> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.enercalc.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.enercalc.com/e3d-training-manual/design/concrete-design/cracking-factors.md).

# Cracking Factors

How to assign cracking factors that reduce the bending stiffness of selected members and shells in analysis.

Click **Concrete Design > Cracking Factors** to open the *Cracking Factors* dialog.

![](https://3750289988-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FlRZtG5Ynp58kYzLHYbR7%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-e5b0dd6207065e566a7cfa9eb981f3fe6e8b889d%2FCracking%20Factors.jpg?alt=media)

This dialog provides a way to specify cracking factors that will apply to the bending stiffness of selected members and/or shells. A value of 0 implies completely cracked. A value of 1.0 implies completely uncracked.

{% hint style="success" %}
Tip: Regardless of how Cracking Factors have been set, they will only be considered if the option to "Use cracked section properties" has been selected in Analysis > Analysis Options.
{% endhint %}


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