"The Practical Media Dictionary aims to define and explain a comprehensive selection of the most commonly used vocabulary of practical media production throughout the industry. It encompasses the everyday language, the most encountered phrases, typical job definitions, relevant organisations and institutions, most utilised equipment and much of the commonly employed technical jargon associated with practical activities. More importantly, it attempts to demystify the language and idiom used right across the media. This includes a whole range of processes, jobs, skills and associated working practices. Each entry tries not only to define and explain, but also to develop further understanding. It may be a piece of equipment such as a SOUND MIXING DESK or a DIGITAL BETACAM, or an activity such as creating a filming schedule. After each definition there is accessible text explaining more about what the equipment does or what the activity involves, and, if appropriate, how and why. An entry may be an explanation of one of the many production or technical jobs found in the media, such as RUNNER or ASSISTANT CAMERAMAN. The role and nature of the job is fully explained." (Introduction, page 1)