This chapter introduces quantum computing and its fundamental principles, highlighting the intersection of quantum physics and computer science in quantum information theory. It emphasizes the critical role of software tools in realizing quantum computing’s potential, drawing parallels with classical electronic design automation (EDA). The chapter outlines how quantum computers, leveraging qubits and quantum phenomena like superposition and entanglement, offer computational capabilities beyond classical machines. While significant progress has been made in quantum hardware development by companies like IBM, Google, and IonQ, the chapter identifies a crucial gap in quantum software development: the lack of systematic design automation methodologies. The text introduces the Munich Quantum Toolkit (MQT) as a solution addressing this gap through comprehensive design automation methods. The chapter concludes by previewing the book’s three main parts: classical simulation of quantum circuits, compilation of quantum circuits, and verification of quantum circuits. Each section promises to advance the state of the art in quantum computing software development by adapting established design automation principles to the unique challenges of quantum computing.