Tutorial

How to analyze a 2D frame step by step.

A reliable frame-analysis workflow starts with the analytical model: joints, members, support restraints, load directions, and load cases. This tutorial uses NextForm to show how those choices affect reactions, internal force diagrams, and displacement shape.

Recommended frame-analysis workflow

Create the node layout and connect members so beams, columns, braces, and cantilevers meet at the intended joints. Keep coordinates clean and consistent.

Assign supports. Decide whether each support should behave like a roller, pinned support, or fixed support. Support assumptions strongly affect the final reactions and bending moments.

Add loads. Use node loads for concentrated actions at joints and member loads for distributed effects along a span or column.

Run the solve for the selected load case. If the structure is unstable, has missing restraints, or returns unexpected results, stop and check the model before reading peak values.

Review reactions, axial force, shear force, bending moment, and displacement. Look for whether the shape of the result makes sense before focusing on individual peak values.

Common beginner mistakes

Forgetting to restrain the frame adequately before solving.
Applying loads in the wrong direction or wrong load case.
Expecting a pinned support to resist moment.
Reading one peak value without checking the whole force or displacement pattern.

What to inspect after solving

Start with reactions and check whether their direction and total magnitude balance the applied loads. Then review axial force, shear force, and bending moment diagrams to confirm the load path through columns, beams, and bracing. Finally, look at displacement to see whether the deformed shape matches the expected sway, rotation, and support restraint.

Continue with related modelling assumptions

Pinned vs Fixed Support

Helpful if you are uncertain about support assumptions.

Beam vs Frame Analysis

Use it when deciding whether connected members, axial force, and sway should be included.