The authors introduce basic theoretical concepts, present a heuristic approach to fitting LMMs based on both general and hierarchical model specifications, develop the model-building process step-by-step, and demonstrate the estimation, testing, and interpretation of fixed-effect parameters and covariance parameters associated with random effects. These concepts are illustrated through examples using real-world data sets that enable comparisons of model fitting options and results across the software procedures. The book also gives an overview of important options and features available in each procedure.

Making popular software procedures for fitting LMMs easy-to-use, this valuable resource shows how to perform LMM analyses and provides a clear explanation of mixed modeling techniques and theories.