Stochastic local search

the long version

"Hoos and Stutzle offer the first systematic and unified treatment of SLS algorithms. In this book, they examine the general concepts and specific instances of SLS algorithms and carefully consider their development, analysis, and application. The discussion focuses on the most successful SLS methods and explores their underlying principles, properties, and features. This book gives hands-on experience with some of the most widely used search techniques, and provides readers with the necessary understanding and skills to use this powerful tool."--BOOK JACKET.