Practical Computing for Biologists is an effective guide to using the many freely available computing tools in order to work more powerfully and effectively. This text helps readers to overcome the most frustrating aspects of data processing to focus on the pleasures of scientific inquiry. Although many of the techniques are relevant to molecular bioinformatics, the motivation for the text is much broader, focusing on topics and techniques that are applicable to a range of scientific endeavors.

\"Practical Computing for Biologists is a clear guide to methods that unlock the power of the personal computer. Although the breadth of subjects covered is certainly an asset of this volume, what really makes the book stand out is how well the authors clearly describe each technique and its applicability to biological sciences. It is a great launching point for any necessary further investigation of computational techniques.\" --Matthew Aiello-Lammens, The Quarterly Review of Biology

"The book covers a wide range of subjects that truly justifies the title of 'practical computing.' In addition to the usual programming-related topics, it also includes a thorough introduction to the programming environment, approaches to combining different programs together, a description of the basic text manipulation tools such as regular expressions, and even an introduction to dealing with digital art and images. As such the book is great value for the money, being at least three books in one." --Olga G. Troyanskaya, Cell

\"It is a well-written, well-paced guide to basic computing skills for scientists and engineers of all stripes (not just biologists). It is beautifully produced: full-color printing and great graphical design make this book a joy to read. If I ever do turn Software Carpentry into a book, I might skip the topics PCB covers and just tell people to go and buy it.\" --Greg Wilson, software-carpentry.org

"When considering my research and use of time, this book has been the most important book I've read in the last year, and perhaps the last decade. Striking a perfect balance by guiding you through tutorials and nudging your own self-exploration, the book has just enough guided direction to not annoy or overwhelm. It has helped (and is still helping) me to do what I was doing before, but more efficiently." --Cyme and Cystidium