This textbook gives a concise introduction to modern crystal structure determination, emphasising both its theoretical background and the way it is actually carried out. The theoretical sections are supported by many illustrations, and lay emphasis on a good understanding rather than rigorous mathematics. The most important data collection techniques, and the methods of data reduction, structure solution and refinement are discussed from a practical point of view. Many tips and insights help readers to recognise and avoid possible errors and traps, and to judge the quality of results. The second edition has been considerably updated, especially the chapter on experimental methods, which is now mainly concerned with modern data collection using area-detectors. From the reviews of the first edition: "The book provides a nice balance between describing the mathematical fundamentals and offering practical advice on how to solve a crystal structure... appropriate for an undergraduate audience (particularly in chemistry) and for graduate students or researchers who find they need a better grasp of the subject... a very helpful addition to the collection of introductory texts in X-ray crystallography. Especially for its treatment of common errors in the collection of intensity data and in the interpretation of results." Acta Crystallographica.