Simple beam calculator
Enter the span, a single uniform or point load, and a rectangular or I-section. Instant reactions, M_max, δ_max and stress. Good for textbook problems and quick sizing.
About this case
How to use this simple beam calculator
This is the minimal simply supported case: one span, one load (UDL or center point load), one rectangular or I-section. Enter the span, the load, and the section dimensions (or pick an I-shape). No support positioning, no spring supports, no self-weight toggle — just the textbook case.
When this is the right tool (and when it isn't)
Use it for quick sizing: "what depth of W-shape do I need for a 20 ft span with 2 klf UDL?" Compare the reported M_max and δ_max against the allowable stress and L/360. For anything more complex (multiple loads, overhangs, spring supports, continuous spans, cantilevers, internal hinges), use the full calculator at /calculator.
Limitations
No self-weight, no overhangs, no spring supports, no internal hinges, no continuous spans. Results are the exact closed-form textbook answers for the single-load case, which match the full solver when only one load is present. For anything else, the full calculator is the correct tool.