The FT’s latest ebook is a guide to what would happen if Scotland were to vote for independence in a referendum in September 2014. While the outcome is far from certain, a yes vote would have a profound effect not only on the 5.3m people of Scotland, but also on the economic future and fundamental character of the UK. We introduce Alex Salmond, the Scottish first minister and driving force behind the independence campaign. We examine the difficult economic issues, led by an independent Scotland’s choice of currency, and the potential benefits independence would bring for example in a separate immigration policy. We include observations from an expatriate Scot that give a flavour of the personal and social backdrop to the constitutional choice. This collection of articles - a mixture of dispassionate reporting and trenchant comment and analysis - first published by the Financial Times between November 2013 and February 2014 is a must for anybody seeking a quick introduction to one of the biggest political events of the year.