Drawing a good free-body diagram (FBD) is generally acknowledged by mechanics
instructors as a critical step in solving mechanics problems. In this paper we will summarize …

No skill is more important for a student of mechanics than the ability to draw a complete and
accurate free-body diagram (FBD). A good FBD facilitates proper accounting of forces when …

After defining a system for analysis, a rigorous process is taught to students in their Statics
and Dynamics courses on how to draw proper kinetic, free-body, and impulse-momentum …

A foundational skill in mechanics is the ability to draw complete and correct free body
diagrams (FBDs). Students benefit from extensive practice and feedback as they build their …

Some thoughts for teaching engineering statics Engineering statics is a core technical and
gate-keeper course for the mechanical engineering program. During the last several years, it …

Having students develop an understanding on how to draw proper FBDs is perhaps the
main objective of any Statics course and reactions due to supports are often a challenging …