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xvi Computational Statistics Handbook with MATLAB

tists who would like to know more about programming methods for analyz-
ing data in MATLAB would also find it useful.
We assume that the reader has the following background:

•Calculus: Since this book is computational in nature, the reader
needs only a rudimentary knowledge of calculus. Knowing the
definition of a derivative and an integral is all that is required.
•Linear Algebra: Since MATLAB is an array-based computing lan-
guage, we cast several of the algorithms in terms of matrix algebra.
The reader should have a familiarity with the notation of linear
algebra, array multiplication, inverses, determinants, an array
transpose, etc.
• Probability and Statistics: We assume that the reader has had intro-
ductory probability and statistics courses. However, we provide a
brief overview of the relevant topics for those who might need a
refresher.

We list below some of the major features of the book.

• The focus is on implementation rather than theory, helping the
reader understand the concepts without being burdened by the
theory.
• References that explain the theory are provided at the end of each
chapter. Thus, those readers who need the theoretical underpin-
nings will know where to find the information.
• Detailed step-by-step algorithms are provided to facilitate imple-
mentation in any computer programming language or appropriate
software. This makes the book appropriate for computer users who
do not know MATLAB.
• MATLAB code in the form of a Computational Statistics Toolbox
is provided. These functions are available for download at:
http://www.infinityassociates.com
http://lib.stat.cmu.edu.
Please review the readme file for installation instructions and in-
formation on any changes.
• Exercises are given at the end of each chapter. The reader is encour-
aged to go through these, because concepts are sometimes explored
further in them. Exercises are computational in nature, which is in
keeping with the philosophy of the book.
• Many data sets are included with the book, so the reader can apply
the methods to real problems and verify the results shown in the
book. The data can also be downloaded separately from the toolbox
at http://www.infinityassociates.com. The data are pro-

© 2002 by Chapman & Hall/CRC