Methods can be difficult to teach in the classroom, with many instructors struggling to devise practical ways to help students understand how archaeologists work. Principles of Archaeology makes its mark by helping students learn by doing archaeological projects, by clear chapter-by chapter coverage of each archaeological method, and through videos that explore different aspects of archaeological practice, including scientific concepts and ethical considerations.

Now in its second edition, Principles of Archaeology has been thoroughly updated, with particular emphasis on making the student archaeological projects more accessible and the e-media more engaging.