Durbin takes great care in helping students to understand and work with abstract ideas and proofs in a first course in modern algebra.

Each problem set is organized by level of difficulty.  The early problems in each set are grouped in pairs, with solutions to odd-numbered problems in the solutions appendix.

  The material is arranged so that most of the sections can be covered in one lecture.

The flexibility of the text makes it easy for professors to fit the book to their own students and course goals. The first six chapters present the core of the subject, while the subsequent chapters can be determined by individual needs.

  Sections are short with many examples and explanations, so the students do not feel overwhelmed by the material.

Applications are included to help motivate students and to show the usefulness of modern algebra.