Macroeconomics relies on straightforward explanations by emphasizing concepts over technique, and fitting difficult material into a larger framework so students can see its relevance in the world. The authors explore state-of-the art research, while allowing for flexibility in how much to emphasize these topics. A balanced approach explains both the potential and limitations of economic policy. Hallmark features and key changes in the 13th edition include:

• Background and analysis on The Great Recession of 2007-2009 and its aftermath.
• Updates on unemployment and the Federal Reserve, including more detailed dives into each topic with current data, definitions, and context.
• History Speaks and What More Do We Know? boxes callout relevant data and information that further enhance the concepts covered within each chapter.
• Macroeconomics employs a model-based approach to macroeconomic analysis and demonstrates how various models relate to the goal of giving students the capacity to analyze current economic issues in the context of an economic frame of reference.
• A focus on international perspectives helps students understand the important links connecting foreign economies to their own.