Taking a more natural approach than other texts, A First Course in Abstract Algebra: Rings, Groups and Fields begins with ring theory, building on students' familiarity with integers and polynomials. It introduces groups later, when readers have gained more experience. Each section of the book ends with a "nutshell" synopsis of important definitions and theorems. Each chapter includes "Quick Exercises" designed to be worked as the text is read. Problem sets at the end of each chapter begin with "Warm-Up Exercises" that test fundamental comprehension, followed by regular exercises, both computational and "supply the proof" problems. A Hints and Answers section is provided at the end of the book.