In this chapter the editors introduce the theoretical and methodological orientation of the book. They begin with an overview of systemic functional linguistics (SFL), introducing its model of language and two descriptions of special relevance to this volume. The chapter then moves onto key theoretical dimensions – axis (system-and-structure relations), rank, metafunction and stratification. A particular concern of this book is the way in which interpersonal grammatical systems realise the discourse-semantic systems of NEGOTIATION and APPRAISAL. Accordingly, the authors present an outline of NEGOTIATION and APPRAISAL resources relevant to the interpretation of chapters in this volume. At the end of this section of the chapter, the editors introduce the understandings underpinning the model of context proposed by Martin (1992) for interpreting patterns of language use. Next, the chapter reviews the methodological implications of SFL’s theoretical dimensions with respect to text-based data compilation, approaching grammar from above, axial reasoning and functional language typology. The goal here is to establish the common ground on which functional descriptions informed by SFL can be constructed. Finally, each chapter is introduced, highlighting its distinctive contributions to our understanding of interpersonal grammar.