"The Prentice Hall Essence of Computing Series provides a concise, practical and uniform introduction to the core components of an undergraduate computer science degree. Acknowledging the recent changes within Higher Education, this approach uses a variety of pedagogical tools - case studies, worked examples and self-test qustions - to underpin the student's learning. " "The Essence of Artificial Intelligence provides a concise and accessible introduction to the topic for students with no prior knowledge of AI. " "Taking a pragmatic approach to the subject, this book demystifies and makes the subject concrete and transparent. Examples and algorithms are given throughout and can be sensibly implemented in a range of different languages. "--BOOK JACKET.