The early development of the screw propeller. Propeller geometry. The propeller environment. The ship wake field, propeller performance characteristics.

Section titles include design, formulas, general theory (resistance and slip, efficiency, strength of blades, etc.), pattern-making and molding issues, machining and finishing of blade surfaces, and concludes with a brief section on repairs by welding.

Albert Edward Seaton describes and discusses different methods and instruments for marine propulsion. The focus is on the screw propeller. Seaton gives an account of its history, leading features, forms and the materials used for it. In addition, he presents several screw propeller trials and experiments of the late 19th and early 20th century.Reprint of the original edition from 1909.