Uses a multidisciplinary approach that integrates geotechnical, structural, and construction aspects of foundation engineering.

Emphasizes quantitative analysis throughout, and provides numerical examples to illustrate analysis and design methods.

Frequently discusses uncertainties in analysis, design, and construction, compares predicted performance with actual performance, and plots experimental data used to develop design functions.

Reflects recent research and developments in:

• the design of drilled shaft foundations
• the use of the cone penetration test (CPT) data to analyze and design foundations
• foundations on expansive soils and collapsible soils

Considers laterally loaded deep foundations -- giving background for numerical models, and simple chart solutions for hand computations.

Provides practice problems -- half using English units of measurement; half using SI units.

Contains historical vignettes that describe the development of modern foundation engineering, especially those that address the relationships between theory and practice.