Forensic Science: A Very Short Introduction introduces the concept of forensic science and explains how it is used in the investigation of crime. In forensic science, a criminal case can often hinge on a piece of evidence such as a hair, a blood trace, half a footprint, or a tyre mark. High profile cases have attracted enormous media attention and enhanced this interest in recent years. However, the public understanding of forensic science is poor, and largely based on TV shows. This VSI explains the principles of crime scene management, explores how forensic scientists work, and considers the techniques they use.