Ant, the Java-based application building tool from the Apache Foundation, adds XML functionality and cross-platform operability to previous "Make" tools, creating a powerful development environment. This book provides a tutorial-based Ant guide and reference. The book begins by introducing users to this tool, with the basicsof installation and file handling. Subsequent chapters attack the subject matter from a pragmatic angle, grouping similar commands by subject, and then discussing them from a "practical use" point of view. Throughout the text, examples are included tomake the learning process as painless as possible. The book's companion CD-ROM contains the latest version of Apache Ant and Jakarta Oro, in addition to all the source code.