Design education for undergraduates of civil engineering generally concentrates on carrying out calculations necessary to determine the size of structural elements, analysis using computers, and becoming familiar with a few design codes. Little guidance is available on the many aspects of design needed by a successful designer in a commercial environment.

This book provides a methodical approach to achieving design solutions in an efficient manner. It gives guidance on non-mathematical factors which influence design decisions and provides hints and tips, evolved from many years' practical experience, on how to approach day-to-day design work.