Essential soil science

Written for the large group of students who need a brief, well-organised introduction to soil science, this book addresses a gap left by many existing texts. Those were designed for students following a conventional three-year specialist degree, whereas today soil science is often a single module within a broader programme. Learners on such courses tend to resist costly, highly technical volumes that presume prior scientific training.

The guide suits readers from backgrounds such as geography, environmental science, ecology and agriculture who have not studied science in a traditional way. Its compact format keeps the price low and gives a clear overview of the subject. Each chapter closes with a summary, and learning exercises encourage active study. Annotated recommendations point readers toward further sources for those who want to go deeper.

The book is presented as the only text aimed specifically at introductory soil science courses. Its structure follows a modular teaching model that has been tested in practice, and its emphasis is on accessible writing and hands-on engagement.