# An Introduction to Gravitational Wave Theory

## TL;DR

This paper provides an overview of the theoretical foundations of gravitational waves, covering general relativity, detection methods, and binary system waveforms, serving as educational lecture notes.

## Contribution

It offers a comprehensive introduction to gravitational wave theory, integrating fundamental concepts with recent developments for educational purposes.

## Key findings

- Summarizes key principles of gravitational wave physics
- Describes detection techniques and waveform modeling
- Serves as an educational resource for students and researchers

## Abstract

Introduction to the theoretical foundations of gravitational waves: from general relativity to detection and binary system waveforms. Lecture notes prepared for the MaNiTou summer school on gravitational waves. Draft chapter for the CNRS contemporary Encyclopaedia Sciences to be published by ISTE.