This text, which grew out of a NSF grant, takes a fresh approach with a focus on the underlying concepts of precalculus, rather than sheer algebraic manipulation. It effectively prepares students for a new generation of calculus courses and allows instructors to become actively involved in the teaching process. The authors make extensive use of real world applications, showing students how mathematics relates to their field of study, as well as including a thorough integration of technology. Additionally, the authors have incorporated a number of learning features designed to ready students for a more positive calculus experience.