This open access Brief introduces the basic principles of control theory in a concise
self-study guide. It complements the classic texts by emphasizing the simple conceptual unity
of the subject. A novice can quickly see how and why the different parts fit together. The
concepts build slowly and naturally one after another until the reader soon has a view of the
whole. Each concept is illustrated by detailed examples and graphics. The full software code
for each example is available providing the basis for experimenting with various assumptions
learning how to write programs for control analysis and setting the stage for future research
projects. The topics focus on robustness design trade-offs and optimality. Most of the book
develops classical linear theory. The last part of the book considers robustness with respect
to nonlinearity and explicitly nonlinear extensions as well as advanced topics such as
adaptive control and model predictive control. New students as well as scientists from other
backgrounds who want a concise and easy-to-grasp coverage of control theory will benefit from
the emphasis on concepts and broad understanding of the various approaches. Electronic codes
for this title can be downloaded from https: extras.springer.com ?query=978-3-319-91707-8
