Book excerpt: Divided into 12 chapters, Matrix Methods for Advanced Structural Analysis begins with an introduction to the analysis of structures (fundamental concepts and basic steps of structural analysis, primary structural members and their modeling, brief historical overview of methods of static analysis, programming principles, and suggestions for the rational use of computer programs). This is followed by the principal steps of the Direct Stiffness Method including plane trusses, plane framed structures, space trusses, and space framed structures. The case of plane or space framed structure, including possible rigid elements at their beam ends (rigid joints) is discussed in detail. Other topics discussed in this reference include the procedure for analyzing beams with internal releases (partial connection of beam elements) and elastic hinges, as well as the alternative handling of internal releases by modifying the element stiffness matrix. Furthermore, the Method of Substructures is demonstrated for the solution of large-scale models in terms of the associated number of degrees of freedom. - The principal steps of the Direct Stiffness Method are presented for plane and space trusses, as well as plane and space framed structures - The handling of beams with internal releases and elastic hinges - The method of substructures for large-scale structures - A computer code (basic steps and source files) based on MATLAB® software for the analysis of beam-like structures