The book assumes that in learning to translate the Greek New Testament, it is necessary to know (a) the Greek letters, (b) the alterations to the roots, (c) the rules of agreement, and (d) the vocabulary. By comparing the original Greek against the English translation, the author considerably reduces the effort needed to accomplish this worthwhile adventure. Many students who have used this book have enjoyed it, and one student who succeeded admirably in his study of Greek without Tears writes: "The notes were brief and very clear, the illustrations graphic and sometimes humorous, and the concepts easily understood and retained. These notes shall ever be among my choicest and most treasured compilation of theological study material!"

Vols. for 1871-76, 1913-14 include an extra number, The Christmas bookseller, separately paged and not included in the consecutive numbering of the regular series.