The Third Edition contains some new material. More specifically, the chapter on large sample theory has been reorganized, repositioned, and re-titled in recognition of the growing role of asymptotic statistics. In Chapter 12 on General Linear Hypothesis, the section on regression analysis has been greatly expanded to include multiple regression and logistic and Poisson regression.

Some more problems and remarks have been added to illustrate the material covered. The basic character of the book, however, remains the same as enunciated in the Preface to the first edition. It remains a solid introduction to first-year graduate students or advanced seniors in mathematics and statistics as well as a reference to students and researchers in other sciences.

We are grateful to the readers for their comments on this book over the past 40 years and would welcome any questions, comments, and suggestions. You can communicate with Vijay K. Rohatgi at [email protected] and with A. K. Md. Ehsanes Saleh at [email protected].