Method of joints: solving truss member forces and naming tension or compression

What this note covers

1. Understand the ideal pin-jointed truss model
2. Choose a consistent tension convention at each joint
3. Worked original triangular truss: reactions and geometry
4. Solve the triangular truss and verify the apex joint
5. Recognise zero-force members without discarding structure
6. Turn joint results into a clear structural interpretation
7. Worked joint solution: asymmetric triangular truss
8. Worked zero-force-member diagnosis before calculation

8 sections · 10 key terms & formulas · 6 common mistakes