The modern software for Finite Element Method calculations is a powerful tool when making strength and stiffness calculations. However, this is only the case when FEM is applied correctly. This work contains all the information necessary for a thorough understanding of the FEM and its correct application:

- how are structures to be modelled into building blocks that can be used for calculations in an FEM program?

- how are FEM programs organised internally?

Part one of this work explains how ...