This comprehensive introduction to the Markov modeling framework describes the underlying theoretical concepts of Markov models as used for sequential data, covering Hidden Markov models and Markov chain models. It also presents the techniques necessary to build successful systems for practical applications. In addition, the book demonstrates the actual use of the technology in the three main application areas of pattern recognition methods based on Markov-Models: speech recognition, handwriting recognition, and biological sequence analysis. The book is suitable for experts as well as for practitioners.