Finance is a broad discipline that encompasses financial institutions and investments. It involves making financial decisions in personal, business, and non-profit contexts. The concept of time value of money is crucial for understanding many topics in finance. Basic finance aims to provide a working knowledge of terms and mechanics of financial decision-making. It encourages further exploration and additional courses in the field. The book is divided into five parts: Financial institutions, financial tools, investments, business finance, and derivatives. Instructors can adapt the course based on their emphasis on different topics or approaches such as surveying the field or focusing on investment or corporate finance.