This overview of the National Science Board's Science and Engineering Indicators 2006 describes some major U.S. and international science and technology (S&T) developments. It focuses on trends since about 1990, although it occasionally takes a longer view. The overview synthesizes selected major findings in a meaningful way and is not intended to be comprehensive. The reader will find many important findings in the report that are not covered in the overview, e.g., public support for science is strong even though public knowledge is limited; S&T activities in different states vary substantially in size and scope; and some of those who are employed in S&T occupations lack S&T degrees, although many people with S&T degrees work in other types of jobs. The interested reader will find more extensive data in the body of the report; major findings on particular topics appear in the Highlights sections that precede chapters 1?7.