"... It has the very specific aim of explaining techniques and concepts. It does so from a very practical standpoint by drawing on reasonably small-scale examples. To allow the reader to measure comprehension at each stage selected exercises are provided. The 'answer pointers' at the end of the chapter readily reveal any lack of comprehension... This book is strongly recommended to serious students..... It is able to delve thoroughly into the area of data analysis and model design." --The Computer Journal. (Of the first edition)