The Seismic Design Manual, published every five to six years, includes sections on general seismic design considerations, analysis considerations, and systems not specifically detailed for seismic resistance. Different seismic force resisting systems are covered in the balance of the sections, along with diaphragms, chord and collectors as well as an introduction to engineered damping systems.

The Seismic Design Manual includes hundreds of pages of comprehensive design examples, including connections. Examples are shown with LRFD and ASD design methodologies side-by-side.