This textbook provides a general introduction to atmospheric modeling for those using models for either operational forecasting or research. It is motivated by the fact that all those who use such models should be aware of their strengths and limitations. Unlike the many other books that specialize in particular aspects of atmospheric modeling, the aim here is to offer a general treatment of the subject that can be used for self study or in conjunction with a course on the subject. Even though there is considerable space devoted here to numerical methods, this is not intended to be the major focus. As the reader will see, there are many other subjects associated with the modeling process that must be understood well in order for models to be used effectively for research or operations. For those who need more information on particular topics, each chapter includes references to specialized resources. It is assumed that the reader has a Bachelors Degree in atmospheric sciences, with mathematics through differential equations.

Abbreviations or acronyms, as well as symbols, will be defined in the text the first time that they appear, and for future reference they are also defined in the lists that appear before Chapter 1. Even though the student should focus on concepts rather than jargon, a technical vocabulary is still necessary in order to discuss these subjects. Thus, commonly used, important terms will appear in italics the first time, in order to identify them as worth remembering.