A load case defines how the load patterns are to be applied (e.g., statically or dynamically), how the structure responds (e.g., linearly or nonlinearly), and how the analysis is to be performed (e.g., modally or by direct-integration.) A load case may apply a single load pattern or a combination of load patterns. You may define as many named Load Cases of any type that you wish. When you analyze the model, you may select which cases are to be run. You may also selectively delete results for any Load Case.

Each different analysis performed is called a load case. For each load case you define, you need to supply the following type of information:
• Case name: This name must be unique across all load cases of all types. The case name is used to request analysis results (displacements, stresses, etc.), for creating load combinations, and sometimes for use by other dependent load cases.
• Analysis type: This indicate the type of analysis (static, response-spectrum, buckling, etc.), as well as available options for that type (linear, nonlinear, etc.).
• Loads applied: For most types of analysis, you specify the load patterns that are to be applied to the structure.