobel Prize for his part in developing Chromodynamics, the theory of quarks and gluons and their strong force interaction. In this book we get an awe-inspiring jaunt through the most modern views of the quantum vacuum (which W. calls "The Grid") and unification theories (including SUSY).

Lots of stuff I hadn't understood before - for example, the mass of protons and neutrons (actually hadrons in general) is not at all a primary attribute. Instead it's Nature's optimisation compromise between the energy in the colour field (decreases as quarks and antiquark, for example, get closer together) and the increasing energy of 'localisation' as the said quarks and antiquarks are constrained into the same place: (more precision in location means higher momentum and energy). This energy (E/c2) is what turns out to be the proton or neutron mass: the quarks and gluons themselves are almost massless.

Wilczek writes in a humorous and crystal clear way, which makes his book that rarity in popularisations - a bit of a page turner! Warning: you need to be comfortable with the conceptual basis of 'undergraduate' quantum mechanics and special relativity to engage with this book.

get someone to buy it for you, 28 Apr 2008
if you are interested in imaging, forget it. there is no info on what the variouse targets can look like when photographed, only how to find them. a companion book on how too image and what to use is recomended.

The Novice Stargazer's Bible, 06 Mar 2008
Ask any amateur astronomer what the first book they would recommend to a novice, and the majority will tell you this very book.

Written in a style that is user friendly yet not patronising, it carefully details the highlights of the night sky (by season), giving ratings for each target. All the information on how to find that elusive nebula or galaxy etc is here, along with realistic sketched views through the scope (and finderscope) from a 'normal' viewing site.

Rather than showing each target as a HST or large observatory scope photograph, leading to frustration from the novice, this book is refreshingly honest at what the back garden stargazer will see.

Along with the catalogue of targets (with excellent descriptions of what you are looking at), there is plenty of information on how to set up scopes, what equipment to use and other general advice needed for the novice/amateur astronomer.

I've yet to see a book that covers amateur observations so well.



All that the novice needs, 22 Nov 2006
Put simply, if a novice astronomer with ANY size of telescope buys only one book to assist them, then this should be it (or at least the most recent version of it should be). I'm actually a fairly experienced amateur astronomer with an appalling inability to navigate my way round the skies - at least I did have until I had this book bought for me. Broken down into seasonal sections with indications of the right conditions to go looking for particular objects, I can't think of anything that could make the task easier (short of someone actually finding the objects for you!). It is such a good book I can forgive it a few typos and some lapses of English grammar.

My advice - buy this book!

Every bit as good as they all say !!, 24 Jul 2006
.
.

Well, what else is there to say about this book ?

In a nutshell, it transformed me from clueless beginner to starhopper & DSO finder in 2 hours flat. I have a 200mm Newtonian and I find the book perfect for this scope even though it is aimed primarily at users of small scopes. For a novice it beats a straightforward atlas hands down, giving clear step by step hops to each object. There's much more to this book than mere instructions as well. There's very good info on every single object too, so you find something, then read about it at the time you're observing it. Also, having found a number of the "summer" objects at the 1st attempt I'm very happy that I've failed to find some of the objects listed as these will become targets when I'm more practiced, so the book will remain useful for a long time, and probably forever, as the quickest way to re visit favourite objects.

An utter gem., 10 Jun 2006
This book is perfect. It take the reader and builds his interest in observing just at the point where without it the new scope would end up in the cupboard under the stairs and never be seen again until cleared out by the wife several years later and given away to a distant nephew.

The frission of finding the objects in the book never palls.

Review of Research Methods in Physical Activity, 13 Feb 2003
This is a well written and fairly comprehensive book that manages to cover all aspects of research design, as well as statistical concepts. As a Sports Science student, I have found this book invaluable in pulling together the ideas and statistical concepts that are necessary for a student to have a good overview of this subject. It is written in a style that has included humour, which is a bonus in what is essentially quite a dry scientific subject. I have found this book to be of great help in understanding and becoming more competent in deciding what is an apropriate research design, and choosing the correct statistical test. I would recommend this book to any Sports Science student!

A must for physiotherapy reasearch and students, 16 Oct 2001
This book gives a clear definition on the way to go about setting up and carrying out a research project. Guides you step by step with easy to follow examples. It is excellent for post-grad work and should also be of value to the smarter undergrad student. Although the lengthy reading may seem boring it is in essence what research protocol is all about.

Brilliant, specially for researchers that don't have a clue., 03 Dec 2007
People keep telling me that they do not know how to start writing a journal/conference paper or how to start their thesis and I always recommend this book. It was one of the first books I had to read when I started my PhD and I am still thanking the professor who told me to buy this book.

Highly recommended, especially if you are new to research and you are in any of the social sciences, including information systems ;).

The most under rated book ever, 01 Feb 2007
This book lay in my university library untouched for the four years it had been on the shelves I found it completley by accident because I was sick and tired of being given research models and methodology papers that never made any sense but to run through the shredder, several times!!!! This book has to be the ultimate step by step guide to writing any form of research paper or even a two page essay argument why in the world they keep bringing the 150,000 number out I have no idea because every person who has to write a paper or just wants to write papers for fun (if there is such a thing) should have a copy of this book and plus 10 quid isn't exactly going to break the student coffers. :)

Incredible!, 19 Jan 1999
To me it was easy. Before read this book a lot of my scientific papers were regret by editors... After read it, I got three accepted manuscrips!!! (one in a top journal). I think that the ideas in this book improve my write skills.

Excellent book for writers of HS to doctorate research paper, 19 Nov 1997
"The Craft of Research" offers researchers practical and clear suggestions for organizing papers. Although somewhat geared for professional writers, it can also be used by high school students writing their first research paper. The authors offer step-by-step formulas for making and evaluating proposed 'claims.' They also include tips that relate to the prior chapter. Another important area covered by Booth, Colomb and Williams is drafting and revision. More clear, step-by-step techniques make this section an important tool for writers. Using their techniques, a writer easily identifies possible problems with arguements or organization. However, the discussion of warrants in "The Craft of Research" is difficult to follow. Since warrants are many times infered but not stated in day-to-day conversations, it is difficult topic to comprehend by novice writers. The authors attempt to explain warrants through examples, clear terms and illustrations. Although the explanation of a warrant (evidence supporting a claim) is successful, the illustrations of warrants is muddied and the logic sometimes hard to comprehend. "The Craft of Research" is an excellent tool for writers of all ages and experience levels. Its guidelines and suggestions, when followed, will produce clearer, cohesive papers and books. Writers should find a spot on the shelf for this book next to 'Miss Kate' (Turabian) as an essential writing and style guide.

a must read before buying a telescope of any kind, 21 May 2008
if you can't decide what to buy, read this book and you'll make a much more informed choice when you do eventually buy something. it is a must read for anyone thinking of buying that first 'scope, or even binoculars. it is full of useful info, and is the best way to avoid making a wrong purchase that i know of, especially if you are not a member of an astronomy club where you can put questions too the members. highly recomended.

If you want to learn to use a telescope,get this book, 04 Mar 2006
If you want to learn constellations, how to use a telescope to the best of it's ability, or you are looking to buy binoculars or a telescope, don't bother with other books, just buy this one. It is very useful for both someone who has never touched a telescope and those who are a little more seasoned.

Essential reading, 20 Mar 2005
An absolutely brilliant book, highly imformative and easy to read, an essential purchase for anyone considering taking up astronomy and extremely useful for the experienced amateur. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

great stuff, 04 Dec 2003
i would advise any person wanting to buy a telescope(especially the beginner) to read this book before handing over your cash.it will save you alot of money in the long run (& disappointment) & it will tell you exactly what you should be looking for when buying a telescope depending on your interests.well worth it!!!!

To the point, 05 Oct 2002
Written with the beginner in mind this is an excellent book for people about to embark on a new venture - stargazing.
If you own a telescope and find the whole thing perplexing then I am sure this book will help. For me, however, its strength lies in its information aimed at people about to buy thier first instrument. Unbiased, to the point and very well explained it is one of the best starter books I have read in a long time. I feel confident that I now know what it is I am looking for to suit my needs and I can shop armed with all the information I need . Highly recomended

Excellent, 12 Nov 2003
I use this book for my AS Level chemistry. It is not suitable for use on it's own but is an excellent supplement to a textbook. It has all the information you need, but not in as much detail as a main textbook.

Easy to understand, 01 Sep 2002
This is the best AQA revision book available. The rest of the books in the series are also worth buying. They contain a large amount of content but are small enough to read through for last minute revision. They helped me to get a grade A in my chemistry AS. I would definitely recommend these books to anyone studying the AQA syllabus.

An excellent guide-book for this module, 16 Mar 2002
The book covers the bare essentials for this chemistry module. Although it does not go into substantial detail, it is excellent as a quick reference and is also very useful for "last-minute" cramming

Small, concise and friendly looking but with plenty detail., 07 Mar 2002
The book is perfect for revision. I found it really great that it was specific only to my sylabus because it meant there were no extra pages to wade through. Although i am aware some books tell you which parts you need to look at for each specification i prefered a book catering for only one examining board because it kept content down to a minimum making it look less threatening and much more approachable! The modular format also really helped with this, i'd suggest you get the whole set! The content is easy to understand and in easily enough detail. The books do contain colour and highlighted text but not many different colours (generally just black, one bright colour and shades of gray) which i liked beaucse i find some revision books overwhelming and confusing due to them overdoing it on the colour! All in all, a very helpful revision aid.

Want to pass this exam? Buy this book!, 25 Feb 2002
It's official - whoever had the idea for this series of Collins revision guides is a genius. Why? Well, read on......
These guides are written specifically for the AQA Chemistry syllabus. Many revision guides are written for the general subject of Chemistry - however, there are differences between the different exam boards, and so using a syllabus specific revision guide ensures you are learning all of the material you need to know - and are not wasting time learning things not on your syllabus.
Plus, these provide clearly worked examples of the sorts of questions you get asked not only in exams, but also for your homework - which comes in useful! There is also a mock paper - taken form the AQA resource pack - and a detailed answer scheme, so you can really test your knowledge.
If that isn't enough to convince you that you should buy this immediately, this guide is also written really clearly, using bullet points, tables and margin notes to ensure you understand every topic fully, and each section is clearly referenced to the syllabus, so you can make revision notes really easily and quickly.
Still not convinced? Well - my chemistry teacher was so impressed with it, he's planning to buy a complete set for his class next year!
If you really want to do well in Chemistry......my advice? Buy this now!

Crystal Clear, 07 Oct 2008
Wilczek got his Nobel Prize for his part in developing Chromodynamics, the theory of quarks and gluons and their strong force interaction. In this book we get an awe-inspiring jaunt through the most modern views of the quantum vacuum (which W. calls "The Grid") and unification theories (including SUSY).

Lots of stuff I hadn't understood before - for example, the mass of protons and neutrons (actually hadrons in general) is not at all a primary attribute. Instead it's Nature's optimisation compromise between the energy in the colour field (decreases as quarks and antiquark, for example, get closer together) and the increasing energy of 'localisation' as the said quarks and antiquarks are constrained into the same place: (more precision in location means higher momentum and energy). This energy (E/c2) is what turns out to be the proton or neutron mass: the quarks and gluons themselves are almost massless.

Wilczek writes in a humorous and crystal clear way, which makes his book that rarity in popularisations - a bit of a page turner! Warning: you need to be comfortable with the conceptual basis of 'undergraduate' quantum mechanics and special relativity to engage with this book.

get someone to buy it for you, 28 Apr 2008
if you are interested in imaging, forget it. there is no info on what the variouse targets can look like when photographed, only how to find them. a companion book on how too image and what to use is recomended.

The Novice Stargazer's Bible, 06 Mar 2008
Ask any amateur astronomer what the first book they would recommend to a novice, and the majority will tell you this very book.

Written in a style that is user friendly yet not patronising, it carefully details the highlights of the night sky (by season), giving ratings for each target. All the information on how to find that elusive nebula or galaxy etc is here, along with realistic sketched views through the scope (and finderscope) from a 'normal' viewing site.

Rather than showing each target as a HST or large observatory scope photograph, leading to frustration from the novice, this book is refreshingly honest at what the back garden stargazer will see.

Along with the catalogue of targets (with excellent descriptions of what you are looking at), there is plenty of information on how to set up scopes, what equipment to use and other general advice needed for the novice/amateur astronomer.

I've yet to see a book that covers amateur observations so well.



All that the novice needs, 22 Nov 2006
Put simply, if a novice astronomer with ANY size of telescope buys only one book to assist them, then this should be it (or at least the most recent version of it should be). I'm actually a fairly experienced amateur astronomer with an appalling inability to navigate my way round the skies - at least I did have until I had this book bought for me. Broken down into seasonal sections with indications of the right conditions to go looking for particular objects, I can't think of anything that could make the task easier (short of someone actually finding the objects for you!). It is such a good book I can forgive it a few typos and some lapses of English grammar.

My advice - buy this book!

Every bit as good as they all say !!, 24 Jul 2006
.
.

Well, what else is there to say about this book ?

In a nutshell, it transformed me from clueless beginner to starhopper & DSO finder in 2 hours flat. I have a 200mm Newtonian and I find the book perfect for this scope even though it is aimed primarily at users of small scopes. For a novice it beats a straightforward atlas hands down, giving clear step by step hops to each object. There's much more to this book than mere instructions as well. There's very good info on every single object too, so you find something, then read about it at the time you're observing it. Also, having found a number of the "summer" objects at the 1st attempt I'm very happy that I've failed to find some of the objects listed as these will become targets when I'm more practiced, so the book will remain useful for a long time, and probably forever, as the quickest way to re visit favourite objects.

An utter gem., 10 Jun 2006
This book is perfect. It take the reader and builds his interest in observing just at the point where without it the new scope would end up in the cupboard under the stairs and never be seen again until cleared out by the wife several years later and given away to a distant nephew.

The frission of finding the objects in the book never palls.

Review of Research Methods in Physical Activity, 13 Feb 2003
This is a well written and fairly comprehensive book that manages to cover all aspects of research design, as well as statistical concepts. As a Sports Science student, I have found this book invaluable in pulling together the ideas and statistical concepts that are necessary for a student to have a good overview of this subject. It is written in a style that has included humour, which is a bonus in what is essentially quite a dry scientific subject. I have found this book to be of great help in understanding and becoming more competent in deciding what is an apropriate research design, and choosing the correct statistical test. I would recommend this book to any Sports Science student!

A must for physiotherapy reasearch and students, 16 Oct 2001
This book gives a clear definition on the way to go about setting up and carrying out a research project. Guides you step by step with easy to follow examples. It is excellent for post-grad work and should also be of value to the smarter undergrad student. Although the lengthy reading may seem boring it is in essence what research protocol is all about.

Brilliant, specially for researchers that don't have a clue., 03 Dec 2007
People keep telling me that they do not know how to start writing a journal/conference paper or how to start their thesis and I always recommend this book. It was one of the first books I had to read when I started my PhD and I am still thanking the professor who told me to buy this book.

Highly recommended, especially if you are new to research and you are in any of the social sciences, including information systems ;).

The most under rated book ever, 01 Feb 2007
This book lay in my university library untouched for the four years it had been on the shelves I found it completley by accident because I was sick and tired of being given research models and methodology papers that never made any sense but to run through the shredder, several times!!!! This book has to be the ultimate step by step guide to writing any form of research paper or even a two page essay argument why in the world they keep bringing the 150,000 number out I have no idea because every person who has to write a paper or just wants to write papers for fun (if there is such a thing) should have a copy of this book and plus 10 quid isn't exactly going to break the student coffers. :)

Incredible!, 19 Jan 1999
To me it was easy. Before read this book a lot of my scientific papers were regret by editors... After read it, I got three accepted manuscrips!!! (one in a top journal). I think that the ideas in this book improve my write skills.

Excellent book for writers of HS to doctorate research paper, 19 Nov 1997
"The Craft of Research" offers researchers practical and clear suggestions for organizing papers. Although somewhat geared for professional writers, it can also be used by high school students writing their first research paper. The authors offer step-by-step formulas for making and evaluating proposed 'claims.' They also include tips that relate to the prior chapter. Another important area covered by Booth, Colomb and Williams is drafting and revision. More clear, step-by-step techniques make this section an important tool for writers. Using their techniques, a writer easily identifies possible problems with arguements or organization. However, the discussion of warrants in "The Craft of Research" is difficult to follow. Since warrants are many times infered but not stated in day-to-day conversations, it is difficult topic to comprehend by novice writers. The authors attempt to explain warrants through examples, clear terms and illustrations. Although the explanation of a warrant (evidence supporting a claim) is successful, the illustrations of warrants is muddied and the logic sometimes hard to comprehend. "The Craft of Research" is an excellent tool for writers of all ages and experience levels. Its guidelines and suggestions, when followed, will produce clearer, cohesive papers and books. Writers should find a spot on the shelf for this book next to 'Miss Kate' (Turabian) as an essential writing and style guide.

a must read before buying a telescope of any kind, 21 May 2008
if you can't decide what to buy, read this book and you'll make a much more informed choice when you do eventually buy something. it is a must read for anyone thinking of buying that first 'scope, or even binoculars. it is full of useful info, and is the best way to avoid making a wrong purchase that i know of, especially if you are not a member of an astronomy club where you can put questions too the members. highly recomended.

If you want to learn to use a telescope,get this book, 04 Mar 2006
If you want to learn constellations, how to use a telescope to the best of it's ability, or you are looking to buy binoculars or a telescope, don't bother with other books, just buy this one. It is very useful for both someone who has never touched a telescope and those who are a little more seasoned.

Essential reading, 20 Mar 2005
An absolutely brilliant book, highly imformative and easy to read, an essential purchase for anyone considering taking up astronomy and extremely useful for the experienced amateur. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

great stuff, 04 Dec 2003
i would advise any person wanting to buy a telescope(especially the beginner) to read this book before handing over your cash.it will save you alot of money in the long run (& disappointment) & it will tell you exactly what you should be looking for when buying a telescope depending on your interests.well worth it!!!!

To the point, 05 Oct 2002
Written with the beginner in mind this is an excellent book for people about to embark on a new venture - stargazing.
If you own a telescope and find the whole thing perplexing then I am sure this book will help. For me, however, its strength lies in its information aimed at people about to buy thier first instrument. Unbiased, to the point and very well explained it is one of the best starter books I have read in a long time. I feel confident that I now know what it is I am looking for to suit my needs and I can shop armed with all the information I need . Highly recomended

Excellent, 12 Nov 2003
I use this book for my AS Level chemistry. It is not suitable for use on it's own but is an excellent supplement to a textbook. It has all the information you need, but not in as much detail as a main textbook.

Easy to understand, 01 Sep 2002
This is the best AQA revision book available. The rest of the books in the series are also worth buying. They contain a large amount of content but are small enough to read through for last minute revision. They helped me to get a grade A in my chemistry AS. I would definitely recommend these books to anyone studying the AQA syllabus.

An excellent guide-book for this module, 16 Mar 2002
The book covers the bare essentials for this chemistry module. Although it does not go into substantial detail, it is excellent as a quick reference and is also very useful for "last-minute" cramming

Small, concise and friendly looking but with plenty detail., 07 Mar 2002
The book is perfect for revision. I found it really great that it was specific only to my sylabus because it meant there were no extra pages to wade through. Although i am aware some books tell you which parts you need to look at for each specification i prefered a book catering for only one examining board because it kept content down to a minimum making it look less threatening and much more approachable! The modular format also really helped with this, i'd suggest you get the whole set! The content is easy to understand and in easily enough detail. The books do contain colour and highlighted text but not many different colours (generally just black, one bright colour and shades of gray) which i liked beaucse i find some revision books overwhelming and confusing due to them overdoing it on the colour! All in all, a very helpful revision aid.

Want to pass this exam? Buy this book!, 25 Feb 2002
It's official - whoever had the idea for this series of Collins revision guides is a genius. Why? Well, read on......
These guides are written specifically for the AQA Chemistry syllabus. Many revision guides are written for the general subject of Chemistry - however, there are differences between the different exam boards, and so using a syllabus specific revision guide ensures you are learning all of the material you need to know - and are not wasting time learning things not on your syllabus.
Plus, these provide clearly worked examples of the sorts of questions you get asked not only in exams, but also for your homework - which comes in useful! There is also a mock paper - taken form the AQA resource pack - and a detailed answer scheme, so you can really test your knowledge.
If that isn't enough to convince you that you should buy this immediately, this guide is also written really clearly, using bullet points, tables and margin notes to ensure you understand every topic fully, and each section is clearly referenced to the syllabus, so you can make revision notes really easily and quickly.
Still not convinced? Well - my chemistry teacher was so impressed with it, he's planning to buy a complete set for his class next year!
If you really want to do well in Chemistry......my advice? Buy this now!

A great text, improved!, 26 Jun 2002
This book is apparently the best selling "one volume" text for A Level Statistics or the Statistics element of A Level Maths, and it is easy to understand why. I previously owned the third edition of this book, which was excellent. In rare instances, however, it lacked depth and explanation, and didn't explicitly feature some of the topics which exist in some current A Level syllabuses. The fourth edition, released last year, has fully ironed out any weaknesses which may have existed, and is bang up to date with an interesting new section on computer applications. Every possible topic is explained in the best possible way. There are also many questions, of varying difficulty, on every topic. A Level Statistics can be difficult, but an easy start is to buy this book! Another book I'd recommend is Understanding Statistics, published by Oxford University Press.

Crystal Clear, 07 Oct 2008
Wilczek got his Nobel Prize for his part in developing Chromodynamics, the theory of quarks and gluons and their strong force interaction. In this book we get an awe-inspiring jaunt through the most modern views of the quantum vacuum (which W. calls "The Grid") and unification theories (including SUSY).

Lots of stuff I hadn't understood before - for example, the mass of protons and neutrons (actually hadrons in general) is not at all a primary attribute. Instead it's Nature's optimisation compromise between the energy in the colour field (decreases as quarks and antiquark, for example, get closer together) and the increasing energy of 'localisation' as the said quarks and antiquarks are constrained into the same place: (more precision in location means higher momentum and energy). This energy (E/c2) is what turns out to be the proton or neutron mass: the quarks and gluons themselves are almost massless.

Wilczek writes in a humorous and crystal clear way, which makes his book that rarity in popularisations - a bit of a page turner! Warning: you need to be comfortable with the conceptual basis of 'undergraduate' quantum mechanics and special relativity to engage with this book.

get someone to buy it for you, 28 Apr 2008
if you are interested in imaging, forget it. there is no info on what the variouse targets can look like when photographed, only how to find them. a companion book on how too image and what to use is recomended.

The Novice Stargazer's Bible, 06 Mar 2008
Ask any amateur astronomer what the first book they would recommend to a novice, and the majority will tell you this very book.

Written in a style that is user friendly yet not patronising, it carefully details the highlights of the night sky (by season), giving ratings for each target. All the information on how to find that elusive nebula or galaxy etc is here, along with realistic sketched views through the scope (and finderscope) from a 'normal' viewing site.

Rather than showing each target as a HST or large observatory scope photograph, leading to frustration from the novice, this book is refreshingly honest at what the back garden stargazer will see.

Along with the catalogue of targets (with excellent descriptions of what you are looking at), there is plenty of information on how to set up scopes, what equipment to use and other general advice needed for the novice/amateur astronomer.

I've yet to see a book that covers amateur observations so well.



All that the novice needs, 22 Nov 2006
Put simply, if a novice astronomer with ANY size of telescope buys only one book to assist them, then this should be it (or at least the most recent version of it should be). I'm actually a fairly experienced amateur astronomer with an appalling inability to navigate my way round the skies - at least I did have until I had this book bought for me. Broken down into seasonal sections with indications of the right conditions to go looking for particular objects, I can't think of anything that could make the task easier (short of someone actually finding the objects for you!). It is such a good book I can forgive it a few typos and some lapses of English grammar.

My advice - buy this book!

Every bit as good as they all say !!, 24 Jul 2006
.
.

Well, what else is there to say about this book ?

In a nutshell, it transformed me from clueless beginner to starhopper & DSO finder in 2 hours flat. I have a 200mm Newtonian and I find the book perfect for this scope even though it is aimed primarily at users of small scopes. For a novice it beats a straightforward atlas hands down, giving clear step by step hops to each object. There's much more to this book than mere instructions as well. There's very good info on every single object too, so you find something, then read about it at the time you're observing it. Also, having found a number of the "summer" objects at the 1st attempt I'm very happy that I've failed to find some of the objects listed as these will become targets when I'm more practiced, so the book will remain useful for a long time, and probably forever, as the quickest way to re visit favourite objects.

An utter gem., 10 Jun 2006
This book is perfect. It take the reader and builds his interest in observing just at the point where without it the new scope would end up in the cupboard under the stairs and never be seen again until cleared out by the wife several years later and given away to a distant nephew.

The frission of finding the objects in the book never palls.

Review of Research Methods in Physical Activity, 13 Feb 2003
This is a well written and fairly comprehensive book that manages to cover all aspects of research design, as well as statistical concepts. As a Sports Science student, I have found this book invaluable in pulling together the ideas and statistical concepts that are necessary for a student to have a good overview of this subject. It is written in a style that has included humour, which is a bonus in what is essentially quite a dry scientific subject. I have found this book to be of great help in understanding and becoming more competent in deciding what is an apropriate research design, and choosing the correct statistical test. I would recommend this book to any Sports Science student!

A must for physiotherapy reasearch and students, 16 Oct 2001
This book gives a clear definition on the way to go about setting up and carrying out a research project. Guides you step by step with easy to follow examples. It is excellent for post-grad work and should also be of value to the smarter undergrad student. Although the lengthy reading may seem boring it is in essence what research protocol is all about.

Brilliant, specially for researchers that don't have a clue., 03 Dec 2007
People keep telling me that they do not know how to start writing a journal/conference paper or how to start their thesis and I always recommend this book. It was one of the first books I had to read when I started my PhD and I am still thanking the professor who told me to buy this book.

Highly recommended, especially if you are new to research and you are in any of the social sciences, including information systems ;).

The most under rated book ever, 01 Feb 2007
This book lay in my university library untouched for the four years it had been on the shelves I found it completley by accident because I was sick and tired of being given research models and methodology papers that never made any sense but to run through the shredder, several times!!!! This book has to be the ultimate step by step guide to writing any form of research paper or even a two page essay argument why in the world they keep bringing the 150,000 number out I have no idea because every person who has to write a paper or just wants to write papers for fun (if there is such a thing) should have a copy of this book and plus 10 quid isn't exactly going to break the student coffers. :)

Incredible!, 19 Jan 1999
To me it was easy. Before read this book a lot of my scientific papers were regret by editors... After read it, I got three accepted manuscrips!!! (one in a top journal). I think that the ideas in this book improve my write skills.

Excellent book for writers of HS to doctorate research paper, 19 Nov 1997
"The Craft of Research" offers researchers practical and clear suggestions for organizing papers. Although somewhat geared for professional writers, it can also be used by high school students writing their first research paper. The authors offer step-by-step formulas for making and evaluating proposed 'claims.' They also include tips that relate to the prior chapter. Another important area covered by Booth, Colomb and Williams is drafting and revision. More clear, step-by-step techniques make this section an important tool for writers. Using their techniques, a writer easily identifies possible problems with arguements or organization. However, the discussion of warrants in "The Craft of Research" is difficult to follow. Since warrants are many times infered but not stated in day-to-day conversations, it is difficult topic to comprehend by novice writers. The authors attempt to explain warrants through examples, clear terms and illustrations. Although the explanation of a warrant (evidence supporting a claim) is successful, the illustrations of warrants is muddied and the logic sometimes hard to comprehend. "The Craft of Research" is an excellent tool for writers of all ages and experience levels. Its guidelines and suggestions, when followed, will produce clearer, cohesive papers and books. Writers should find a spot on the shelf for this book next to 'Miss Kate' (Turabian) as an essential writing and style guide.

a must read before buying a telescope of any kind, 21 May 2008
if you can't decide what to buy, read this book and you'll make a much more informed choice when you do eventually buy something. it is a must read for anyone thinking of buying that first 'scope, or even binoculars. it is full of useful info, and is the best way to avoid making a wrong purchase that i know of, especially if you are not a member of an astronomy club where you can put questions too the members. highly recomended.

If you want to learn to use a telescope,get this book, 04 Mar 2006
If you want to learn constellations, how to use a telescope to the best of it's ability, or you are looking to buy binoculars or a telescope, don't bother with other books, just buy this one. It is very useful for both someone who has never touched a telescope and those who are a little more seasoned.

Essential reading, 20 Mar 2005
An absolutely brilliant book, highly imformative and easy to read, an essential