A first course in linear algebra for mathematics, engineering and computer science students. Praised over many editions for its expository style and clarity of presentation, the revision of this best--selling text combines linear algebra theory with applications, and addresses a new generation of students' changing needs. . This text can be used in a first or second year 1-- or 2-- semester course. Calculus is not a prerequisite, but there are exercises, examples, and applications for students with calculus backgrounds; they are clearly marked and can be omitted with no loss of continuity.