This book was written for the purpose of presenting the subject of arithmetic, as used in the daily work of the carpenter and builder, in a simple form. It is intended for the practical man as well as for the beginner and the student.

The material is such that the work can be followed successfully by those who have had an eighth-grade education. Upon the completion of this study the student should be prepared to take up the problem of estimating the cost of buildings.

The author has not attempted to treat the subject exhaustively. Though the first chapters may seem elementary to some, they will furnish a much-needed review to others. Geometry is touched upon merely to serve as a foundation for the work in mensuration. Practical applications of geometric truths are emphasized, while rigid proofs and developments are omitted. Two chapters on the steel square, that most useful tool of the carpenter, are included.

Many of the problems do not admit of exact answers for the reason that the judgment of the student plays an important part in the solution. Different results will be obtained, depending upon the lengths and widths of the boards chosen and other similar details. Careful planning for the economical use of material is required, for this is an essential training for the work of the practical carpenter.

Students will do well to take advantage of this and every similar opportunity to develop their judgment. It is believed that the reader who follows this text carefully as a guide may learn much that may not strictly be classed as arithmetic. If the manner in which the subject is treated and the many applications made inspire the practical worker and the beginner to seek a better understanding of the fundamentals of carpentry, the author's most sanguine hopes will be justified.

As a text in vocational mathematics it is believed that this little volume should find a place in vocational and industrial schools, trade schools, manual training schools and night schools. It is also well adapted for use in correspondence instruction. The material has been used by the author in the Vocational Courses in Engineering at the Iowa State College and also in the extension classes of the Department of Engineering Extension in various cities in the state of Iowa.

No single book is the entire and original product of one man's mind; it consists rather of accumulated knowledge interpreted and adapted for a particular purpose. The author gratefully acknowledges assistance rendered knowingly and unknowingly by many others. Material borrowed from other sources is acknowledged in the text.