„An intensely practical book, full of concrete problemsolving advice, which should be well-thumbed by those learning and working within OT.“ (Journal of Linguistics, 2009)"Built on deep experience in research and teaching, and drawingexpertly on recent advances in handling the theory, McCarthy'svolume conducts the reader closer than any previous text to theheart of the Optimality Theoretic enterprise. Lucidly grounded inthe nuts-and-bolts of analytic technique, the book includesnumerous exercises and questions that will stimulate, inspire, andprovoke. Along the way the reader will encounter many sharpobservations about matters ranging from theory-construction towriting up research results; these alone are worth the price ofentry.„
--Alan Prince, Rutgers University
“This book not only fills a major gap in the books on OT forbeginners, but also offers wise advice for more experiencedresearchers.„
--Moira Yip, University College London
“There are many introductions to OT as a theory, but none withhands-on training on the nitty-gritty details of how to actually doOT research. McCarthy's book, brimming with thought-provokingquestions and problem sets, provides the guidance needed."
--Junko Ito, University of California Santa Cruz
* * Explains how to do analysis and research using OptimalityTheory (OT) - a branch of phonology that has revolutionized thefield since its conception in 1993
* * Offers practical, in-depth advice for students and researchersin the field, presented in an engaging way
* * Features numerous examples, questions, and exercisesthroughout, all helping to illustrate the theory and summarize thecore concepts of OT
* * Written by John J. McCarthy, one of the theory's leadingproponents and an instrumental figure in the dissemination and useof OT today
* * An ideal guide through the intricacies of linguistic analysisand research for beginning researchers, and, by example, one whichwill lead the way to future developments in the field.
