Numerical analysis is a blend of mathematics and computer science that has produced powerful tools for solving otherwise intractable problems in science and engineering. Consequently this subject can be viewed from the perspective of a mathematician when an algorithm is being created or assessed, a computer scientist when it is implemented in software or modified for optimal performance on a particular device, or a problem solver once a mathematical model is created. This book provides insight into all three perspectives by describing the mathematical, computational, and functional factors that account for the strengths and weaknesses of current numerical methods. A broad insight can be achieved by reading this book, and hopefully will enable readers to create or select reliable software and then use it effectively to solve problems.