This document provides an overview of using finite element analysis to analyze a continuous beam. It lists the steps for the finite element solution of continuous beams, which are: 1) divide the beam into elements, 2) identify degrees of freedom, 3) determine element stiffness matrices, 4) assemble the global stiffness matrix, 5) impose boundary conditions and determine the reduced stiffness matrix, 6) determine the element nodal load vector, 7) determine the equivalent load vector, 8) solve for unknown displacements using equilibrium equations, and 9) determine reactions and moments using equilibrium equations. It also notes that reactions correspond to translations and moments correspond to rotations.