This document discusses steel short columns. It defines a column as a vertical structural member that transmits loads from slabs and beams to foundations. There are three types of columns: short, long/slender, and intermediate. Steel columns have advantages like high strength, uniformity, and ductility, but disadvantages include reduced strength under cyclic loading and potential brittle fracture. The design of steel columns can use allowable strength design or load resistance factored design methods along with different load combinations.