Why do so many beginners, both children and adults, fail to master chosen skills? The Elements of Skill was inspired by—and addresses—that question with a program based on proven techniques. The book, written by a renowned practitioner of the Alexander Technique, outlines an educational system that makes the process of learning a performance or athletic skill more conscious, and therefore more successful. Its principles include breaking down a skill into manageable parts, setting realistic goals, observing mind/body processes, overcoming blocks, controlling habits, and achieving heightened awareness and self-mastery. Included are inspiring examples of people who have benefited from the method. "In this enlightening book, the author provides a comprehensive analysis of skilled performance and its acquisition, from a holistic and functional point of view. Since the book is, in addition, full of practical advice on the teaching and learning of skills, it will, I believe, benefit every educator and self-educator who reads it with the care and attention it deserves."-Israel Scheffler, Director, Philosophy of Education Research Center, Harvard University