Sharon Kaye, a Professor of Philosophy at John Carroll University, is the perfect choice to write this essential guide, which covers everything you need to succeed at studying philosophy. It outlines the basics in clear jargon-free English, provides added-value features like summaries of key books, and even contains lists of questions that students might be asked in philosophy seminars or exams.

The structure of the book mirrors many university philosophy courses - using the work of key philosophers as a springboard to a discussion of all the main areas of philosophy. It also employs the 'breakthrough method', which is designed specifically to focus on and overcome problems that students face.

For example:

- 'I find it difficult to remember what I've read.' Solution: this book includes end-of-chapter questions and summaries, and flashcards of key points are available on-line and as apps.

- 'Most books mention important other sources, but I can never find them in time.' Solution: this book summarises key texts and case studies, complete with fully referenced quotes ready to use in your essay or exam.

- 'Lots of introductory books turn out to cover totally different topics than my course.' Solution: this book is written by a current university lecturer who understands what students are expected to know.