This major new textbook provides a clearly-written, concise and accessible introduction to speech and language processing. Assuming knowledge of only the very basics of linguistics and written specifically for students with no technical background, it is the perfect starting point for anyone beginning to study the discipline. Student s are shown from an elementary level how to use two programming languages, C and Prolog, and the accompanying CD-ROM contains all the software needed. Setting an invaluable foundation for further study, this is set to become the leading introduction to the field.