A neural network is a computational model based loosely on the way real biological brains operate to learn and perform various tasks. In the field of machine-learning some tasks are very easy for neural networks that might be more difficult for rule based learning techniques (and of course, vice versa) such as optical character recognition. I will introduce a few basic models of neural networks and talk about their real world application to various problems. If time permits I will discuss various bits of neuroanatomy that are particularly interesting in light of the nature of neural networks.