Steps in performing a finite element analysis

Pre-processing:
Drawing the model using a CAD software or the graphical capabilities of the
FEA software.
Specify the boundary conditions (fixities, concentrated forces, distributed
pressures).
Input material properties (modulus of elasticity E, Poissons ratio, yield
strength Sy , hardening modulus H for linear hardening, or non-linear
hardening curve, etc.
Mesh the model by choosing the element type and performing the meshing
operation.
Solution:
solve the problem (in a commercial FAE code this involves pushing the
button Solve, in an in-house FEA code it means running the code).
Post-processing:
Plot the deform shape.
Plot contours and/or diagrams of variables of interest (stresses, strains
deformatinons, etc.).
Save any data of interest to output files.
Mapped Meshes Quadrilateral Elements
Mapped Meshes Triangular Elements
Free Meshes Triangular Elements
Notch Meshes