This manual is intended to meet the textbook needs of COBOL students on City & Guilds 746 and 747, BTEC National and Higher National Awards in Computer Studies, first year degree courses in Computer Studies or Business Studies with computer content, and industrial or commercial courses in computing. Many worked examples and exercises are included. The book is written around 2 themes: the design of structured computer programs based on the techniques of M.A.Jackson; and the methods for coding these structured designs in the COBOL language. A lecturer's supplement is available.