A consistent method for computing stress‐intensity factors from three‐dimensional quarter‐point element nodal displacements is presented. The method is generalized to permit functional evaluation of stress‐intensity factors along the crack front. Embedded, surface, and corner crack problems are solved using the proposed technique. Results are compared to previous finite element and boundary element solutions. The comparison shows that use of the functional evaluation technique allows a dramatic decrease in problem size while still maintaining engineering accuracy. Next, a three‐dimensional stress‐intensity factor calibration of an unusual specimen configuration is presented. By taking advantage of the proposed technique, the calibration was performed with little difference in cost over the more usual two‐dimensional approach. Moreover, the three‐dimensional solution revealed intersting behaviour that would have been undetected by a two‐dimensional solution. Finally, the results of a study on optimum size of the quarter‐point element are presented. Surprisingly, Poisson ratio is shown to have marked effect on optimum element size.