A fundamental question for each finite element problem is the type of solver to use: implicit or explicit? The solver type influences the set of equations that are solved, the availability of certain features, the run time and even whether a solution is obtained. It is therefore important. In this blog I’ll explain the difference between the two solvers available in Abaqus, their advantages and disadvantages, and when to choose which. I'll end with a simple example to illustrate the points made.