A comprehensive introductory coursebook for students of business studies. It develops practical skills by involving students in real-life business problems. The student is introduced to basic business ideas through the small firm and these ideas are developed through a study of large firms and new concepts are explored. The final section of the book deals with wider issues and looks at the relation between the state and business activity. Teaching aims are clearly identified at the start of each unit and there is a summary of key words and ideas at the end of each unit to reinforce understanding. The text includes activities, case studies, tasks and assignments, and each unit concludes with text questions and suggestions for coursework. Questions and assignments are designed to promote understanding of ideas, rather than to check factual recall and are structured for the full ability range.