"Principles of Anatomy and Physiology" is designed to be comprehensive enough to provide the background necessary for those courses not requiring prerequisites and yet is concise so as not to confuse and overwhelm students. The Tate text features realistic illustrations and exceptional photographs that, along with clear, straight-forward writing and an emphasis on clinical material help students develop a solid understanding of anatomy and physiology concepts. Explanations have just the right amount of detail, with usually only one example instead of two or three. Other texts use several complex figures to illustrate many concepts - Tate uses less, but more efficient, art. The result is a shorter, simplified textbook that covers all of the major points found in more lengthy texts, but is easier to read and more economical in price.