Previous programming experience is not assumed. Aware that many students need a careful introduction to programming throughout the text, programs that use graphical images are emphasised to clearly demonstrate all the important programming principles. The authors use a spiral approach to programming concepts; introducing concepts simply early on, then in a more sophisticated way later, (i.e. objects are integrated through five chapters). Java for Students 1.2 emphasises the use of applets but also shows how to program free-standing applications. The authors have been careful to put together a text that covers the powerful features of Java and presents the language to students as both a fun and useful tool.