The document discusses the branches and sub-divisions of the theory of machines, including kinematics, dynamics, kinetics, and statics. It defines kinematics as dealing with relative motion without forces, and dynamics as dealing with forces and their effects. The document also discusses kinematic links, mechanisms, structures, and the mobility of mechanisms. It defines a kinematic link as a machine part that undergoes relative motion, and describes types of links as rigid, flexible, or fluid.