Introduction to  Structural Analysis

Structural analysis, as a subject, is a very important and conceptual subject in its own right among all other subjects that constitute the field of civil engineering. 

Starting from ancient times to present day, this subject has flourished depending upon the need and complexity of the structures coming from the advancement of human civilization. Structures are mostly classified into two categories, determi- nate and indeterminate structures. Determinate structures are the preliminary basic 

structures that need to be understood well first. Basic principles like elastic limit, Hook’s law, the principle of superposition, and equilibrium conditions need to be studied very meticulously before jumping into more complex indeterminate struc-tures. Structures that we encounter in everyday life are mostly indeterminate struc-tures. However, the analysis process and basic compatibility conditions like force and moment equilibrium equations and superposition principle within elastic limit remain the same as those for determinate structures. That is why we have organized this book into two parts. In the first part, students will get acquainted with the 

basic important theories and analysis procedures for determinate structures. Having understood the basic principles, in the second part of this book, the indeterminate structural analysis will be presented, and various methods of solving the problems 

are described in detail.

This book is primarily aimed at students taking degree courses in civil engi-neering. However, students enrolled in master’s degree programs in structural engi-neering may use this book to brush up on concepts that were taught during their 

undergrad study.

No matter how much theory we study, it is very important to go through as many examples as possible to get hands-on experience toward solving the problems with theoretical background that can only be understood by going through the chapters. 

That is why we have also included solved examples on various problems in different chapters as well as in the Appendix section, so that students can practice on their 

own by studying the text first and then understanding the examples.

This book is mostly self-contained. Preliminary ideas about elastic properties and some ideas of basic calculus and partial derivatives that are mostly taught at the first 

year or second year of degree courses in universities and colleges are assumed to be known. Apart from that, this book can be studied without taking references to other books or materials. However, for more solved examples and more advanced ideas on 

these topics, students are advised to go through any book provided in the bibliogra-phy section as they wish.The authors will be highly open to suggestions regarding further development of this book and inclusion of any specific topics that may enhance the applicability to 

a broader audience.

We are sincerely thankful to all our colleagues, friends, and family members for standing by our side to complete this book and convert this hardworking effort into 

a memorable journey.