A pattern is a named description of a recurring solution to a problem in a given context. The description should give readers a deep enough understanding of the problem to either apply the stated solution to their own context or decide that a particular pattern is not appropriate to their situation.

This book is made up of a few large chapters, each filled with a set of related patterns. The names of the patterns are capitalized (e.g., Breakable Toys), and related patterns are frequently referenced. Each chapter weaves its patterns together and provides an introduction to its themes as well as a section wrapping them up. The book’s introduction sets the stage for the pattern language, and the conclusion takes a look at “the big picture” regarding skill, apprenticeship, and mastery in our profession.