The document provides an overview of rectangular beam design using the Ultimate Strength Design (USD) method for singly and doubly reinforced beams. It discusses factors affecting design such as concrete strength, steel yield strength, reinforcement spacing, and concrete cover. Important considerations in design are factored loads and capacity reduction factors. Key definitions include balanced steel ratio, under-reinforced beams, and over-reinforced beams. Design types are described for singly and doubly reinforced beams. Flexural and shear design equations are presented.