This is an introductory to finite elements offered by the Department of Civil Engineering, National Taiwan University. The finite element method has been coined as the most useful tool for solving engineering problems governed by partial differential equations. The contents are vast and the commercial programs are sophisticated. It is thus impetus (and sometimes difficult) to cover the important aspects of the method. This course is offered to guide you through the mathematical and algebraic basis of the method and help you to acquire hands-on experience on programming the method.