This is a textbook analyzing the economics of the construction industry and its relation to the UK economy as a whole. It includes an analysis of the economics of the individual company and the theory of the firm, the economics of supply and demand, the nature of construction markets and the economics of supplying these markets. An analysis of the investment decisions which determine demand then introduces the principles of cost-benefit analysis and financial control. The final chapter examines the factors which influence productivity within both the individual firm and the sector as a whole. It assumes no previous knowledge of economics and is intended primarily for students taking Economics and Building Economics and Finance examinations in the CIOB Member Examinations Parts I and II, though it should also be useful to students of economics on courses relating to construction and to those studying for professional body exams - RICS, SAAT and IAAS.