The report by William C. Davidon, titled "Variable Metric Method for Minimization," discusses a numerical method for finding local minima of differentiable functions of several variables. The method involves determining a matrix that characterizes the function's behavior around the minimum, which can be used to impose linear constraints on the variables without altering the procedure. The report is structured into several sections, including an introduction, notation, geometric interpretation, and detailed steps for finding the minimum (READY, AIM, FIRE, DRESS, and STUFF). The method uses a variable metric matrix, \( h^{\mu \nu} \), to guide the iterative process, ensuring efficient and accurate convergence to the minimum. The report also includes a conclusion and an appendix that provides a simplified method for the procedure. The author acknowledges the contributions of Dr. G. Perlow, Dr. M. Peshkin, and Mr. K. Hillstrom.The report by William C. Davidon, titled "Variable Metric Method for Minimization," discusses a numerical method for finding local minima of differentiable functions of several variables. The method involves determining a matrix that characterizes the function's behavior around the minimum, which can be used to impose linear constraints on the variables without altering the procedure. The report is structured into several sections, including an introduction, notation, geometric interpretation, and detailed steps for finding the minimum (READY, AIM, FIRE, DRESS, and STUFF). The method uses a variable metric matrix, \( h^{\mu \nu} \), to guide the iterative process, ensuring efficient and accurate convergence to the minimum. The report also includes a conclusion and an appendix that provides a simplified method for the procedure. The author acknowledges the contributions of Dr. G. Perlow, Dr. M. Peshkin, and Mr. K. Hillstrom.