A brilliant blend of cutting-edge science, engineering, and real-world applications, this book offers a clear and rigorous exposition of the theory and applications of rock mechanics form the point of view of the drilling engineer. With this book, drilling engineers find a guide for understanding the stress, strain, and failure mechanics of rocks and their response to earth stresses. The role of rock mechanics in drilling operations and design are highlighted throughout the book. details of practical in-situ stress changes and how they impact on wellbore and borehole behavior are also included. With this book in hand, reservoir engineers, rilling engineers, and production engineers find a valuable guide which is packed with the necessary tools for immediate field application.