This paper addresses a general analytical method for investigating the
two-dimensional distributions of stresses set up in a rectangular pla
te by a load applied along its sides in any arbitrary manner. Proposed
independently by Mathieu (1890), Inglis (1921) and Pickett (1944), an
d later named the 'superposition method', it has been applied with suc
cess to the study of distribution of stresses inside a rectangle. The
object of this paper is to prove the advantages of that approach when
studying a stress field near the boundaries, including specific cases
of discontinuous and concentrated normal and shear loadings. The metho
d is illustrated by several numerical examples, the rapidity of conver
gence and the accuracy of results are investigated. The distribution o
f stresses along some typical Lines in the plate are computed and show
n graphically.