Three components contribute to a theme sustained throughout the Coburn/Herdlick Graphs and Models series: that of laying a firm foundation, building a solid framework, and providing strong connections. In the Graphs and Models texts, the authors combine their depth of experience with the conversational style and the wealth of applications that the Coburn/Herdlick texts have become known for. By combining a graphical approach to problem solving with algebraic methods, students learn how to relate their mathematical knowledge to the outside world. The authors use technology to solve the more true to life equations, to engage more applications, and to explore the more substantial questions involving graphical behavior. Benefiting from the feedback of hundreds of instructors and students across the country, Precalculus: Graphs & Models emphasizes connections in order to improve the level of student engagement in mathematics and increase their chances of success in precalculus and calculus.