There are two ways to enter this handbook to obtain the maximum benefit from the time invested. The first entry is through the index; the second is through the table of contents of the section covering the discipline, or related discipline, concerned. Each method is discussed in detail below.

Index. Great care and considerable time were expended on preparation of the index of this handbook so that it would be of maximum use to every reader. As a general guide, enter the index using the generic term for the type of calculation procedure being considered. Thus, for the design of a beam, enter at beam( s). From here, progress to the specific type of beam being considered such as continuous, of steel. Once the page number or numbers of the appropriate calculation procedure are determined, turn to them to find the step-by-step instructions and worked-out example that can be followed to solve the problem quickly and accurately.

Contents. The contents of each section lists the titles of the calculation procedures contained in that section. Where extensive use of any section is contemplated, the editor suggests that the reader might benefit from an occasional glance at the table of contents of that section. Such a glance will give the user of this handbook an understanding of the breadth and coverage of a given section, or a series of sections. Then, when he or she turns to this handbook for assistance, the reader will be able...