Shear force and bending moment are key mechanical properties of beams. Shear force is the sum of vertical forces acting to the left or right of a beam cross-section, while bending moment is the sum of the moments of forces about the cross-section. The document discusses different beam types defined by their support configurations, including fixed, pin, roller, and cantilever beams, and analyzes the shear force and bending moment diagrams for beams with various loads.