This document provides an introduction to operations research. It begins by defining operations research as a scientific approach to solving management problems through the application of analytical methods. This allows managers to make better decisions. The document then discusses the history and origins of operations research, noting that it emerged from efforts during World War II to apply analytical techniques to military problems. It provides examples of the scope and techniques of operations research, including linear programming, queuing theory, and decision theory. The document outlines the typical phases of an operations research project as judgment, research, and action. It concludes by discussing some advantages and limitations of operations research.