Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology is written in succinct, understandable language. We continue to improve this aspect of the text because we believe that basic content must be presented and explained clearly in order to support critical thinking. Therefore, whether or not critical thinking is a major emphasis in your course, this text is a valuable asset for students because of its clarity.

"I like the way the authors explain the basic information needed to understand the complexity of the endocrine system. This is definitely one chapter that should not be oversimplified or have topics omitted. The authors have done a good job of clearly presenting complex material."
                             -Michael Vitale, Daytona Beach Community College

Integrated throughout this textbook, an emphasis on critical thinking can be found in questions embedded in the narrative; clinical material that is designed to bridge concepts explained in the text with real-life applications and scenarios; end-of-chapter questions that go beyond rote memorization; and a visual program that presents material in logical relevant images.

The pedagogical framework of Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology provides a multi-pronged approach to learning. This well-structured foundation is centered on clarity, ease of comprehension, and critical thinking. Knowledge and comprehension level questions are balanced with questions that require more complex reasoning in both the narrative of the text and in the end-of-chapter exercises. Clinical information is presented in several ways that support and restate concepts learned in the textual material.

The text’s visual program is precisely planned to enhance comprehension in a number of ways: tables combined with illustrations, relevant photos side-by-side with drawings, cadaver photos where appropriate, step-by-step Process Figures, intuitive homeostasis figures that include a “Start” icon and color-coded directional arrows, and helpful flow diagrams.

"The homeostasis figures in the Seeley Essentials text are very well presented. These figures are key to understanding the relationship between structure and function, and bring the anatomy and physiology in perspective for the whole organism."
                             -James Foster, Pikeville College School of Osteopathic Medicine

When problems in structure and/or function of the human body occur, this is often the best time to comprehend how the two are related. Essentials of Anatomy and Physiology has always had a strong emphasis on clinical material. In this sixth edition we strengthen that emphasis with the addition of “Case in Point” readings. These brief real-life scenarios combine with the popular Clinical Asides, and Clinical Focus boxes to provide a thorough clinical education that fully supports the textual material.