This review paper is intended to give a useful guide for those who want to
apply discrete wavelets in their practice. The notion of wavelets and their use
in practical computing and various applications are briefly described, but
rigorous proofs of mathematical statements are omitted, and the reader is just
referred to corresponding literature. The multiresolution analysis and fast
wavelet transform became a standard procedure for dealing with discrete
wavelets. The proper choice of a wavelet and use of nonstandard matrix
multiplication are often crucial for achievement of a goal. Analysis of various
functions with the help of wavelets allows to reveal fractal structures,
singularities etc. Wavelet transform of operator expressions helps solve some
equations. In practical applications one deals often with the discretized
functions, and the problem of stability of wavelet transform and corresponding
numerical algorithms becomes important. After discussing all these topics we
turn to practical applications of the wavelet machinery. They are so numerous
that we have to limit ourselves by some examples only. The authors would be
grateful for any comments which improve this review paper and move us closer to
the goal proclaimed in the first phrase of the abstract.Comment: 63 pages with 22 ps-figures, to be published in Physics-Uspekh