Corporate Finance: Core Principles and Applications was developed for MBA courses as a concise, modern, and practical text that can be covered in a single term. Theory and heavy calculations are minimized, with emphasis on the essentials students must carry forward. Net present value serves as the unifying theme, with every topic rooted in valuation. The text highlights the financial manager's role as decision maker, stressing judgment and managerial input while leaving specialized topics for follow-up courses.