A priori error estimation of finite element models from first principles

The quality of finite element computational results can be assessed only by providing rational criteria for evaluating errors. Most exercises in this direction are based on a posteriori error estimates, based primarily on exp erience and intuition. If finite element analysis has to be considered a ra tional science, it is imperative that procedures to compute a priori error estimates from first principles are made available. This paper captures som e efforts in this direction.