This book presents several basic techniques in algebraic geometry, group representations, number theory, ¿-adic and standard cohomology, and modular forms. It explores how NX(p) varies with p when the family (X) of polynomial equations is fixed. The text examines the size and congruence properties of NX(p) and describes the ways in which it is computed. Along with covering open problems and offering simple, illustrative examples, the author presents various theorems, including the Chebotarev density theorem and the prime number theorem.